Sports and leisure activities French Polynesia

Budget & Tips

It would be regrettable to arrive in Polynesia without having anticipated the sizeable budget for local activities. Hiking, canyoning, parachuting, parasailing, quad biking, helicopter, scuba diving, kayaking, paddling, surfing, kite-surfing, jet-skiing, water jet, dolphin and whale watching, not to mention countless excursions to the four corners of the archipelago: almost any outdoor activity is possible in Fenua!

Among the most popular sports, diving is definitely at the top of the list. If you're used to the prices in mainland France, be prepared to open your wallet a little wider. Depending on the island and the center, an exploration dive can cost between 6,500 and almost 10,000 XPF (€55 to €84). Tahiti, Moorea and Huahine are the most economical options, while Bora Bora, as you can imagine, ranks right at the top of the price scale. So, to your fins and your finances!

The majority of dive clubs offer packages for 6, 10 or 20 dives, with or without a name, depending on your desire for bubbles. The big names with centers on several islands are often the most expensive, but they also have packages that can be a good deal. For example, Top Dive offers discounts if you pay two weeks before diving. So, if you've got a nose for bargains, plan your dive in advance to save money!

If you prefer more intimate structures, the Te Moana pass (www.temoanadiving.com) allows you to dive at an attractive price in 14 independent dive centers spread over 10 islands and atolls in the Society (Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, Huahine, Raiatea and Tahaa), Tuamotu (Fakarava, Rangiroa and Tikehau) and Austral (Tubuai). This pass is on sale at each member center for 82,000 XPF for 10 dives (2024 prices).

The E-Diving Pass (www.edivingpass.com) brings together 40 dive centers on 16 islands, and enables you to book in advance on a single platform: 8,800 XPF single price per dive, minimum 6 dives, 6 dive pass 52,800 XPF (2024 prices).

What's very local

In addition to the star activities already mentioned, there's one that Polynesians practice almost daily: fishing! Official agencies don't always know about these maritime adventures, but if you fancy casting your line in Polynesian waters, let your guesthouse know. They'll be able to recommend "the" local fisherman, the one who knows where the best fish are hidden. So arm yourself with patience and good humor, and get ready for a great catch!

Your documents please

Life may be cooler on the islands, but the tour operators are no less serious. And that's a good thing! For example, don't forget that you'll need a driver's license to rent a car, and you'll also need one for quad-biking excursions. As for divers, don't forget your diving card: in addition to meeting legal requirements, it could well allow you to add a few kilos of free luggage on your inter-island flights with Air Tahiti. A real bonus for your underwater adventures!

To be booked

Book all your excursions and activities in advance, otherwise you may find yourself admiring the scenery from the beach rather than exploring it! If diving is the reason you've landed, remember to book at least two weeks before your arrival. That way you won't end up crying on the sand while you wait for a spot. For other activities, such as quad biking or boat trips, it's best to plan at least three days in advance. The weather can be a spoilsport, and logistics in an archipelago are no picnic. But for last-minute fans, always try to book the day before: sometimes, luck favors the bold!

Main events

Fenua is a hive of sporting activity! Whether you're a budding athlete or a passionate supporter, there's something for everyone. From the Tahiti-Moorea marathon in March to the Hawaiki Nui va'a at the end of October, via the Raid Vanira in April, the Tahiti Pearl Regatta and XTerra trail in May, and the famous Tahiti Pro Teahupo'o in August, not forgetting the Maraamu Surfski Race in September: the sporting calendar is as varied as an all-you-can-eat buffet. So get ready to sweat, cheer or simply admire, because there's no shortage of competitions on these paradise islands!

Tourist traps

As in the case of restaurants, rumors spread quickly when a tour operator leaves something to be desired. However, there are so many tour operators and tourism providers in French Polynesia that it's extremely complicated to keep a close eye on all of them. So keep an eye on the reviews and get ready to sail into an ocean of choice, hoping your experience will be as heavenly as the scenery!