Things to Do in Papeete in November

November Weather in Papeete

30°C (87°F) High Temp

22°C (72°F) Low Temp

155 mm (6.1 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect diving visibility - November marks the end of rainy season with crystal-clear lagoons averaging 30m (98 ft) visibility around Moorea and Bora Bora
Shoulder season pricing - accommodation rates drop 25-40% compared to July-August peak, with luxury overwater bungalows starting from 35,000 XPF vs 55,000 XPF in high season
Optimal wind conditions for sailing - consistent 15-20 knot trade winds make November ideal for inter-island sailing without the unpredictable gusts of wet season
Tiare flower blooming season - November brings peak flowering of Tahiti's national flower, creating incredibly fragrant walking experiences through Papeete's markets and gardens

Considerations

Unpredictable afternoon thunderstorms - while brief (20-30 minutes), they occur 60% of days and can disrupt outdoor activities between 2-5pm
High humidity makes hiking challenging - 70% humidity combined with 30°C (87°F) temperatures creates energy-sapping conditions on trails above 200m (656 ft) elevation
Limited cultural events - November falls between major festival seasons, with fewer traditional performances and cultural celebrations compared to July or December

Best Activities in November

Moorea Snorkeling and Diving Expeditions

November offers peak underwater visibility as post-rainy season waters clear completely. Stingray encounters at Moorea's lagoons are most reliable now, with water temperatures perfect at 26°C (79°F). Morning departures (7-11am) avoid afternoon weather patterns entirely.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead through certified dive operators. Full-day lagoon tours typically cost 8,500-12,000 XPF including equipment and lunch. Look for operators with PADI certification and weather backup policies. See current options in booking section below.

Papeete Market and Food Walking Tours

November brings seasonal tropical fruits like rambutans and longans to Marché de Papeete, alongside perfect morning weather for walking tours. Early morning tours (6-9am) capture the authentic fish market activity before tourist crowds and afternoon heat.

Booking Tip: Book food tours 3-5 days ahead, typically 4,500-6,500 XPF for 3-hour experiences including tastings. Best operators include historical context about colonial influences on Tahitian cuisine. Reference booking widget for current cultural tour options.

Venus Point Historical and Archaeological Tours

November's lower humidity makes exploring Captain Cook's landing site and ancient marae temples more comfortable. Clear skies provide excellent photography conditions for the iconic Venus Point lighthouse and archaeological sites along Tahiti's northern coast.

Booking Tip: Half-day historical tours cost 5,500-8,000 XPF with certified cultural guides. Book 5-7 days ahead and ensure guides are certified by the Tahitian Academy. Tours include transportation from Papeete hotels.

Fautaua Valley Waterfall Hikes

Post-wet season November brings Fautaua Falls to full 300m (984 ft) dramatic flow while trails remain accessible. Early morning starts (6am) beat both heat and afternoon storms. The 8km (5 miles) roundtrip requires moderate fitness but rewards with swimming in natural pools.

Booking Tip: Guided hikes typically cost 6,000-9,000 XPF including transportation and safety equipment. Book through licensed mountain guides 1 week ahead - solo hiking not recommended due to flash flood risks. Verify guides carry emergency communication equipment.

Sunset Sailing to Tetiaroa Atoll

November's consistent trade winds create perfect sailing conditions to Marlon Brando's former private island. Afternoon departures at 2pm catch optimal wind patterns while returning for spectacular sunsets. Calm seas make this suitable for first-time sailors.

Booking Tip: Full-day sailing excursions range 12,000-18,000 XPF per person including lunch and snorkeling equipment. Book 10-14 days ahead through certified charter operators with weather guarantee policies. See current sailing tour options below.

Traditional Tahitian Pearl Farm Tours

November marks optimal pearl harvesting season when oysters are most active in cooler post-summer waters. Tours to Tahaa and Raiatea pearl farms include hands-on harvesting experiences and jewelry workshops while avoiding peak tourist pricing.

Booking Tip: Pearl farm tours with inter-island transport cost 9,500-13,500 XPF including lunch and pearl selection session. Book 7-10 days ahead and verify tours include certified pearl grading education. Flight transfers add 8,000 XPF to boat-only options.

November Events & Festivals

Early November (first weekend)

Hawaiki Nui Va'a Outrigger Canoe Race

French Polynesia's most prestigious outrigger canoe race covers 130km (81 miles) from Huahine to Bora Bora over three days. Teams from across Polynesia compete in traditional va'a, with finish line celebrations featuring authentic Tahitian food and music in Papeete upon teams' return.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry rain jacket - afternoon thunderstorms last 20-30 minutes but can be intense with 155mm (6.1 inches) monthly rainfall

SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 and reflection off water/white sand intensifies exposure

Moisture-wicking synthetic shirts - avoid cotton in 70% humidity, lightweight polyester or merino wool performs better

Waterproof phone case - essential for water activities and sudden rain, plus protects from sand at black sand beaches

Comfortable walking sandals with arch support - Papeete's municipal market requires 2-3 hours walking on concrete floors

Light long sleeves for evening - temperatures drop to 22°C (72°F) plus provides mosquito protection during sunset hours

Reef-safe zinc sunscreen stick - regular sunscreen damages coral reefs, stick formula won't wash off during swimming

Lightweight merino wool socks - prevent blisters during hiking while remaining odor-resistant in humid conditions

Portable umbrella - compact option for sudden afternoon downpours when exploring outdoor markets or walking tours

Breathable hiking pants - for Fautaua Valley trails, lightweight fabric protects from insects and sharp volcanic rocks

Insider Knowledge

Book inter-island flights before 10am or after 4pm - Air Moana and Tahiti Air avoid flying during peak afternoon storm windows, reducing cancellation risks by 80%

Shop Papeete's Marché Municipal between 5:30-7am for wholesale prices - vendors offer 30-40% discounts to early buyers before tourist crowds arrive

November is breadfruit harvest season - locals prepare traditional 'uru dishes only available this time of year, ask at family-run pensions for authentic preparations

Exchange money at Papeete's Banque de Tahiti downtown branch - offers 2-3% better rates than airport or hotel exchanges, plus no weekend closure fees

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning outdoor activities after 2pm - 60% chance of afternoon thunderstorms makes evening plans risky, always have indoor backup options ready

Bringing only one pair of shoes - November's wet conditions require backup footwear as shoes won't dry overnight in 70% humidity

Underestimating inter-island transport time - weather delays add 2-4 hours to flight schedules, book connecting activities with flexible timing