Travel notes · November 2026

The whales of Moorea

Every southern winter, humpback whales come to the warm waters of French Polynesia to mate and give birth. A spout in the distance, a tail rising, a breach falling back in a burst of white: on Moorea, whale season is an event.

Humpback whale season

July to early November

From the villa's terrace

July to October, far out

French Polynesia, marine mammal sanctuary

since 2002

When to come

Humpback whales arrive in Polynesian waters every year between July and early November. French Polynesia has been a sanctuary for whales and marine mammals since 2002: here, you watch them, you do not disturb them.

From the villa

The villa looks down over the lagoon on the west side of the island. From July to October, whales can sometimes be seen passing beyond the reef: a spout, a tail, a breach. They stay far out, and they are never guaranteed, but a morning coffee on the terrace can suddenly turn into a show. Dolphins pass by too, out at sea.

At sea, with a licensed operator

To get closer, book a trip with a licensed operator: only authorised professionals may approach the whales, and private boats must keep much further away. Several operators leave from Moorea; Tahiti Tourisme lists them.

Watching whales and getting in the water are subject to strict rules. The boat never cuts through a group or circles it, never comes between a mother and her calf, and never pushes the whales towards the reef. You only get in the water if conditions allow, with your guide.

In the evening, as the light softens over the lagoon, keep an eye on the horizon. Sometimes something stirs out there, beyond the reef.