Windward Islands

French Polynesia

A tropical island with a prominent mountain, clear turquoise waters, and a small settlement.
A serene lake surrounded by lush green mountains and dense foliage.
A tropical island with clear turquoise waters, surrounded by mountains and a small beach.
A tropical beach with clear turquoise waters, palm trees, and a mountainous backdrop.
A man paddling a canoe on clear turquoise water with a backdrop of a mountainous coastline and a calm sky.

Popular cities in Windward Islands

A palm tree over water with mountains in the background.
Moorea-Maiao
Explore attractions like Ta'ahiamanu Beach and Moorea Ferry Terminal as you discover things to see and do in Moorea-Maiao.

Reasons to visit

  • Tiki Village Cultural Centre
  • Moorea Tropical Garden
  • Belvedere Lookout
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A coastal view with a clear blue sea, numerous sailboats, and a mountain range in the background.
Papeete
Known for Ferries and boats, Shopping and Ports
The spiritual capital city of French Polynesia is full of surprises, from exotic fruit and tropical vegetation to its famous black pearls.

Reasons to visit

  • Papeete Market
  • Robert Wan Pearl Museum
  • Papeete Town Hall
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A thatched-roof building with flags, including the American and French flags, and a sign reading "James Norman Hall".
Arue
Known for Beaches, Black sand beaches and Sandy beaches
Hear the fascinating tale of the Pomare royals, capture photos of a panoramic view and swim beside a tall waterfall.

Reasons to visit

  • James Norman Hall Home
  • Tomb of King Pomare V
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A beach with two people in the water, palm trees, and houses along the shore.
Punaauia
Known for Beaches, Islands and Sea
Scuba dive next to tropical islands, visit a fascinating museum to learn about the region’s history and watch dolphins and whales breaching.

Reasons to visit

  • Museum of Tahiti and the Islands
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A coastal landscape with a view of the ocean, mountains, and dense greenery.
Faaa
Known for Dining, Islands and Ferries and boats
Romantic Faaa awaits: its island views, food, sunsets, and more!
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A beach with palm trees, a clear blue sky, and a calm sea.
Pirae
Known for Beaches, Black sand beaches and Sandy beaches
Escape to romantic Pirae! Enjoy its safaris, beaches, and entertainment.
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Stay near popular Windward Islands attractions

A variety of colorful woven bags displayed in a market stall.

Papeete Market

8.4/10 (1,055 reviews)
Divine aromas, delightful tastes and a sea of color stir the senses in this traditional marketplace full of exotic fruit, tropical fish and handmade artifacts.
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