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Moorea - Culture

The craggy volcanic peaks, reflected in the tranquil waters of Cook's Bay and Oponohu Bay, rise like a shark's jaw from the island's basaltic base. The lush mountain slopes are covered with rain forest or pineapple plantations, and white sand beaches border crystalline lagoons.

Upon your arrival at the ferry terminal or at the small airport you can rent a car or a scooter , or take the local public transport, the "truck" to take you to your destination (most hotels have pickup).

Attractions:
Only 40 miles around on a well paved road along the shore, this dramatic and lush island can easily be circled by car, scooter or on bicycle for the more physically inclined.

The Belvedere Lookout is probably one of the most spectacular lookout in the world. Located between Cook's and Oponohu Bay in the lush interior of the island, the Belvedere is a must for all visitors. Picture taking is best in the morning before 10 am when the sun is behind you. Access is easy ,either from Cook's or Oponohu Bay. There is a small sign on the road.

In the village of Afareaitu there is an access road the waterfall, which may be more or less dramatic depending on the recent rainfall. Access is possible with a 4 wheel drive only, and we recommend using one of the local 4x4 excursions.You can go on a whale and dolphin watch departing daily with marine biologist Michael Poole. Ask at you hotel desk.

The best ancient temple ( Marae) can be seen on the way up to the Belvedere. It is not a structure but flat coral slabs forming a sort of enclosure
All beaches are public, but the best one is 1/4 of a mile down a dirt road off the main road between the Sofitel Ia Ora and the airport gas station.

For a truly spectacular Tahitian Show, the best anywhere in Polynesia, go to the Tiki Village where you will enjoy a memorable lagoon-side dinner and spectacular show. The owner, Olivier Briac has also made this unique Tahitian environment famous for his spectacular Royal Tahitian Weddings which have been a favorite of movie stars such as Dustin Hoffman as well as the international jet-set.

There is no town to speak-of on Moorea, but you will find a few areas along the road with clusters of shops selling miscellaneous goods, local crafts and colourful hand printed fabrics (pareos).

A few black pearl shops can be found on the island, but we recommend Island Fashion Black Pearls near Cook's Bay. It is run by Ron Hall, a friendly American expatriates who knows his stuff and offers a good selection of quality pearls at very competitive prices.

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