MOOREA, FRENCH POLYNESIA

Golf is really the last thing on your list when visiting Moorea, but it’s here nonetheless. Nicklaus Design opened the Green Pearl Golf Course in 2007, and although we’ve heard mixed reviews recently about conditioning, it’s definitely worth a round or two on any visit to this Tahitian island — especially since the upper holes feature fantastic ocean views stretching to the main island of Tahiti. Plus, it’s a fun, interesting layout — the type of course where you’ll never be bored and might even meet a few friendly island natives who forage for lost balls and sell them back to tourists.

But the Moorea Pearl Resort & Spa is the real reason you make the flight across the Pacific to this remote paradise full of rich Polynesian history. The overwater bungalows are amazing, with glass floors that allow you to see into fish-filled reef below. And each one features a private deck for backdoor access to some of the best — and safest — snorkeling in the world. Plus, for the truly adventurous, swimming with sharks and rays is a must aboard Hiro’s Liki Tiki tours, which include a motu island picnic prepared by local inhabitants.

And if you’re looking to escape the snowmen — at least temperature-wise — average highs for this time of year are in the 80s, with nighttime lows around 75. Now that’s definitely something to celebrate.

www.spmhotels.com/resort/moorea
www.mooreagolf-resort.com
www.hirotours.com