Moorea (French Polynesia) / French Overseas Collectivity

17 kilometers northwest of the main island of French Polynesia lies its smaller island, Moorea, in the southern Pacific Ocean.

The island was formed by volcanic activity 1.5 – 2.5 million years ago and was first settled by Polynesians who arrived in their canoes from Southeast Asia around the year 900. Ancient stone structures, marae, scattered across the island, still remind us of them. The first Europeans to see Moorea were the Portuguese in 1606, but the first settlers were the English, including the famous navigator James Cook, in the second half of the 18th century. The island was later visited by the renowned father of the theory of evolution, Charles Darwin. Today, Moorea is a popular tourist destination, often sought after by families or newlyweds heading there for their honeymoon.

Moorea, translated as yellow lizard, is known for its rugged volcanic mountain landscape and beautiful sandy beaches and is one of the most beautiful islands of French Polynesia.

The heart-shaped northern coast of the island is indented by two bays: the picturesque Opunohu, above which Mount Rotui rises to the sky, and Cook's Bay, around which several smaller settlements, including Moorea's largest community, Pao Pao, are spread. Here you can also find the island's oldest marae, built by the original Polynesians around the year 900. Those who want to delve into the traditions and cuisine of this exotic location should not miss a visit to the Tiki Village on the west coast, a cultural center where locals offer traditional performances and demonstrations of handicrafts.  

The crystal-clear water in the bays invites exploration of the vibrant life beneath the sea surface with a snorkel or scuba gear. Popular activities also include feeding stingrays or swimming with dolphins in their natural environment, offered by the Dolphin Center on Moorea's northwest coast. From August to October, whales visit the area, and boat trips are organized for their observation during this period.

One of the novelties on the island is Tiki Parc, where visitors of all ages can enjoy zip lines and a variety of adventurous obstacles in the treetops. Golf enthusiasts can hit a few balls on the Moorea Green Pearl golf course with stunning views of the sea.

Fans of active leisure will enjoy many hiking trails winding through the breathtaking landscape of the tropical rainforest on the slopes of Mount Tohivea, the highest point of the entire island at 1,207 meters above sea level. By car, you can reach the Belvedere lookout, from where you can see the peaks of Moorea and nearby Tahiti beautifully. The largest island of French Polynesia is only half an hour away by fast ferry.

Places worth seeing

Tiki Village – Get a glimpse into the exotic culture of the Polynesian islands with a traditional performance or tasting of local specialties.

Belvedere Lookout – Be captivated by the stunning views of the volcanic peaks of the beautiful island.

Moorea Dolphin Center – Swim with dolphins in the crystal-clear waters of the South Pacific.

Mount Tohivea – Embark on a hiking trek through the tropical jungle on the slopes of Moorea's highest mountain.

Tiki Parc – Experience adventure on obstacles in the treetops and zip line rides in the midst of a beautiful rainforest.

Moorea Green Pearl Golf Course - Hit a few balls on one of the two golf courses in the archipelago with stunning ocean views.

Tahiti – Hop on a boat and head to Tahiti, the largest island of French Polynesia, just half an hour away.