Is Fiji in French Polynesia? (+ Facts You Need to Know!)

Q: Is Bora Bora in the Fiji islands?

No, Bora Bora is not in Fiji. Bora Bora is part of French Polynesia and is known for its crystal-clear lagoon, overwater bungalows and dramatic volcanic peaks.

Think of Fiji and you probably picture white sandy beaches, coral reefs and swaying coconut palms. Most people know this is a remote part of the world with all the postcard vibes. But you’ll be forgiven if you don’t know exactly where it is.

So if you’ve found yourself wondering: “Is Fiji in French Polynesia?” you’re not alone!

French Polynesia is also known for its tropical paradise islands. So is there a link between Fiji and French Polynesia? Is Fiji part of French Polynesia? Are they in the same region or part of the same country? If you want all the details – you’re in the right place!

Table of Contents show

Is Fiji in French Polynesia?

I’ll cut straight to the chase and say: No, Fiji is not in French Polynesia. However, there are plenty of reasons why people think it might be!

Like French Polynesia, Fiji is located in the South Pacific. However, French Polynesia is an overseas collectivity of France, while Fiji is an independent island country. Fiji is a destination that’s made up of over 300 tropical volcanic islands, spread over 18,200 square kilometres.

An aerial view of a tiny tropical island in Fiji — Fiji is made up of over 300 dream islands – some as remote and tiny as this 😍

How far is Fiji from French Polynesia?

Because they’re both in the South Pacific Ocean, Fiji and French Polynesia seem pretty close. However, they are actually over 3,400 km apart.

There are direct flights from Fiji to French Polynesia once per week, with a journey time of around 4.5 hours.

Does Fiji count as Polynesian?

Polynesia is a region of Oceania made up of over 1,000 islands across the central and southern Pacific Ocean. Some of the main islands in Polynesia include Hawaii, Samoa, Tonga, French Polynesia, Cook Islands and Easter Island.

Fiji is not considered Polynesia (it’s part of Melanesia), but it has cultural and historical ties to Polynesia.

A sweeping stretch of golden tropical beach, fringed by palm trees in Fiji

Differences between Fiji and French Polynesia

Geography and location

Fiji is around 2,000 km northeast of New Zealand and is made up of over 300 beautiful tropical Pacific islands. The largest and main island is Viti Levu, which has over 70% of the country’s population.

Vanua Levu is Fiji’s second largest island, followed by Taveuni and then Kadavu. Fiji is also home to smaller groups of islands including the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands (which are amazing for island hopping!)

Like Fiji, French Polynesia is a remote destination with crystal-clear lagoons and white-sand beaches. French Polynesia is made up of 118 scattered islands over an area of around 4,000 square kilometres. Its most famous islands are Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora – this is where you get the luxury overwater bungalows!

Landscape in Fiji and French Polynesia

It goes without saying that French Polynesia and Fiji are both incredibly beautiful. Across Fiji, you’ll find powdery sand beaches, coral reefs and tropical island scenery. There are also lush rainforests, waterfalls and rugged volcanic mountains that make it a diverse spot for travellers.

Dramatic, paradise landscapes are the name of the game in French Polynesia, too – there’s a reason why Bora Bora is on so many bucket lists! As well as pristine beaches, lagoons and turquoise waters, you’ll get breathtaking volcanic landscapes and a big focus on natural beauty.

Rugged mountainous landscapes on tropical Maupiti Island in French Polynesia — French Polynesia is a beautiful destination – this is Maupiti Island, near Bora Bora

Culture in Fiji and French Polynesia

Fiji is a multicultural country with a unique blend of European, Indian, Melanesian and Polynesian culture and traditions. Indigenous Fijians, who make up more than half of the population, celebrate community, family and strong ties to the land.

If you visit Fiji, you’ll often experience things like a traditional ‘meke’ dance as well as a kava ceremony.

Over in French Polynesia, the culture is predominantly Polynesian but it’s also strongly influenced by French colonial history. Similarly to other Pacific cultures, French Polynesians maintain a close connection to the ocean and nature, but the French influence is visible in things like the language and cuisine.

Tourism and things to see & do

I absolutely loved visiting Fiji because it felt like there was loads to see and do – despite being a remote destination. Obviously, it’s an amazing place for water activities like snorkelling, diving and exploring marine life, but I also loved island hopping, hiking and taking part in cultural experiences.

As a paradise country, Fiji has some incredible island resorts and accommodation, too. It’s also a destination that caters to all budgets so you’ll find more affordable options as well as ultra-luxury choices.

In contrast, French Polynesia is renowned for its high-end luxury resorts, especially those with iconic overwater bungalows (these can set you back $$$!). Even though many of the attractions are similar, there’s more of a focus on exclusive, romantic getaways in French Polynesia – especially in Bora Bora.

A view from a traditional overwater bungalow in French Polynesia — The overwater bungalows in Bora Bora are amazing for a honeymoon

Travel practicalities

Fiji is well-connected with a major international airport in Nadi – you can get direct flights from Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Canada and the US.

One of the most popular places to stay in Fiji is the Mamanuca island group, which is an easy region to reach from Nadi so the travel hassle is pretty minimal. Fiji is also ideal if you want an island hopping tour or package.

One of the easiest and best ways to explore Fiji is with Awesome Adventures – you can read my review of the company and my experience here.

In French Polynesia, the only international airport is in Tahiti. You’ll find direct flights from New Zealand and the US, however, if you want to get to Bora Bora, you’ll need to catch an extra flight or an 8ish-hour ferry.

You’ll also find differences in language and currencies in Fiji and French Polynesia. English is the primary language in Fiji, while French is spoken in French Polynesia. Fiji also uses the Fijian Dollar (FJD), and French Polynesia uses the Pacific Franc (XPF).

French Polynesia vs Fiji: Which is better for a honeymoon?

A hammock between palm trees on a white-sand beach in Fiji

I love both Fiji and French Polynesia as honeymoon destinations. You honestly can’t go wrong with either if you want a dream island escape! However, for a lot of couples, the cost is a biggie and French Polynesia is known for being on the spendier side.

This is a destination with some of the world’s very best resorts and luxury overwater bungalows. Places like Bora Bora have more of an exclusive, honeymoon feel so with that comes a higher price tag. BUT, this makes it an incredible choice for couples who want an extra special, bucket list stay with a big focus on privacy and romance.

Compared with French Polynesia, Fiji feels like it caters more to a range of travellers. Because of this, you’ll find a diverse range of accommodation options – from private island resorts and ultra-luxury options to more affordable choices with cute and simple beach bures.

Fiji is also ideal if you want adventure on your honeymoon. There are obviously plenty of romantic experiences in Fiji, too, but it’s a brilliant destination for exploring and doing things like island hopping.

Is Fiji considered French Polynesia: FAQs

An aerial view of an island resort in Fiji with overwater villas

Is Bora Bora in the Fiji islands?

No, Bora Bora is not in Fiji. Bora Bora is part of French Polynesia and is known for its crystal-clear lagoon, overwater bungalows and dramatic volcanic peaks.

Is Fiji a French colony

Fiji is not a French colony, it’s an independent country in the South Pacific. It gained independence from British rule in 1970. In contrast, French Polynesia is an overseas collectivity of France.

What country does Fiji belong to?

Fiji is an independent country and is not part of any other country. Fiji operates as a republic and gained independence from British rule in 1970.

What countries count as Polynesian?

Polynesia includes several countries and islands in the central and southern Pacific Ocean. Some places that are Polynesian include New Zealand, Samoa, Tonga, Tuvalu, Hawaii and the Cook Islands.

Is Fiji part of French Polynesia – Conclusion

Several palm trees hanging over a white sand tropical beach in Fiji

Even though Fiji is not a part of French Polynesia they share some similarities. They’re both dream destinations in the South Pacific with the most incredible tropical island landscapes and bucket list experiences.

As amazing places to visit, they’re equally perfect for an extra special vacay or a honeymoon. But of course, you can expect distinct differences, too! …so depending on your travel style, interests and budget, one will likely call to you more.

I hope this post has cleared up any questions you have about Fiji and French Polynesia and got you excited to book a dream trip!

Want more inspiration? I recommend checking out my 7-day Fiji itinerary ideas and start dreaming about the best resorts in the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands!

READ MORE ON FIJI:

Is Fiji in French Polynesia? (+ Other Facts You Need to Know!)

Is Fiji in French Polynesia?

How far is Fiji from French Polynesia?

Does Fiji count as Polynesian?