French Polynesia : Safety by City“It looks like a screen saver!” — the line made famous in the 2009 movie Couples Retreat was referring to the remote, surreal landscape of French Polynesia.
With crystal-clear lagoons, jagged volcanic peaks, and overwater bungalows stretching into turquoise seas, it really does look unreal.
But before you pack your bags, it helps to understand the geography—this isn’t just one island.
French Polynesia is made up of 118 islands spread across a massive stretch of the South Pacific.
In fact, you need to zoom in a lot to even see this island group on Google Maps.
It’s somewhere between South America and Australia.
French Polynesia is an overseas collectivity of France, meaning it has its own local government but is still under French jurisdiction.
The islands were originally settled by Polynesians thousands of years ago, later colonized by European powers, and officially became a French territory in the 19th century.
Today, French and Tahitian are the official languages.
French Polynesia is grouped into five island chains:
- Society Islands – Includes Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora (the most visited)
- Tuamotu Archipelago – Known for diving and atolls
- Marquesas Islands – Rugged, remote, and culturally rich
- Austral Islands – Lesser-known and cooler in climate
- Gambier Islands – Isolated and deeply tied to missionary history
Each region offers something unique, from surfing and diving to hiking and cultural immersion.
About 260,000 people visit annually, drawn by the scenery, privacy, and romance.
Whether you want adventure or serenity, French Polynesia is a choose-your-own-paradise destination.
Warnings & Dangers in French Polynesia
OVERALL RISK: LOW
French Polynesia has a low overall risk for travelers. It’s generally peaceful, politically stable, and welcoming to tourists. Most issues stem from natural conditions or isolated incidents, not systemic safety problems. It's one of the safer destinations in the Pacific.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
Transportation carries a low risk, especially on well-developed islands like Tahiti. Roads are generally in good condition, and taxis are regulated but expensive. In more remote areas, infrastructure can be limited. Ferries and inter-island flights are reliable, though weather can delay schedules. Always confirm prices before getting in a taxi.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
Pickpocketing risk is low, especially compared to more urban or densely populated tourist areas elsewhere. That said, common sense still applies. Don’t leave valuables unattended on the beach or in unlocked rental cars. Theft does happen occasionally, but it’s not a widespread issue across the islands.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
The natural disaster risk is medium. French Polynesia is in a tropical cyclone zone and experiences storms, especially from November to April. Tsunami risk exists due to seismic activity in the Pacific. Most places have basic emergency protocols, but infrastructure may be strained in more remote areas during severe weather.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
Mugging is extremely rare in French Polynesia, so the risk is low. Violent street crime is not a common occurrence, even in tourist zones or Papeete. Most locals are friendly, and confrontational crime isn’t a widespread concern. Still, avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar or isolated areas.
TERRORISM RISK: LOW
There is a very low risk of terrorism. French Polynesia, as an overseas collectivity of France, benefits from the same general counterterrorism framework, but it has no recent history of attacks or known threats. It’s considered a politically quiet and stable location with minimal extremist activity.
SCAMS RISK: LOW
Scams are not a major concern, so the risk is low. Most visitors won’t encounter anything more than inflated prices in tourist-heavy areas. You’re unlikely to face complex cons or fraud schemes. Still, it’s smart to use official booking channels and be cautious of high-pressure sales tactics.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
French Polynesia is considered safe for solo female travelers. The risk is low, especially in hotel zones or well-frequented areas. Harassment is rare, and violent crime against tourists is almost unheard of. Dress codes are relaxed, and locals are respectful, but general travel safety habits still apply.
TAP WATER RISK: LOW
Tap water quality varies. In Tahiti and most resorts, it’s generally safe to drink, so the risk is low. However, on outer islands or in rural areas, water may not be treated or filtered to the same standard. Many travelers prefer bottled or filtered water just to be safe.
Safest Places to Visit in French Polynesia
It’s worth noting that people often use Tahiti and French Polynesia interchangeably, but they’re not the same thing—just closely linked.
Tahiti is the largest and most populated island in French Polynesia.
Because it’s the main entry point and most well-known island, many travelers refer to the whole territory as “Tahiti.”
It’s kind of like calling all of Hawaii “Oahu”—convenient but technically incorrect.
In that spirit, the official tourism website is tahititourisme.com, Tahiti Tourisme.
The Society Islands archipelago includes the most well-known islands, such as Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora.
I also want to point out that if you change the .com to .org, you’ll be at the corporate site for the tourism agency.
There, you’ll find helpful stuff like scam warnings and free maps.
Society Islands
This is where most travelers start, home to Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora.
Tahiti offers waterfalls, museums, and street food in Papeete, but it’s also where you’ll catch cultural festivals and big-wave surfing at Teahupo’o.
Moorea is ideal for hiking, snorkeling with rays and sharks in shallow lagoons, and driving scenic loops.
Bora Bora, with its iconic overwater bungalows, delivers high-end luxury and incredible lagoon tours.
Many honeymooners stop here, and it’s also where Couples Retreat was filmed.
Matira Beach is one of the most famous in the South Pacific.
Tuamotu Archipelago
If diving is your thing, this is your chain.
Rangiroa and Fakarava are world-renowned for drift dives, vibrant coral, and shark encounters, including the thrilling “Wall of Sharks” in Fakarava.
These atolls are quieter, less developed, and all about underwater life.
It’s also great for pearl farms and secluded motu picnics—just know you won’t find big resorts here.
Marquesas Islands
For remote, rugged adventure, head to the Marquesas.
Nuku Hiva and Hiva Oa are known for towering cliffs, wild horses, and ancient tikis.
There’s strong cultural pride here, and it’s far less touristy.
Hiva Oa is where famed artist Paul Gauguin lived and is buried.
You won’t find sandy beaches, but the hiking and archaeology are unmatched.
Austral Islands
Rarely visited, the Australs are cooler and more traditional.
Rurutu is famous for whale watching from July to October—you can even spot them from shore.
Gambier Islands
Remote and spiritual, the Gambiers are for those who want total escape.
Mangareva has historic Catholic churches and dramatic landscapes.
There’s limited tourism infrastructure, but if you want to say you’ve truly gone off-grid in French Polynesia, this is it.
Places to Avoid in French Polynesia
There aren’t any truly dangerous neighborhoods or islands in French Polynesia.
Violent crime is rare, and even the capital, Papeete, is generally safe, though it’s wise to avoid poorly lit streets late at night, especially around the port.
The bigger risks here are environmental.
Always wait at least 24 hours after diving before flying to avoid decompression sickness, which can be serious or even fatal.
For activities like diving, hiking, or lagoon tours, book only with verified vendors listed through the official tourism office.
That extra step ensures operators meet safety standards and are trained to handle emergencies properly.
In addition, keep in mind that French Polynesia is about the size of Western Europe.
Island hopping isn’t all that easy.
Ferries are available between Tahiti and Moorea.
Beyond that, inter-island ferries are rare or seasonal and not a practical option for moving between chains like Tahiti to the Tuamotus or Marquesas.
Luxury travelers or groups sometimes charter catamarans or take inter-island cruises.
The most common and efficient way to travel between island groups is by air.
Safety Tips for Traveling to French Polynesia
- French Polynesia is a French overseas territory, so law enforcement is handled by the Gendarmerie Nationale. They’re professional, well-trained, and located on major islands. For emergencies, dial 17 for police, 15 for medical, and 18 for fire. Response times may vary outside Tahiti or Moorea, especially in rural areas.
- There’s no formal national alert app for travelers, but you can tune in to local FM radio (like Radio 1 or Polynésie La Première) for cyclone and tsunami warnings. Hotel staff typically relay alerts. If you’re near the coast during an earthquake, move inland and uphill—tsunami protocols are basic but taken seriously across inhabited islands.
- Yes, you can rent and drive a car on most islands with a valid license from your home country. An International Driving Permit isn’t required, but may help in case of an accident. Drive on the right, watch for stray dogs, and note that roads outside Tahiti can be narrow, winding, and poorly lit after dark.
- Scooters and mopeds are popular but can be risky. Helmets are required by law, though some locals ignore this. Tourists must wear them. You can rent one with a regular license, but insurance may be limited. Rain makes roads slick, and sand or leaves on corners can cause crashes. Don’t ride barefoot or shirtless—it’s unsafe and illegal.
- Touching coral can cause painful cuts that carry bacteria or toxins, especially fire coral, which can cause burning rashes. Never stand or walk on coral reefs. Even brushing against coral while snorkeling can leave lasting scars. If cut, clean the wound immediately and watch for swelling or infection. Reef shoes help, but don’t make you invincible.
- Reef shoes aren’t just for style. Coral, volcanic rock, and even sandbars hide hazards like sea urchins and stonefish. A stonefish sting is agonizing and potentially dangerous. Stepping on sharp coral can leave you bleeding and limping. If you’re exploring lagoons, tide pools, or shallow reefs—especially around Taha’a or Huahine—cover your feet.
- Everything in French Polynesia can be slick—resort docks, boat steps, lava rock trails, and even rain-soaked sidewalks. Add humidity and ocean spray, and you’ve got a recipe for falls. Always use handrails when available, wear shoes with grip, and be cautious when walking on wet tile, especially right after a tropical downpour.
- It’s tempting to kayak, snorkel, or hike solo in paradise, especially on quiet islands—but don’t. Currents shift quickly, GPS can fail, and weather moves fast. There have been real incidents of tourists being swept out or lost. Even experienced swimmers or hikers should go with someone or at least inform their lodging staff of their plans.
- French Polynesia has world-class diving, but conditions can be intense—strong drift currents, deep drop-offs, and frequent shark sightings. Always dive with a licensed operator. If you’re new, stick to beginner dives and avoid “shooting the pass” sites like Tiputa in Rangiroa until you’re confident. Don’t skip the safety briefing—it could save your life.
- It’s easy to love the tradition of wearing a tiare flower behind your ear, but it also communicates if you are single or married. Behind the left ear signals you’re taken, while the right ear means you’re single. It’s part of local culture and often acknowledged with subtle gestures. Wearing it incorrectly isn’t “unsafe,” but it can invite unwanted attention or cause awkward misunderstandings, especially in social settings or village events.
So... How Safe Is French Polynesia Really?
We start by looking at the government advisory levels, which are likely produced by your home country.
Here, we’ll look at the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia.
On a four-tiered scale, with one being the lowest and four being the highest, French Polynesia gets the lowest risk level across the board.
Petty crime usually only happens when there’s an opportunity, like valuables being left on the beach unsupervised.
Violent crime is very rare, but that doesn’t mean you should forgo basic safety steps.
The real risk in French Polynesia isn’t crime or danger—it’s how well you navigate the environment.
From adapting to the tropical heat and humidity to respecting ocean safety, coral, and currents, your experience depends on smart choices.
Accidents happen when travelers ignore weather alerts, venture out alone, or overestimate their diving or hiking ability.
Stick with guides, stay aware, and you’ll enjoy paradise.
How Does French Polynesia Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| French Polynesia | 92 |
| Morocco | 54 |
| Czech Republic | 88 |
| Latvia | 80 |
| Cyprus | 75 |
| Slovenia | 87 |
| Bulgaria | 80 |
| Vietnam | 73 |
| Portugal | 57 |
Useful Information
Visas
Most travelers, including those from the U.S., Canada, EU, and many other countries, don’t need a visa for stays up to 90 days in French Polynesia. Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond your stay. Even though French Polynesia is an overseas territory of France, entering it is not the same as entering mainland France. It has its own immigration rules, and a visa for France or the Schengen Area doesn’t automatically apply.
Currency
French Polynesia uses the CFP franc (XPF), which is tied to the euro. Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, but cash is still essential on smaller islands or in local markets. ATMs are available on the main islands but can be sparse or unreliable in remote areas.
Weather
French Polynesia has a tropical climate with warm, humid weather year-round. The dry season runs from May to October, while November to April is wetter and more prone to cyclones. Temperatures generally range from 75°F to 88°F, making it a pleasant escape nearly any time of year.
Airports
Faa’a International Airport (PPT) in Tahiti is the main gateway to French Polynesia. From there, travelers can connect to smaller islands via domestic flights or ferries. The airport is small but efficient, with limited services. Air Tahiti runs interisland flights and requires booking ahead during peak seasons.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommended when visiting French Polynesia, especially to cover medical care, weather-related delays, or lost luggage. Healthcare is decent but limited outside Tahiti, and evacuations can be costly. Tropical storms or flight disruptions can happen, so comprehensive coverage gives peace of mind in remote areas.
French Polynesia Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C | 31 | 31 | 32 | 32 | 31 | 30 | 29 | 29 | 30 | 30 | 31 | 31 |
| Low °C | 24 | 24 | 25 | 24 | 23 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 24 |
| High °F | 88 | 88 | 90 | 90 | 88 | 86 | 84 | 84 | 86 | 86 | 88 | 88 |
| Low °F | 75 | 75 | 77 | 75 | 73 | 72 | 72 | 72 | 72 | 73 | 75 | 75 |
French Polynesia - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Bora Bora | 92 |
| Mo’orea | 78 |
| Tahiti | 65 |
Bucket List
Ahhhh- Someday, someday…..😎🐚🕶️🩴🌴⛵🌏🏖️
beware of the pickpockets…