How to get to French Polynesia

French Polynesia is a wide archipelago of 118 islands in the South Pacific Ocean. Known for its clear turquoise waters, pristine sandy beaches and abundant marine life, this French overseas territory is a popular destination for travellers seeking a tropical paradise away from the crowds. When planning a trip to French Polynesia, knowing how to get there, which airport to fly into, and the best season to book to avoid expensive fares is the first thing you must know.

How to fly to French Polynesia?

The gateway to French Polynesia is Tahiti, the main island and home to Faa’a International Airport (PPT). It is well-connected to major cities in the Pacific, North America and Asia and is served by airlines such as Air Tahiti Nui, Air France, French Bee, United Airlines and Air New Zealand. 

Travellers from the United States can take direct flights from Los Angeles, San Francisco or Seattle, while those from the East Coast usually connect through these hubs. The flight from Los Angeles to Papeete takes about 8 hours. Far less known, you can also fly direct to from Tokyo, Japan, and Auckland, New Zealand. Flying from New Zealand to Tahiti takes about 5 hours, and from Tokyo to Papeete, about 10 hours.

If you’re travelling from Europe, as French Polynesia is an overseas territory of France, you’ll most likely fly via Paris-CDG with Air France, Air Tahiti Nui or French Bee, connecting through Los Angeles or San Francisco. It takes about 22 hours to fly from Europe to Tahiti, including one stopover in the US. Important notice: all non-American citizens, except Canadians, must have an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) to transit through airports in the USA.

How much does it cost to fly to French Polynesia?

The cost of flying to Tahiti varies depending on the airline, the time of year, and the departure city. Before booking, it’s always a good idea to compare prices online on different dates to find the best fares. Here are some average prices of return flights to Papeete (PPT):

From Europe

• Paris to Papeete: 1400 € – 2000 € (no direct flight)
• London to Papeete: £1100 – £2600 (no direct flight)

From the USA

• Los Angeles to Papeete: 900 – 1100 USD
• San Francisco to Papeete: 700 – 1200 USD
• New York to Papeete: 1000 – 1500 USD (no direct flight)

From Asia-Pacific

• Sydney to Papeete: 1500 – 1800 AUD (no direct flight)
• Auckland to Papeete: 1000 – 2000 NZD
• Tokyo to Papeete: 250,000 – 400,000 JPY

Best Time to Visit French Polynesia

French Polynesia has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures and high humidity year-round. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to October, when the weather is most comfortable. If you plan on going diving in French Polynesia, this is also the best season. During this time, the temperature ranges from 24-29°C (75-85°F), and there is less rainfall. The average water temperature in French Polynesia is between 26 and 28°C (78°F and 82°F) all year round (+1°C in the Marquesas Islands).

The peak tourist season runs from June to August, so prices are higher. In Tahiti and the Tuamotu Islands, the rainy season, from November to March, corresponds to the Austral summer. The Marquesas archipelago has a warmer climate because its islands are much closer to the equator than the rest of Polynesia. The rainy season lasts from January to March, so it is recommended to go between September and December.

Visa Requirements to enter French Polynesia

As French Polynesia is part of France, visitors from most countries, including the EU, the United States, Canada, and Australia, do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days in French Polynesia. However, it’s always a good idea to check with the French Embassy in your country before travelling to confirm the visa requirements.

Due to the technical stopover in the USA, ESTA application (American Electronic Travel Authorization System) is mandatory for European Union citizens in order to pass police checks. Make sure to apply no later than 72 hours before departing; real-time approvals are no longer available.