Climate and monthly weather forecastFrench Polynesia

The climate of French Polynesia

In the heart of the South Pacific, French Polynesia stretches over a vast area of more than two million square kilometers. This archipelago consists of 118 islands, divided into five groups: the Society Islands, the Marquesas Islands, the Austral Islands, the Gambier Islands, and the Tuamotu Archipelago.

French Polynesia, falling under the Tropical rainforest climate classification, maintains warm temperatures throughout the year. Average temperatures remain above 18°C (64.4°F) every month, providing consistent, balmy weather year-round. Its tropical maritime climate results in high humidity, with frequent but brief rain showers. These showers tend to be more common during the rainy season, from November to April. Yet even in these wetter months, the rainfall is usually quickly followed by sunshine. The average annual precipitation, under the 'Af' classification, is at least 60mm (2.36") each month. However, there are slight regional variations in temperature and rainfall, with the Marquesas experiencing less rainfall and the Austral Islands experiencing cooler weather.

The best time to visit French Polynesia

The dry season, from May to October, is often considered the best time to visit French Polynesia. During this period, the islands enjoy lower humidity and cooler temperatures, typically ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 28°C (82.4°F). The rainfall is also considerably lower, which, combined with ample sunshine and gentle breezes, makes for a comfortable and enjoyable tropical environment. This season, in particular, attracts visitors to the islands' turquoise lagoons, sandy beaches, and vibrant coral reefs.

The worst time to visit French Polynesia

The period from November to April constitutes the rainy season in French Polynesia and is generally seen as less desirable for tourists. During these months, the archipelago experiences increased rainfall and higher temperatures, usually between 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F). Tropical storms and cyclones are also a possibility, though they are relatively rare and often mild. Despite the rainfall, these months still see a significant amount of sunshine, and some visitors choose this time to avoid the peak tourist season.

Spring weather in French Polynesia

In French Polynesia, the spring season aligns with the onset of the dry period. From March to May, the weather transitions with declining rainfall and slightly cooler temperatures. Average temperatures generally range between 24°C (75.2°F) to 29°C (84.2°F), offering comfortable conditions. Visitors during this time can anticipate less humidity and rainfall, making it an opportune time to explore the outdoor attractions.

Summer weather in French Polynesia

French Polynesia's summer months, from June to August, fall within the dry season. These months see temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 28°C (82.4°F), lower than the annual average, and the humidity levels are relatively moderate. Despite the infrequent rain showers, the overall climate remains pleasant with plenty of sunny days, perfect for beach and water activities.

Autumn weather in French Polynesia

The autumn months, September and October, mark the end of the dry season. Temperatures begin to climb during these months, usually staying between 22°C (71.6°F) to 29°C (84.2°F). The rainfall gradually increases, preparing the region for the upcoming rainy season. However, the weather remains largely enjoyable, with the rainfall often limited to short, intense showers.

Winter weather in French Polynesia

Winter, from November to February, corresponds with the rainy season in French Polynesia. These months witness higher temperatures, typically between 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F), and increased humidity. Despite the name, the "rainy season" often features clear skies and sunshine, with sudden, heavy showers of rain. The risk of cyclones is also higher during this period, but the incidents are usually infrequent and mild.

Weather in January

January is situated in the heart of the rainy season in French Polynesia. During this month, the islands experience some of the highest rainfall totals of the year. Average precipitation can exceed 280mm (11.02"), particularly in the more mountainous regions of the Society Islands, such as Tahiti and Bora. Weather in January »

Weather in February

February continues the trend of the rainy season in French Polynesia, albeit with slightly less rainfall than January. Average precipitation during this month ranges around 250mm (9.84"). Rain showers, although frequent, are typically brief, and the islands still enjoy many hours of sunshine. Weather in February »

Weather in March

March is a transition month in French Polynesia as it marks the end of the rainy season and the beginning of the dry season. The average rainfall begins to decrease, falling to 200mm (7.87"), a reduction compared to the preceding months of January and February. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April in French Polynesia signifies a further move towards drier conditions, as it falls within the early part of the dry season. The average rainfall in April decreases significantly compared to the wetter months, dropping to 130mm (5.12"). Weather in April »

Weather in May

May in French Polynesia marks a further transition into the dry season. The rainfall decreases even more during this month, with average precipitation around 90mm (3.54"), significantly lower than in April. Rain showers become sporadic and brief, interspersed with lengthy periods of sunshine. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June represents the middle of the dry season in French Polynesia and is known for its stable and pleasant weather conditions. Rainfall is minimal during this month, with average precipitation around 60mm (2.36"), making it one of the driest months of the year. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July in French Polynesia is characterized by stable, dry weather conditions, falling right in the middle of the dry season. It is one of the driest months of the year, with average precipitation as low as 50mm (1.97"). Clear skies and prolonged sunshine are typical during this month, making it perfect for outdoor and beach activities. The temperatures in July are some of the coolest experienced all year, ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 26°C (78.8°F). Weather in July »

Weather in August

August continues the dry season in French Polynesia, featuring similar weather conditions as July. With average precipitation of about 40mm (1.57"), August is typically one of the driest months of the year. Extended hours of sunshine and blue skies are characteristic of this period, providing excellent conditions for outdoor activities. The temperatures during August are slightly cooler compared to July, ranging between 19°C (66.2°F) to 26°C (78.8°F). Weather in August »

Weather in September

September in French Polynesia signifies the gradual transition from the dry season to the rainy season. Average precipitation begins to rise slightly to about 50mm (1.97"), marking an increase from the exceptionally dry months of July and August. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October in French Polynesia marks a significant shift towards the rainy season. Average precipitation rises noticeably to 100mm (3.94"), a considerable increase from September. Despite this rise, the weather remains relatively dry, with frequent sunshine and fewer rain showers compared to the upcoming wet season months. Temperatures during October are a bit warmer than in September, typically ranging from 21°C (69.8°F) to 28°C (82.4°F). Weather in October »

Weather in November

November in French Polynesia signals the onset of the rainy season, with precipitation levels rising substantially to 170mm (6.69"). As the transition to the wet season gains momentum, rain showers become more frequent, although plenty of sunshine can still be expected between showers. Temperatures during November climb higher, typically ranging between 22°C (71.6°F) to 29°C (84.2°F). Weather in November »

Weather in December

December in French Polynesia fully ushers in the rainy season, with precipitation levels reaching around 200mm (7.87"), the highest of the year. Rain showers become more frequent and intense, but periods of sunshine and clear skies can still be enjoyed between downpours. The temperatures during December remain high, typically ranging between 23°C (73.4°F) to 30°C (86°F). Weather in December »