Climate guide for Papeete, French Polynesia

Papeete in May

Weather, crowds & best time to visit

How to read the score (0–10)
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May · French Polynesia

Best time to visit Papeete in May Weather, crowds & prices

Weather in Papeete in May

Average temperature 27°C, 77 mm of rain, about 17 days with 6+ hours of sunshine and 79% humidity — based on the five most recent complete years of ERA5 data (2021–2025).

May score

8.0/10

Ranked #7 of 12 months

Full year for Papeete
Avg temp
27°C
Rainfall
77 mm
Humidity
79%
Days with 6h+ sun
17
Crowd Density
Moderate Crowds
Average Expenses
$$ · Moderate Cost ($$)

May in Papeete scores 8.0/10 for beach and coastal travel - ranked #7 of 12. Expect around 27°C, 77 mm of rain, and roughly 17 days with 6+ hours of sunshine this month.

Papeete is French Polynesia's capital on Tahiti, with a lively market, black pearls and ferries across to Moorea.

May in Papeete — reliably good (7th best month)

May averages 27°C (80°F) and humidity near 79%, so the practical pattern is early mornings, a long midday break, and evenings back outside.

Rainfall runs 77 mm, so plan one flexible day in three; you still get about 17 days with 6+ hours of sunshine and 11.2 hours of daylight.

It scores 8/10 here, 7th of 12 months, against 8.9/10 in the destination's best month.

Pack the lightest breathable clothing you own, a hat, and more water than feels necessary, a packable rain layer.

Plan for mid-season pricing, with crowds are moderate.

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Ranked by pure climate comfort

Score scale: 0.0 → 10.0Quiet / UncrowdedModerate CrowdsPeak Tourist Rush

Frequently asked

What is the weather like in Papeete in May?
In May, Papeete averages 27°C, 77 mm of rain, and about 17 days with 6+ hours of sunshine. Its climate-comfort score is 8.0/10.
Is May a good time to visit Papeete?
May earns a 8.0/10 climate-comfort score. Use the year-round chart to weigh the weather against your budget and crowd preferences.
How much does it rain in Papeete in May?
Expect about 77 mm of rain in May. Average humidity is 79% and there are about 17 days with 6+ hours of sunshine.

Curated in Papeete

Tickets & experiences

Things to do in Papeete

Papeete, French Polynesia. Live activities and tours from GetYourGuide, matched to this destination.