Historical map of French Polynesia from 1930

In the heart of the Pacific

Discover French Polynesia

French Polynesia brings together 118 islands across five archipelagos. Volcanic islands, coral atolls, deep valleys and vast lagoons form a destination where every stop has its own rhythm.

More than a picture-postcard setting

Discover French Polynesia through its landscapes, but also its people, languages, songs, dances and traditional skills. Weaving, tīfaifai quilting, carving, tattooing, navigation, pearl farming and preparing local produce are all part of a living heritage.

Five archipelagos, five different worlds

The Society Islands

Tahiti, Moorea, Huahine, Raiatea, Taha’a, Bora Bora and Maupiti combine volcanic scenery with lagoons. This is the most accessible archipelago for a first visit and home to the properties offered by Iaorana Agency.

The Tuamotu Islands

A chain of atolls scattered across the ocean, known for their vast lagoons, passes, diving and pearl farming. Rangiroa, Fakarava and Tikehau are among the most visited.

The Marquesas Islands

Dramatic high islands with deep valleys and spectacular cliffs. The Marquesas have a strong cultural identity, expressed through ancient sites, carving, tattooing and the arts.

The Austral Islands

Further south, Rurutu, Tubuai, Rimatara, Raivavae and Rapa offer a cooler climate and island life deeply rooted in crafts and local traditions.

The Gambier Islands

Centred on Mangareva, the remote Gambier Islands are known for pearl farming, fishing and a distinctive religious heritage. They are mainly reached by air from Tahiti.

Photo credits: Iaorana Agency (Society, Tuamotu and Marquesas Islands) · Octave Fargier / CC BY 2.0 (Austral Islands) · FRED / CC BY-SA 3.0 (Gambier Islands).

Moorea lagoon framed by palm trees and mountains
Moorea — photo Adrien Daurenjou / Pexels
Sea turtle swimming in Polynesian waters
Sea turtle — photo Baptiste Riffard / Unsplash

Planning an island-hopping trip

Tahiti is the main arrival point and hub for inter-island connections. Moorea can be reached by ferry from Papeete. For the other main islands, flying is generally the most practical option.

Distances are considerable: it is better to visit fewer islands and allow enough time for each than to spend your trip in transit.

Travel with respect for the fenua

Respect local communities, cultural sites and private property. Do not touch coral or feed wildlife, and choose operators who follow local regulations.

Reducing waste, carrying a reusable water bottle and supporting local producers and craftspeople are simple choices that matter on islands with limited resources.

Start with Tahiti and Moorea

Tahiti combines culture, city life, beaches and valleys. Moorea adds its lagoon and mountain scenery. The islands are close to one another, yet different enough to create a well-balanced first trip to French Polynesia.

Image credits: © Iaorana Agency · Wikimedia Commons · Pexels · © Baptiste Riffard / Unsplash.