When should you travel to French Polynesia?

Sculpted by sky-piercing, moss-green peaks and white-, pink – and black-sand beaches but lined with coral reef and turquoise lagoons. French Polynesia is a dream location where you can enjoy a laid back- island culture all year round.

You’ll find this dispersed collection of isles and atolls in the South Pacific Ocean, around 5000 miles east of Australia. It comprises five distinct groups of islands; the Society Islands are furthest west and contain Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea and Tetiaroa. The islands of French Polynesia enjoy a tropical climate with two seasons: hot and humid from November to March; drier and slightly cooler from April to October. Even in the wettest months, rain usually falls in brief, tropical downpours, while high humidity is tempered by Pacific trade winds.

When is the best time to visit French Polynesia

French Polynesia in the winter (May-October)

During the middle of the high season, June to August, French Polynesia is at its coolest and driest. Average temperatures are around 27°C, while the shallow tropical lagoons are 26°C. The shoulder months of May and September/October are also pleasant, and slightly less busy than peak months – although you’ll notice higher humidity during October.

French Polynesia in the summer (November-April)

Tropical showers usually start to build in frequency during November and, by the start of the year, the wet season is well underway with high humidity and heavy downpours until April. However, rain is often interspersed with sunny weather – and it’s also a less busy, less expensive time to visit. Consider the Marquesas at this time of year – the rainfall pattern is slightly different for this more equatorial island group, with far less rain during the summer.

Feeling Inspired?

If you do anything when visiting French Polynesia. Stay and cruise!

A small ship cruise is a fantastic way of seeing many of the French Polynesia islands in just one visit. Talk to one of our travel specialists to talk about your options or discover more about French Polynesia here.