Moorea, Tahiti

Moorea Travel Guide

Welcome to Moorea, the beautiful island paradise located just a short ferry ride from Tahiti! This stunning island is a must-visit destination for any traveler looking to experience the true beauty of French Polynesia.

Places to Visit

Island Hopping

  • Society Islands: Take a boat tour to explore the surrounding islands, including Huahine and Raiatea. Enjoy snorkeling, diving, or simply relaxing on the pristine beaches.
  • Lagoon: Explore the island’s interior by taking a 4x4 safari or horseback ride through the lush countryside.

Beaches

  • Cook’s Bay: A stunning beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Don’t miss the nearby waterfalls!
  • Opunohu Bay: Another picturesque beach with calm waters, great for families.
  • Haapiti Beach: A secluded beach with a beautiful lagoon, ideal for those seeking peace and tranquility.

Water Activities

  • Snorkeling and Diving: Discover an incredible array of marine life, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles.
  • Paddleboarding and Kayaking: Explore the island’s coastline by paddling through the calm waters.
  • Whale Watching: Visit during peak season (July-October) to spot humpback whales in their natural habitat.

Other Attractions

  • Haut de Piquet Lookout: Take a short hike up to this stunning viewpoint, offering breathtaking views of the island and lagoon.
  • Belvédère: Explore this scenic lookout point, featuring a beautiful garden and panoramic views of Cook’s Bay.
  • Marina: Visit the marina in Vaiare village to see the local fishermen unloading their catch.

Activities

Adventure and Thrills

  • Hiking: Choose from several trails for all levels, including the scenic lookout points and waterfalls.
  • Zip-lining: Fly through the island’s lush forests on a thrilling zip-line tour.
  • 4x4 Safari: Explore the island’s rugged terrain in a 4x4 vehicle.

Relaxation and Wellness

  • Spas and Massage: Treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa day or massage at one of our many wellness centers.
  • Yoga and Meditation: Practice yoga or meditation on the beach, or join a guided session with our experienced instructors.

Where to Eat

Fine Dining

  • Le Mahana: Enjoy exquisite French-Polynesian cuisine in an elegant atmosphere.
  • La Villa Mahana: Savor fine dining at this beautiful villa, featuring a stunning garden and pool.
  • Blue Garden Restaurant: Treat yourself to fresh seafood and local specialties.

Local Eats

  • Local Markets: Visit the markets to try traditional Tahitian dishes like po’e (meat or fish cooked in an earth oven) and fenua (fried taro).
  • Food Trucks: Grab a snack from one of our many food trucks, serving everything from burgers to fresh fruit smoothies.

Where to Stay

Luxury Resorts

  • InterContinental Moorea Resort & Spa: Enjoy world-class amenities, including a spa, pool, and beachside bar.
  • Sofitel Moorea Ia Ora Beach Resort: Relax in style at this beautiful resort, featuring a private island and stunning lagoon views.

Boutique Hotels

  • Hotel Les Trois Cocotiers: Experience the charm of a boutique hotel, with its cozy rooms and beautiful garden.
  • Hotel Maitai Polynesia Moorea: Enjoy comfortable accommodations and stunning views of the surrounding islands.

Things to Know

Language

  • French: French is the official language spoken on Moorea. Many locals also speak English, but it’s always helpful to learn a few basic French phrases.
  • Tahitian: The local dialect is called Tahitian (or Reo Mā’ohi), and you may encounter some words or phrases during your stay.

Currency

  • Pacific Franc (XPF): The local currency is the Pacific Franc. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand.

Weather

  • Climate: Moorea enjoys a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 22-28°C (72-82°F) throughout the year.
  • Rainy Season: The rainy season runs from November to March, so it’s best to plan your visit during the dry season (April-October).

Transportation

  • Ferry: Take a short ferry ride from Tahiti to Moorea. Book in advance to ensure availability.
  • Taxis and Car Rentals: Use taxis or rent a car to get around the island.

Tips

Safety

  • Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting villages or attending cultural events.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout your stay, especially during outdoor activities.

Etiquette

  • Greetings: Greet locals with a friendly “Bonjour” (hello) or “Māuruuru” (goodbye).
  • Tipping: Tipping is not expected but appreciated for good service.

Miscellaneous

  • Sunscreen and Insect Repellent: Protect yourself from the sun and insects with sunscreen and insect repellent.
  • Camera: Bring a camera to capture stunning photos of Moorea’s beautiful landscapes and marine life.