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Mount Rotui in Moorea,
in the Society Islands
of French Polynesia
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TOP THREE ANIMALS TO SPOT: |
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images: AWL Images; GETTY |
Moorea, French Polynesia
Moorea feels like a scene from a pop-up fairytale, thanks to the island’ s jagged green peaks, palm-lined beaches and cerulean lagoon. Located just 45 minutes by ferry from Tahiti, Moorea is known locally as Tahiti’ s‘ sister island’ and is a popular vacation spot for locals and tourists alike.
Head out onto the island’ s lagoon for an unforgettable day on the water. Snorkel with blacktip sharks and rays on the sandbank on Moorea’ s northwest side. Continue west to Motu Tiahura and Motu Fareone— two tiny sand islets in the middle of the lagoon— for one of the island’ s most beautiful spots. The easiest way to get around on the lagoon is by
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boat; it’ s possible to hire one, though boat tours— which usually include a barbecue lunch— are a popular option. Jet ski tours are another fun way to experience the lagoon.
On land, Moorea is just as breathtaking. For a lazy day, try Temae Beach for white sand, coconut palms and snorkelling with a view of Tahiti. Inland, the fertile Opunohu Valley is just as impressive as the lagoon. Drive or bike through pineapple fields, mape( Polynesian chestnut) forests and important archaeological sites, then take in some of Moorea’ s best panoramic views at the Belvedere lookout, from which Moorea’ s two great bays are visible.
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1Green sea turtle Considered sacred in Polynesian cultures, green sea turtles are traditionally associated with wisdom, good luck and longevity. They can be seen swimming gracefully through the shallow waters and reefs along the coasts of South Pacific islands; or if you’ re lucky, you might spot one resting on the beach.
2Humpback whale Watching a giant humpback whale diving, playing or spouting is an unforgettable experience. Spot these majestic creatures between November and April around Hawaii, and from July to November in French Polynesia, on their annual migrations through the Pacific. Lookout for the telltale‘ blows’ on the water, when the whales surface to exhale.3Great frigatebird The great frigatebird’ s instantly recognizable forked tail, black body and giant wingspan( up to six feet) make it easy to spot in Pacific skies( often close to shorelines). These birds are fun to watch while hunting, as they steal prey from smaller birds by chasing them until they drop their catch. Males have brightred throats that they can inflate like a balloon to attract a mate. |
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