
Tahiti & French Polynesia Vacations — The Heart of the South Pacific
French Polynesia
Tahiti and French Polynesia encompass 118 islands and atolls spread across an ocean area the size of Western Europe. Beyond the famous Bora Bora, the archipelago includes the extraordinary Moorea, the remote Huahine, the extraordinary atolls of the Tuamotus, and the Marquesas Islands — one of the most remote and extraordinary destinations in the world.
Why Visit Tahiti & French Polynesia?
- ✓Moorea — Tahiti's most beautiful neighbour, with extraordinary Cook's Bay and Opunohu Bay
- ✓Rangiroa — the world's second-largest atoll, with extraordinary diving
- ✓Huahine — the most authentic and unspoiled of the Society Islands
- ✓Marquesas Islands — one of the world's most remote and extraordinary destinations
- ✓Tahiti itself — the largest island, with extraordinary black sand beaches and waterfalls
Things to Do in Tahiti & French Polynesia
Wendy can arrange any of these experiences as part of your personalised itinerary.
Moorea Day Trip
Take a day trip to the extraordinary Moorea — Cook's Bay, Opunohu Bay, and the extraordinary Belvedere Lookout.
Rangiroa Diving
Dive the extraordinary Rangiroa atoll — the world's second-largest atoll, with extraordinary passes, sharks, and marine life.
Heiva Festival
Attend the extraordinary Heiva Festival in July — the most important cultural festival in French Polynesia, with extraordinary dance, music, and traditional sports.
Overwater Bungalow Stay
Stay in an extraordinary overwater bungalow — the most iconic accommodation in French Polynesia.
Tahitian Vanilla Farm Tour
Visit a Tahitian vanilla farm — Tahitian vanilla is the world's most prized vanilla, grown on the island of Taha'a.
Black Sand Beach, Tahiti
Visit the extraordinary black sand beaches of Tahiti — Plage de Papenoo and Plage de Taravao are the most beautiful.
Ready to book your Tahiti & French Polynesia trip?
Wendy handles flights, hotels, transfers, and experiences — all in one place.
Where to Eat in Tahiti & French Polynesia
Wendy's recommended restaurants — from fine dining to authentic local cuisine.
Fine Dining
Le Lotus, InterContinental Tahiti
Tahiti's most celebrated restaurant — extraordinary French-Polynesian cuisine with extraordinary overwater views.
Polynesian Cuisine
Te Tiare Restaurant, Huahine
Huahine's most celebrated restaurant — extraordinary traditional Polynesian cuisine in a beautiful garden setting.
Street Food
Roulotte Food Trucks, Papeete
Papeete's most beloved dining experience — the extraordinary roulotte food trucks that line the waterfront every evening.
Where to Stay in Tahiti & French Polynesia
Wendy has personal relationships with these properties and can often secure upgrades and exclusive rates.
Brando Resort, Tetiaroa
LuxuryOne of the world's most extraordinary private island resorts — Marlon Brando's private atoll, with 35 extraordinary villas and exceptional service.
Sofitel Moorea Ia Ora Beach Resort
LuxuryMoorea's most celebrated resort — extraordinary overwater bungalows, exceptional beach, and extraordinary views of Moorea's peaks.
Pension Motu Iti, Huahine
Mid-RangeA beautiful family-run pension on Huahine — extraordinary authenticity, exceptional hospitality, and excellent value.
Planning Your Tahiti & French Polynesia Trip
📅 Best Time to Visit
May through October — the dry season with the best weather and the best visibility for diving.
🌤️ Climate
Tropical with a wet season (November–April) and a dry season (May–October). Temperatures are warm year-round (25–30°C).
✈️ Getting There
Connecting flights from Calgary to Papeete Faa'a International Airport (PPT) via Los Angeles. Total travel time approximately 12–14 hours.
Wendy's Take on Tahiti & French Polynesia
35+ years of travel expertise
Ah, Tahiti and the enchanting islands of French Polynesia! This destination truly holds a special place in my heart, and after 35+ years in travel, I can confidently say it's where dreams of paradise come alive. My clients often ask me about the ultimate romantic escape or a truly unique cultural immersion, and I always point them towards these turquoise waters and lush volcanic peaks. It’s not just about the iconic overwater bungalows, though they are undeniably magical; it’s the entire experience – the gentle rhythm of island life, the vibrant marine ecosystems, and the genuine warmth of the Polynesian people. I’ve seen countless travelers return completely transformed by the beauty and tranquility found here, and it’s a testament to the enduring allure of this South Pacific gem. The sense of peace and connection you feel is unlike anywhere else in the world, making it perfect for honeymoons, anniversaries, or simply a profound escape from the everyday.
When planning a trip to French Polynesia, I always emphasize embracing the local culture. Take the time to learn a few Tahitian phrases, attend a traditional dance performance, or try your hand at weaving. The islands offer a diverse range of experiences, from the bustling markets of Papeete to the serene lagoons of Bora Bora and the untouched beauty of the Marquesas. For those who love adventure, snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear waters reveals an underwater world teeming with colorful fish, manta rays, and even sharks – a truly unforgettable experience. And don't forget to savor the exquisite local cuisine, especially the fresh seafood and the famous *poisson cru*. The best time to visit is typically during the dry season, from May to October, when the weather is sunny and pleasant, perfect for exploring both land and sea.
Accommodation choices are plentiful, ranging from luxurious resorts with those famed overwater bungalows to charming guesthouses that offer a more intimate, authentic experience. I always tell people to consider splitting their stay between a few different islands to truly appreciate the unique character of each. Imagine waking up to the sound of waves beneath your villa, enjoying breakfast delivered by canoe, and then spending your day exploring hidden coves or simply relaxing on a pristine beach. It’s these moments that create lasting memories. With my 35+ years of experience, I’ve helped clients from all corners of the globe craft their perfect Polynesian adventure, ensuring every detail is taken care of so they can simply relax and soak in the magic. This is a destination that truly lives up to its reputation, offering an extraordinary blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and unparalleled relaxation.
Insider Tips — Tahiti & French Polynesia
Book your overwater bungalow at least 9-12 months in advance, especially if traveling during the dry season (May-October), as availability is limited and they are highly sought after.
Consider a split stay between Tahiti and Moorea; Moorea offers a more laid-back, lush experience with stunning volcanic scenery, easily accessible by a short ferry ride.
Don't miss trying the local 'Poisson Cru' – fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice and coconut milk; it's a culinary highlight and a true taste of French Polynesia.
Pack reef-safe sunscreen and a rash guard. The Tahitian sun is intense, and protecting the delicate coral reefs is crucial for preserving their beauty.
Learn a few basic French or Tahitian phrases like 'Ia Ora Na' (hello) and 'Mauruuru' (thank you); locals appreciate the effort and it enhances your cultural experience.
Frequently Asked Questions — Tahiti & French Polynesia
Do Canadians need a visa for French Polynesia?
No — Canadian citizens can visit French Polynesia visa-free for up to 90 days with a valid passport.
What is the difference between Tahiti and Bora Bora?
Tahiti is the largest island and the main hub — it has black sand beaches and waterfalls but is less resort-focused. Bora Bora is the most famous island, with an extraordinary turquoise lagoon and the world's most iconic overwater bungalows.
Is French Polynesia expensive?
French Polynesia is one of the world's most expensive destinations. However, there are options at every price point — from ultra-luxury resorts to family-run pensions (guesthouses).
More South Pacific Destinations
Book Your Tahiti & French Polynesia Trip with Wendy
As your trusted travel consultant, Wendy handles every detail of your Tahiti & French Polynesia vacation — from flights and hotels to transfers and experiences. Get in touch for a free, no-obligation quote.
Book Your Tahiti & French Polynesia Trip with Wendy
Tell Wendy about your Tahiti & French Polynesia travel plans and she'll respond within 24 hours with personalised options and pricing.



