Best Time to Ride · Surfing · French Polynesia
Surfing in French Polynesia
2 surfing spots in French Polynesia. The colours show each month: the stronger, the better for surfing.
Find the best time to goTap a spot to see when to go: wind, waves, water temperature, sun and rain in every month, from years of weather statistics.
Updated October 2026 · weather data 2022–2026
In short
- Best waves in French Polynesia: April–November (around 2.4 m, water 27°C, no wetsuit).
- Top picks: Tahiti – Teahupo'o & Tahiti – Papara.
- For beginners: Tahiti – Papara.
Tahiti – Teahupo'oTahiti Iti, French Polynesia · best May–AugustAdvanced only · 27°C water in season, no wetsuit · ✈ PPT 51 kmWave height per month (m, average daily max)
JFMAMJJASOND1.81.81.82.22.52.52.52.52.32.32.11.8
Best time to go →Wave height: average daily maximum.
Month by month in French Polynesia
| Month | Waves | Water | Wetsuit | Air |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JanuaryJan | 1.8 m | 28°C | no wetsuit | 29°C |
| FebruaryFeb | 1.8 m | 29°C | no wetsuit | 30°C |
| MarchMar | 1.8 m | 29°C | no wetsuit | 30°C |
| AprilApr | 2.2 m | 29°C | no wetsuit | 29°C |
| MayMay | 2.5 m | 28°C | no wetsuit | 29°C |
| JuneJun | 2.5 m | 28°C | no wetsuit | 28°C |
| JulyJul | 2.5 m | 27°C | no wetsuit | 27°C |
| AugustAug | 2.5 m | 27°C | no wetsuit | 27°C |
| SeptemberSep | 2.3 m | 26°C | no wetsuit | 27°C |
| OctoberOct | 2.3 m | 27°C | no wetsuit | 28°C |
| NovemberNov | 2.1 m | 27°C | no wetsuit | 28°C |
| DecemberDec | 1.8 m | 28°C | no wetsuit | 29°C |
Averages of the 2 spots on this page. Best months highlighted. Air: average daytime high.
Questions
When is the best time for surfing in French Polynesia?
Best waves in French Polynesia: April–November (around 2.4 m, water 27°C, no wetsuit).
What wetsuit do I need in French Polynesia?
It depends on the month: about 29°C water in March (no wetsuit) and about 26°C in September (no wetsuit).
Is French Polynesia good for beginners?
Yes, these spots suit beginners: Tahiti – Papara.
Which airport is closest?
Fa'a'ā International Airport (PPT), 51 km from Tahiti – Teahupo'o.
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