How much money do I need to travel to French Polynesia? - 2026 Guide

How much does it cost to go to French Polynesia?

The total cost of a trip to French Polynesia isn't one-size-fits-all. Most people think it's incredibly expensive, but it works for different budgets, not just the wealthy. Three main tiers define the financial requirements: budget, mid-range, and luxury. You'll spend the most on these three things:

• International airfare
• Inter-island logistics
• Type of tourist accommodation selected

You can often reduce expenses by choosing camping sites or family pensions, where prices start under 25 euros per night. If you prefer mid-range travel, you might opt for small hotels or vacation packages that balance comfort with price. But if you're looking for luxury, experiences in Tahiti and Bora Bora feature overwater bungalows and private resorts, pushing accommodation costs into the thousands per night. Also, the cost of living varies significantly between remote islands and main tourist hubs.

What currency is used in French Polynesia?

The Pacific franc (XPF) is the official currency used across the islands. It is pegged to the Euro, which makes travel budget math much easier compared to fluctuating currencies. While large resorts accept credit cards, you'll definitely need cash for many local transactions.

You'll need bills and coins for places like:

• Traditional markets
• Small grocery stores
• Roulottes (food trucks)

Remote atolls frequently lack reliable card terminals, so you should exchange foreign money at Faa'a International Airport in Papeete or at banks in major towns. ATMs dispense Pacific francs but are rare outside main population centers. I always recommend withdrawing a bit more than you think you'll need before leaving Tahiti. Having cash on hand ensures you can pay for food expenses and small purchases where digital payments are unavailable.

What is the cost of airfare to Tahiti?

Airfare is usually the biggest expense of a travel budget for French Polynesia. International flights arrive exclusively at Fa'a'a International Airport in Papeete, the main entry point. Ticket prices fluctuate based on departure city, airline, and season.

Round-trip economy tickets from the United States generally cost between $700 and $1,500 on carriers like Air Tahiti Nui, depending on the coast of departure. If you're flying from Europe, prices are steeper, with average fares ranging from €1,500 to €2,500 due to distance and required layovers. Booking tickets three to six months in advance usually gets you a better deal than last-minute purchases. Business class seats drastically increase the total cost, often exceeding $5,000 per person. Bundling flights with vacation packages can sometimes reduce these costs.

When is the cheapest time to fly to French Polynesia?

When you fly matters just as much as where you fly from. You'll find the cheapest flights during the low season from November to March, with January and February typically offering the best rates. However, travel expenses jump during the high season of June through August due to dry weather and peak demand.

You can often find better deals on vacation packages and accommodation by avoiding these busy months. The shoulder periods of April and May are great for saving money while enjoying moderate weather.

Do low-cost airlines fly to French Polynesia?

Yes, you can fly to Tahiti on budget airlines. Low-cost carriers like French Bee make it easier to get there with competitive fares. These flights fly modern aircraft, such as the Airbus A350XWB, which helps keep ticket prices down on long-haul routes to Papeete.

Just keep in mind that while this cuts upfront travel expenses, the base fare often excludes amenities like checked baggage and meals. Don't forget to factor in these potential add-ons when calculating their total budget.

What are the accommodation costs in French Polynesia?

You can find everything from cheap camping spots to ultra-luxury resorts. While famous for luxury, the islands offer affordable solutions ranging from campsites to family-run guesthouses. Prices also differ between the main Society Islands and remote atolls, where basic stays on remote islands are often cheaper. Vacation packages can sometimes offset high costs by bundling flights and stays.

How much does an overwater bungalow cost?

Overwater bungalows are the most expensive option, commanding a significant premium for features like direct lagoon access and privacy. You'll usually find starting rates around $600 to $800 per night on islands like Moorea or Tahiti. Costs increase substantially in Bora Bora, where premier accommodation often ranges from $1,000 to over $3,000 per night.

That rate is considerably higher than standard garden or beach suites. Prices fluctuate depending on when you visit, peaking during the high season. While vacation packages occasionally help with these expenses, booking an overwater bungalow remains the largest single expense in a luxury travel budget. A common trick I use is to split the stay: book a cheaper room for most of the trip and splurge on the overwater bungalow for just the final two nights.

What are the rates for guesthouses and pensions?

Family-run guesthouses (pensions) are a cheaper alternative to luxury resorts. These establishments give you a better feel for local life alongside lower costs, with prices for basic stays starting from approximately $30 per night. Mid-range options typically range between $80 and $150, often providing private rooms and improved amenities.

Many pensions operate on a half-board basis, including breakfast and dinner in the daily rate, which lowers total travel expenses. You can find this lodging style on islands such as Moorea, Huahine, and Raiatea. Staying here lets you experience authentic Polynesian hospitality without the premium price tag of international hotels.

Is camping a viable budget option?

Think of camping as the raw, unfiltered way to see the islands—you trade air conditioning for a front-row seat to the stars. It's the cheapest place to stay in French Polynesia. Designated campsites with basic facilities operate on several islands, including Moorea and Rangiroa. A standard camping spot for a two-person tent typically costs less than 25 euros per night, which saves a ton of money.

You often need to provide your own gear to use these sites effectively. You have to be okay with giving up some comfort to save this much money. It’s not for everyone, but waking up to the sound of the lagoon lapping just feet from your tent is a priceless experience.

How much does inter-island travel cost?

Inter-island travel is a major expense to factor into the budget. Exploring the archipelago requires navigating between 118 islands, making transport a necessary cost to reach popular destinations like Bora Bora, Rangiroa, and Taha'a. Expenses vary widely depending on the chosen mode of transport. You'll mostly choose between flying and taking a ferry.

While ferries provide a scenic and often cheaper alternative for short distances between Tahiti and Moorea, flights are essential for reaching farther islands such as Maupiti, Raiatea, and Huahine efficiently. Island hopping is generally expensive, and the total cost of moving from one atoll to another can be as much as the price of international tickets. If you are planning a multi-island itinerary, you must prioritize these transfer costs to keep your budget on track.

What are the prices for domestic flights between islands?

Domestic flights are the fastest inter-island travel method but are expensive. Air Tahiti operates the majority of these routes, connecting Papeete to distant atolls such as Rangiroa and Tikehau. Purchasing individual tickets for each leg adds up quickly. A standard round-trip flight between Tahiti and Bora Bora typically costs between $300 and $500, depending on the season and availability.

To save money, most visitors use multi-island air passes. These passes allow travel to several islands within specific archipelagos for a fixed rate, generally ranging from €400 to €600. Baggage restrictions on smaller aircraft also impact the final cost. Strict weight limits often apply, and if you have heavy gear or diving equipment, you'll likely have to pay extra.

Is taking a ferry cheaper than flying?

Taking a ferry is substantially cheaper than air travel for specific routes. This is most common for the trip between Tahiti and Moorea. Round-trip ferry tickets for this connection generally range from $25 to $35, while airfare for the same leg frequently costs three to four times that amount.

Although the 30 to 45-minute boat ride takes longer than a 10-minute flight, it provides scenic views of the lagoons and peaks. Pro tip: keep your camera ready during the crossing, as you might spot dolphins playing in the wake. Taking the ferry saves you money, though its availability is limited primarily to the Society Islands.

What is the budget for food and dining?

Food expenses in French Polynesia generally exceed those in the United States or Europe due to heavy reliance on imported goods. High import taxes and shipping logistics drive up the cost of living, so food will take up a big chunk of your money. There's a huge price difference between dining at luxury resorts and eating at local establishments.

If you want to reduce expenses, try visiting *roulottes* (food trucks), particularly in Papeete. Supermarket prices also reflect the high cost of imported items, though purchasing local produce like baguettes and fruit helps keep costs down.

How much do meals cost at restaurants vs. roulottes?

Dining at *roulottes* is much cheaper. Sit-down restaurants often charge premium rates, where a standard three-course meal frequently exceeds 30 euros per person. Mobile food trucks, particularly popular in Papeete and around Tahiti, provide generous portions for a fraction of that price.

A filling dinner at a *roulotte* typically costs between 12 and 20 euros. For the cheapest eats, local snacks and sandwiches are available for less than 5 euros. Choosing these casual dining spots over formal establishments is the cheapest way to eat out and helps you deal with the high prices. My personal favorite is the *poisson cru* (raw fish marinated in coconut milk), which tastes even better when you're eating it right by the water.

Are grocery prices high due to imported goods?

Grocery prices in French Polynesia are high primarily because almost everything is shipped in from abroad. Items such as dairy products, cheese, and meats shipped from France or New Zealand incur significant import taxes and transportation fees. Because of these logistics, these costs drive food prices well above averages found in mainland France or the United States.

Purchasing familiar brands or alcohol drastically increases the daily budget. Fortunately, local produce like papayas, mangoes, and fresh tuna remains relatively affordable and abundant at markets. Preparing meals at guesthouses using these local ingredients is a great way to save money, so you can eat well without spending a fortune.

How much do activities and excursions cost?

You can't forget to budget for the fun of a French Polynesia trip, as water-based excursions are the main draw. You will likely allocate significant funds for guided tours, though independent exploration like snorkeling from the beach remains a cost-free alternative. Prices vary by location, with activities in Bora Bora often priced higher than similar options in Moorea. Planning ahead helps you see everything without going broke.

What are the prices for scuba diving and lagoon tours?

Scuba diving is generally a premium activity, yet some operators offer moderate rates. Single diving sessions can be found for less than 50 euros, although standard excursion fares often range higher depending on equipment rental. Unique experiences such as swimming with whales generally cost around 70 euros. Famous destinations like Rangiroa and Bora Bora frequently have different prices due to their popularity.

If you'd rather stay on the surface, full-day lagoon tours that include snorkeling and a picnic lunch generally cost up to 100 euros per person. Booking multi-dive packages is a good way to save money per dive and effectively manage total expenses.

Are there free activities in French Polynesia?

You can enjoy the stunning natural beauty of French Polynesia without spending money on organized tours. Snorkeling from public beaches is a widely available free activity that significantly reduces expenses. If you bring your own gear, you avoid rental costs and can explore the lagoons surrounding Moorea and Tahiti as much as you want.

Hiking provides another cost-free opportunity for land-based exploration. Self-guided trails on the high islands lead to waterfalls and mountain peaks without requiring entry fees. Using these free options helps save money while still offering rich experiences, so you can spend more on food or a nice room.

How can you save on roaming costs with an eSIM?

Staying connected in French Polynesia often incurs high international roaming fees from home carriers. Daily charges frequently exceed $10, running up your bill. To secure affordable data rates, you can use a dedicated eSIM card for French Polynesia that connects directly to local networks, bypassing expensive roaming agreements.

You usually just scan a QR code to activate it, ensuring connectivity immediately upon arrival in Papeete. Prepaid data plans help you control your spending by eliminating surprise bills. eSIM cards provide a reliable alternative to hunting for public Wi-Fi or purchasing physical cards at the airport.

Why is an eSIM recommended for travel to French Polynesia?

eSIMs are much easier to use and more secure compared to physical SIM cards. You avoid the risk of losing your primary home SIM card during the swapping process. Setting it up in advance removes the stress of finding a vendor at Faa'a International Airport after a long flight.

This method ensures immediate access to maps and translation apps upon landing. Cheaper data plans save you money compared to carrier roaming plans. Coverage is generally strong across the Society Islands, so you can stay in touch.

How does connectivity assist with navigation and logistics?

Using eSIM cards gives you instant access to essential navigation and communication tools upon landing, which is crucial for accessing digital maps to navigate rental cars in Papeete or locate remote hiking trails on Moorea. This eliminates the hassle of managing physical SIM cards and the risk of losing a primary home chip.

Also, reliable data makes it easier to use translation apps, aiding interaction in areas where English is less common. Reliable internet makes getting between islands easier without requiring constant Wi-Fi searches, ensuring a smoother journey across the archipelago.

What is the cost of local transportation on the islands?

Local transportation costs vary significantly depending on the island and how much freedom you want. Public transport is largely absent on most outer islands, forcing visitors to arrange alternative ways to get around. So, renting a car is a common extra expense if you want flexibility. This option is particularly popular on larger islands like Tahiti and Moorea, where attractions are spread out and distances are too great for walking.

By comparison, visitors to Raiatea and Huahine often rent scooters or bicycles to manage expenses effectively. Relying on these private rentals is the best way to explore, directly impacting the overall budget.

How much does it cost to rent a car?

Renting a vehicle lets you explore on your own across the archipelago, though it adds a noticeable expense to the daily itinerary. Daily car rental rates generally range between 35 and 50 euros depending on location and vehicle type. Agencies in Tahiti often offer the most competitive prices, with economy models starting around 35 euros per day due to higher competition. Costs increase on outer islands like Moorea, where fewer cars mean higher prices.

Fuel and insurance fees are additional expenses that add up on the final bill. Gas prices in French Polynesia are high compared to global averages, often exceeding 1.50 euros per liter. Make sure you set aside money for gas for exploring the islands.

What is a realistic daily budget for French Polynesia?

A realistic daily budget depends on the traveler's style and comfort requirements. A mid-range visitor typically requires approximately 170 to 200 euros per day to cover all essential expenses. This includes accommodation costs of around 100 euros for a standard pension, a daily car rental share of about 35 euros, and food expenses exceeding 30 euros for restaurant meals. Backpackers can significantly reduce this amount to under 80 euros by choosing camping options and cooking their own meals.

If you're splashing out, luxury travelers staying in overwater bungalows often spend upwards of 800 euros daily once fine dining and private excursions are included. Inter-island logistics and activities further influence the final daily rate. Ultimately, a balanced financial plan considers the cost of getting around and dining alongside lodging fees.

How much does a one-week trip cost for a couple?

A one-week trip for a couple to French Polynesia typically costs between $5,000 and $8,000 for a mid-range itinerary. This total budget covers international flights, standard accommodation, and daily dining expenses. Airfare for two people usually takes up $1,500 to $2,500 of this amount, depending on the departure point.

Couples targeting luxury experiences in Bora Bora with overwater bungalows often see total expenses rise above $12,000 due to premium amenities. On the flip side, budget-conscious travelers staying in guesthouses on Tahiti or Moorea can keep costs near $3,500 by prioritizing value options. Vacation packages are a great way for managing these high prices. Bundling flights, inter-island transfers, and resorts frequently saves you money compared to booking individual components.

How can you save money on your French Polynesia vacation?

Planning ahead is the best way to reduce the total cost of a trip to French Polynesia.

• Book flights during the low season, specifically in January or February.
• Choose budget-friendly accommodation like guesthouses or camping sites to cut nightly rates compared to overwater bungalows.
• Fly with budget airlines for international travel to manage initial expenses.
• Take a ferry between Tahiti and Moorea instead of flying to save money.
• Dine at *roulottes* for affordable meals, or find local snacks for under 5 euros.
• Buy local produce at markets to avoid the high costs of imported goods.
• Enjoy free activities such as snorkeling from the beach to eliminate expensive excursion fares.
• Consider vacation packages for bundled savings on various travel expenses.

Sources

• https://us.airtahitinui.com/airfare/round-trip-flights-usa-tahiti
• https://www.airtahiti.com/en/airpass-fares