"Nō te fenua o te hau mārama | From the land of clear skies"
About:
Ra'iātea, formerly known as Havai'i, is the second largest of the Society Islands in French Polynesia. It was first settled by Polynesians in 200 AD. The island is considered the center of the eastern islands in ancient Polynesia and it is likely that the organised migrations to Hawaii, New Zealand and other parts of East Polynesia started at Ra'iātea. Today, it is a hub of Polynesian culture, known for its sacred sites, archaeological relics, and deep-sea fishing industry.
When to visit:
Ra'iātea, a stunning island in French Polynesia, is a fantastic destination to visit throughout the year due to its warm and tropical climate. However, the best time to visit Ra'iātea for a holiday is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. This period offers ideal weather conditions with lower chances of rain and more sunshine, perfect for enjoying outdoor activities and exploring the island's natural beauty. Travelers can also experience traditional Polynesian festivals and cultural events during this time, adding an extra layer of excitement to their holiday in Ra'iātea.
When to avoid:
The worst time to travel to Ra'iātea on a holiday would typically be during the peak of the wet season, which runs from November to April. During this period, the island experiences heavy rainfall, high humidity, and an increased risk of tropical storms and cyclones. These weather conditions can disrupt travel plans, limit outdoor activities, and impact the overall enjoyment of your holiday experience. It is advisable to avoid visiting Ra'iātea during the wet season to ensure a more pleasant and hassle-free travel experience.
Rainy Season (Nov-Apr)
Ra'iātea, French Polynesia experiences its wettest period from November to April, with January being the peak month. Average temperatures hover around 27°C (80°F). Rainfall is heavy, with monthly averages of 340mm in January. Sunlight is reduced due to substantial cloud cover, yet, there are still about 5-6 hours of sunshine daily. An average day for a visitor during this period would likely involve intermittent showers, humid conditions, and overcast skies, but also warm temperatures and occasional sunny spells.
"Hot Season (November-April)"
In Ra'iātea, French Polynesia, the warmest part of the year is from November to April, which coincides with the rainy season. During this period, the average high temperatures range from 84 to 86°F (29 to 30°C), and average lows range from 70 to 73°F (21 to 23°C).
Rainfall is quite high during these months, with an average of 200-250mm per month, with January typically being the wettest month. Despite the high rainfall, there is still a fair amount of sunlight, with an average of 5-6 hours of bright sunshine each day.
Humidity is also high during this period, often reaching over 80%. This can make the heat feel more intense and sticky. The skies are often partly cloudy, but there are still plenty of clear or mostly clear days.
A typical day for a visitor during this period would likely involve warm, humid weather with a chance of rain showers, especially in the afternoon or evening. Despite this, there would still be plenty of opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and other outdoor activities, particularly in the morning. The high humidity might be uncomfortable for some, but the warm sea breezes can provide some relief.
Language:
In Ra'iātea, which is part of the Society Islands in French Polynesia, the most commonly spoken languages are Tahitian and French. Tahitian is an indigenous language, while French is the official language due to the island's status as an overseas territory of France.