Mo'orea

Moorea was the last one of three ports we visited in French Polynesia, the other two being Raiatea and Tahiti. For us, Moorea was the most beautiful. Crystal clear waters and lots to see. We didn't bother booking any excursions from the ship, preferring instead to do our own thing. We caught a taxi to the Belvedere viewpoint (USD $50 return) and then a boat trip to a small island, via a sandbank, where there were sting rays and sharks (USD $100 for two) - much cheaper than ship excursion rates and both booked from the sellers on the docks. The water was warm and beautiful. We just had a most wonderful day.....

Moorea, nestled in French Polynesia's embrace, captivates with its ethereal beauty. From the moment you set foot on its shores, you're enveloped in a tapestry of vibrant colors and enchanting scents. The island's lush, emerald-green peaks rise majestically against the azure sky, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for every adventure. Exploring Moorea is a journey of discovery, where every corner reveals a new wonder. Snorkelers and divers are drawn to its crystalline waters, teeming with marine life and coral gardens of unparalleled beauty. Landlubbers can hike through verdant valleys, where waterfalls cascade into secluded pools, offering moments of tranquil serenity. The island's rich Polynesian culture adds depth to every experience. Local villages welcome visitors with open arms, inviting them to partake in traditional dances, feasts, and crafts. Each encounter is a window into Moorea's soul, where warmth and hospitality reign supreme. Accommodations on Moorea range from luxurious overwater bungalows to cozy beachfront villas, ensuring every traveler finds their perfect oasis. Indulge in sumptuous cuisine infused with exotic flavors, crafted from the freshest local ingredients. In conclusion, Moorea is a paradise like no other, where nature's magnificence meets Polynesian charm. Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, this island gem offers an unforgettable escape into blissful paradise.

Aft 3 Polynesian Islands that we visited in 3 days, this was by far our favorite. It was not overly commercialized, nor overly primitive, and had some of the most spectacular water we've ever seen anywhere in the world. We took an island tour around the circumference, and it was a great way to see it all.

Loved the day we spent here! Truly an amazing tropical paradise that is a must visit! We did the whole island tour excursion from our cruise ship and honestly, it is probably the vest way to see the whole island. This was truly one of the best islands to visit in French Polynesia!

A cruise ship tender port. The island appears picturesque and exotic - as I would expect Tahiti to be. We tendered to the wharf and from there, disappointment. We walked for miles and did not see anything warranting the effort. Very unfortunate when there is nothing of interest close by. Did not see a beach. Nothing.

A fantastic day in Moorea I had an amazing experience touring Moorea with a 4WD tour that took me to some of the most beautiful and interesting places on the island. The tour started with a visit to a pineapple farm, where I learned about the different varieties of pineapples and how they are grown and harvested. The farm also had a stunning view of the Opunohu Bay and the mountains. Next, we went to a distillery that produces liqueurs and jams from local fruits. I tasted some of the products and bought some souvenirs to take home. The distillery also had a nice garden with tropical flowers and plants. The tour continued with a drive up to the Magic Mountain, a lookout point that offers a panoramic view of the island and the lagoon. It was breathtaking to see the turquoise water and the coral reefs from above. The guide explained some of the history and culture of Moorea and pointed out some landmarks. Then, we went down to the Belvedere Lookout, another scenic spot that overlooks the Cook’s Bay and the Rotui Mountain. There, we saw some ancient marae (Polynesian temples) that are part of the cultural heritage of Moorea. The last stop of the tour was at Faie, a village where we saw and fed the sacred blue-eyed eels that live in the river. The eels are considered to be guardians of the village and are very friendly to visitors. They came out of the water to eat pieces of fish that we gave them. It was a unique and fun experience to interact with these creatures. I highly recommend this tour to anyone who wants to see more than just the beaches of Moorea. It was a great way to discover the natural beauty, the cultural diversity, and the local flavors of this island paradise.

Island can get to from other island. Be prepared to rent a scooter or a bike as you cannot do much from the port. We didn't get bikes or rent a scooter so we walked a mile to this amazing little lagoon and spent the an hour and went back. Very nice.

A great place to get away from the crowds and explore Tahitian life. The combination of Mountain and ocean activities is extraordinary.