Weather & Seasons
Since the Society Islands of French Polynesia is a tropical environment in the South Pacific, you need to consider the humidity, rain, sunshine, and heat. Here you can find some useful information about weather and seasons for your trip to Bora Bora.
THE BEST TIME TO VISIT BORA BORA IS FROM MAY TO OCTOBER.
BEST TIME TO VISIT BORA BORA
1. MAY - OCTOBER
BEST TIME FOR BEACHES
During the dry season (May to October) daytime temperatures average around 28°C (83°F), but water temperatures in the lagoon surrounding Bora Bora remain constantly inviting, i.e. from about 24°C to 26°C. Swimming is sometimes more appealing in the wet season, if only to seek relief from the heat and humidity. Obviously, avoid any bad weather (particularly lightning), and never forget sunscreen.
2. APRIL - OCTOBER
BEST TIME FOR DIVING & SNORKELING
Calm, clear waters are most likely between April and October, the driest months. However, during June, July and August, trade winds bring relief onshore, but can churn up the sea. During the wet season (November to April), rain and wind can also affect visibility, but this is less problematic in the shallow and mostly non-tidal lagoon that surrounds Bora Bora.
3. JUNE - SEPTEMBER
BEST TIME FOR OUTDOOR ACTIVITES
Not surprisingly, the weather affects the accessibility and enjoyment of all things outside. The wet season (November to April) brings heavy downpours and stronger winds, and when it’s not raining, the humidity can be uncomfortable. The optimal time to be outdoors is during the driest months of June to September, but, obviously, don’t go anywhere outdoors during any cyclonic activity.
4. JUNE - SEPTEMBER
BEST TIME FOR SIGHTSEEING
Like all tropical island regions in the South Pacific, there are 2 very important factors to consider when planning holidays. Bora Bora is especially busy (and overpriced) during the major European vacation times of June, July, and (particularly) August, and the Christmas/New Year period from mid-December to mid-January. The second aspect is the wet season, which lasts from November to April. At this time, heavy rain is frequent, the humidity can be draining, and cyclones are possible (although very rare).
5. JANUARY - FEBRUARY
BEST TIME FOR SAVING MONEY
Avoid the peak seasons (June to August, and the Christmas/New Year period) when all resorts and hotels are bursting. Rates increase, and flights are sometimes overbooked, so plan ahead. Also, the local school holidays (especially in October) are busy times for inter-island flights.
4. APRIL - NOVEMBER
BEST TIME FOR HONEYMOONS & WEEDINGS
The best weather runs from May until November, with warm sunshine (and a few cloudbursts) on a near-daily basis. Peak tourist season stretches across June and July, making this the most expensive time to get married on Bora Bora. May, August and September are all great months to visit, with fewer tourists and affordable rates.
BORA BORA
TRAVEL SEASONS
I. HIGH SEASON
JUNE, JULY, AUGUST & MID
DECEMBER TO MID-JANUARY
This is the European holiday time, with the peak of the peak in August; and around the Christmas/New Year period. During these times, hotel rates soar and occupancy is very high, so always book way ahead. And remember that December to January is also the height of the wet season.
I. SHOULDER SEASON
APRIL, MAY, SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER
These months are at the start and finish of the dry season, and exclude the peak holiday periods (as explained above). The weather is very comfortable – mostly clear, mild and dry – and prices have yet to peak.
I. HIGH SEASON
NOVEMBER TO MID-DECEMBER &
MID JANUARY TO MARCH
These periods are in the wet season, when rain is frequent, the humidity often unpleasant, and cyclones always possible, so be alert. Hotel rates drop considerably, and with so many empty rooms, guests can negotiate. Finding seats on planes is also rarely a problem.
