In brief — Polynesia by season
The two seasons
Dry season vs rainy season
Like most tropical Pacific islands, French Polynesia has two distinct seasons. Neither prevents travel — but conditions are very different.
May to October
The ideal season. Stable weather, maximum sunshine, low humidity. Mild temperatures (24–29°C). Trade winds blow from the southeast — pleasant during the day but sometimes cool in the evening.
- Blue sky most of the time
- Crystal clear water, excellent diving visibility
- Humpback whales (August-October)
- Heiva festival in July
- Higher prices, book early
November to April
Rising heat and humidity (26–32°C). Daily tropical showers — usually short and intense. Rare cyclones possible (January-March). Lower prices, fewer tourists.
- 20 to 40% cheaper on flights & hotels
- Fewer tourists on the islands
- Lush vegetation, waterfalls at full flow
- Rain often brief (1–2h per day)
- Low but real cyclone risk
Important note: Even in the rainy season, days are often lovely with afternoon showers. Lagoons remain gorgeous and water activities are generally possible. The rainy season is far from an Asian-style monsoon.
Detailed calendar
Month by month
Here's an honest assessment of each month based on weather conditions, available activities, crowds, and prices.
By activity
Which season based on what you want to do?
Not all activities are equally available year-round. Here's a reference chart.
| Activity | Jan | Fév | Mar | Avr | Mai | Jui | Juil | Aoû | Sep | Oct | Nov | Déc |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beach & lagoon | ||||||||||||
| Diving & snorkeling | ||||||||||||
| Whale watching | ||||||||||||
| Hiking | ||||||||||||
| Surfing (Teahupo'o) | ||||||||||||
| Family travel | ||||||||||||
| Honeymoon |
Events & festivities
Events not to miss
Certain periods offer an even more vibrant Polynesia, with exceptionally rich cultural festivals.
Festival Heiva i Tahiti — The event of the year
French Polynesia's largest cultural festival. Traditional songs, himene and ori tahiti dances, ancestral sports (javelin, coconut throw, outrigger canoe). Electric atmosphere in Papeete all month. Hotels are full — book 3 to 6 months in advance.
Humpback whale season
Thousands of humpback whales come to breed in Polynesia's warm waters. Boat or kayak excursions to swim with whales are available at Moorea, Tahiti, and the Austral Islands (Rurutu). An unforgettable experience, with strict respect for the animals.
Va'a outrigger canoe race
The outrigger canoe is central to Polynesian culture. Local and regional competitions take place throughout the dry season, culminating in the Hawaiki Nui Va'a in November (Raiatea–Tahaa–Huahine–Bora Bora). A breathtaking spectacle for lagoon-side spectators.
Tahiti Carnival (March-April)
Colorful parades, flower floats, and Polynesian music fill the streets of Papeete. Less known to tourists than Heiva, Carnival offers an authentic immersion in local festivities, with a more relaxed and accessible atmosphere.
Budget impact
Prices vary by season
Polynesia isn't cheap, but your travel timing significantly affects total cost. The index below is based on average Paris–Tahiti flight prices and island accommodation rates.
Index 100 = July (high season peak). December prices rise due to Christmas school holidays.
Frequently asked questions
Everything we get asked about the weather
The best time is the dry season, May to October. July and August are ideal with maximum sunshine, little rain, and temperatures around 27°C. July is the most vibrant thanks to the Heiva festival. May, June, and September offer excellent value with fewer tourists.
Yes, but it's the rainy season (November to April). Heat and humidity are higher, with frequent tropical showers (short but intense). Upside: prices are typically 20 to 40% cheaper and there are fewer crowds. The rainy season doesn't prevent you from enjoying the islands, especially the lagoons.
Humpback whales are present from July to November. The peak is in August-September, especially at Moorea, Rurutu (Australs), and Tahiti. The whales come to breed in warm Pacific waters before returning to Antarctica.
The cheapest months are November, January, February, and March. Flight and hotel prices can be 20 to 40% lower than in high season (July-August). Avoid French school holidays even off-season as prices rise.
The cyclone risk exists from November to April, but remains relatively low compared to the Caribbean or Australia. The Society Islands (Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea) are less exposed than the Tuamotu. In practice, about 1 in 20 trips is affected by a cyclonic passage, usually as heavy rain rather than a direct cyclone.
The tourist peak coincides with the dry season: July and August are the busiest months. Hotels in Bora Bora and Moorea are often fully booked. For a more authentic and less crowded Polynesia, aim for May, June, or September-October — weather conditions remain excellent.
Continue planning your trip