Plizio Visual Lab

Tubuai Agriculture

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Landmark

Weather…

Tubuai, the largest of the Austral Islands in French Polynesia, stands as the region's agricultural powerhouse due to its remarkably fertile volcanic soil. The island's climate, which is slightly cooler than that of Tahiti, creates convenient conditions for growing temperate vegetables that are difficult to produce elsewhere in the archipelago. It is widely known as the "breadbasket" of the islands, specializing in the large-scale cultivation of potatoes, carrots, and cabbage, which are shipped regularly to the markets of Papeete. Agricultural activity is largely centered around cooperatives that help local farmers manage resources and distribute their crops efficiently. In addition to vegetable farming, Tubuai also produces high-quality coffee and copra, which remain vital components of the local economy. The broad coastal plains provide ample space for fields, while the mountainous interior ensures a steady supply of freshwater through rainfall. For those visiting Tubuai, the sight of lush, well-tended plantations gives a unique contrast to the typical coral atolls of the Pacific, highlighting the island's essential role in sustaining the food security of French Polynesia.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	25	26	26	25	24	23	22	22	22	22	23	25
Rain mm	160	166	173	167	137	105	91	86	80	119	127	220

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Tubuai Agriculture is not a single visitor site but the agricultural landscape of the island. You can view fields and plantations from roads - no entry ticket required.

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Typical hours

The agricultural areas are always accessible as they are part of the public landscape. Typically, plantations are best seen during daylight hours.

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Photography

Photograph the lush green fields brimming with tropical fruits. An early morning visit gives the best light for landscape shots.

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Time needed

Plan a half-day island circuit to see the various growing areas. A rental car or bicycle is well-suited for flexible exploration.

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Combine with

Combine the agricultural tour with a visit to Tubuai's beaches. The island also has hikes to ancient Marae sites.

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Getting there

Tubuai is reachable by plane from Tahiti; on the island you can rent a car or bicycle. The main road circles the island and passes most plantations.

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Insider tip

Ask locals if you can buy melons or vanilla directly from the fields. Harvest times vary, but agricultural production is visible year-round.

Geography

Coordinates

-23.36710, -149.48350

Facts

Annual vegetable production is 1,000 tons.
200 families are engaged in agriculture.
Agricultural area is 4.5 km².
The island exports 80% of produce to Tahiti.
Orange harvest is 300 tons per year.
Average annual rainfall is 1,500 mm.

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Tubuai Agriculture (1)

Tubuai📍 landmark

Island in French Polynesia, part of the Austral Islands. Agriculture and tropical vegetation define the landscape.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is Tubuai known for agriculturally?

It is known for growing vegetables and potatoes for export.

Can you visit the fields?

Yes, you can see the fields while walking on the island.

Do I need a bike?

A bike is well-suited to explore the vast fields.

Are there local products?

Yes, farmers often offer fresh produce by the roadside.

What is the climate like?

Cooler than further north, which is convenient for vegetables.

Tubuai Agriculture: where is it located?

Tubuai Agriculture is located in French Polynesia.

Tubuai Agriculture: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.

Tubuai Agriculture: why is it worth visiting?

Tubuai, the largest of the Austral Islands in French Polynesia, stands as the region's agricultural powerhouse due to its remarkably fertile volcanic soil.

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