How to Visit French Polynesia on a Budget

French Polynesia, crystal-clear lagoons, lush mountains, and overwater bungalows, is often seen as a luxury-only destination. But here’s a secret: you can experience the magic of Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora without draining your savings.

Whether you’re dreaming of snorkeling in vibrant coral gardens or sipping coconuts on a quiet beach, here are our best tips for visiting Tahiti and French Polynesia on a budget.

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Be Flexible with Flights

Flights are often the most expensive part of the trip, so flexibility is key.

• Use tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner to monitor prices and track deals to French Polynesia. On our first trip to French Polynesia, we got a great deal from Seattle to Tahiti from checking google flights.
• Fly from major West Coast hubs like Los Angeles or San Francisco, where roundtrip fares to Papeete (PPT) can sometimes dip below $700.
• Consider flying to Hawaii or New Zealand first and catching a cheaper flight to French Polynesia from there.
• Travel in the shoulder seasons (April-June and September-October) for lower fares and fewer crowds.

>>> Make sure to check out how much we spent in French Polynesia for 10 days

Skip the Overwater Bungalow

Sure, they’re dreamy, but they are also $1000+ a night. The overwater bungalows are luxurious, but if you really want to explore and enjoy all that French Polynesia has, skip the overwater bungalows. We did stay in an overwater bungalow for a night, but honestly, we loved the more Tahitian style accommodations.

Instead:

• Book guesthouses (pensions), Airbnb-style homes, or locally-owned small hotels.
• On islands like Moorea and Huahine, you’ll find charming beach bungalows and garden cottages for under $100/night.
• Some pensions even include daily breakfast or dinner, saving you on food costs as well.

Don’t explore too many islands

The more islands you visit, the more expensive it gets. If you’re looking for the best islands for value, here’s a quick breakdown:

• Tahiti: Great for your first or last night; affordable food trucks, markets, and Airbnbs.
• Moorea: Just a 30-minute ferry ride from Tahiti, it’s beautiful and budget-friendly.
• Huahine, Raiatea, and Taha’a: Less touristy, cheaper accommodations, and authentic Polynesian charm.
• Bora Bora: Gorgeous, but expensive. If it’s a must-see, keep it to 1–2 nights or do a day tour from nearby Raiatea. Bora Bora does have cheaper Airbnbs though if you decide to visit!

If you do plan to visit multiple islands, Air Tahiti has a multi-island pass that can save you money, but there are restrictions to how and when you use it.

Use Ferries When You Can

Inter-island flights are convenient but pricey. If you’re sticking to Tahiti and Moorea, take the ferry instead. There are multiple different ferries between Tahiti and Moorea that leave at all hours. We loved taking the ferry between Tahiti and Moorea, as it’s quick, cheap, and has great views! There is even a new ferry that travels between Tahiti, Bora Bora, Huahine, and Maupiti, but it does take quite awhile.

• Aremiti or Terevau ferries run daily between Tahiti and Moorea and cost around $15 one way.
• For longer distances, compare Air Tahiti Multi-Island Passes, which can be more cost-effective if you plan to hop between islands.

Eat Like a Local

Dining at resorts or touristy restaurants can add up fast, but local food is delicious and affordable!

• Grab meals from “roulottes” (food trucks) in Papeete and Moorea.
• Shop at local markets and groceries for fruit, baguettes, tuna, cheese, and snacks.
• Try fresh poisson cru, the national dish (raw tuna marinated in lime and coconut milk), often under $10.

Prioritize Free (or Cheap) Activities

French Polynesia’s natural beauty is the main event, and it’s free!

• Snorkel right from the beach (bring your own gear).
• Hike trails for great views
• Swim in waterfalls, bike around quiet islands, or rent kayaks from local shops
• Visit public beaches and lookouts, which are often just as beautiful as private ones.

Bring the Essentials

Prices for everyday items can be much higher on the islands. Pack smart to avoid unexpected expenses:

• Reef-safe sunscreen, bug spray, reusable water bottle, waterproof shoes.
• Snorkel gear (if possible) — rentals can be expensive.
• Lightweight rain jacket and fast-drying clothes for island weather.

We love taking this fast-drying towel with us. It comes in handy for so many things!

Yes, French Polynesia Can Be Affordable!

You don’t need a honeymoon budget to explore French Polynesia. With the right planning, flexibility, and a little adventure, you can soak up the stunning islands, warm hospitality, and turquoise waters, without spending a fortune.

So go ahead, plan that trip. Your trip to Tahiti might be closer than you think.

If you’re planning your trip to French Polynesia, check out these posts:

• 10 Things to Know When Visiting French Polynesia: French Polynesia Tips
• 15 of the Best Overwater Bungalows in French Polynesia to Experience
• 10 days in French Polynesia Itinerary
• 14 Best Things to do in Moorea, French Polynesia
• Where to Stay in Moorea – The Best Hotels in Moorea on Any Budget
• Moorea vs Bora Bora: Which French Polynesian Island is Better?