Why You Should Vacation in Moorea, French Polynesia

Icon Share

SHARE

Advisor - Fora
Curated By

Fora

  • French Polynesia

  • Arts & Culture

  • Beaches

  • Local Culture

  • Local Food

  • Coastal

A traditional dancer teaching how to dance to a man on a beach.
Fora’s Take

There's no denying that the world is brimming with travel destinations that steal your breath away. Yet, there's something uniquely enticing about a vacation in Moorea, French Polynesia. This paradise island, sparkling in the heart of the South Pacific Ocean, promises an escapade that ticks every box on the ultimate holiday attraction list. From the enchantingly azure lagoon to the lush mountain peaks, Moorea is here to capture your heart.

The Fora Difference

Book with our team of advisors to unlock exclusive perks and discover hidden gems.

Icon Travel Perks
Killer perks

Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you

Icon Recommendations
Personalized recs

Customized travel planning for your style

Icon Inside Knowledge
Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay in Moorea

Unlock perks by contacting our team of advisors to book your trip.

Things to do in Moorea

An aerial view of a beach by the water during daytime with straw-roofed huts and palm trees

Unrivaled beauty of nature

Moorea is a place where Mother Nature has let her imagination run wild. It’s a canvas painted with picture-perfect beaches, jagged volcanic peaks, and abundant coral reefs. The island's beauty is so hypnotizing, it's almost surreal! Snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities abound here, allowing you to delve into the vibrant underwater world this secluded gem boasts. Grandiose mountains, like Mount Rotui, will satiate the adventurers among you while rewarding you with panoramic views that leave an indelible imprint on your memory.

Captivating culture and history

Beyond its natural allure, Moorea serves as a gateway into the rich history and culture of Polynesian heritage. The island is dotted with marae (ancient temples), each narrating a tale of the previous generations. Moorea gives you a great chance to explore centuries-old traditions. It also introduces you to the warm hospitality of the locals, who make your visit so memorable.

Taste of paradise

To really soak up the essence of Moorea, you must indulge in its culinary offerings. Relish the rich flavors of Polynesian cuisine, with a medley of tropical fruits, fresh seafood, and succulent meats gracing your plates. The island's gastronomy is a testament to its biodiversity, offering you a taste of paradise with every bite.

Hiking discovery: The Tray of the Bounty and the Pass of the Three Pines

Start your adventure by walking through the sweet-smelling pineapple fields. Then, make your way into the lush trail of the tropical forest. As you go higher, reach the Pass of the Three Coconuts and take in the breathtaking, wide views of the old volcano. End your journey with a visit to the Tray of the Bounty, where you can gaze out at the stunning scenery right at the base of the volcano's crater.

Snorkeling and ray-feeding tour

Experience a thrilling two-hour guided adventure in the balmy waters of Moorea, where you'll snorkel and feed rays. You'll come across an array of sea creatures during this excursion. Get up close and personal with stingrays in their natural environment, and even get the unique opportunity to feed them!

Tiki Village Cultural Center

If you're curious about Polynesian culture, head to the Tiki Village Cultural Center. It's right by a beautiful lagoon on Moorea Island. There, you can learn how to weave with plants, make flower necklaces, and carve wood like the locals. The village also shows off cool tattoos, which started in Polynesia and spread to the West. Plus, you'll see amazing black pearls that are hard to find anywhere else.

Manutea, Tahiti - Rotui Juice Factory & Distillery

At Manutea Tahiti Rotui, you can take a self-guided tour of their juice factory and distillery. The tour takes place in a separate building from the store and tasting area. There, you'll find posters in English that explain how they make their juice. After the tour, you can head over to the gift shop for a tasting session. Taste five different alcohols and a juice. These included a Tahiti Drink mixer, pineapple rum, Magnolia rum, white rum, and a coconut liquor that tasted like Bailey's. They also serve pineapple juice.

Places to eat & drink in Moorea

A woman and child dancing in the daytime.

Need to know

Q&A

Now let’s clear up some commonly asked questions about this idyllic destination:

What's the best time to visit Moorea? The dry season from May to October is generally considered the best time to visit.

Do I need a visa to travel to Moorea, French Polynesia? This depends on your nationality. Many countries are allowed visa-free entry, but check the regulations before planning your trip.

Can I afford a vacation in Moorea? Definitely! Moorea offers a range of accommodation and activities to suit various budgets, making it a great choice for everyone.

Conclusion

So, still wondering why vacation in Moorea, French Polynesia? It's not just a vacation—it's an experience that enlivens all your senses, simultaneously calming your spirit and igniting your desire for adventure. From the awe-inspiring landscapes to the stunning marine life, hearty cuisine, and warm Polynesian culture — Moorea provides an odyssey that ensures a lifetime of memories.

Take the leap, pack your bags, and embark on an unforgettable journey to Moorea, where each day ends with a sunset more beautiful than the last. The invitation to paradise awaits!

Very friendly island and very proud people. Must go to the juice factory, free alcohol samples, and juice. Then, Tiki Village Theater which is a cultural center that provides entertainment and food samples.

Advisor - Fora

The Modern Travel Agency

Fora

Reach out to a Fora Advisor.

Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience with a Fora Advisor. Or, to chat about travel in general.

You can normally expect a response from Fora within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).

Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out the Fora guide, Exploring Hilo: A Journey Through Island Paradise.

This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to French Polynesia.