£1 CFPF 138
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Weather & climate
Weather in French Polynesia
French Polynesia
28°
Overcast
Thu
27°
28°
Fri
27°
28°
Sat
28°
28°
Sun
27°
28°
Mon
26°
27°
Tue
26°
27°
Wed
24°
27°
SPF level in French Polynesia
Recommended: SPF 50+ (extreme)
Spring
SPF 50+
Summer
SPF 50+ (extreme)
Autumn
SPF 50+
Winter
SPF 50+
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Before you go
Entry requirements for French Polynesia
What British travellers need to know
You can visit French Polynesia without a visa for up to 90 days for tourism or business.
Your passport must have an expiry date at least 3 months after the date you plan to leave French Polynesia.
You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
To stay longer than 90 days, to work or study, check the visa application process and timelines on the French visa website.
If you want to work in French Polynesia, get permission from the French Consulate General before you travel there.
Good to know:
You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty when entering French Polynesia.
You must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk.
Safety in French Polynesia
Tips when travelling
French Polynesia is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Avoid isolated areas, including beaches, after dark.
Do not carry large amounts of cash or wear expensive-looking jewellery or watches on the street.
Put valuables and travel documents in a safety deposit box or hotel safe.
When scuba diving, ask to see a dive operator’s credentials and check that safety equipment looks to be in good condition.
You need to carry both the 1968 version of the international driving permit and your UK driving licence when driving.
Bonus tips:
If you have not had any previous diving experience, check what to do if something goes wrong, including how to call for help while at sea.
Tropical storms including cyclones can happen from November to April, so monitor local news and weather reports.
More information
Driving in French Polynesia
A valid UK driving licence is accepted. An International Driving Permit is recommended.
Side of road
right
Motorway speed limit
110 km/h
Urban speed limit
50 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.05%
Remember: French Polynesia drives on the right. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the left.
Health in French Polynesia
Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including emergency evacuation. A Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is not applicable in French Polynesia.
Consult your doctor regarding recommended vaccinations and health precautions before travelling to French Polynesia. Dengue fever and Zika virus are present, so take precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Drink bottled water to avoid stomach issues.
Cards & payments
Credit card acceptance is good in tourist areas, hotels and larger establishments and shops. Smaller businesses may only accept cash.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1-303-967-1096
Tipping in French Polynesia
Tipping is not mandatory in French Polynesia, but it's becoming more common for good service.
Restaurant
5-10% for exceptional service
Bar/Café
Small change or 5-10% for exceptional service
Taxi
Round up the fare or a small tip for helpful service
Hotel Porter
100-200 XPF per bag
Hotel Housekeeper
100-200 XPF per day
Tour Guide
5-10% of the tour price for a good tour
Mobile & roaming
As the UK is no longer in the EU, EU roaming agreements no longer apply. Check with your mobile provider for roaming charges in French Polynesia. Roaming charges can be high; consider a local SIM card if you plan to use your phone extensively.
Local SIM
5GB for 5000 XPF (~£35)
Network coverage
4G, 5G
Electrical in French Polynesia
Voltage
220V / 60Hz
Plug types
Type A, Type B, Type E
WiFi & internet
WiFi is commonly available in hotels, resorts, and some cafes, particularly in tourist areas. Coverage can be limited on smaller islands or in more remote areas. Some places may charge for WiFi access.
Average speed
25 Mbps
Free Wifi is available in most resorts.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
112
Police
17
Ambulance
15
Fire
18
Save 112 in your phone before travelling.
Calling French Polynesia
Country code
+689
To call a number in French Polynesia dial 00 689 40 12 34 56.
The country code for French Polynesia is 689. When calling from outside French Polynesia, use the exit code of your country followed by 689 and the local number.
UK Embassy
British Embassy Paris (France)
35 rue du Faubourg St Honoré, 75383 Paris Cedex 08, France
Phone
Website
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.
