French PolynesiaBest Time to Visit

French Polynesia is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the dry season from June to August. The weather is pleasantly warm, and the water clarity is optimal for underwater activities like snorkelling and diving tours. This is the tourist season though, and it can get quite crowded. To avoid the crowds, you can book your Tahiti vacation in May and October when the weather is still balmy and lovely, and the prices are lower.

November to April is French Polynesia's wet season, with concentrated bursts of rainfall punctuated by days of sunshine. It's the ideal time to visit if you aren't big on active travel, but still want to have a blast on the islands. You can join a Polynesian cultural workshop, enjoy a Polynesian massage, visit a cultural museum, or visit colourful markets on your Tahiti trip. If you’re looking for even more adventurous vacation packages, you can scuba dive in French Polynesia, even in the rainy season, from a cruise or on an all inclusive vacation package. Remember, at this time, hotel air-conditioning becomes a necessity as humidity rises, so make sure to make these accommodations with your travel agency.

When is the ideal time to visit French Polynesia?

May to October is arguably the best time to visit French Polynesia, with warm, dry days and close to idyllic temperatures. Between June and August, you’ll have all French Polynesia has to offer at your fingertips, and can easily swap activities if anything gets overbooked. Surfing tours are available between March and October, depending on which island you have in mind.  

Prices for Tahiti vacations come down between November and April, however, if you’re looking for a more affordable Tahiti trip. Note that the water temperature around French Polynesia hovers around 27°C (81°F) year-round.

When is French Polynesia’s peak tourist season?

May to October is undoubtedly peak time for Tahiti vacation packages. It’s up to each individual to decide if the nicer weather justifies the higher prices and tourist numbers. 

Which is the most affordable time to visit French Polynesia?

Prices drop off substantially from March until May, before the high season begins. You might still get some afternoon rains at this time, but downpours tend to be short, and easy to plan around. A travel guide will be able to give you more insight into local weather conditions. If you’re willing to sacrifice a little convenience (and occasionally get wet), this can be a bargain time to book Tahiti vacation packages. Try to avoid January and February, however, when things just get too hot and humid.

How long should I plan to visit French Polynesia?

Eight to 10 days, or two to three days per island is ideal for exploring French Polynesia, though, of course, Tahiti vacations can accommodate you for up to 90 days without needing a visa.