About
Moorea is a volcanic island in French Polynesia, part of the Windward Islands in Oceania. Its outline is often described as heart-shaped, and it sits close enough to Tahiti to be reached on a short trip across the water. The island is also known by the name Moorea-Maiao.
The landscape
What most visitors notice first is the terrain. Steep, dramatic mountain peaks rise above the coast, and the green slopes give the island a striking profile from the sea. Between the land and the reef lies a lagoon, which is the setting for much of what people come here to do.
What to do
- Snorkeling in the calm, clear waters of the lagoon
- Diving for those who want to explore beneath the surface
- Resting at one of the island's luxury resorts, many of which are set on the water
The island is a popular choice for travellers who want a quiet, water-focused stay. Days can be spent in the lagoon or on the beach, while evenings are often spent at a resort or in a small local restaurant.
For a visitor deciding whether to go, Moorea suits those who value natural scenery and time on the water more than busy city life. Its mountains and lagoons are the main reasons to visit, and a trip there is best planned around them.
