Tahiti Weather

Tahiti is an island association of volcanic origin and belongs to French Polynesia which is actually made up of over 100 islands . It is the largest and most populous of the entire archipelago. Tahiti actually consists of two islands, the larger Tahiti Nui, which is also home to the capital and largest city of the country, Papeete, and the smaller, quieter and more sparsely populated Tahiti Iti. Both parts are connected by a narrow piece of land, the Isthmus of Taravao. The arrival to Tahiti is through Faa`a airport, located about 7 kilometers from the center of Papeetes in the northwest of the island. Faa`a is the only international airport in French Polynesia, which means that all other islands of the country such as Bora Bora, Tahaa or Maupiti are also reached via Tahiti. If you are looking for a lot of variety and not only for peace and quiet, and if you want to go out in the evening, Tahiti is the right destination for you. For here, metropolitan life combines with a unique natural setting, black beaches attract as well as numerous cultural institutions. The island shows distinct steep mountains and peaks, the highest mountain is called Mont Orohena and is 2241 m high and is located on the large island. The climate on this Polynesian island is tropically humid and the average annual temperature is 26 degrees Celsius (79 °F). Overall, it is very warm throughout the year and temperatures do not differ much between months. The amount of precipitation is particularly low in August and September, whereas in the particularly warm months of January and December the amount of precipitation is highest. The water temperature is always fairly constant throughout the year at 26 or 27 degrees Celsius (79/80°F), so for a beach vacation it’s also optimal. The humidity is, because the island is located in the tropics, relatively high at about 79% on average.

Best Time to Visit Tahiti

The period from May to October can be described as the dry season. During these months, Tahiti and Moorea experience significantly fewer rainy days and less rainfall. However, tropical showers must also be expected during this time. However, these showers are short-lived, and most vacationers find them pleasantly cooling. August and September are the months with the least rainfall. The sun shines up to eight hours a day. Overall, this is the cooler and less humid part of the year. The hotter and wetter season (rainy season) occurs in the remaining months, from November to April. The rainiest months are December, January, and February, although some of the rainfall can be very heavy. Because of the persistent rainfall, humidity also increases. However, the rainy season does not mean that it rains permanently. After intensive downpours, there are also sunny phases from time to time. Thus, the islands record six to seven hours of sunshine during the rainy period. It can also be stormy at this time. In the worst case, it is also possible that a tropical cyclone passes over the islands. The best time for a beach vacation in Tahiti and Moorea is therefore the dry season from May to October. At this time of year, weather conditions are ideal. Tropical storms can also be definitely excluded. Alternatively, the transition months of April and November are also suitable for a trip to the South Sea Islands.

Things to know about Tahiti

• There are lots of reef sharks in the waters of Tahiti which are normally harmless but can become aggressive. If you do plan on going to Tahiti, be sure to pack your water shoes as the waters around Tahiti and around all French Polynesia is full of rockfish.

• If you are thinking about traveling to French Polynesia for beautiful white sand beaches, then Tahiti is probably not the island for you. However, if you want to experience street food, Polynesia city culture then Tahiti will definitely be illuminating.

• Tahiti is a great place to watch whales. Humpback whales come to Tahiti from Antarctica every year. The season for whale watching in Tahiti is from August to October but can also last from June to December. There are many opportunities for whale watching, both on diving trips and boat trips, but these are not available all year round.

• Even on a cloudy and overcast day during the rainy season it is easy to get sunburnt in Tahiti because the sun is so strong.

• French Polynesia is a French overseas territory so if you are visiting from Western or European Country the visa situation is easy as it is the same as France and needs to be done in advance. Remember that everyone who goes to French Polynesia will need their returns booked.

• Flights, accommodation and food on the island add up quickly and make Tahiti an expensive vacation. There are many ways you can try to travel to Tahiti on a budget, for example not staying in an overwater bungalow. This is true for all of French Polynesia - it is not a cheap destination.

• Things are expensive on the islands of French Polynesia so pack wisely. Clothing, scuba gear, insect repellent and sunscreen should all be on your packing list.

• The currency in French Polynesia is CFP. They accept Visa and Mastercard almost everywhere. However, make sure to get some cash especially if you plan to go to local stores.

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