French Polynesia spreads across 118 islands in five archipelagos with Tahiti's Papeete capital, Bora Bora's overwater bungalows in the lagoon, the Marquesas' jagged volcanic ridges, and the surf at Teahupo'o.
Highlights
Tahiti
Bora Bora
Moorea
Rangiroa
When to Visit
May-Oct
Trade-wind dry season with humpback whales calving in Tahitian waters July-November, Bora Bora at peak season, and the Heiva I Tahiti festival in July.
Jul
Heiva I Tahiti festival fills Papeete with traditional dance competitions, va'a outrigger races, and stone-lifting contests, the country's biggest cultural event.
Aug
Heiva continuing with humpback whale season at peak, Teahupo'o surf reliably building toward the WSL Tahiti Pro tournament in late August.
Nov-Apr
Wet season with afternoon storms, cyclone risk peaking February-March, but Bora Bora and Tahiti accessible and rates dropping across resort-class hotels.
Best time to travel — world map
Explore the best months to travel around the world based on weather, temperature, and travel conditions.
Best time to visit Europe
Explore the best months to travel across Europe based on weather, temperature, and travel conditions.
Best time to visit Asia
Discover when to travel across Asia, from Southeast Asia to East Asia, based on climate and weather patterns.
Best time to visit Italy
Plan your trip to Italy with monthly insights on temperature, rainfall, and travel conditions.
