Tailor-Made French Polynesia Holidays 

Beware the Polynesian magic. Over the centuries, writers, painters and mutineers have been enthralled by the charms of this cluster of South Sea islands. Many have found they couldn’t bear to leave. Can you resist? 

 

The islands of Polynesia – tiny dots in the South Pacific – have a reputation to uphold. In this luscious tropical paradise around 3,000 miles from Australia, the welcome is legendary, the colours every bit as dazzling as in the paintings, and the way of life ultimately relaxed. A stay on the French Polynesian islands of Tahiti, Moorea or Bora Bora is the perfect way to unwind after an action-filled antipodean adventure. Rest your weary limbs and soothe your mind in some of the world’s most rarefied luxury resorts. Feast your eyes on coral beaches and heavenly volcanic scenery; then indulge in the islands’ imaginative cuisine. Stick a tiare blossom in your hair: this is castaway territory. 

 

Perhaps nowhere on earth feels quite so close to paradise as French Polynesia. For countless visitors, this far-distant archipelago in the South Pacific represents an unsullied idyll. Sick of the West, the post-impressionist painter Gauguin settled there to live a life of sybaritic pleasure, and spent the rest of his days trying to convey their people and bright cathode-ray technicolour landscape. 

~ When is the best time to visit French Polynesia? - French Polynesia is a year‑round tropical destination. The dry season (May–October) offers warm, sunny days, lower humidity and excellent visibility for snorkelling and diving. The wetter season (November–April) brings hotter temperatures, tropical showers and lush green landscapes. 

 

~ What is the best way to get around French Polynesia? - The islands are spread across five archipelagos, so domestic flights are the most efficient way to travel. Air Tahiti operates frequent services between Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, Taha’a/Raiatea, Rangiroa and Tetiaroa. Ferries connect Tahiti and Moorea. 

 

~ Do I need a visa to travel to French Polynesia? - UK travellers do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days. You must have a valid passport, proof of onward travel and meet standard entry requirements. Always check the latest regulations before departure. 

~ How long should I plan to stay in French Polynesia? - We recommend 10–14 days to experience a mix of islands, typically Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora, with the option to add Taha’a, Rangiroa or Tetiaroa. 

 

~ Is French Polynesia good for families? - Yes, especially Moorea and Bora Bora, which offer calm lagoons, family‑friendly resorts and safe swimming areas. Many luxury properties have spacious villas, kids’ clubs and gentle lagoon activities perfect for younger travellers. 

 

~ What currency is used in French Polynesia? - The local currency is the CFP Franc (XPF). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at hotels, resorts and larger restaurants, while cash is recommended for smaller businesses, local markets and more remote islands. 

 

~ Do I need any vaccinations to travel to Fiji? - There are no mandatory vaccinations for most travellers visiting French Polynesia. It's recommended that you're up to date with your routine vaccinations, and you should speak to your GP or travel clinic before you travel for personalised advice