Windward Islands · Travel guide · Updated 2026

Paradise Awaits: The Windward Islands of French Polynesia

Explore the enchanting Windward Islands of French Polynesia, where breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality create an unforgettable tropical escape.

The Windward Islands of French Polynesia, a cluster of tropical paradises, offer an unparalleled escape for those seeking sun, sand, and serenity. This stunning archipelago is part of the Society Islands and includes Tahiti, Moorea, Maiao, and Mehetia. Each island boasts its own unique charm, from the bustling markets and vibrant culture of Tahiti to the lush mountains and crystal-clear lagoons of Moorea. The islands' natural beauty is matched only by their rich cultural heritage. Experience traditional Polynesian dance, music, and crafts at local festivals and events. Savor the exquisite flavors of Polynesian cuisine, where fresh seafood and exotic fruits are the stars. The friendly locals, known for their warm hospitality, will make your visit unforgettable. Adventure seekers will find plenty to do, from snorkeling and diving in the coral reefs to hiking through verdant rainforests. For a more relaxed experience, unwind on pristine beaches or take a leisurely boat ride to explore the islands' hidden coves and waterfalls. The Windward Islands promise a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion.

Papeete

Papeete Market

Explore the enchanting Windward Islands of French Polynesia, where breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality create an unforgettable tropical escape.

Papeete

Pā'ōfa'i Gardens

Explore the enchanting Windward Islands of French Polynesia, where breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality create an unforgettable tropical escape.

Moorea-Maiao

Mo'orea

Explore the enchanting Windward Islands of French Polynesia, where breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality create an unforgettable tropical escape.

Teva I Uta

Water Gardens Vaipahi

Explore the enchanting Windward Islands of French Polynesia, where breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality create an unforgettable tropical escape.

Moorea-Maiao

Belvedere Lookout

Explore the enchanting Windward Islands of French Polynesia, where breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality create an unforgettable tropical escape.

Moorea-Maiao

Public Beach Ta'ahiamanu

Explore the enchanting Windward Islands of French Polynesia, where breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality create an unforgettable tropical escape.

Papeete

Place Vai'ete

Explore the enchanting Windward Islands of French Polynesia, where breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality create an unforgettable tropical escape.

Hitiaa O Te Ra

Fa'aruma'i Waterfalls

Explore the enchanting Windward Islands of French Polynesia, where breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality create an unforgettable tropical escape.

Moorea-Maiao

Tiki Village

Explore the enchanting Windward Islands of French Polynesia, where breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality create an unforgettable tropical escape.

When is the best time to go to Windward Islands?

Weather at a glance

Use the monthly temperature and precipitation trends to compare typical conditions across the year before planning countryside walks, town visits, and heritage days.

Temperature

°C

Precipitation

mm
Warmest monthsJan–Dec
Longest daylightJan–Dec
Driest periodMay–Sep

Explore places in Windward Islands

    See all →

    Iconic landmarks you can't miss

    Classic Windward Islands sights that mirror the landmark pins above, with a little more context before users explore further.

    Unmissable attractions to see

    These cards mirror the attraction list in the map, while adding enough context to help users prioritise.

    Essential places to dine

    The dining ideas below match the food pins above, making the map and editorial recommendations work together.

    Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

    Each shopping card aligns with a mapped browsing area, from major retail streets to market-led detours.

    Essential bars & hidden hideouts

    The evening cards below match the bars layer in the map, so browsing and orientation stay connected.

    Images Gratuites : plage, mer, côte, océan, vacances, piscine, lagune,  baie, île, Nikon, plan d'eau, recours, Caraïbes, Tropiques, D300, Bora Bora,  Le Meridien, Polynésie 4214x2810 - - 413662 - Banque d image gratuite -  PxHere
    Destination guide

    More about French Polynesia

    Discover French Polynesia, where turquoise waters, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture await. Dive into a paradise of adventure and relaxation in the heart of the South Pacific.

    Tell me more about French Polynesia
    Mobile App
    Get the app

    Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

    Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.

    Explore Windward Islands in Photos

    A quick visual route through countryside views, towns, gardens, and regional day-trip atmosphere.

    Free Images : sea, coast, ocean, lake, vacation, travel, coastline,  holiday, lagoon, bay, island, tourism, boating, cape, beach huts, bora bora  3648x2736 - - 1211248 - Free stock photos - PxHere
    File:Bora Bora - Mt Otemanu.jpg - Wikipedia
    File:Moorea ISS006.jpg - Wikipedia
    File:Marché Papeete.jpg - Wikipedia
    Fichier:Paul Gauguin - Tahitian Landscape - Google Art Project.jpg —  Wikipédia
    Fichier:Fresque musée James Norman Hall.jpg — Wikipédia
    File:Tahiti, French Polynesia - Water Gardens Vaipahi (48049721498).jpg -  Wikimedia Commons

    Select Currency

    Choose the currency you want prices to display in.