Tahiti Frequently Asked Questions

No, U.S. and European Union citizens do not need a visa to visit Tahiti for stays up to 90 days. However, you do need a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. For other nationalities, it is recommended to check with the nearest French Consulate for visa requirements.

Tahiti is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the dry season from May to October, when the temperatures are cooler and there is less humidity. The wet season runs from November to April, bringing more rain and higher humidity, but you can still enjoy warm weather.

The local currency in Tahiti is the French Pacific Franc (XPF). Most hotels, restaurants, and tourist services accept major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard. It’s recommended to carry some cash for smaller shops, local markets, or rural areas.

French is the official language in Tahiti, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.

Yes, if you plan to fish in certain areas of Tahiti, especially for sport fishing, you will need a fishing license. There are specific regulations for deep-sea fishing and certain protected areas where fishing is restricted or prohibited.

While snorkeling, you can expect to see a variety of colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, sea turtles, rays (such as manta rays and eagle rays), and reef sharks. In some areas, you may also encounter dolphins and, depending on the season, humpback whales.

Yes, in certain areas of Tahiti and French Polynesia, there are mooring fees. Many of the more popular anchorages and marinas charge a small fee for mooring, especially around tourist hotspots like Bora Bora and Moorea. Fees are usually collected by local authorities or marina staff, and it's advisable to have some local currency on hand to pay.

Tahiti offers excellent sailing conditions, especially during the dry season from May to October, when the winds are more consistent. The trade winds provide smooth sailing, making it ideal for both experienced sailors and those new to chartering. Waters are generally calm within the lagoons, but there can be stronger currents and waves when navigating between islands or in open ocean areas.

Tahiti's cuisine is a fusion of French and Polynesian flavors. Popular dishes include poisson cru (raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime), tropical fruits, and French pastries. Seafood is a staple, and you can find a variety of fresh fish, lobster, and shrimp on most menus.