Marae Fare Opu

Marae Fare Opu is a significant archaeological site located on the island of Bora Bora in French Polynesia. Situated directly on the water's edge in Faanui Bay, this ancient marae served as a sacred communal and ritual space for the island's Polynesian ancestors. It is most famous for its unique petroglyphs, stylized carvings of sea turtles etched into its massive coral stone slabs. In Polynesian culture, the turtle was a sacred animal, often seen as a messenger of the gods and reserved for high-ranking rituals. While part of the original complex was unfortunately damaged during road construction in the mid-20th century, the remaining coral blocks and carvings provide an evocative glimpse into pre-colonial religious architecture. The site's proximity to the lagoon and its weathered stone carvings offer visitors a mystical connection to the island's spiritual past, standing as a quiet monument to the enduring traditions of the Maohi people amidst the modern beauty of Bora Bora.

Nearby cities

Faa'a

Faa'a is the most populous commune in French Polynesia, located directly west of the capital Papeete.

Papeete

Papeete is the capital of French Polynesia and the primary economic hub located on the island of Tahiti.

Puna'auia

Puna'auia is a major residential commune on the west coast of Tahiti, known for its university and beaches.

Pirae

Pirae is an urban commune east of Papeete that hosts major medical and administrative facilities.

Vaitape

Vaitape is the largest town on Bora Bora and serves as the island's main commercial and administrative hub.

Paopao

Paopao is a village located at the base of the majestic Cook's Bay on the island of Moorea.

Haapiti

Haapiti is a village on the southwest coast of Moorea, known for its cultural traditions and excellent surf spots.

Uturoa

Uturoa is the administrative center of Raiatea island and the second most important town in French Polynesia after Papeete.

Afareaitu

Afareaitu is the administrative center of Moorea island, located on the island's picturesque eastern coast.

Teavaro

Teavaro is a village in eastern Moorea, famous for its long white sand Temae beach and views of Tahiti.

Faanui

Faanui is a picturesque village on Bora Bora, located on a deep bay and possessing a rich history.

Papetoai

Papetoai is a historic village on Moorea, located in Opunohu Bay and known for its octagonal church.

Tevaitoa

Tevaitoa is the main village of the Tumaraa commune in southwest Raiatea, known for its tranquility.

Faie

Faie is a small village on Huahine Nui, famous for its sacred blue-eyed eels.

Fare

Fare is the capital of Huahine island, offering a relaxed atmosphere with small shops and a lively harbor.

History & landmarks

Uturoa Town Hall

The administrative building of Uturoa on Raiatea, the second-largest settlement in French Polynesia.

Nature

Mount Otemanu

Mount Otemanu is the iconic landmark of Bora Bora, rising 727 meters high.

Mount Pahia

Mount Pahia is the second highest peak on Bora Bora, known for its distinctive twin summits.

Bora Bora Turtle Center

This center is dedicated to the rehabilitation of injured sea turtles.

More places

Papeete Town Hall

Papeete Town Hall is a magnificent colonial-style building that resembles the former palace of Queen Pomare.

Vaitoare

Vaitoare is the main port in southern Taha'a and the gateway to the island of Raiatea.

Vaiare

Vaiare is the primary port of Moorea and the main gateway for travelers arriving by ferry from Tahiti.

St. Joseph Church Faanui

A charming Catholic church in Faanui village on Bora Bora.

Marae Marotetini

Located on the northern coast of Bora Bora, this marae was a spiritual site for chiefs.

Marae in Bora Bora Valley

Hidden archaeological remains in the interior of Bora Bora island.

Marae Vaiotaha

This historic marae on Bora Bora was once the island's most significant.

WWII Cannons of Bora Bora

Eight US coastal cannons were installed on Bora Bora during WWII.