The best time to visit French Polynesia is from May through October: this is the dry season, with clear skies and whale-watching from July through October. But November–December and February–March, often overlooked because of the rain, offer warmer water, longer days, fewer crowds, and more affordable prices. The truth? There’s no such thing as a bad season in French Polynesia. Just different kinds of trips.
When is the best time to visit French Polynesia? The short answer
- For plenty of sunshine and whales: May through October.
- For a quiet atmosphere and low prices: November–December and February–March.
- For diving and snorkeling: year-round. The water temperature never drops below 26 °C.
Polynesia's tropical climate: two seasons, not four
In French Polynesia, the climate is tropical, and there are only two seasons.
The dry season runs from May to October. This is the southern winter: the air is cooler, humidity is lower, and the skies are clearer. Temperatures sometimes drop to 22–24 °C at night. This is the peak tourist season—a great time to go diving, whale-watching, and avoid the heat.
The rainy season runs from November to April. This is the southern hemisphere summer: it’s hot, with temperatures reaching 30–32 °C, humidity rises, and rainfall increases significantly. This is the off-season—fewer people, lower prices, and lush nature—perfect for hiking enthusiasts and for discovering various exotic fruits.
The Weather in Polynesia, Month by Month
Here is an overview of the climate throughout the year for the main islands (Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora). These figures are approximate; the weather in French Polynesia is known for being unpredictable.
| Month | Temperature (day) | Precipitation | Sea | Visitor Numbers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 28–32 °C | High | 29 °C | Low |
| February | 28–32 °C | Highs | 29 °C | Low |
| March | 28–31 °C | Moderate | 29 °C | Average |
| April | 27–30 °C | Decreasing | 28 °C | Average |
| May | 26–29 °C | Low | 27 °C | High |
| June | 24–28 °C | Low | 27 °C | High |
| July | 23–28 °C | Low | 26 °C | High 🐋 |
| August | 22–28 °C | Low | 26 °C | Very high 🐋 |
| September | 24–28 °C | Low | 26 °C | High 🐋 |
| October | 25–29 °C | Rising | 27 °C | High 🐋 |
| November | 26–30 °C | Moderate | 27 °C | Light |
| December | 27–31 °C | High | 28 °C | Light to moderate |
Precipitation is measured in millimeters (mm) and varies greatly from month to month. For exact figures, see Météo France Polynésie.
When should you go, depending on your trip?
Best time to see whales: August through October
Every year, humpback whales travel thousands of kilometers to give birth in the warm waters of Polynesia. The season runs from August to October. It is one of the fenua’s major events and one of the reasons for the high season.
For diving and snorkeling: year-round
The water stays warm year-round, between 26 and 29 °C. From the lagoons of the Society Islands to the Tuamotu passes (Rangiroa, Fakarava), Polynesia is a year-round diving destination. A mask and snorkel are often all you need to encounter rays and multicolored fish.
If diving is the main activity you plan to do during your stay in Moorea or even in Polynesia, the season between November and March is ideal because the water temperature is 3 to 5 degrees warmer than during the dry season
For those on a budget and looking for peace and quiet: the off-season
Fewer people. More space. Lower prices. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds and keep an eye on prices, November–December and February–March are perfect for you.
For a honeymoon: whatever you've always dreamed of
Bright sunshine? Dry season. Privacy and lush nature? Wet season. Polynesia is a dream getaway either way.
When is the best time to visit, depending on the archipelago?
French Polynesia isn’t just one island. It consists of 118 islands, spread across five archipelagos. And not all of them are alike.
- The Society Islands (Tahiti and its islands: Moorea, Bora Bora): the climate described above. The highlight of any trip to Polynesia.
- The Tuamotu Islands (Rangiroa, Fakarava): atolls set against the blue sea, a diver’s paradise, enjoyable year-round.
- The Marquesas Islands: farther north, warmer, with a shifted dry season.
Why November–December Is the Most Underrated Time of Year
You’ve probably been told not to go. “It’s the rainy season.” Here’s what they don’t tell you.
First of all, tropical rain isn’t like rain in France. It comes in showers: intense at first, then the sun comes out again. Sometimes it rains for a few days in a row, yes. But most of the time, the days are beautiful.
Next, this is our favorite time of year, and we’re not afraid to admit it. In November and December, the water warms up, the days get longer, and the island is bursting with fruit and flowers. Nature is never greener than it is at this time of year. It’s no wonder the landscapes are so lush.
Finally, there are fewer people around. Just before the holidays, Polynesia empties out of tourists. The beaches become quiet again, you can go on excursions at your own pace, and you almost feel like you have the island all to yourself!
How about choosing Moorea as your starting point?
Not sure which island to choose? Here’s our advice—and it’s not entirely unbiased.
Moorea has a rare advantage: the sea and the mountains. A turquoise lagoon on one side, green peaks plunging into the water on the other. And it’s all just a 30-minute ferry ride from Tahiti.
It’s an authentic island where the locals will be delighted to welcome you! Here, nearly 99% of the staff are locals, and many visitors are pleasantly surprised to discover a team so deeply rooted in their island.
Beyond the hotel experience, we are committed to showcasing local culture and crafts. That’s why we host a shopping evening at the hotel on the first Wednesday of every month. At each event, about ten artisans and designers, all based in Moorea, come to showcase their creations and share their passion with our guests. It’s a friendly gathering that allows guests to discover the talent of the island’s artisans while supporting the local economy.
And the season doesn’t just change the weather—it also changes prices. At Cook’s Bay, our low-season offer lets you save up to 30% on room rates from November 1 to December 15 and from January 15 to March 31. That way, you can enjoy a dream vacation for the price of a week in the South of France—with the lagoon and the mountains as a bonus.
When should you book your trip to French Polynesia?
On average, our guests book five months before their arrival.
It’s no coincidence. You have to plan ahead for Polynesia. Flights need to be booked early, and the best rooms go fast.
Our tip: If you’re planning to visit in November or December, book your trip as early as this summer. First come, first served.
