Located in the middle of the South Pacific, French Polynesia is a nation made up of more than 120 islands scattered throughout more than 2000 kilometres of the ocean. My ever first trip there was during the rainy summer season, which lasts from November through April – and I was immediately hooked. While there usually is a little rain shower every day, it usually blows over quickly and is bookended by glorious blue skies.
Daytime temperatures tend to be in the mid 70s to high 80s, which is pretty perfect beach weather if you ask me. While the middle of the afternoon can get a little toasty this time of year, it is also the perfect opportunity to duck under a shady palm with a good book.
The rainy season in French Polynesia is also an unsurprisingly less crowded time of year to visit, since their winter months tend to draw crowds of honeymooners and cruisers looking for sandy beaches with endlessly sunny skies.
If you visit from November through April, you’ll experience a much more secluded adventure, often feeling like you have the endless panoramic views all to yourself. The offseason also offers a more sustainable choice, putting less of a strain on the island nation’s limited resources and helping to provide more stable income streams to local businesses.
In this guide, you’ll find all of the information you need to plan a successful trip to French Polynesia in the rainy season, from what to pack and where to stay, to all the tips and trick I’ve picked up on my own adventures here.
Why should you visit French Polynesia in the Rainy Season?
- The weather is great: For the most part, the rainy season in French Polynesia consists of bright sunny days punctuated by short showers in the afternoons. I jokingly call it ‘rainbow season’, because you’re likely to spot so many throughout the day this time of year. All of the extra rain also means that the already verdant island is abundant with bright blossoms and gushing waterfalls.
- It’s less crowded: The dry winter months are the most popular time of year to visit, so the off season tends to be much less crowded. You’ll find a better selection of accomodation options throughout the islands, as well as a better chance of upgrades to unsold rooms when you go to check in.
- Photography opportunities abound: You might have to bundle up a little, but it is worth it to have some of the nation’s most photo worthy spots all to yourself. The rainy season in French Polynesia is a great time for photographers to capture the islands with fewer people, as well as an amazing opportunity to capture the same places with ever shifting light.
Quick tips for visiting French Polynesia in the Rainy Season
- Keep in mind that peak rainy season dates to visit French Polynesia are between holiday and holiday. Otherwise, crowds and traffic are much lighter compared to other times of the year.
- Since you’ll have a greater chance of a full rain day, plan your itinerary accordingly. It might be a good idea to build in a little extra flexibility and give yourself an extra day to see everything on your list.
- The temperature can vary and sudden rain showers can be expected, so be sure to pack an extra waterproof layer wherever you go.
- Make sure to pick accomodation that is located on a well paved road, as the rainy season can often make the more rustic backroads impassable.
What kind of temperatures to expect during Rainy Season in French Polynesia
Looking at the weather forecast before your trip will likely terrify you – it’s usually predicted for thunderstorms every day! What the forecast doesn’t tell you is that those downpours usually only last half an hour or so before passing, and usually only affect one half of an island at a time.
A much better way of predicting the weather, recommended and used by every local I’ve met, is to look at the wind patterns on Windy. It’s a little more complicated to use at first, but gives a much more comprehensive outlook on what to expect.
What to pack for a Rainy Season Trip to French Polynesia
As I’ve mentioned, the weather can vary quite a bit throughout the day in French Polynesia during their Rainy Season, so packing quick drying clothes and a variety of layers is probably my number one piece of advice.
Not only will you want to pack layers in your overnight bag, but you’ll also want to have a smaller day bag on hand at the ready so you can remove and add throughout the day as needed. If you’re renting a scooter during your time here, this is extra important!
Here’s my full list of Rainy Season packing essentials:
- Sun Protection – Yes, even when it’s overcast! Reef safe sunscreen, a hat, and long sleeved clothing are definitely necessary as the sun is especially potent during their summer months.
- Water Bottle – Dehydration can happen quickly,especailly if you are active and not paying attention to your water intake, There are many parts of French Polynesia where potable water may not be available, so I always recommend carrying a large bottle with you. I really love this collapsible bottle by LifeStraw, which will help safely filter water from any stream or sink in a pinch.
- Waterproof Sandals – At some point during your trip, your feet are going to get totally soaked. I recommend packing a pair of Teva Ampsoles. They’ve become my go-to due to their super grippy soles that keep me stable on hikes and easy to clean outsoles with quick drying straps.
- Water Shoes – While there is not a lot in French Polynesia that can harm you, it can be dangerous to brush up against both coral and the very well camouflaged stonefish. Wearing some protection on your feet whenever you’re in the water is an essential part of staying safe during your stay here.
- Layers! – You’ll want to pack a variety of lightweight, quick drying layers. You’ll want a waterproof hooded jacket with you at all times during the day, as well as a light fleece for the evening chill after a big rainstorm.
The Best Things to do in French Polynesia on a Rainy Day
As I mentioned earlier, you’re likely to have at least one full rain day when visiting French Polynesia during the summer months. The good news is that there is still plenty to see and do, even if you’ve caught a downpour!
Go Snorkeling
You’re already going to be wet while you’re snorkeling anyways, so the rain doesn’t make too much of a difference on your activity! The water will likely be a little less crystal clear with slightly lower visibility than a clear day, but so not too much of a difference that I’d let it dissuade you.
Visit a Museum
The museums in French Polynesia are all worth a visit during your trip, and not just on a rainy day. On Tahiti you can visit the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands, a beautiful history museum that was just renovated this past year. There’s also the James Norman Hall House, which honors the history of the author of The Bounty, as well as the Robert Wan Pearl Museum.
In Moorea, you’ll find the architecturally stunning Fare Natura, which is part of the Lycee Agricole and offers an opportunity to learn more about the ecological beauty of French Polynesia. You can also stop at the Tiki Village Cultural Centre, which showcases the living history of the Polynesian people and is free to the public.
Go for a Tasting
French Polynesia is renowned for its rum production, and there are plenty of places that can arrange for an impromptu tasting flight for you.
If you happen to be on the island of Moorea, you can even head to the Rotui Factory for a free tour of the factory followed by a full rum and juice tasting experience at the end!
Have a Spa Day
A rainy day is a perfect excuse to discover the Tahitian art of Taurumi, an ancestral practice that allows the harmony of body and mind. The art of massage in French Polynesia is as much of a source of personal well-being as it is a connection to culture, just like tattooing or dancing.
Polynesians believe in a continuous life force that runs through all living things, called Mana – and when someone gives you a Taurumi massage, they are effectively transferring that energy to you. The practice also uses a variety of oils made from indigenous plants, such as monoi and tamanu oils, that are both fragrant and great for your skin.
Read a Good Book
The last rainy day recommendation is to bring a good book with you. Find somewhere cosy to curl up where you can hear the pitter patter of the rain while you read.
I love the idea of visiting during the off season when it’s more secluded. Great tip on the windy app.