Travel Guide

How to get there

French Polynesia is readily accessible by air from most parts of the world. Faa’a International Airport, Tahiti is the strategic gateway to the South Pacific. From Australia, Air Tahiti Nui is the international airline to Tahiti and Her Islands. It offers flights between Australia and Papeete (the capital of Tahiti). Stopovers are available in Auckland, New Zealand.

Air Tahiti is a private, domestic airline which links all five archipelagos. Travel between some islands, such as Tahiti to Moorea, can be made by high-speed catamarans.

Passports & visas

Australian and New Zealand passport holders entering French Polynesia must have a valid passport with at least six months’ validity and an outbound ticket. Australian and New Zealand citizens do not require a visa for stays up to three months.

Note: Please double-check your visa requirements with the appropriate embassy or consular office as visa regulations may vary.

Currency

The local currency is the French Pacific Franc (XPF). There are plenty of ATMs and international banks in Tahiti, with branch offices in the resort Islands. Major credit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, boutiques and other tourist establishments.

Note: A$1 = 90 XPF approximately.

Local taxes & charges

For all hotels on Tahiti and her islands a compulsory local tax of approximately 150XPF per person per night must be paid directly to the hotels - for your guidance this amount has been included in the prices shown on this website. Seasonal surcharges, supplements, compulsory meals and/or transfers may apply during peak period or at particular properties.

Seasonality & Pricing

While seasons may vary for each resort, generally speaking, the following seasons apply:

Climate

These figures are a guide only.

Good to know

• International flights arrive in Papeete on the island of Tahiti. Due to crossing the International Dateline, most flights from Australia arrive the day before they depart.
• Most holiday packages in French Polynesia will require one night in Papeete before travelling to another island the following morning.
• We recommend booking the same hotel chain throughout your visit, as ‘Island Combo’ specials are available.
• We recommend booking transfers throughout your visit
• Most passengers returning to Australia will require one night in Papeete prior to departure, as flights leave early in the morning.