French Polynesia Climate

Climate of French Polynesia

The wide dispersion of the islands of French Polynesia means that they lie in a zone of two climatic zones: sub-equatorial - covering the northern atolls (the Marquesas and the northern part of the Tuamotu Islands) and tropical - the central and southern atolls (the other islands). Weather conditions between these areas do not differ significantly. The climate and, above all, the precipitation are shaped by the southeastern trade winds.

In the tropical zone (most islands), air temperatures range from 23°C - 26°C, while in the sub-equatorial zone (northern atolls) they reach 32°C. Water temperatures remain between 25°C and 29°C. Precipitation varies and oscillates between 1,500 mm - 2,800 mm.

On all the islands of French Polynesia we can distinguish between the dry and wet seasons.

The dry season lasts from May to October, during this time temperatures oscillate around 25°C - 28°C, and thanks to lower humidity the heat is not so oppressive. This is the best time to plan a trip due to the higher number of sunny days and less rainfall.

The wet season covers the time from November to April, during which time the likelihood of rainfall increases. Usually these are short but intense downpours, although longer, even several days of rainfall and violent thunderstorms can also occur. Temperatures often exceed 30°C it is muggy and humid.