Society Islands

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Society Islands

• Tahiti
• Moorea
• Huahine
• Raiatea/Tahaa
• Bora-Bora

The Society Islands extend over 400 miles in a WNW direction. The islands are divided into two sections: the Iles du Vent (Windward Islands) to the southeast and the Iles Sous le Vent (Leeward Islands) to the northwest. The Windward Islands include Meetia, Tahiti, Moorea, Tetiaroa and Maiao. The Leeward Islands include Huahine, Raiatea, Tahaa, Bora Bora, Maupiti, Tupai, Maupihaa, Manuae and Moto One.

All of the larger Society Islands were formed volcanically and are surrounded by coral reefs. The islands are the worn remnants of once tall volcanoes. Due to their ideal climate, they have been a favorable spot for many explorers of the South Pacific. Preceeded many years before by the Polynesians, Captain Cook's explorations in 1769 put them on the map for the Western world.

In 1880, the Society Islands were taken under French protection and were made part of the French nation by 1888. In 1977, the territory was granted self-government (Interne Autonomie). There are ongoing debates regarding independence. France still controls defence and immigration.

The Society Islands enjoy predominate southeast Trade winds, ranging from the east to southeast and strongest between July and September.

< Kauehi atoll : Society Islands : Tahiti >