leeward coast
Downwind island side
A leeward coast is the shoreline of an island or landmass that faces away from the prevailing wind, sheltered by higher terrain.
Because mountains or hills block moisture-laden trade winds, leeward coasts tend to be drier, sunnier, and calmer than their windward counterparts.
In Hawaii, for example, the leeward sides of islands are known for resorts and beaches, while windward coasts receive more rainfall and have lusher vegetation.
- prevailing windsMost frequent directional airflow
- shelteredKept safe from harm
- calm watersUndisturbed body of liquid
- fishing villageSmall coastal catching settlement
- fishing boatsVessels for catching seafood
coral reef · trade winds · offshore · ocean current · sea breeze · mangrove forest · microclimate · island chain · harbor · tidal zone · port city · tourism industry · tropical paradise · coconut palms · brackish water · breeze · rain shadow · beach resort