Transportation in Tahiti: how to get around in French Polynesia?
Are there roads and public transportation in Tahiti? Ferries or planes between the islands of French Polynesia? Or do you have to travel by canoe like in the old days?
The first thing to know about The Islands of Tahiti can be summed up in two figures: nearly 5 million square kilometers of ocean covering 118 islands. This naturally raises a question: how to get around in French Polynesia? Don’t worry, there are modern solutions, both within the islands and between them.
From the Tahiti Airport to Paved Roads
Over sixty years ago, when Tahiti Faa'a International Airport first opened (1961), the road from downtown Papeete stopped at Outumaoro Hill, on the border between the towns of Faa'a and Punaauia. Beyond that point, a long white coral track stretched between the tall coconut trees of the vast coconut groves that extended all the way to Papara.
Today, a two-lane road known as the RDO (Route de Dégagement Ouest) makes access from the city to the south of the island much faster. Well… unless you hit rush hour, when traffic jams get in the way like anywhere else!
Modern transportation in Tahiti: Driving, Buses, Taxis & More
Whether you're traveling solo or vacationing with family, Tahiti offers a variety of ways to get around the island and enjoy the various activities you planned: buses, taxis, rental cars, traditional scooters, electric scooters, and bicycles.
The only thing missing is public scooters and bicycles, like those found in major cities around the world. Discussions are in progress to introduce taxi boats across the lagoon, just like in Bora Bora, to connect the various towns to Papeete. But this is not yet available.
For short trips between your hotel, Faa'a Airport, the ferry terminal, or downtown Papeete for example, I recommend booking a taxi or using the airport shuttle transfer some hotels & resorts offer to their guests.
Planning to explore the island? Rent a car. Indeed, a rental car is the best option. Prices are very reasonable, although the small size of our insular market and the complexity of supply always make services more expensive here than on the mainland. Parking is free all around the island, except in Papeete, where old-school coin-operated meters are still in use. Be sure to have some change when driving to Papeete.
Inter-Island Travel: Flights and Ferries
Heading to Bora Bora, Huahine, Raiatea, Fakarava, Rangiroa, Tubuai, Hiva Oa or another Island of your dreams? Flying remains the fastest and most convenient way to hop between islands. The main local airlines are Air Tahiti and Air Moana. Don't hesitate to compare fares to find the best deals for your island-hopping itinerary.
Since 2022, two ferry companies, Aremiti Apetahi and Vaeara'i, have been chartering their ships on some occasions for trips from Tahiti to Moorea, Huahine, Raiatea, Taha'a, and Bora Bora. Vaeara'i even operates occasional rotations to Rangiroa in the Tuamotu Islands, carrying passengers and freight.
These ferries are not cruise ships, but they do have onboard dining areas where you can enjoy a meal during the journey. Locals often bring their cars on hold on these ferries, but we recommend renting a vehicle (car or scooter) once you arrive on each island. It’s easier and more practical for short stays.
Enjoy a Unique Experience: Private Flights
If you’re looking for an outstanding experience, consider a private flight between the islands of French Polynesia. We recommend booking a flight with Tahiti Nui Helicopter. All the French Polynesian islands can be reached at an hourly rate with a private helicopter.
Also offering inter-island travel, the seaplane company Tahiti Air Charter, based in Raiatea, offers private transfers, especially to Bora Bora.
Getting around Bora Bora
Your arrival at the airport isn't the end of your journey. It's just the start of the next stage, which is one of the most enchanting.
How to reach your accommodation in Bora Bora?
If you have booked one of Bora Bora’s iconic Resorts & Spa located on the motus (islets) of the island, the private hotel boat will greet you at the airport pier and will take you directly to the hotel's pontoon. Arrivals at the resorts are unforgettable: as lobbies overlooking the water or white sand beaches are impressively elegant and stylish.
If you are going to stay in a hotel, Tahitian B&B or in another accommodation located on the high island (main island of Bora Bora), a shuttle boat will take you to the central pier. The journey from the airport to the island takes about 30 minutes and crosses the translucent blue and green lagoon. First emotions are guaranteed.
From there, minibuses or taxis will take you to your guesthouse or hotel. Now you’re free to explore.
Transportation in Bora Bora
There are no buses or Uber on Bora Bora. If you want to tour the island, which is recommended to get multiple views of the lagoon or to reach a hiking trailhead, you can rent a car, a quad bike, a scooter, or a bicycle, either electric or standard, depending on your preference. All are perfect to stop anywhere: stunning viewpoints, beaches, mountains, restaurants, bars, pearl shops, souvenir shops...the choice is yours.
And for a unique flight experience, contact Tahiti Air Charter, a seaplane company based in Raiatea, which offers scenic flights over Bora Bora, Raiatea and Taha’a.
Getting to and around Moorea
To get from Papeete, Tahiti to Moorea, I recommend taking the ferry. Three companies operate the route: Aremiti, Terevau, and Vaeara’i, with crossings taking 30 to 50 minutes depending on the boat.
Seas can be rough in the channel between Tahiti and Moorea. If you are prone to seasickness, take the Aremiti ferry or the Vaeara'i: they are slower but larger and steadier, so you will feel swell less. The Aremiti 6 and the Terevau are smaller and faster boats. They have limited space for cars, so bear this in mind if you need to take your vehicle with you.
A Tour Around Moorea
Once on Moorea, you can get around with your rental car from Tahiti or rent one on site. Rental companies are located right outside the Vaiare ferry terminal.
You can also rent scooters or e-bikes. If you want to go on a quad bike or 4x4 safari, there are many providers on the island who can help you discover the island and its hidden gems.
Pick-up Trucks, the Uber of the Islands
You don't want to rent a vehicle? Depending on your hotel and travel agency, you may have shuttle and bus options. You can also take a taxi from the ferry terminal of Moorea, but we recommend booking one before your crossing: during long weekends or when many tourists arrive at the same time, there may not be enough room for everyone.
There is no public transport on the island, except for a school bus that runs in the mornings and evenings. But if you’re adventurous and patient, hitchhiking works well in Moorea. Arriving at your vacation rental sitting in the back of a pickup truck, surrounded by happy dogs and the scent of pineapples… It’s the perfect way to start your stay, don't you think?