Skip to content
Villa Paradise Tahiti
Aerial drone view of the Tahiti lagoon and reef
Back to journal
Travel TipsPracticalFirst Visit

5 Things to Know Before Visiting French Polynesia

Visas, currency, jet lag, weather, and the one thing every first-time visitor wishes they had known earlier.

By Léa Tahirua

September 15, 2025

9 min read

After hosting hundreds of guests from the US over the past three years, the same five questions come up before nearly every stay. Here's everything you need to know.

1. US citizens do not need a visa

If you hold a US passport, you can enter French Polynesia for up to 90 days without a visa. You will need a valid Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) — apply online at least 72 hours before departure.

2. The currency is the CFP Franc — but USD works in many places

Officially the currency is the XPF (French Pacific Franc). Most hotels, restaurants and tour operators accept USD or credit cards. We accept USD for villa payments via Stripe or PayPal.

3. Jet lag is real, but in your favor

Tahiti is in UTC-10, two hours behind Los Angeles. Flights from LAX land in the early morning — you'll arrive feeling like it's still yesterday, which means you have a full first day to enjoy.

About the author

Léa Tahirua

Local concierge and lifelong Tahiti resident.

Inspired?

Plan your Tahiti escape

Villa Paradise sleeps 8 across 4 bedrooms with a private infinity pool and lagoon access. Direct booking — the lowest published rate, every time.