Palm fringed and pristine, Moorea is the definition of island paradise. A short ferry ride from Papeete, Tahiti, this lush heart-shaped isle is part of French Polynesia’s Society Islands archipelago and is perfect for sun-loving honeymooners.
You could easily spend your whole honeymoon enjoying magical Moorea, or do a spot of island hopping and continue your tropical vacation at its equally idyllic sister island, Bora Bora.
No matter what you decide, you’re bound to fall in love with French Polynesia and its dreamy landscapes, delightful locals, stunning beaches and delicious cuisine; an exotic fusion of French influences and island flavours.
PLAY
Quad Squad: Blessed with breathtaking vistas, waterfalls, luxuriant terrain and rugged mountains, Moorea is a sensory place to explore for intrepid travellers.
Upon arrival, join a quad bike tour with ATV Moorea Tours and set off to discover Moorea! You and your love will zip along the island ring road and pass cute fruit stalls, pastel homes and gardens bursting with frangipani and hibiscus blossoms. There are plenty of stops along the way too; you’ll check out a pineapple plantation, see fruit orchards, say hello to resident wildlife and embrace those epic views from top vantage points.
Down Below: Enveloped by a blue lagoon and reef, Moorea’s calm waters are ideal for scuba diving. TopDive Moorea operates out of the InterContinental Resort and Spa Moorea and takes trips to a variety of dive sites depending on your experience. During your dive expect to see coral, inquisitive tropical fish and perhaps even a reef shark or ray!
EAT
With fresh produce like pineapples and coconuts growing all over the island, Moorea is all about summer flavours and island-inspired cuisine infused with French sophistication.
Moorea Beach Cafe is a lovely lunch option and a great place to dine come sunset. Set metres from the water, this breezy bistro was created by French chef Bruno Jamais and offers classic French fare, along with woodfired pizzas, dreamy desserts and a great wine list.
Image via Go Tahiti
Rudy’s Restaurant is another must-visit during your magical Moorea getaway. Known for its steak and seafood, this Moorea mainstay is a charming and authentic choice for hungry honeymooners. Top picks include the entrée of baked mussels, the melt-in-the-mouth parrot fish and the Chocolate Moelleux. Bon appetite!
STAY
You’ll feel like a sun-kissed castaway staying at one of Moorea’s many magnificent accommodation options, which are perfect for honeymooners.
Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa is a standout, with sparkling swimming pool, beautifully appointed garden bungalows with private plunge pools, divine dining options and luxurious overwater bungalows. If you’re after pure relaxation, this is a heavenly choice. Book a couples massage, relax by the pool, stroll through the tropical gardens, or take a nap in the hammocks.
Active couples will also love this resort; you can paddle board or kayak on the calm waters, play a round of tennis, or snorkel on shallow coral reefs teeming with curious fish. Food lovers will enjoy the special Polynesian feast (a buffet of traditional dishes plus dancing and fire twirling) and the incredible overwater crêperie!
All images (except Moorea Beach Cafe) by Anika Reynolds
InterContinental Resort & Spa Moorea is another spectacular choice for your Polynesian island experience. Comprising 27 acres of gorgeous gardens, the resort has a variety of exquisitely appointed rooms and bungalows, two pools and several upscale eateries.
Sip cocktails at the swim-up bar, relax in a pool cabana or just cuddle up with your love in fluffy bathrobes and order room service – sigh – honeymoon bliss.
Ms Chinoiserie Says: Beautiful French Polynesia is on my list; perfect for honeymoon bliss!
About Anika: I’m a freelance writer with a love of weddings and creatively styled events. I have a penchant for pretty stationery and perfectly put together cheese plates, and a never-ending sense of wanderlust!
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