Belvedere Lookout Faanui
Iconic lookout offering breathtaking panoramic views of Moorea's twin bays and lush mountains. A must-visit for scenic drives and photo opportunities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light
Belvedere Lookout Faanui
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic lookout offering breathtaking panoramic views of Moorea's twin bays and lush mountains. A must-visit for scenic drives and photo opportunities.
"Fantastic view from this lookout. Worth the short drive up!"
🚗 Park Lower for Ease
Park in the smaller lot before the summit to avoid parking hassles and chaotic exits.
sunrise Visit
Enjoy the tranquility and stunning light with minimal crowds.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Bay Views
Main Lookout Point
Breathtaking vistas of Moorea's iconic twin bays and lush agricultural fields.
Sunrise Serenity
Main Lookout Point
Experience the magic of dawn with the lookout to yourself and stunning golden light.
Historical Marae Sites
Near the lookout
Discover ancient Polynesian ceremonial sites scattered around the area.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Getting There & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Park Lower for Ease
Park in the smaller lot before the summit to avoid parking hassles and chaotic exits.
sunrise Visit
Enjoy the tranquility and stunning light with minimal crowds.
Paved Route Recommended
Opt for the fully paved road up to avoid a bumpy dirt road section.
Rental Car Essential
A rental car is ideal for the drive; walking is a serious workout.
Moorea: Some photos of the Road to and views from Belvedere lookout and the Coconut Palm beach
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Park Lower for Ease
Park in the smaller lot before the summit to avoid parking hassles and chaotic exits.
sunrise Visit
Enjoy the tranquility and stunning light with minimal crowds.
Paved Route Recommended
Opt for the fully paved road up to avoid a bumpy dirt road section.
Rental Car Essential
A rental car is ideal for the drive; walking is a serious workout.
Photo Opportunities Galore
Perfect spot for capturing the island's unique perimeter shape and bays.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Belvedere Lookout for its absolutely stunning panoramic views of Moorea's iconic bays and lush landscapes. The scenic drive up is also a highlight, though parking can be a challenge during peak times. Many recommend visiting early to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility.
"Fantastic view from this lookout. Big enough carpark right by the viewpoint to park. Nice view north to the two bays. Worth the short drive up, you can also see some Marae's and the agricultural school whilst your are at it"
Jarrod Hunt
"We took the road from Opunahu bay which is paved the entire way and wide enough for two cars until as you start climbing. Be careful on the three or so switchbacks at the top.
Parking at the top as well as a short walk down the hill.
We went up shortly after sunrise and had the place to ourselves.
There are no tickets to buy as this has no cost to enter or park."
Greg
"Great drive over to this lookout. Lots of open spaces along the road with people exercising or walking their dogs.
If you are staying long, it is advisable to park in the hikers lot to avoid being blocked by tour buses or ATV groups.
The lookout is a great photo shoot and place to enjoy a view of the two major bays of Moorea (contributing to the islands unique perimeter shape)."
George Kovach
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The best way to reach Belvedere Lookout Faanui is by rental car. The drive offers scenic views, and there are two routes up; one is fully paved, while the other has a partial dirt road section. Walking is possible but very strenuous.
The drive involves switchbacks, especially near the top. Be cautious, particularly if driving a manual transmission. Parking can be challenging at the very top, so consider parking in a lower lot.
While technically possible, walking to Belvedere Lookout is a significant workout and not recommended for most visitors, especially if you want to enjoy the views without exhaustion.
Travelers recommend taking the fully paved route to avoid a bumpy dirt road section. On the way down, the paved route is also a good option.
Public transport is not a practical option for reaching Belvedere Lookout. A rental car is the most convenient and recommended mode of transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets to buy for Belvedere Lookout. Entry and parking are free of charge, making it an accessible attraction.
Belvedere Lookout is generally accessible at all times, as it's an outdoor viewpoint. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and the best views.
There is no entrance fee to visit Belvedere Lookout. It's a public viewpoint that can be enjoyed without any cost.
Yes, there is parking available at Belvedere Lookout. However, the main lot at the very top can get chaotic. Consider parking in a smaller lot further down the hill for easier access and departure.
There are no specific restrictions mentioned for visiting Belvedere Lookout, but it's advisable to be mindful of the environment and any local guidelines.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The main lookout offers stunning panoramic views of the two bays and agricultural fields. The entire drive up also presents numerous opportunities for scenic photos.
Expect breathtaking views of Opunohu Bay and Cook's Bay, the island's agricultural school, and surrounding lush green mountains. It's a prime spot to appreciate Moorea's unique perimeter.
Sunrise visits are highly recommended for serene views and beautiful light, often with the place to yourself. Sunset can also offer lovely colors, though it might be busier.
Early morning, shortly after sunrise, is ideal for photography due to the soft light and fewer crowds. Late afternoon also offers beautiful golden hour light.
Yes, you can clearly see the distinctive shapes of Opunohu Bay and Cook's Bay, as well as the agricultural school and surrounding mountains.
🎫 🚶♀️ Activities & Exploration
Yes, there are hiking trails accessible from the Belvedere Lookout area. These trails offer further exploration and different perspectives of the island's natural beauty.
Near Belvedere Lookout, you can visit the agricultural school, explore ancient Marae sites, and enjoy the scenic drive with its open spaces.
Yes, Belvedere Lookout is generally suitable for families. The drive is scenic, and the lookout itself is an open area. However, supervision is needed due to the heights.
Yes, the agricultural school is located near Belvedere Lookout and is often visible from the viewpoint. You can drive to it separately to explore its grounds.
Several ancient Marae (Polynesian ceremonial sites) are located in the vicinity of Belvedere Lookout, offering a glimpse into the island's rich history.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as amenities at the lookout itself are limited. The nearby agricultural school can also be an interesting diversion for children, offering a chance to see local flora and fauna. The overall experience is relatively short, making it manageable for families with varying attention spans.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
Don't rush the drive. Take your time to soak in the scenery and enjoy the local atmosphere. The drive also provides access to other points of interest, such as the agricultural school and historical Marae sites, making it a well-rounded excursion. Remember to be cautious on the turns and enjoy the adventure of navigating Moorea's beautiful terrain.
📸 Photography Buffs
Beyond sunrise, late afternoon offers beautiful 'golden hour' light. Be prepared for potentially larger crowds during this time. Consider using a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive panoramas. The drive up also presents numerous photo opportunities, so keep your camera ready. Parking in the lower lot can also provide a slightly different perspective for your shots before you walk to the main viewpoint.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Scenic Drive to Belvedere Lookout
While walking to the lookout is possible, it's described as a significant workout and not for the faint of heart. The drive offers numerous opportunities for stunning photographs, capturing the lush landscapes and glimpses of the bays. The road is generally wide enough for two cars, but caution is advised, especially on the tighter turns. The drive contributes significantly to the overall enjoyment of visiting Belvedere Lookout, providing a sense of adventure and anticipation for the views to come.
Navigating Parking and Crowds
Visiting early in the morning, particularly shortly after sunrise, is another popular strategy to experience the lookout with minimal crowds. This timing not only ensures a more peaceful visit but also offers the best light for photography. Late afternoon can also be pleasant, but it tends to be busier. Being aware of these parking and crowd management strategies can greatly enhance your visit to this popular Moorea viewpoint.
Beyond the Viewpoint: History and Nature
The surrounding landscape is a testament to Moorea's natural beauty. The lush mountains and the distinctive shape of the two major bays, Opunohu and Cook's Bay, are best appreciated from this vantage point. For those seeking a bit more activity, hiking trails branch out from the lookout area, providing opportunities to immerse oneself further in the island's natural environment and discover hidden spots.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit