Marae Umarea

Marae Umarea is one of the oldest and most revered archaeological sites on the island of Moorea, located along the shoreline in the village of Afareaitu. Believed to have been established around 900 AD, this coastal marae serves as a critical link to the early Polynesian settlers who inhabited the Society Islands. The site features a prominent enclosure wall made of coral slabs, defining a sacred space once used for religious ceremonies, community gatherings, and ancestral rites. Archaeologists who investigated the site in 2005 uncovered evidence of its long-standing importance in regional governance and spiritual life. Today, visitors can explore the stone platform and enjoy unobstructed views across the turquoise lagoon. The site's tranquil atmosphere and historical depth offer a profound insight into the ancient cultural heritage that continues to shape Polynesian identity.

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.

Mahina

Mahina is a coastal commune in northern Tahiti, famous for the historical Point Venus and black sand beaches.

Paea

Paea is a commune on the west coast of Tahiti, rich in archaeological sites and coral reefs.

Papara

Papara is an extensive commune on the southern coast of Tahiti, known for its agriculture and wide beaches.

Arue

Arue is a commune in northeastern Tahiti that offers a mix of industrial areas and exclusive residential neighborhoods.

Taravao

Taravao is a strategically important town located on the isthmus connecting the two peninsulas of Tahiti.

Toahotu

Toahotu is a commune at the entrance of the Tahiti Iti peninsula, known for its white sand beaches and coconut groves.

Afaahiti

Afaahiti is a commune on the Tahiti Iti peninsula, bordering the important commercial center of Taravao.

Mataiea

Mataiea is a village in southern Tahiti known for its lush vegetation and historical links to Paul Gauguin.

Mataiea

Mataiea is a picturesque coastal commune on the southern shore of Tahiti, renowned for its lush botanical gardens and serene beaches.

Paopao

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

Papeari

Papeari is a coastal village on Tahiti famous for its natural beauty and the Paul Gauguin Museum.

History & landmarks

Afareaitu Pineapples

These fields form the basis for Moorea's fruit industry.

Nature

Moorea Lagoonarium

This natural open-water aquarium is located on a motu off Moorea.

Mount Mouaputa

Mount Mouaputa is known as the "pierced mountain" on Moorea, reaching an elevation of 830 meters.

More places

Papeete Town Hall

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

Vaiare

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

Marae Afareaito

An ancient ceremonial site in Afareaitu village on Moorea.

Notre Dame de Fatima Moorea

A picturesque Catholic church in Paopao on Moorea island.

Vaiare-Paopao Nature Trail

This trail crosses the mountain ridge of Moorea and passes through various vegetation zones.