French Polynesia · Pacific Islands
Moorea is the island the locals in French Polynesia prefer over Bora Bora, and once you see it you'll understand why. The volcanic peaks are sharper and more dramatic — Mount Rotui rises between two bays like a cathedral spire, and the Belvedere Lookout offers a view that will stop you mid-sentence. The lagoon is shallower and more accessible than Bora Bora's, with stingrays and reef sharks cruising through water you can stand in. Pineapple plantations cover the interior. The vibe is quieter, the prices are lower, and the natural beauty might actually be more impressive. It's a 30-minute ferry from Tahiti, making it the easiest island to add to any French Polynesia trip.
From Tahiti's dramatic black-sand surf beaches to Moorea's luminous white-sand lagoons, these two French Polynesian islands deliver beaches at every extreme. A guide to the best shores on both islands, with prices and practical advice.
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French Polynesia has no designated nude beaches — French law permits naturism only where designated, and none exist. Topless is tolerated at resorts; private motu day trips are the real option.
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Vanuatu has no nude beaches and public nudity is illegal under the Penal Code. This 93% Christian, kastom-rooted archipelago has no clothing-optional coast; the nearest real option is New Caledonia.
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Tonga's beaches are strictly textile under a deeply Christian culture where the Sabbath is constitutionally sacred. French Polynesia's private motus and Australia's designated beaches are the alternatives.
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Samoa's beaches are textile under Christian-majority culture and customary fa'a Samoa village law. French Polynesia's private motus and Australia's designated beaches are the alternatives.
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Palau's beaches are textile under Catholic-majority cultural norms and active visitor-management. Pair the diving with a Philippines, Bali, or Australia leg for naturism.
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