French Polynesia is a travel destination in Polynesia. Its capital is Papeetē. August and July are its two best months to visit, ranked on 1991–2020 climate averages.
Top places to visit in French Polynesia
Bora Bora Lagoon (natural) — Impossibly turquoise UNESCO-designated lagoon encircling a coral atoll — the iconic overwater bungalow birthplace.
Moorea (natural) — Heart-shaped island twin of Tahiti — Opunohu Bay, Cook's Bay, lush basalt peaks, and world-class reef snorkelling.
Papeete Market (city) — Tahiti's vibrant morning market — vanilla, black pearls, poe, and monoi oil beneath an Art Deco iron roof.
Rangiroa Blue Lagoon (natural) — The world's second-largest atoll — a "lagoon within a lagoon" with pink-sand islets and swimming dolphins.
Mount Otemanu, Bora Bora (mountain) — Ancient volcanic plug rising 727 m above the lagoon — the Polynesian jewel silhouette behind every overwater bungalow.
Marae Taputapuatea (landmark) — UNESCO ceremonial complex on Raiatea — the spiritual and political centre of the pre-European Polynesian world.
Tetiaroa Atoll (natural) — Marlon Brando's private atoll — 13 motu islets, nesting frigate birds, and an ultra-exclusive eco-resort.
Fakarava Biosphere Reserve (natural) — UNESCO biosphere atoll on the Tuamotu chain — two UNESCO passes, wall dives with hundreds of sharks, and pristine coral.
Hiva Oa, Marquesas (landmark) — Paul Gauguin's final home and burial site — soaring jungle peaks, 3 m stone tiki, and the remotest archipelago on Earth.
Black Sand Beach, Tahiti (beach) — Striking volcanic black-sand shore at Papenoo — wave hammering coastline contrasting with lush valley jungle behind.