Deep turquoise lagoons, white sandy beaches and dramatic green volcanoes

Scattered across the middle of the South Pacific Ocean are the idyllic islands of French Polynesia.

An Overseas Collective of France, French Polynesia consists of 118 islands, 67 of which are inhabited. Occupying an area larger than Europe, it is divided into five groups of islands – the Society Islands, the Tuamotu Archipelago, Gambier Islands, Marquesas Islands and Austral Islands.

Lying within the Society Islands – named after Captain James Cook’s scientific expedition for the Royal Society – are some of French Polynesia’s most well-known islands. Tahiti is the largest and most densely populated, and serves as a springboard for exploring the other islands. Bora Bora is known the world over for its exquisite beaches and luxury accommodation, making it a popular choice for honeymooners in French Polynesia – although anyone who visits is sure to be seduced by its beauty.

Whichever island you choose to stay on, you will be rewarded with crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life making swimming, snorkelling and diving the activities of choice. Those who enjoy exploring the great outdoors will love hiking through the lush volcanic interiors and discovering hidden waterfalls. Somewhere this spectacular deserves to be experienced in style, and we have hand-picked our favourite lodges and resorts to offer you an exclusive, luxury and unforgettable stay.

From our experts

Experiences picked by our destination specialists

Snorkel with sharks and dolphins off Bora Bora

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Snorkel around Bora Bora, discovering the vibrant coral alongside sharks, dolphins, whales and turtles

Visit the ancient temples of Raiatea

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Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Marae Taputapuatea, in the island of Raiatea. These ancient temples are said to have immense spiritual power

Summit the peaks of Tahiti and Moorea

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French Polynesia has epic hikes: Mount Aorai in Tahiti, the incredible peaks of Moorea and Maupiti are some of our favourites

Walk the pink sands of Fakarava

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Marvel at the pink sand beaches on Fakarava

Relax on the white-sand shores of Bora Bora

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Relax on some of the most pristine beaches in the world – Bora Bora and Tahiti are world famous for their ultra-white sand and turquoise waters

Swim in Tahiti's lagoons and black-sand bays

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Enjoy all that Tahiti has to offer. From black-sand beaches, extinct volcanoes, lagoons and waterfalls, the scenery is unmatched

A word from one of our experts

French Polynesia is like paradise on earth. With its beautiful white-sandy beaches and warm crystal blue water, it's the ultimate destination for relaxation. But, for those seeking adventure, there's also so much to keep you occupied - from hikes, to 4x4 drives, to scuba diving with incredible sea life.

Lucy Clarke headshot
Lucy Clarke

Travel Designer

Luxury accommodation in French Polynesia

There are many incredible places to stay in French Polynesia. Here are some of our favourites, handpicked by our travel designers:

Bora Bora

St. Regis Bora Bora
Located on the picture-perfect island of Bora Bora, the St. Regis sits within 44 acres of lush, tropical grounds in the shadow of the iconic Mount Otemanu. The resort consists of 89 villas, some of which are nestled in the gardens or along the beach, and others which are perched over the sparkling waters of the South Pacific. Some of the garden and beach villas have their own private pools while the overwater villas feature separate dining gazebos so you can enjoy views of the lagoon while you eat. There is also a two-bedroom villa perfect for families and an estate that sleeps nine. The Lagoon Restaurant is St. Regis’ signature restaurant, offering a fusion of French and Asian cuisine with lots of fresh seafood and creative flavour combinations. Mount Otemanu is framed by the large windows, and there are long glass panels on the floor through which you can see the black-tip sharks who live beneath the restaurant. The overwater terrace is the perfect place for a sunset drink. There is also a sushi and sake restaurant, Far Niente Ristorante offering Italian cuisine and fine wines, and Te Pahu restaurant where you can enjoy traditional Polynesian dancing and music. The resort has its own Lagoonarium, a protected underwater sanctuary filled with marine life. Sat on its own island in the middle of the Lagoonarium is the spa, a tranquil haven where guests can relax and unwind with a treatment. There are two swimming pool, fitness centre, tennis court and bikes for hire for those that wish to explore the island.
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Bora Bora

Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
Perched on an outer coral reef and surrounded by sandy islets, the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is an idyllic island retreat surrounded by the turquoise waters of the South Pacific. There are 107 suites and villas scattered along the outer beaches and over the water. The beachfront villas are draped along a stretch of semi-private beach, with private gardens filled with coconut palms and colourful bougainvillea and a private swimming pool. There are a mixture of one-, two- and three-bedroom villas making them perfect for honeymooners, families and groups of friends. The overwater bungalows sit on stilts over the ocean, some with their own private plunge pools. Teak wood and thatched roofs give them plenty of traditional charm while the high ceilings and spacious interiors ensure they offer guests the most comfortable of stays. When it comes to dining, guests are spoiled for choice with four restaurants serving a cuisine inspired by Polynesian and French traditions, as well as light salads and freshly grilled seafood. There are also pleny of spots to enjoy a cocktail as the as the sun sets. There is also the option to enjoy dinner on the beach with Polynesian singing and a fire dance performance, and have your breakfast delivered to your suite in a ceremonial Polynesian canoe. With the inviting waters of the South Pacific on your doorstep, you’ll want to dive straight in and explore the fascinating underwater world. Enjoy snorkelling adventures in the Ruanhatu Lagoon Sanctuary, home to over 100 marine species including octopus, eagle rays and unicorn fish, then explore the coves by sea kayak, stand up paddleboard or water bike. There is also an infinity pool, spa, fitness centre and tennis courts.
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Why book with Jacada?

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Personalised design

We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.

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Authentic experiences

Our expert guides and brilliant travel concierges are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.

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Responsible travel

Our luxury trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.

Trip inspiration

Get inspired with our French Polynesian example trips and then get in touch to plan your own adventure

Ultimate luxury in French Polynesia

10-Day Trip

Ultimate luxury in French Polynesia

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10-Day Trip

Ultimate luxury in French Polynesia

Relax and unwind on three of French Polynesia's most idyllic islands, with exclusive experiences and private transfers
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Beaches and Reefs of French Polynesia

14-Day Trip

Beaches and Reefs of French Polynesia

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14-Day Trip

Beaches and Reefs of French Polynesia

Dive into the beauty of turquoise waters, white sands and colourful reefs in Moorea and Bora Bora
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Relaxation and Adventure in Bora Bora and New Zealand

15-Day Trip

Relaxation and Adventure in Bora Bora and New Zealand

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15-Day Trip

Relaxation and Adventure in Bora Bora and New Zealand

Start by relaxing on the picture-perfect island of Bora Bora before heading to New Zealand for ten nights of adventure and culture
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Ready to plan your adventure?

Whatever you want from your French Polynesia tour, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Where to go

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Bora Bora

White sandy beaches, sea in every shade of blue imaginable, overwater villas and coconut palms swaying in the breeze – for many, Bora Bora is the epitome of a perfect tropical getaway.

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Moorea

Dramatic peaks cloaked in emerald green forest rise up from the bright turquoise waters of the lagoon that surronds the island of Moorea.

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Tahiti

Tahiti is the largest and most populated of French Polynesia‘s 118 islands and atolls. It is most people’s introduction to this South Pacific nation and as far as first impressions go, it doesn’t disappoint.

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Tetiaroa

Once a place where Tahitian chiefs would spend their time feasting, fishing and seeking entertainment, this tranquil atoll north of Tahiti consists of 12 motus (islets) and is these days best known as Marlon Brando’s private island. You’ll find his luxury eco-hotel, The Brando Resort, on the Onetahi motu.

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Taha'a

Bananas, watermelons and coconuts grow in abundance here, and the island is also responsible for almost all of the vanilla produced in French Polynesia. You’ll find it used in the local cooking as well as in luxurious spa products.

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Rangiroa

If diving and snorkelling is your thing, then Rangiroa is an absolute must. This coral atoll is the world’s second largest with over 200 islets and some of the richest waters in French Polynesia.

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French Polynesia Chartered Cruises

Slip quietly through the brilliant blue waters of French Polynesia aboard a private boat, the fresh ocean breeze whistling through the quiet air. Either side of you, tropical islands slide by, their white sandy beaches shimmering in the sun, palms trees swaying lazily against the azure sky.

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Meet your South Pacific team

When to visit

With high temperatures, good weather and exciting festivals throughout the year, there’s not really a best time to visit French Polynesia. It’s great year-round.

The cooler and dryer season runs from March to November, with the arrival of the southeast trade winds. This time of year is known as the Austral winter and brings with it cooler temperatures.

Water Sports

April - November

Cultural Celebrations

April - July

Whale Experiences

July - November

When Is the Best Time to Visit French Polynesia?

When Is the Best Time to Visit French Polynesia?

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Plan your trip to French Polynesia

Whatever you want from your adventure to French Polynesia, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

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Don't take our word for it

Your trip, your story

We craft trips deeply personal, delightfully surprising and entirely one of a kind. Every Jacada journey begins in conversation with a travel designer, a specialist in their destination of expertise. Behind each journey is a wealth of insight, gathered over years of on-the-ground exploration.

Once you’re booked, you’ll meet your concierge. Based in the region you’re visiting, they’ll take care of all the details so your mind is at rest. They make the trip truly special – and truly yours.