BEST WOMEN’S WETSUITS FOR EXPEDITIONS: Swimming with Whales French Polynesia
Whales, warm water, windy boats, and a wetsuit that actually works (and looks amazing in the process).
Let’s get you sorted with the perfect wetsuit for the Pacific Islands
Heading off to swim with whales in French Polynesia or Tonga this season? Confused and wandering what wetsuit you’ll need for the warm waters? You’re in the right place, we know that nothing ruins a magical day with whales faster than freezing your butt off between swims - take it from a cold mermaid.
This guide will help you find a wetsuit that feels good, looks good, and keeps you in the water longer. We’ve included our personal favourites, discount codes, and a few pro tips we’ve learned the hard way.
AT A GLANCE
The best 2-piece freediving wetsuit: Trudive Classic -use BEL15 for 15% off
The best full length surf suit: Fulmar Wetsuits - use IMMERSIA40 for 40% off!
The best inclusive sizing + striking patterns - Made For It - use code WEKNOWMADEFORIT for 15% off!
The best spring/short suit: Naluka Wetsuits - use this link for 15% off!
The best wetsuit jacket: Realon 3mm Wetsuit Jacket - throw this on over a swimsuit to warm up fast!
BEST WOMEN’S WETSUITS:
What to wear for Swimming with Whales in French Polynesia or Tonga
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the best wetsuit choice for…… warmth, functionality and choice of colours
TRUDIVE WETSUITS
use code BEL15 for 15% off!
Trudive offers high-performance freediving wetsuits in stunning colours and sleek shapes. Our faves:
Zip Glide Bikini-Cut Spring Suit 2mm: You can can still look cute AF WITH insulation. If you prefer a backless wetsuit they have MANY, but cold will set in faster
2-Piece Glide Classic Freediving Suits: The warmest of all the options! Integrated hood + 2-piece design means extra warmth. Bonus: you can mix and match with leggings or wear the top alone with a swimsuit underneath.
💡 Best for anyone who needs real warmth but still wants to look like an underwater superhero.
⚠️ Smooth-Skin Wetsuit Warning:
– Smooth skin neoprene is delicate. No clawing it on with your nails.
– These suits can feel tight when new, but they will stretch.
Don’t forget to use the code BEL15 at checkout for 15% off!
the best wetsuit choice for…… stunning, flattering designs
NALUKA WETSUITS
Get 15% off right here!
Bondi-based and designed by Cat, one of our former students, Naluka’s vibe is practical, feminine, and flattering for adventurous water women. Made for surfers and freedivers alive, our founder is already obsessed with these suits.
Styles: 2mm spring suits with long sleeves, short legs, and big Bondi energy.
Colours: Powder blue, olive green or chilli red.
Real Talk: I have the red one and it looks fire in the water (and the photos).
💡 Go for this if you love colours that pop, a comfy feel, and if you want a surf suit hybrid!
the best wetsuit choice for…… collecting the whole catalogue
FULMAR WETSUITS
40% off with the code IMMERSIA40
Founded and designed by Jena - conservationist, model and one of our regular expedition community members, Fulmar was born out of fond memories on the British coast and a desire to create something beautiful, simple and sustainable. She creates GORGEOUS, earthy-toned, minimalist women’s wetsuits and headbands.
The Sylvia full wetsuit - this 4mm suit will provide proper warmth for long days on the water, especially when the wind kicks up. IT also transitions perfectly to surfing.
The Cute One: 2mm chocolate brown spring suit with long sleeves and cheeky-cut legs. Gorgeous for photos, great for the warm-blooded among us..
💡 Perfect if you want something sleek and elegant and warm but smooth-skins aren’t your vibe.
Don’t forget to use the CODE IMMERSIA40 at checkout for 40% off!
Also, we are OBSESSED with the cute neoprene headbands Jena is creating from her spare material. Headbands are a game changer for sun protection and hair control!
the best wetsuit choice for…… inclusive sizing and cute AF patterns
MADE FOR IT WETSUITS
15% off with the code WEKNOWMADEFORIT
Founded and designed by Aussie ocean lovers, Made For It represents inclusivity, ethical mindedness, femininity (although they make men’s wetsuits too!) and designs that feel as great as they look.
Made For It are sponsoring Immersia’s upcoming swim-with-whales expedition in Moorea with some guest goodies, and we are stoked to share this discount offer with our guests + followers!
The Local Famous Steamer wetsuit - a 4mm suit full length surf suit to keep you warm all day during your whale swimming, and look stunning in the photo. Available up to size AU 18
The Glass Off Jacket: 1mm of extra neoprene to throw on over a swimsuit or springsuit, especially if you’re taking photos in your cutest swimsuit and want to keep warm between shots :) Up to size 18.
💡 One of our favourite things about this brand is that they sell their ‘imperfect’ suits at a discount instead of wasting them.
Final Tips from the Ocean Girls
✔ Don’t wait until your trip to try out your wetsuit. Get used to your wetsuit in water early.
✔ Bring at least one practical and warm backup wetsuit if you can.
✔ Don’t overthink what wetsuit looks the most flattering—being freezing isn’t cute.
✔ That said... yes, we absolutely respect the need for a cute wetsuit options. No shame.
✔ Need help choosing your perfect whale swimming wetsuit? DM us or ask in your local ocean girl group chat.
Finding the best women’s wetsuit for expeditions isn’t about the fanciest tech or the trendiest cut. It’s about knowing your body, your cold tolerance, and your comfort level—and choosing something that lets you feel effortless and strong in the water.
We hope this helps you find you the best wetsuit that works, fits, and makes you feel like the mermaid you are.
Lots of love,
The Immersia Freediving Team