Moorea Green Pearl Golf Course | Moorea

The Moorea Green Pearl Golf Course is an 18-hole golf facility situated on the island of Moorea in French Polynesia.

It is located on the northern coast of the island, adjacent to Opunohu Bay.

Visual Characteristics

The course features 18 holes with a par of 72, covering approximately 6,500 yards. The fairways are primarily composed of Paspalum grass, designed to tolerate saltwater irrigation. The landscape incorporates natural volcanic rock formations, water hazards including lagoons and canals, and mature tropical vegetation such as coconut palms and hibiscus. The clubhouse is a low-rise structure with a thatched roof, designed in a Polynesian architectural style.

Location & Access Logistics

The golf course is located approximately 15 kilometers west of the main ferry terminal at Vaiare. Access is via Route 1, the main coastal road encircling the island. The drive from the ferry terminal takes approximately 20-25 minutes. Ample parking is available on-site. Public transport options are limited; rental cars or taxis are the most practical means of reaching the course.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Moorea Green Pearl Golf Course was designed by American architect Arthur Schaupeter and opened in 1997. The site was previously undeveloped agricultural land. The course design integrates existing natural features, including lava rock outcroppings and the island's natural drainage systems. The use of Paspalum grass is an ecological consideration, allowing for the use of brackish water for irrigation, thus conserving freshwater resources.

Key Highlights & Activities

The primary activity is playing golf on the 18-hole course. The course offers driving range facilities for practice. Rental clubs are available. Golf lessons can be arranged with resident professionals. The clubhouse includes a pro shop and a restaurant.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available in the clubhouse and at designated points on the course. Shaded areas are provided by natural vegetation and some strategically placed shelters. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally available across the course. Food and beverage services are provided by the clubhouse restaurant.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for playing golf is typically in the morning, between 7:00 AM and 11:00 AM, to avoid the peak heat of the day. The driest months, offering the most favorable weather for outdoor activities, are generally from May to October. There are no specific tide requirements for playing the course.

Facts & Legends

A unique aspect of the course is its use of brackish water for irrigation, a sustainable practice in an island environment. Local lore suggests that the volcanic rock formations incorporated into the course design were once sacred sites, though this is not historically verified.

Nearby Landmarks

• Opunohu Bay (0.2km West)
• Belvedere Lookout (2.5km Southwest)
• Marae Triple (2.8km Southwest)
• Moorea Tropical Garden (3.1km West)
• Cook's Bay (3.5km East)