Windward Islands, Administrative subdivision and archipelago in French Polynesia, France.
The Windward Islands are an eastern island group in French Polynesia featuring five main islands with volcanic peaks and coral reefs surrounding them. Tahiti, the largest, is home to Papeete, the administrative capital of the entire subdivision.
European awareness of these islands grew after British explorer James Cook documented them in 1769. The region came under French control in 1880, marking a major shift in the islands' governance and society.
French and Tahitian languages mix in daily life across all the islands, shaping how people communicate in markets, shops, and villages. This blend reflects how local traditions and colonial history have intertwined over time.
The islands span roughly 1,200 square kilometers and are organized into thirteen municipalities across the region. Visit during cooler, drier months to avoid the hottest and most humid season, which offers a more comfortable travel experience.
Mount Tefatua on Raiatea rises over 1,000 meters, making it one of the highest peaks in this Pacific island group. This remarkable elevation dominates the landscape and can be seen from many spots across the surrounding waters.
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