Things to do in French Polynesia Palm-fringed beaches, dark blue lagoons – a vision of paradise increasingly popular with UK holidaymakers.
Things to do in French Polynesia Palm-fringed beaches, dark blue lagoons – a vision of paradise increasingly popular with UK holidaymakers.
Things to do in French Polynesia French Polynesia has been a byword for the ultimate island escape for hundreds of years and, as part of the Pacific Islands, fits firmly with a growing trend identified by ABTA for people to take ‘The Longest Haul’ – holidaying on the other side of the world to the UK. 1The Polynesian people, immortalised in the art of Paul Gauguin, may well be the true treasure of the islands, with their incredibly warm and welcoming nature.There are hundreds of islands that make up the archipelago, but your trip will almost certainly start in the main island, Tahiti.The capital Papeete is a lively, bustling city and a visit to one its markets is a must to mix with locals. Just a hike away from the city you’ll find yourself in the Fautaua Valley with its jaw-droppingly beautiful waterfall.Also try some of the delicious food served up by ‘roulottes’ (food trucks) on Tahiti providing a mouth-watering mixture of Tahitian, French and Chinese cuisines.The island of Bora Bora is the ultimate honeymoon destination, with turquoise sea lapping against the out-of-this-world beauty of the island’s main beach, Matira.Bora Bora also has a myriad of “motu” islets, perfect settings for overwater bungalows, and all of this against a dramatic backdrop of rainforest-covered peaks.For even more of a desert island paradise experience, head to the Tuamotu archipelago made up of coral atolls surrounding dreamy lagoons. Here you can go diving and snorkelling during the day and then marvel at the majesty of the moon and stars once night falls.French Polynesia is an unforgettable experience which you will find very hard to leave.Find out more about the other places featured in our Destinations to Watch 2026 report.1 ABTA’s Travel Trends for 2026 report
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