Tourist Information

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Frequently Asked Questions about French Polynesia

  • What is the Capital of French Polynesia? Papeete

  • Which Airlines Fly to French Polynesia? Air Tahiti Nui, Virgin Australia, Air New Zealand

  • Where is the International Airport? Faa'a on Tahiti Island

  • What is the currency of French Polynesia? Central Pacific Franc

  • What Electricity and Electrical Sockets? Same as France / Europe Standard

Tahiti Tourist Information

Which Airlines Fly to French Polynesia?

Virgin Australia, Qantas, Air New Zealand, Air Tahiti Nui and Air France all fly to Tahiti. AirCalin is the local airline and offers domestic flights. Air Tahiti operates the domestic airline.

Where is the International Airport?

Faa'a International Airport is on the west coast of Tahiti Island about fifteen minutes drive south of the capital Papeete.

When is Winter? When is Summer?

The high season for tourism is in July / August when French arrive from Europe on their long summer holidays and coinciding with the Australian winter months when the warm tropics beckon. During these months, and also in December, rooms at the more popular resorts and regions can often be booked out well in advance. French Polynesia has a tropical climate with temperatures averaging 30 degrees Celsius in summer and 23 degrees in winter. Night-time temperatures in summer drop only a few degrees whilst in winter the variation can be up to 10 degrees cooler giving need to a light jumper in the evenings.

Who are the Tahitians?

The indigenous people of French Polynesia are of Polynesian descent.

What is the currency of French Polynesia? Are there banks and ATM machines?

The currency of French Polynesia is the Central Pacific Franc (CFP) which is fixed to the Euro - most resorts set room rates in Euros and this is the currency we have used for all quotations. Banks and ATM machines are found in Papeete Town, at Hauru in Moorea and Vaitape in Bora Bora. There are money exchange booths and an ATM at the international airport.

Can I use my Credit Card?

Visa and Mastercard are accepted by most restaurants and shops and by the majority of hotels and resorts. A credit card fee of around 3% is commonly charged.

What Electricity and Electrical Sockets are in French Polynesia?

Electricity is 220 AC voltage as per France and uses the same two round pin plugs as found in Europe.

What Tourist Information is available?

There is a tourist information centre at the international airport as well as in Papeete Town near the ferry terminal

Should I Tip for Service?

Probably - tipping is not encouraged in the South Pacific although French influence has meant that tipping has become more and more common. If unsure, ask the hotel reception.

What Items should I pack for holiday?

A wide brim hat, sunglasses and suncream are the most essential items.
A good water bottle if you're going to explore.
Airy clothes, preferably cotton with an emphasis on shorts and shirts or t-shirts.
A light jumper is handy to have in winter in case it gets cool.
Reef shoes if exploring the sea or beachcombing.

What Health Issues are there?

French Polynesia is free from malaria, yellow fever and most other diseases endemic in tropical countries. Mosquitoes are present and can be annoying during the wetter months (Dec to April). Water is safe to drink.

Find out more about where to stay in our comprehensive Tahiti Accommodation Guide