the South Pacific
Private Islands for Sale in French Polynesia
French Polynesia contains some of the most photographed lagoon scenery in the world, spread across the Society, Tuamotu and Marquesas groups. Motu — the small sand islets that sit on lagoon reefs — are the characteristic property type, typically low-lying, palm-covered and reached by boat across shallow water.
The market is small and slow-moving. Land is frequently held in undivided shares by extended families, and assembling clear title can require the agreement of many parties. As a French overseas collectivity, the territory applies French-derived legal procedure, which is thorough but adds time to any transaction.
Where buyers look
| Area | Notes |
|---|---|
| Tahiti and Moorea | Closest to the international airport, with the strongest services and highest values. |
| Bora Bora and Leeward Islands | The premium lagoon market, with limited availability and tourism demand. |
| Tuamotu atolls | Remote coral atolls with exceptional water and minimal infrastructure. |
| Marquesas | Dramatic volcanic islands with deep water and very limited private inventory. |
Foreign ownership
- Foreign nationals can acquire property, though the territory operates its own regulatory framework alongside French law.
- Family co-ownership arrangements are the most common practical obstacle, since all shareholders must consent to a sale.
- Local notarial procedure governs conveyancing and provides a robust verification process.
Tenure and title
- Freehold ownership exists and is recorded through notarial deeds and territorial land services.
- Undivided ownership among heirs is widespread and must be fully resolved before a clean transfer is possible.
Taxes and fees
- Registration duties, notarial fees and territorial taxes apply on transfer.
- The exact cost depends on the property and structure, so a notary's estimate should be obtained early.
What drives price
- Clarity of title, particularly where land is held in undivided family shares
- Distance from Papeete and the frequency of inter-island flights
- Lagoon quality, reef pass access and protection from swell
- Availability of freshwater and existing structures
- Tourism zoning where commercial use is intended
Development status
- Most motu are undeveloped, sometimes with a simple fare or copra shelter.
- Developed properties are rare and generally tied to existing tourism operations.
Climate and seasonality
- Warm tropical conditions year-round with a wetter season from November to April and occasional cyclone activity.
- Low-lying atolls are sensitive to sea level and storm surge, which affects siting and construction.
Infrastructure at a glance
| Service | Typical situation |
|---|---|
| Water | Rainwater catchment and desalination; atoll groundwater is usually brackish and unreliable. |
| Power | Solar with battery storage, occasionally supplemented by generators. |
| Internet | Satellite service and improving submarine cable coverage to the main island groups. |
| Docks and moorings | Lagoon jetties are common but require permits, and reef passes control vessel access. |
| Air access | Faa'a International Airport at Papeete, with domestic flights to the main island groups and boat transfer to motu. |
The buying process
- 1Engage a local notary and lawyer at the outset
- 2Establish the complete ownership structure, including all undivided shareholders
- 3Verify boundaries and any territorial land records
- 4Assess lagoon access, water supply and building feasibility
- 5Complete the notarised transfer and register it
Currency
Transactions are typically denominated in USD.
Related guides
Frequently asked questions
What is a motu?
A motu is a small islet formed on a coral reef, typically low-lying and sandy, surrounding a lagoon. They are the characteristic private island type in French Polynesia.
Why is title complicated there?
Land is often inherited in undivided shares among large extended families, so a sale can require agreement from many co-owners. Resolving this is a normal but time-consuming part of the process.
Is water available on a motu?
Rarely in usable quantity. Rainwater catchment and desalination are the standard solutions.