Tourism in French Polynesia
The idyllic islands of French Polynesia, located over 7800km from Australia and comprising of over 100 islands, are some of the most picturesque tourist locations in the Pacific. With turquoise lagoons, rugged mountains and beautiful Tahitian culture, there is plenty to discover.
French Polynesia has a population of just under 280,000 people. The capital city of Pape’ete is situated on the island of Tahiti. The official language is French, although Tahitian is spoken by over a fifth of the population. In 2018, French Polynesia welcomed 263,556 visitors, continuing the strong growth of previous years. Revenue from tourism equates to 17% of French Polynesia’s GDP. Tahiti Tourism is the leading organisation for promoting the region and oversees all marketing and public relations globally, with 12 offices worldwide to reach 18 international markets.
French Polynesia is comprised of several regions including the Society Islands, Tuamotu Islands, Marquesas Islands, Gambier Islands and Austral Islands. The Society Islands are the most-inhabited group and include many popular tourist destinations such as Bora Bora and Moorea, as well as Huahine, Maupiti and Raiatea. The Tuamotu Islands are a central archipelago comprising of 77 atolls across an area of almost 1500km and includes the popular Rangiroa, in addition to Mahihi, Tikehau and Fakarava. The Marquesas Islands are renowned for their high cliffs, volcanic peaks and natural beauty, known locally as the “Te Henua ‘Enana” or the “Land of “Men”. Positioned in the south-east, the Gambier Islands are the most remote and least populated region, with only 1000 inhabitants, as well as dozens of islets. Finally, the southernmost region of The Austral Islands are made up of ancient volcanoes situated on the Tropic of Capricorn, inhabited and with a cooler climate.
Photo by Paulina Cadoret on Unsplash
The uniqueness of French Polynesia makes it appealing to many tourists. Sales and Marketing Manager from Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa, Virginie Hanot, told me:
“French Polynesia accounts for a total of 118 islands including the popular Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora. The exclusivity of this destination is due to its truly unique and preserved beauty. It certainly has the most beautiful beaches in the world. It's perceived as exclusive as well as being located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, far from everything. Being so far away it is one of the most expensive destinations to travel to and to stay at, so is often seen as the trip of a lifetime you take only once, which makes it so special.”
Tahiti
Tahiti is the largest island in French Polynesia and home to the capital city of Pape’ete, as well as the Fa’a’ā International Airport. Tahiti is divided into two parts, Tahiti Nui and Tahiti Iti, and the landscape was shaped by ancient volcanoes. Whether learning Tahitian dancing, hiking Mont Aorai, participating in the national sport of Va’a or visiting the local market, Tahiti is the gateway to paradise. The island is also home to several resorts such as Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts, InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa and Manava Suite Resort Tahiti.
Bora Bora
Bora Bora is one of the most celebrated islands in the South Pacific, if not the world, and is a true oasis. Bora Bora is located northwest of Tahiti, less than an hour by plane from Pape’ete. The pristine white sand beaches and sparkling clear waters are home to tropical sea life of vibrant colours. The overwater bungalows and floating villas are inspired by traditional Tahitian designs, offering direct access to incredible lagoons. Some of the world’s most exclusive resorts are located on Bora Bora including InterContinental Bora Bora, Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts, Conrad Bora Bora Nui, The St Regis Bora Bora Resort and Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora.
Photo by Paulina Cadoret on Unsplash
Moorea
Moorea boasts a stunning coral reef eco-system and is the perfect place to go snorkelling with stingrays, fish and turtles. The several mountain peaks also provide scenic conditions for hiking, horseback riding or quad biking. Moorea offers beautiful rural landscapes as well as unmatched underwater experience featuring grey reef sharks, black-tip reef sharks and lemon sharks. The island of Moorea features resorts such as the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and the Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort.
French Polynesia was one of the first countries to reopen to tourists after COVID-19 closures, welcoming arrivals since July 2020. All visitors are required to have negative COVID-19 tests prior to departure and upon arrival. Local tourism operators have been looking for alternate methods to advertise their services as the market rebounds. Virginie Hanot from the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa said:
“We certainly hope for a better future. Low occupation in hotels and aircrafts has brought many of us willing to work with influencers from countries that were able to travel here, so we have had massive visibility on the socials lately. This shall bring lots of visitors our way in 2021.”
If you’re looking for a safe haven away from tourists that has some of the best beaches in the world, French Polynesia is the place to be. In addition, experience the local Polynesian culture, authentic cuisine and serene landscapes that accompany it.