WHY: July is the beginning of whale-watching season off the coast of Moorea, a family-friendly island known for jagged volcanic peaks, turquoise waters, and a coral ring protecting a shallow, inner lagoon. In addition to snorkeling and swimming in the calm waters, parents and kids can hike, horseback ride, or take an ATV quad or SSV buggy excursion in the lush, mountainous interior. “Your summertime is our wintertime and my favorite time of year for many reasons,” says Moorea resident Laurel Samuela, owner of True Tahiti Vacation and mom to son Dushan, 12, and daughter Fiona, 15. “Less humidity, slightly cooler nights—meaning you can get away with a long-sleeve T-shirt in the evenings—and whales! I definitely recommend doing a whale/dolphin-watching tour while you’re here. Beyond that, I encourage you to take out the complimentary kayaks provided by the hotels and head out toward the reef or bay. You’ll be amazed at the sea life you'll encounter.”