Flights to French Polynesia at a glance

Traveling to French Polynesia is straightforward, with a variety of options for flights to French Polynesia that cater to all budgets. You can easily compare journey times and select the flight that best fits your schedule and travel plans to discover iconic sights. Popular attractions in the region include Matira Beach, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation; Moorea Ferry Terminal, ideal for outdoor adventures; and Vaitape Harbor, known for its stunning scenery and beach experiences.

• Major airports in French Polynesia: Tahiti Faaa International Airport (PPT) serving Papeete; Motu Mute Airport (BOB) serving Bora Bora; Rangiroa Airport (RGI) serving Rangiroa
• Flights per week: 310+ flights arriving across French Polynesia airports
• Number of airlines that fly to French Polynesia: around 10+ carriers

Popular airports in French Polynesia

French Polynesia is a captivating destination perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, urban explorers, and adventurous travelers alike. Visitors are drawn to its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and family-friendly activities. The region is conveniently served by three major airports, making travel easier for all.

• Tahiti Faaa International Airport (PPT): Situated in the Windward Islands, this airport facilitates both domestic and international travel, linking approximately 4 domestic locations and over 20 international spots. Travelers have the option to enhance their experience by upgrading to premium economy or business class, depending on the airline and route. Key airlines operating at this airport include Air Tahiti Nui, Air Tahiti, and United.
• Motu Mute Airport (BOB): Found in the Leeward Islands, Motu Mute Airport services both domestic and international flights, connecting around 3 domestic cities with about 10 international destinations. Passengers can opt for an upgrade to premium economy class for greater comfort, depending on their chosen airline and route. Air Tahiti, Air Tahiti Nui, and CityWing are popular airlines here.
• Rangiroa Airport (RGI): Nestled in The Tuamotu and Gambier Islands, Rangiroa Airport primarily handles domestic flights. Travelers can find service from notable airlines such as Air Tahiti and CityWing, making it an essential hub for local connections in this beautiful region.

Top routes to French Polynesia

• Los Angeles (LAX) to Papeete (PPT), with one-way fares starting at around $350
• San Francisco (SFO) to Papeete (PPT), with one-way airfare from around $300
• Los Angeles (LAX) to Bora Bora (BOB), with one-way flights starting at around $530
• Seattle (SEA) to Papeete (PPT), with one-way fares starting at around $380
• San Francisco (SFO) to Bora Bora (BOB), with one-way airfare from around $500

Cheapest routes to French Polynesia

• Auckland (AKL) to Papeete (PPT), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $260
• Rarotonga (RAR) to Papeete (PPT), with cheap one-way fares from around $260
• San Francisco (SFO) to Papeete (PPT), with low one-way fares from around $300
• Los Angeles (LAX) to Papeete (PPT), with cheap one-way fares from around $350
• Seattle (SEA) to Papeete (PPT), with cheap one-way fares from around $380

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Best time to fly to French Polynesia

The most popular months for travelers to fly to French Polynesia are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in French Polynesia can reach up to 80.2°F in March. If you prefer quieter travel, consider October, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 77.5°F. For better deals, January usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $416, roughly 17% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? April and March offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $428 to $452, making them good options for flexible travelers.

Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Average one-way Fare
January	79.0°F (26.1°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	$416
February	79.7°F (26.5°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	$466
March	80.2°F (26.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	$452
April	80.2°F (26.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	$428
May	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	$483
June	78.4°F (25.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	$499
July	77.5°F (25.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	$597
August	75.4°F (24.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	$566
September	77.0°F (25.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	$549
October	77.5°F (25.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	$538
November	77.7°F (25.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	$470
December	79.3°F (26.3°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	$563

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to French Polynesia

Getting some of the best deals on flights to French Polynesia is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
2. Set up price alerts—stay up to date on fare changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our French Polynesia hotel and flight deals.
4. Travel during shoulder season-peak travel periods tend to push the flight fares a little higher than usual. Traveling outside of these busy periods can help you find more competitive prices while still being able to enjoy good weather and lesser crowds.
5. Be flexible with your travel dates-if your schedule allows it, try and search for a few different departure and return dates as this may help you find lower fares.
6. Consider economy fares-if you're traveling light and don't need extras like seat selection or additional baggage, opting for a basic economy fare can be a simple way to keep costs down. Just make sure to check what's included in the flight ticket before confirming your booking.
7. Think about luggage—it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
8. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book with Expedia. Make sure to select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking to get more value from your trip.

*For members. Select hotels.

Where to stay in French Polynesia

• Bora Bora: Bora Bora is a city located in the area of French Polynesia, renowned for its stunning beaches and outdoor adventures. Visitors flock to this island paradise for activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and relaxing at luxurious resorts. Key highlights include Matira Beach, a picturesque spot perfect for sunbathing; Vaitape Harbor, ideal for scenic views and beach vacations; and Mt. Otemanu, which offers exhilarating hiking experiences and breathtaking scenery. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Bora Bora has something for everyone.
• Tikehau: Tikehau is a city located in the area of French Polynesia, known for its captivating lagoons and vibrant marine life. This idyllic destination attracts travelers eager to explore its outdoor beauty through snorkeling and scuba diving. Must-see locations include the historic village of Tuherahera, where you can immerse yourself in local culture; the stunning Blue Lagoon, perfect for scenic views and outdoor activities; and Tikehau Church, a significant cultural landmark. Tikehau offers a serene atmosphere ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
• Papeete: Papeete is a city located in the area of French Polynesia, serving as the vibrant capital of the islands. It's a hub for both business and family activities, featuring a lively public market where visitors can experience local culture. Explore the Robert Wan Pearl Museum to learn about the region's famous pearls, or visit the modern Papeete Town Hall for a glimpse of civic architecture. The Jardins de Paofai provides a lovely urban park setting, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts to unwind amidst the city's bustle. Papeete offers a unique blend of urban charm and cultural experiences.

Tips for short-haul flights to French Polynesia

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

• Pack light and skip checked bags—when flying with budget airlines, carrying only a carry-on is often more economical. Maximize space by using mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest items, and planning your outfits carefully. This approach also helps you avoid the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
• Early check in—nearly all airlines allow you to check in online at least 24 to 48 hours before your flight. This can save you time at the airport, and you may even secure a preferred seat at no additional cost.
• Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights might not provide in-flight entertainment. Download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself entertained. Remember to fully charge your devices before boarding.
• Arrive early—even for short flights, it’s advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, taking into account traffic and security lines.
• Bring your own snacks and water—pack your favorite snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to French Polynesia

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

• Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing the right seat is essential for your comfort. Full-service airlines typically allow free seat selection once online check-in opens, which is generally 24 to 48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may provide the option to select your seat even earlier, although this may incur an additional fee.
• Arrive early—aim to be at the airport at least 3 hours prior to departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration processes.
• Relax at the airport—if you find yourself with extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access.
• Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.
• Dress comfortable—the journey will be lengthy, so opt for loose, comfortable clothing and consider wearing layers, as cabin temperatures can fluctuate.
• Stay hydrated—bring a refillable water bottle and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, ensuring you feel your best upon arrival.