Nature's Playground
Experience Moorea
credit: Jarrod Lopiccolo
The Island of Moorea
The island of Moorea is one of the 114 islands of French Polynesia. With a shape like a heart looking down at the island from above, it is no surprise that this island is the second most popular honeymoon destination on The Islands of Tahiti. Eight mountain peaks rise magically out of the ocean like a cathedral. High, sharp, inspiring green spires crowned by clouds. Poetic threads of waterfalls tumble down fern-softened cliffs. Pastel-painted houses, surrounded by gardens of hibiscus and birds of paradise, circle the island in a necklace of happy, simple villages that will elevate your senses and remind you that this is what life is all about. Peaceful meadows flanked by pinnacles of emerald green will renew your belief in the majesty of nature, and Moorea’s bright blue lagoon will bring to life the South Seas idyll of your dreams. The island of Moorea reflects the Polynesian lifestyle and offers visitors an authentic experience of The Islands of Tahiti, boasting “La vie heureuse,” as they say in Tahiti, a happy life.
About Moorea
16,000
POPULATION
51 / 82
SQ. MI. / KM²
AFAREAITU
ADMINISTRATIVE CENTER
15 MIN
FLIGHT TIME FROM TAHITI
Where Is the Island of Moorea Located?
Many people have heard of the island of Moorea, but they may not know where Moorea is in French Polynesia. A part of the Society Islands, the island of Moorea is located 11 miles Northwest of the island of Tahiti. Moorea is accessible only by ferry or short plane ride from Papeete, the capital of the island of Tahiti, which means this island is one of the more remote places to stay in French Polynesia. While maintaining a small island feel and a bigger-than-life personality, a Moorea vacation is ideal for any couple or family.
The Island of Moorea Guide
One of the top reasons people visit the island of Moorea is its geographical beauty. Nestled in a quiet Lagoon, Moorea, with its diverse coral reefs and annual trade winds from April to October, allows for various activities, from outrigger canoeing to paddle boarding, kiteboarding, water skiing, and even surfing around some of the passes. The island of Moorea is a haven for divers and is known for its varied coral reef ecosystem and the colorful mix of marine life. While scuba diving or snorkeling, you might encounter stingrays, sharks, and marine turtles in a clear lagoon sparkling with different shades of blue.
If you prefer land activities, on the mountainside of Moorea’s sharp landscape, eight summits featuring a magnificent ancient volcanic crater that has become a lush valley is the perfect area for hiking, horseback riding, quad biking, or four-wheeling to explore Moorea’s unforgettable beauty.
Top 5 Highly-Recommended Experiences on the Island of Moorea
- Stay in an overwater bungalow
- Have an authentic Tahitian experience at Tiki Village
- Visit the ecomuseum Te Fare Natura
- Snorkel the famous Tahitian coral reefs
- Adventure in the lush valley’s of the Moorea hills – perfect for hiking, riding, quading or biking
The French Polynesian Charm and Ambiance
Colorful, flowered, and radiant, the island of Moorea is a pleasure for all the senses. Stroll between gardens and white sand beaches, tropical flowers and pineapple plantations, or watch fishermen on their outrigger canoe, or listen to the sound of the ‘ukulele sitting under a purau tree (Hibiscus tiliaceus). You’ll relish these magical moments and this unmatched world of enchantment that the island of Moorea has to offer.
A Source Of French Polynesian Inspiration
Many artists live on the island of Moorea. Painters, carvers, jewelers, and Polynesian tattoo artists have settled down on this island and take their time to capture the island’s beauty and serenity and find the inspiration to create their art.
Looking to book a Moorea vacation, or plan additional aspects of your dream vacation? One of our Certified Tahiti Specialists® can design the ideal experience for you.
