French Polynesia — Sea Water Temperature and Annual Ranges

Up-to-date sea water temperatures for the coasts of French Polynesia. Learn about today’s conditions, monthly averages, and how the surrounding seas and oceans vary by season. We find every place where you can swim and show you the water temperature there today and throughout the year.

Sea Water Temperature Along the Coast

22.3°C

minimum

27.5°C

average

28.7°C

maximum

Get instant access to real-time water temperatures for this and all other locations with our iOS and Android apps.

Chart of Average Temperature Changes Over the Last 60 Days

From April 13 to June 13

Places with the Warmest Sea Water Today

The Most Popular Seaside Places

Coastal Seas and Oceans

Pacific Ocean

Water Temperature and Swimming Overview

Regions and Map

Water Temperature Trends

French Polynesia enjoys warm tropical seas year-round, with coastal and lagoon waters typically ranging from about 24–30 °C (75–86 °F). Seasonal variation is modest: during the austral summer and wet season (roughly December to March) surface temperatures are at their warmest, often 28–30 °C (82–86 °F). In the cooler, drier months of the austral winter (June to August) temperatures commonly dip to about 24–26 °C (75–79 °F), with transitional months sitting around 26–28 °C (79–82 °F). Lagoons and sheltered atolls tend to be a degree or two warmer and calmer than the exposed ocean, while deeper or wind-driven open-ocean waters can feel slightly cooler.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is widely permitted and popular throughout French Polynesia because of the inviting temperatures, extensive shallow lagoons and abundant beaches. Many visitors swim, snorkel and dive year-round without wetsuits; a light rashguard or short wetsuit is more a comfort choice than a necessity for most people. Conditions to watch for include stronger currents or surf on reef passes, seasonal jellyfish and occasional cyclone-related swell during the wet season, and normal marine hazards such as coral and local fauna. Most resorts and beach areas are family-friendly and provide safe, sheltered swimming zones, but it is advisable to follow local guidance, respect reef environments and be cautious in unpatrolled areas or when venturing beyond lagoon reefs.