Moorea, Tahiti

Ultimate Travel Guide to Moorea, Tahiti

Overview

Moorea is a stunningly beautiful Polynesian island located in French Polynesia, just a short ferry ride from its big sister - Tahiti. Known for its lush mountains, pristine beaches, and vibrant marine life, Moorea offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking tranquility, adventure, and cultural immersion.

Places to Go

  1. Cook’s Bay: A beautiful turquoise lagoon with a serene atmosphere perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the beach.
  2. Tiahura Beach: Offers great views of Moorea’s mountains and is perfect for water sports like jet-skiing and paddleboarding.
  3. Belvedere Lookout (Point Varo): The best spot to enjoy panoramic views of both Moorea and Tahiti.
  4. Opunohu Bay: Home to the famous pineapple plantations, it offers a peaceful atmosphere with crystal-clear waters for snorkeling.
  5. Robert Wan Pearl Museum: Learn about the fascinating world of pearl farming in Moorea.
  6. Temae Market (Papeete Market): Experience local Polynesian culture and purchase fresh produce, souvenirs, and handicrafts.

Activities

  1. Snorkeling/Scuba Diving: Explore the rich marine life of the Moorea lagoon.
  2. Jeep Safari Tours: Discover hidden gems and scenic spots on a guided jeep tour.
  3. Shark & Ray Feeding: Swim with sharks and rays at various locations around the island.
  4. Sunset Cruise: Enjoy a romantic sunset cruise in the Moorea lagoon.
  5. Hiking: Explore Moorea’s stunning landscapes on guided or self-guided hikes.
  6. Visit a Marae (Polynesian Temple): Learn about Tahitian history and culture at one of the island’s ancient marae sites.

Where to Eat

  1. Le Bounty Restaurant & Bar: Offers stunning views, French Polynesian cuisine, and live music.
  2. Hitu Hitu: A popular restaurant serving traditional Tahitian dishes in a beautiful garden setting.
  3. La Pirogue: Enjoy delicious seafood dishes while overlooking the lagoon.
  4. Tiki-vae Beach Restaurant: Savor French Polynesian and Mediterranean cuisine on a secluded beach.

Where to Stay

  1. InterContinental Moorea Resort & Spa: Luxury resort with stunning views, excellent service, and a variety of amenities.
  2. Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa: Offers spacious overwater bungalows, multiple restaurants, and a beautiful pool area.
  3. Sofitel Moorea Ia Ora Beach Resort: A charming resort with beautiful gardens, ocean views, and Polynesian-style accommodations.
  4. Moorea Lodge: A boutique hotel offering intimate lodging in a tropical garden setting.
  5. Pension Mahana Moorea: Budget-friendly pension (guesthouse) located near Cook’s Bay.

Things to Know

  1. Currency: The official currency is the French Pacific Franc (XPF). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand.
  2. Language: The official languages are French and Tahitian. English is also spoken at many tourist establishments.
  3. Time Zone: Moorea is in the GMT-10 time zone.
  4. Electricity: The electrical outlets are Type E (two round pins) and Type F (two round pins with one earth hole). Adaptors can be purchased at local shops or brought from home.
  5. Internet: Free Wi-Fi is available at most hotels, restaurants, and cafes.

Transportation

  1. Ferry: The main way to travel between Tahiti and Moorea is by ferry. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes.
  2. Rent a Car/Scooter: Renting a car or scooter is the best way to get around the island independently. Be aware that driving in Moorea can be challenging due to narrow roads and steep hills.
  3. Taxi: Taxis are readily available, but they can be expensive, especially for long trips.
  4. Bus: A public bus system operates on Moorea, but it has limited routes and schedules.

Tips

  1. Respect Local Customs: Always ask permission before entering private property or taking photos of locals.
  2. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay cool in the tropical climate.
  3. Pack Sunscreen: The sun can be very strong in Moorea, so don’t forget your sunscreen!
  4. Try Local Foods: Sample traditional Tahitian dishes like poisson cru (raw fish salad), ma’a tiafaya (smoked pork), and huvali (breadfruit).
  5. Learn Basic French Phrases: Knowing some basic French will make your interactions with locals much easier and more enjoyable.