Discover the best time to visit
French Polynesia is a year-round destination, with warm weather, turquoise lagoons, and lush green landscapes, whatever month you travel.
Dry season – May to October
This is the most popular time to visit French Polynesia. Days are sunny, humidity is lower, and the trade winds keep temperatures comfortable. It’s the best season for swimming, snorkelling, diving, and spending long days out on the water. Unsurprisingly, it’s also the busiest period, especially in Bora Bora and Tahiti, so booking well ahead is recommended.
Wet season – November to April
French Polynesia’s wet season sees warmer temperatures, tropical downpours, and lush, green scenery. Rain often comes in short bursts, with sunshine in between. It’s a quieter and often more affordable time to travel, with fewer visitors and excellent underwater visibility for diving. The wet season is also when many cultural festivals take place, adding an extra layer of interest.
When we recommend travelling
If you’re looking for the perfect balance of good weather and fewer crowds, we often suggest the shoulder months of April, May, September, and October. These times give you plenty of sunshine and clear seas, without the peak season price tag. French Polynesia really doesn’t have a bad time to visit. It’s more about what kind of experience you’re looking for – whether that’s calm, dry days in July, or the colourful festivities and lush landscapes of January.
French Polynesia enjoys a warm, tropical climate year-round, but the experience can vary depending on the season. The main distinction is between the dry season (May to October) and the wetter, more humid season (November to April). Each month brings its own character, so here’s how the year looks.

January
Expect warm, humid days with tropical showers, often short but intense. Ocean temperatures are perfect for swimming, but some days may see strong winds. Coral reefs thrive, making diving and snorkelling rewarding despite occasional rain. Tourism is quieter, so you can find good deals on luxury resorts and experience a more relaxed pace.

February
Rain showers continue, often in the afternoon, but sunny periods dominate. It’s the romantic peak for honeymoons, with resorts offering special packages for Valentine’s Day. Cultural events are limited, but the lush landscapes and full lagoons make for spectacular photography. Diving remains excellent, with visibility slightly reduced after showers.

March
Rainfall decreases, though occasional showers remain. The landscape is vibrant, with waterfalls full and lagoons brilliantly clear. Fewer tourists make for an intimate experience on the beaches. Whale sightings begin in some southern islands.

April
Humidity drops and sunny days increase, making conditions more comfortable. Sea breezes keep temperatures pleasant, and the islands are lush and green. It’s a great time for water sports, island-hopping, and photography before the high season begins.

May
The start of the dry season, with clear skies and low rainfall. Days are warm but not overly hot, perfect for snorkelling, diving, hiking, or sailing. Festivals are rare, so it’s peaceful, and accommodation rates are lower than peak season.

June
Warm, sunny days with long daylight hours. Whale-watching season begins, especially around Moorea and the Tuamotu atolls. Water temperatures remain inviting, making diving and paddling excellent. Resorts start to fill with families and honeymooners.

July
Peak tourist season with clear skies, calm seas, and excellent underwater visibility. Traditional festivals, such as Heiva i Tahiti, showcase dance, music, and sporting events. Bookings must be early as resorts are in high demand, but the atmosphere is lively.

August
Sunny, dry, and not too humid, making it perfect for sailing or cruising the islands. Families flock here during European summer holidays. Diving, snorkelling, and fishing are at their best.

September
Still warm and dry, with slightly fewer crowds than July and August. Whale-watching peaks off Rurutu and Moorea. Diving and snorkelling remain excellent, and the islands feel slightly more tranquil.

October
The shoulder month offers warm seas, settled weather, and quieter resorts. Days are ideal for hiking, lagoon excursions, and exploring islands without peak-season crowds. Water sports remain excellent, and accommodation rates are lower.

November
Humidity rises as the wet season approaches, bringing occasional tropical showers. Landscapes are lush, rivers and waterfalls full, and diving is good with fewer tourists around. Resorts are generally less busy, offering flexible travel options.

December
Warm, humid, and festive, with tropical showers common. Christmas and New Year attract visitors, making resorts busier and prices higher. The atmosphere is lively, with special events and island festivities.
French Polynesia Trip Inspiration
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Ruth
French Polynesia Expert
When to visit French Polynesia
Find out the best time to visit French Polynesia with our month by month guide.
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
Warm and humid with brief tropical showers, perfect for a peaceful start to the year.
February
Tropical and romantic, ideal for couples and quiet getaways.
March
Lush and colourful, with good deals and fewer crowds.
April
Transitioning to dry season, offering comfortable weather and fewer tourists.
May
Ideal dry-season conditions with calm seas and excellent visibility.
June
Sunny, whale-friendly, and perfect for outdoor adventures.
July
Peak season with cultural celebrations and perfect lagoon conditions.
August
Dry, sunny, and ideal for families and sea adventures.
September
Warm, quiet, and prime for whale encounters.
October
Calm, warm, and perfect for a quieter island experience.
November
Lush and inviting, with occasional rain but fewer crowds.
December
Festive, warm, and vibrant, perfect for a holiday celebration.