About Moorea

Moorea, in French Polynesia, is a 51-square mile island was formed from a volcano. The remnants of this volcano form the highest peak on the island. The beaches and the water here are the main attractions, drawing tourists to fishing, kayaking, canoing, scuba diving, and snorkeling opportunities. Sun tanning, and  hiking, horseback riding and off-roading at the inland lush forests also greet tourists. Life at the island is at a slower pace, something which could provide you the ideal kind of relaxation.

The only words by which you could describe Moorea Lagoon Beach would be "sheer scenic wonder," as are all beaches in this tropical island. For those staying at Moorea vacation homes, the azure water is calm, a perfect spot for taking the kids for a day at the beach. Temae Beach is a crescent shaped beach that features swaying palm trees providing a romantic atmosphere. The beach is deal for swimming, and you can rent kayaks, canoes, and wave runners. Village Faimano Beach is located Opunohu and Cook's Bays. But all of Moorea's and French Polynesia's beaches are topless optional!

Go further! Moorea is one of the top scuba diving destinations in the world. Lagoon dives, pass dives, and open water dives will thrill diving addicts of all skill levels. For novices and newbies, Rays Corridor is the dive site. Named because of the schools of eagle rays that frequent the area, the site also has its share of beautiful coral and white-tip sharks. Experienced divers should head to the Rose Garden. Depths here can reach 140 feet, the extensive coral beds housing lemon sharks, sea turtles, and schools of tuna.

Moorea has mountains and a tropical terrain for outdoor adventurers. One of the most popular hikes is a two-hour jaunt that takes visitors between Mount Tearai and Mount Mouaputa, then goes down the valley to reach Paopao in Cook's Bay. Along the trail, you can glimpse Tahiti from certain points. The trek through the Le Col des Trois Cocotiers (Pass of the Three Coconut Trees) is another popular one. Panoramic and jaw-dropping views of Mount Rotui, and the island of Tetiaroa (on a clear day) welcome hikers. Small and less tiresome hikes are also available, that lead to the Afareaitu waterfalls. You can take a horseback riding excursion through the Teavaro Valley.

Moorea Travelers Journal

Location: World » Australia & South Pacific » French Polynesia » Moorea