Best Attractions in Windward Islands

Papeete Market, also known as Marché de Papeete, is a vibrant marketplace in the heart of Papeete, Tahiti. It's a bustling hub where locals and tourists alike gather to buy fresh produce, seafood, handicrafts, and souvenirs, offering a glimpse into the island's culture and daily life.

Pā'ōfa'i Gardens, a serene four-hectare park in the heart of Papeete, offers a peaceful escape with lush landscaping, walking trails, and ornamental fish ponds. Visitors can explore diverse flora, enjoy manicured lawns, and utilize sports facilities, picnic areas, and playgrounds. The gardens also host cultural events, providing an immersive Polynesian experience.

Mo'orea, a volcanic island in French Polynesia, enchants visitors with its dramatic mountain peaks, lush valleys, and serene bays. A short ferry ride from Tahiti, it offers a blend of adventure and relaxation, with opportunities for hiking, snorkeling, and cultural experiences.

Discover the Water Gardens Vaipahi, a serene botanical garden in Tahiti steeped in Polynesian history and legend. Explore diverse plant species, tranquil ponds, and the sacred Vaipahi Waterfall, once believed to purify souls. Enjoy easy garden walks or challenging hikes with panoramic views.

Belvedere Lookout is a must-visit scenic spot in Moorea, French Polynesia, offering breathtaking panoramic views of jagged mountain peaks, lush valleys, and the sparkling blue waters of Cook's Bay and Opunohu Bay. It's the highest viewpoint accessible by car, providing a stunning vista of the island's natural beauty.

Ta'ahiamanu Beach, also known as Mareto Beach, is a popular public beach on Moorea, French Polynesia, offering soft white sand, clear turquoise waters, and stunning views. It's a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking.

Place Vai'ete is a vibrant waterfront square in Papeete, Tahiti, known for its daytime tranquility and lively nighttime atmosphere. During the day, it's a pleasant spot to relax and enjoy the sea breeze. As evening descends, it transforms into a bustling hub with food trucks (roulottes) offering diverse and affordable cuisine, attracting locals and tourists alike.

The Fa'aruma'i Waterfalls, located east of Tahiti in Tiarei, are a trio of stunning cascades easily accessible and surrounded by lush rainforest. The most famous is Vaimahuta Fall, plunging 262 feet, while Haamaremare Rahi is the tallest at 328 feet. These falls offer a refreshing escape into Tahiti's natural beauty.

Tiki Village in Moorea offers an immersive experience into Polynesian culture. Visitors can explore traditional crafts, witness captivating dance performances, and savor authentic cuisine, all within a recreation of a traditional Polynesian village.

The Arahoho Blowhole, or Trou de Souffleur de Arahoho, is a natural wonder on Tahiti's east coast where powerful waves surge into an underwater cave and erupt through a hole in the rocks, creating impressive geysers. This dramatic display of nature's power is a popular stop for visitors touring the island.