Moorea

A thatched-roof bungalow and a beautiful blue lagoon. . . Paradise found!

Moorea is a favorite of all who venture to French Polynesia. Here, you'll find the real South Seas experience -- a casual, barefoot existence amidst white sand beaches, multi-hued lagoons and, of course, quaint Tahitian-style hotels offering plenty of sun and fun activities.

Moorea's jagged mountains and volcanic spires reach into the clouds, while below, valleys are blanketed with the colors that one only finds when tropical climates and rich, volcanic soils meet.

With a circumference of only 37 miles, and coastline served by paved road, Moorea can be encircled in a single day's bicycle or car tour. Be sure to stop in the villages and boutiques as you make your way around. Or drive to the Belvedere lookout point, high in the interior of Moorea, for spectacular views of Opunohu and Cook's Bays. Windsurfing enthusiasts tout the latter as one of the best sailing spots in French Polynesia.

For an adventure befitting Robinson Crusoe, arrange for a day trip to a motu, the tiny uninhabited islets that dot the surrounding sea. Your boatman will be happy to drop you off, returning for you at an arranged time.

While you're on Moorea, don't miss a chance to meet some of its 9,000 natives. As is true on all the islands, you'll see more of the traditional Polynesian life if you venture from the hotels.