French Polynesia is located in Polynesia, and its capital is Papeete. It has a population of approximately 281,807 and covers an area of about 3,471 km². Its official currency is the CFP franc (XPF).
What stands out
People & place
81.2 /km² across 3,471 km²
French Polynesia has a recorded population of 281,807 and a reported surface area of 3,471 km².
Economic snapshot
$6.32 billion nominal GDP
Nominal GDP is recorded at $6.32 billion and GDP per capita at $22,440 for 2024. These measures do not describe income distribution or household wealth.
Practical reference
CFP franc (XPF)
French Polynesia uses CFP franc (XPF), calling code +689, internet domain .pf.
About French Polynesia
French Polynesia is a breathtaking archipelago of volcanic islands scattered across the South Pacific, famed for its turquoise lagoons, dramatic cliffs, and a unique blend of Polynesian charm and French elegance.
The territory comprises 118 islands grouped into five archipelagos—Society, Marquesas, Tuamotu, Gambier, and Austral—each offering distinct landscapes, from the towering peaks of Mount Otemanu on Bora Bora to the low‑lying atolls of the Tuamotu chain, all surrounded by crystal‑clear waters teeming with coral reefs.
French Polynesian culture pulses with vibrant dance, intricate tattoo art, and a rich oral tradition of storytelling, while its cuisine delights with fresh fish, tropical fruits, and the iconic taro‑based dish ‘po’e’, reflecting a harmonious mix of indigenous customs and French culinary influences.
A pivotal moment in its past was the 1842 annexation by France, which transformed the islands from independent kingdoms into a French overseas collectivity, shaping their political trajectory while preserving a strong sense of Polynesian identity that endures today.
Key facts
Tahiti, the largest island, is home to the capital, Papeʻete, and is a popular stop for cruise ships and tourists alike.
Population: approximately 280,000 people spread across the islands, with a land area of about 4,167 km² (1,610 sq mi).
French Polynesia is the world's leading producer of vanilla and a major exporter of black pearls, prized for their luminous beauty.
This overview is AI-assisted and grounded with available atlas facts and reference material. Treat linked primary data as authoritative. Read the methodology.
Population, area and economic figures use the latest available values from World Bank Open Data; reporting years can vary by country. See sources and methodology for indicator definitions, mapping attribution, and editorial limitations.
French Polynesia has a recorded population of approximately 281,807 people.
How big is French Polynesia?
French Polynesia covers an area of about 3,471 km².
What is the population density of French Polynesia?
French Polynesia has a population density of roughly 81.2 /km² (people per square kilometre).
What is the GDP of French Polynesia?
French Polynesia has a gross domestic product (GDP) of approximately $6.32 billion as of 2024.
What is the GDP per capita of French Polynesia?
French Polynesia has a GDP per capita of approximately $22,440.
What currency is used in French Polynesia?
French Polynesia uses the CFP franc (XPF), with the symbol ₣.
Where is French Polynesia located?
French Polynesia is located in Polynesia, Oceania.
What is the native name of French Polynesia?
The native name of French Polynesia is Polynésie française.
What are people from French Polynesia called?
People from French Polynesia are referred to as French Polynesia.
What is the phone calling code for French Polynesia?
The international dialing code for French Polynesia is +689.
What is the internet domain for French Polynesia?
The country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for French Polynesia is .pf.
What time zone is French Polynesia in?
French Polynesia spans 3 time zones including Pacific/Gambier, Pacific/Marquesas, Pacific/Tahiti.
What is French Polynesia known for?
French Polynesia is a breathtaking archipelago of volcanic islands scattered across the South Pacific, famed for its turquoise lagoons, dramatic cliffs, and a unique blend of Polynesian charm and French elegance.
Polynesia