Last updated: October 30, 2025
In Papeete, French Polynesia, May brings warm tropical weather with an average temperature of 26°C (79°F), peaking at a comfortable 28°C (82°F). Visitors can expect a pleasant atmosphere, although the month is marked by considerable humidity, averaging around 80%. Rainfall is relatively frequent, with 96 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation spread across 21 days, adding to the lush, vibrant scenery that characterizes this beautiful destination. Overall, May offers a blend of warmth and moisture, perfect for those seeking the charm of Polynesian landscapes.
In May, Papeete, French Polynesia enjoys wonderfully consistent temperatures that embody the tropical charm of the region. With a minimum temperature lingering around 23°C (74°F) and maximums nudging 28°C (82°F), the month reflects a steady warmth that is characteristic of early Pacific autumn. The average temperature remains a cozy 26°C (79°F), showcasing a delightful equilibrium perfect for outdoor adventures or lounging by the beach. As May transitions into the cooler months, it marks a smooth transition, with temperatures beginning a gradual decline, yet still retaining the inviting warmth that draws visitors to this idyllic paradise.
In May, Papeete experiences a notable decrease in precipitation compared to the preceding months, with just 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain spread across 21 days. This marks a significant drop from the heavier rainfall seen in January and February, which often exceed 300 mm. As the rainy season begins to wane, May's milder rainfall paves the way for the drier months ahead. Interestingly, this trend reflects a gradual transition into a drier period, with precipitation levels dropping further in the following months of June and August, suggesting an overall pattern of reduced rainfall leading into the island's drier season. This shift not only influences the local ecosystem but also offers a more pleasant climate for outdoor activities in the beautiful surroundings of French Polynesia.
May's humidity in Papeete, French Polynesia hovers at a comfortable 80%, mirroring the preceding months of January through April. This reflects a period of relative stability in the tropical climate, where humidity levels remain fairly consistent, typically ranging from 79% to 81%. As the year progresses towards the winter months, humidity tends to peak in October at 84%, suggesting that the later months of the year bring a slight increase in moisture content. Overall, May's atmospheric conditions create a pleasant setting for both locals and visitors, continuing the warm, inviting weather characteristic of this idyllic paradise.
As May rolls in Papeete, French Polynesia, residents and visitors alike can expect a very high UV Index of 10, translating to a burn time of around 15 minutes. This reading is a slight dip from the previous months, which experienced extreme levels, with indices peaking at 16 in January. However, the need for sun protection remains crucial, as levels in May indicate still potent solar radiation—just as it will through the following months of June and August, which also maintain a very high index of 8 to 10. As you revel in the tropical sun, staying informed about the UV Index will help you enjoy Papeete’s vibrant outdoors safely. For more details, visit the Papeete UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
As May unfolds in Papeete, French Polynesia, residents and visitors alike bask in the delightful embrace of 284 hours of sunshine, mirroring the glow of both March and April. This month not only continues the trend of generous daylight but also lays the groundwork for an increasingly sun-kissed winter, as the hours gradually increase from June’s 266 to August’s peak at 289. The consistent warmth and brightness during May reflect the region's enviable tropical climate, enhancing the allure of its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. With the sun shining brightly, May in Papeete becomes a perfect canvas for exploration and relaxation, inviting everyone to revel in its radiant beauty.
In Papeete, French Polynesia, the likelihood of basking in sunny weather steadily increases as spring transitions into summer. In May, residents and visitors can enjoy a 39% chance of sunshine, marking a subtle rise from the previous months. This uptick continues into June, when the probability reaches 49%, signaling the onset of brighter days. Analyzing the broader trend, it’s clear that the region experiences its highest probabilities of sunshine during the heart of the year, peaking in the latter months across August with 61% and September at an impressive 66%. As the seasons shift, May serves as a delightful bridge between the cooler, cloudier months and the sun-drenched summer, enticing those eager for warmth and light to explore this tropical paradise.
In Papeete, French Polynesia, the enchanting dance of daylight undergoes a subtle transformation throughout the year. The year begins with ample sunlight in January, basking in 13 hours of daylight, which gradually tapers to 12 hours in both February and March. As spring approaches, daylight reduces to 11 hours from April through August, creating a consistent and serene atmosphere during these months. The cycle then gently reverses, with daylight extending back to 12 hours in October and November, before reaching its peak once more at 13 hours in December. This cyclical pattern not only highlights the island's tropical charm but also offers a rich tapestry of light and shadow, inviting residents and visitors alike to savor each moment under the sun.
In Papeete, French Polynesia, the winds of May begin to pick up slightly as average wind speeds reach 5.4 m/s (12 mph). This modest increase compared to the preceding months marks a subtle shift as the weather transitions towards the middle of the year. While January starts with the calmest breezes at 6.2 m/s (14 mph), there is a noticeable trend of increasing wind speeds leading into the winter months, peaking in July at a brisk 6.9 m/s (16 mph). Following this peak, the winds stabilize, hovering around 6.1 m/s (14 mph) in the late winter and early spring, before gradually declining again towards the year’s end. The consistent play of wind speeds throughout the year not only adds to Papeete’s enchanting allure but also enhances conditions for sailing and other outdoor activities, inviting both locals and travelers to embrace the island’s natural beauty.
Weather in Papeete varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Papeete, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
When comparing the weather in May and January, both months exhibit similar temperature profiles, with minimums around 23°C (73°F), averages at 26°C (79°F), and maximums peaking at 28°C (82°F). However, January is notably wetter, with a significant increase in precipitation to 250 mm (9.8 in) over 22 days, compared to May's 96 mm (3.8 in) spread across 21 days. Additionally, humidity levels remain constant at around 80% for both months. For more detailed information, you can check Papeete weather in January.
In both May and February, temperatures in the region are quite similar, with minimums around 23°C (74°F), averages at 26°C (79°F), and maximums reaching up to 28°C (82°F for May and 83°F for February). However, February tends to be significantly wetter, receiving 334 mm (13.1 in) of precipitation over 24 days, compared to May's 96 mm (3.8 in) across 21 days. The humidity levels are also slightly higher in February at 81%, compared to May's 80%. For more details on February's weather, you can visit Papeete weather in February.
When comparing the weather in March and May, we find that both months have similar average temperatures, with March slightly warmer at a minimum of 24°C (75°F) compared to May's 23°C (74°F). However, May experiences less rainfall, with 96 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over 21 days, while March sees significantly higher rainfall with 213 mm (8.4 in) over 27 days. Humidity levels are quite comparable, with May at 80% and March at 79%. For a detailed look at March weather, you can check out Papeete weather in March.
In comparing the weather of May and April, we can note that both months experience similar temperature ranges, with minimums around 23°C (74°F), average temperatures of 26°C (79°F), and maximums peaking at 28°C (82°F) in May and 28°C (83°F) in April. However, April is characterized by significantly higher precipitation, totaling 157 mm (6.2 in) over 25 days, compared to May's 96 mm (3.8 in) over 21 days. The humidity remains relatively consistent, with April at 79% and May slightly higher at 80%. For more detailed information on April weather, you can visit Papeete weather in April.
In comparing the weather of May and June, both months experience warm temperatures, with May having an average of 26°C (79°F) compared to June's slightly cooler average of 25°C (78°F). May sees maximum temperatures reaching 28°C (82°F), whereas June’s peak is a little lower at 27°C (81°F). Precipitation is a notable factor, with June receiving 115 mm (4.5 in) over 20 days, which is slightly higher than May’s 96 mm (3.8 in) over 21 days. Humidity remains consistent at 80% in both months, contributing to a tropical feel. For more detailed information on June weather, check out Papeete weather in June.
In comparing the weather of May and July, May typically offers slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 23°C (74°F) and an average of 26°C (79°F), peaking at 28°C (82°F). In contrast, July presents a cooler climate, with temperatures ranging from 22°C (73°F) to an average of 25°C (76°F) and a maximum of 27°C (80°F). Precipitation is notably higher in July at 134 mm (5.3 in) over 20 days, compared to May's 96 mm (3.8 in) across 21 days, although the humidity remains relatively consistent, slightly lower in July at 78% compared to 80% in May. For more detailed insights, you can check Papeete weather in July.
In May, the weather tends to be warmer with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 23°C (74°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), and an average of 26°C (79°F). This month experiences significant rainfall, totaling 96 mm (3.8 in) over 21 days, alongside high humidity levels averaging 80%. In contrast, August features slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 22°C (71°F), an average of 24°C (76°F), and a maximum of 26°C (79°F). Rainfall is less frequent in August, totaling 65 mm (2.6 in) over 15 days, while humidity increases slightly to 83%. For more detailed information on August weather, visit Papeete weather in August.
In comparing the weather of May and September, we see a slight variation in temperatures. May tends to be warmer, with average temperatures reaching 26°C (79°F) compared to September's average of 24°C (76°F). However, September experiences slightly lower minimum temperatures at 22°C (71°F). Precipitation levels also differ between the two months; September records more rainfall at 110 mm (4.4 in), compared to May's 96 mm (3.8 in), although May sees rain on more days—21 compared to September's 16 days. Both months maintain high humidity, with May at 80% and September slightly higher at 82%. For more insights on the weather trends in September, check out Papeete weather in September.
May and October exhibit relatively mild temperatures, with May showcasing a slightly warmer average of 26°C (79°F) compared to October's 24°C (76°F). Both months experience similar minimum temperatures, but May peaks a bit higher at 28°C (82°F) versus October's maximum of 26°C (79°F). However, October is notably wetter, receiving 162 mm (6.4 in) of precipitation compared to May's 96 mm (3.8 in), with both months seeing rain on approximately 21 days. Humidity levels are also comparable, with October being slightly more humid at 84% compared to May's 80%. For more details on October weather, you can refer to Papeete weather in October.
May and November in Papeete both share a warm tropical climate, but they differ in terms of precipitation and average temperatures. In May, the temperatures range from a minimum of 23°C (74°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), with an average of 26°C (79°F), accompanied by 96 mm (3.8 in) of rainfall over 21 days and a humidity level of 80%. In contrast, November experiences slightly lower average temperatures, with a minimum of 23°C (73°F) and a maximum of 27°C (81°F), averaging 25°C (77°F). However, it sees significantly more rainfall, totaling 182 mm (7.2 in) over 23 days, and a slightly higher humidity level of 82%. For more details, you can check Papeete weather in November.
In comparing the weather of May and December, we see that both months have similar temperature ranges, with minimums of 23°C (74°F), averages around 26°C (78-79°F), and maximums reaching up to 28°C (82°F). However, December experiences significantly higher precipitation, totaling 271 mm (10.7 in) over 26 days, compared to May's 96 mm (3.8 in) across 21 days. Additionally, the humidity is slightly elevated in December at 82%, versus 80% in May, which can lead to a more muggy atmosphere. For more detailed insights on December's weather, check out Papeete weather in December.
May in Papeete brings a delightful balance of warmth and humidity, with temperatures hovering around a pleasant average of 26°C (79°F). While the days remain comfortably warm, it’s the transition into the wetter season that sets May apart from the drier months, as evidenced by an increase in rainfall with 96 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over 21 days. This combination of warmth and 80% humidity creates a lush atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the vibrant landscape and the lush greenery that flourishes during this time. For a deeper understanding of Papeete's weather patterns, check out Papeete Climate.