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Îles du Vent

Îles du Vent, French Polynesia

Feel the Trade Winds in the Heart of Polynesia: Welcome to the Îles du Vent! The Îles du Vent, meaning "Windward Islands", are the heart and soul of French Polynesia. This archipelago, nestled within the Society Islands,…

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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Îles du Vent.

Top Hotels in Îles du Vent

Top Flights to Îles du Vent

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Îles du Vent.

Tours

Cultural Journey through Papeete

Explore the vibrant culture of Papeete through its market, museum, and traditional performances.

Shopping

Shopping Spree in Tahiti

Discover local crafts, art, and fashion in the bustling shopping streets of Tahiti.

Outdoor

Explore the Beautiful Landscapes

Discover the stunning landscapes and natural beauty of Îles du Vent with various outdoor activities such as hiking, snorkeling, and more.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Îles du Vent.

Currency
F | XPF | CFP Franc Îles du Vent, French Polynesia
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Îles du Vent, French Polynesia, is around 280,000.
Languages
French, French, English

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Îles du Vent.

What people love

The Îles du Vent, or Windward Islands, in French Polynesia offer a unique and breathtaking travel experience. Here are some pros of traveling to Îles du Vent:

  1. Stunning Natural Beauty: The islands of Îles du Vent are known for their pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, lush tropical landscapes, and stunning mountain peaks. Travelers can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as snorkeling, diving, hiking, and exploring the beautiful scenery.

  2. Rich Polynesian Culture: The Îles du Vent are home to a vibrant Polynesian culture with a rich history and traditions. Travelers can immerse themselves in the local culture by attending traditional dance performances, visiting ancient archaeological sites, and learning about the customs and practices of the indigenous people.

  3. Luxury Resorts and Accommodation: The Îles du Vent offer a range of luxury resorts and accommodation options for travelers looking to relax and unwind in style. Many resorts feature overwater bungalows with direct access to the lagoon, providing a truly unique and luxurious experience.

  4. Water Activities: The warm, clear waters surrounding the Îles du Vent are perfect for a variety of water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Travelers can explore vibrant coral reefs, encounter diverse marine life, and enjoy the beauty of the underwater world.

  5. Gastronomic Delights: French Polynesia is known for its delicious cuisine that combines French and Polynesian flavors. Travelers to Îles du Vent can enjoy fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional dishes such as poisson cru (raw fish marinated in coconut milk) and roasted pig cooked in an underground oven.

Overall, traveling to Îles du Vent in French Polynesia offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, luxury amenities, and exciting activities, making it an ideal destination for a memorable and rejuvenating vacation.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Îles du Vent in French Polynesia may include:

  1. Cost: French Polynesia, including Îles du Vent, can be quite expensive for travelers due to the remote location and limited infrastructure. Accommodation, transportation, and food prices may be higher than in other destinations.

  2. Limited infrastructure: The islands may have limited facilities and amenities compared to more developed tourist destinations. This could mean fewer restaurant options, less reliable transportation, and limited activities or attractions.

  3. Language barrier: While French and Tahitian are the official languages of French Polynesia, English may not be widely spoken in all areas, which could present challenges for English-speaking tourists.

  4. Weather: French Polynesia experiences a tropical climate, which means it can be hot and humid with occasional heavy rain. Travelers should be prepared for potential weather disruptions or discomfort.

  5. Remote location: Îles du Vent is a remote destination, which may require longer travel times and multiple flights or boat rides to reach. This could lead to potential travel delays or difficulties in reaching the islands.

Please note that these are general considerations and may vary based on individual preferences and circumstances. It's always a good idea to research specific details about the area you plan to visit and consider how these factors may impact your travel experience.

The Îles du Vent, or Windward Islands, are a group of islands within the Society Islands of French Polynesia. This group includes the well-known islands of Tahiti, Moorea, Maiao, and Mehetia. Here is a detailed history of the Îles du Vent:

Pre-European Era

  • Indigenous Inhabitants: The original inhabitants of the Îles du Vent were Polynesians who arrived from Southeast Asia around 1500 BC. They developed a rich culture with complex social structures and navigational skills.
  • Marae: These ancestral Polynesians constructed marae, which are sacred outdoor spaces used for religious and social gatherings. Marae are important cultural landmarks still visible today.

European Contact

  • 1767: British navigator Samuel Wallis is credited with the European discovery of Tahiti on June 18, 1767. He named it "King George Island" after the reigning British monarch.
  • 1768: The French navigator Louis-Antoine de Bougainville arrived in Tahiti, and he claimed it for France, naming it "Nouvelle-Cythère."
  • 1769: Captain James Cook visited Tahiti during his first voyage to observe the transit of Venus. His visits helped to popularize Tahiti in Europe.

19th Century

  • Pomare Dynasty: The Pomare family unified Tahiti and established the Pomare Dynasty, which ruled from the late 18th century until the French annexation. King Pomare II converted to Christianity under the influence of English missionaries.
  • French Annexation: In 1842, Admiral Abel Aubert du Petit-Thouars declared Tahiti a French protectorate despite the resistance of Queen Pomare IV. By 1880, the islands were fully annexed by France.

20th Century

  • World War II: During World War II, the islands were strategically important for Allied forces. The United States established military bases in the region.
  • Autonomy Movements: Throughout the 20th century, there were movements for greater autonomy and independence from France.

Modern Era

  • 1977: French Polynesia was granted internal autonomy, allowing for its own President, Assembly, and government.
  • Cultural Revival: There has been a resurgence in traditional Polynesian culture, including music, dance, and the revitalization of the Tahitian language.

Significant Landmarks

  • Papeete: The capital city of French Polynesia, located on the island of Tahiti. It is the economic and cultural hub of the region.
  • Point Venus: A historic site where Captain Cook observed the transit of Venus. It is marked by a lighthouse and is a popular tourist attraction.
  • Marae Arahurahu: A restored ancient Polynesian temple on Tahiti, offering insights into the culture and religion of the island's early inhabitants.

Notable Figures

  • Pomare I (c. 1753 – 1803): Founder of the Pomare Dynasty who unified Tahiti.
  • Pomare IV (1813 – 1877): The queen who resisted French colonization efforts.
  • Paul Gauguin (1848 – 1903): The French post-impressionist artist who spent significant time in Tahiti and was inspired by its culture.

The Îles du Vent are a blend of rich Polynesian heritage and European influence, contributing to their unique cultural and historical landscape.