Part of French Polynesia
Quick answer
Reviewed · 3 min read
September is one of the best months to visit French Polynesia. The dry season is still in force, with sunny, breezy days in the mid-80s °F, humpback whale season is in full swing, and demand eases once northern summer holidays end. It’s ideal for couples, divers and whale lovers who want peak-season weather with better availability and value.
Researched and maintained by Empyrean Travel · How we research
- Season
- Late dry season
- Typical weather
- Sunny and breezy; highs in the mid-80s °F
- Rainfall
- Low, among the driest months
- Crowds & pricing
- Easing after Labor Day; better availability
- Best islands this month
- Moorea, Tahiti, Tikehau
- Don’t miss
- Humpback mothers and calves with a licensed operator
Best this month
Humpback whale watching
Experience · Peak season
Mothers, calves and singing males with accredited operators.
ExploreMoorea
Society Islands · Whales and hikes
Whales outside the reef and dry trails inland.
ExploreTahiti
Society Islands · West coast
Whale outings from the Punaauia coast and sunsets over Moorea.
ExploreTikehau
Tuamotu · Pink sand
Bird islands, pink-sand motu and easy lagoon snorkeling.
ExploreTaha’a
Society Islands · Quiet luxury
A secluded motu resort with sunsets toward Bora Bora.
Explore
What is the weather like in French Polynesia in September?
September keeps the dry season’s best traits: long sunny spells, low humidity, highs in the mid-80s °F and nights just above 70 °F. Rainfall stays among the lowest of the year, and the strongest midwinter winds usually ease.
Visibility underwater is excellent, and the lagoons start to warm again after August. It’s a reliable month for any island, from the Society group to the Tuamotu atolls.
What’s happening in French Polynesia in September?
September sits in the heart of humpback season. Mothers and calves rest in sheltered water near the reef, and males sing; on a calm day you may hear the song through the hull or underwater. Moorea and Tahiti have many accredited operators, and Rurutu in the Austral Islands is known for whales seen from shore.
The surf season at Teahupo’o tapers off, and after US Labor Day the islands feel noticeably quieter. It’s a popular month for honeymooners who marry in late summer.
Which islands are best in September?
Moorea and Tahiti are the whale-watching bases, with outings that often find whales within minutes of the pass. Read our humpback whale watching guide before you book.
For lagoon romance, Taha’a and Bora Bora shine under settled skies. Tikehau is a lovely atoll add-on, with pink-sand motu, bird islands and gentle snorkeling.
How should you book a September trip?
Six to nine months ahead is usually enough for September, though Labor Day week and honeymoon favorites on Bora Bora go sooner. Book whale outings with your itinerary, with a backup day in case of wind.
Shoulder pricing often returns after the first week. It’s also a good month to split your stay between Moorea for whales and a quieter lagoon island such as Taha’a.
What should you pack for September?
Most of the French Polynesia packing list applies; for September, add these:
- Your own mask, so it fits well for a whale swim.
- A rash guard rather than sunscreen for in-water encounters, to keep the water clean.
- A light layer for evenings.
- An underwater camera or phone housing.
Frequently asked questions
Is September a good time to visit French Polynesia?
Is September the best month for whale watching in French Polynesia?
Is September a good month for a honeymoon in French Polynesia?
Is French Polynesia cheaper in September than in August?
Official sources
Rules, fees and schedules change — confirm the latest details at the source before you travel.