Moorea – French Polynesia’s Enchanting Island Paradise
Often overshadowed by its glamorous neighbor Bora Bora, Moorea is one of French Polynesia’s best-kept secrets—a lush, mountainous island wrapped in turquoise waters and brimming with authentic Polynesian charm. Just a short ferry ride from Tahiti, Moorea offers the perfect blend of dramatic landscapes, pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and a laid-back island vibe that appeals to honeymooners, families, and adventure seekers alike.
Where is Moorea?
Moorea lies only 17 kilometers (about 10 miles) northwest of Tahiti. Its proximity to the capital, Papeete, makes it one of the easiest islands in French Polynesia to reach. You can hop on a high-speed ferry from Tahiti—a scenic 30- to 40-minute ride—or take a quick 15-minute flight.
This accessibility makes Moorea a popular first stop in French Polynesia for travelers looking to combine convenience with postcard-perfect beauty.
First Impressions: The Island of Eight Peaks
From the moment Moorea comes into view, it feels like you’ve stepped into a painting. The island’s jagged volcanic peaks, deep emerald valleys, and lush rainforests rise dramatically from the lagoon, earning it the nickname “The Magical Island.”
Two symmetrical bays—Cook’s Bay and Opunohu Bay—carve into the coastline, creating some of the most photographed scenery in the South Pacific. The combination of rugged mountains and sparkling lagoon makes Moorea one of the most visually striking islands in the world.
Where to Stay – Moorea Resorts & Accommodations
Moorea offers a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to boutique hotels and family-run guesthouses. Many properties sit right on the lagoon, with overwater bungalows providing direct access to the turquoise waters.
Top Moorea Resorts:
Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa – Features iconic overwater bungalows with glass floor panels and breathtaking mountain views.
Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort – Known for one of the best beaches on the island, plus luxury villas and fine dining.
Manava Beach Resort & Spa – Combines Polynesian charm with modern comfort, offering both overwater and garden bungalows.
For budget-conscious travelers, Moorea also has charming pensions (family-run inns) and Airbnb options that provide a more local experience.
Things to Do in Moorea
While Moorea is ideal for simply relaxing, it’s also an adventure-lover’s dream. Here are the top things to do in Moorea:
1. Snorkeling & Diving
The lagoon is teeming with life—colorful reef fish, rays, and even reef sharks. Popular snorkeling spots include the Lagoonarium de Moorea, where you can swim alongside rays and sharks in shallow, crystal-clear water.
2. Lagoon Tours
Take a full-day lagoon excursion to explore the island’s coast, snorkel in coral gardens, and enjoy a traditional Polynesian picnic on a motu (small island).
3. Hiking & 4x4 Tours
For panoramic views, head to the Belvedere Lookout, which offers sweeping vistas of Cook’s Bay, Opunohu Bay, and Mount Rotui. Guided 4x4 tours can take you deeper into the island’s pineapple plantations, lush valleys, and ancient marae (sacred temples).
4. Whale Watching
From July to November, humpback whales migrate through Moorea’s waters. Several eco-tours allow you to observe these gentle giants—and in some cases, even snorkel near them.
5. Water Sports
Try paddleboarding, kayaking, or jet skiing on the calm lagoon waters. Many resorts offer free equipment for guests.
6. Cultural Experiences
Attend a Polynesian dance show, learn to weave palm fronds, or join a cooking class to make poisson cru, French Polynesia’s national dish of raw tuna marinated in coconut milk and lime.
Dining in Moorea
Moorea’s dining scene blends French culinary finesse with island flavors. You’ll find everything from fine dining in luxury resorts to casual beachside cafés serving fresh fish.
Must-Try Spots:
Snack Mahana – A local favorite for fresh seafood with lagoon views.
Holy Steak House – Perfect for meat lovers, with sweeping views over the water.
Rudy’s – Known for its parrotfish and warm hospitality.
Don’t leave without trying pineapple from Moorea—the island’s volcanic soil produces some of the sweetest in the world.
Best Time to Visit Moorea
The dry season (May to October) is the most popular time to visit, offering sunny days, lower humidity, and calm seas—ideal for water activities and hiking. The shoulder months of April and November are great for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
The wet season (December to March) brings higher humidity and more rain, but it’s also a time of lush greenery and lower hotel rates.
Why Moorea is Perfect for Honeymoons
While Bora Bora often steals the honeymoon spotlight, Moorea offers a more authentic and relaxed experience—often at a lower price point. Couples can enjoy overwater bungalows, private motu picnics, sunset cruises, and spa treatments while also exploring the island’s adventurous side. It’s the perfect balance of romance and activity.
Pros and Cons of Visiting Moorea
Pros:
Easy to reach from Tahiti
Stunning combination of mountains and lagoon
Plenty of activities on land and water
More affordable than Bora Bora for similar luxury experiences
Authentic Polynesian culture
Cons:
Limited nightlife—Moorea is about relaxation, not partying
Overwater bungalows still come with a high price tag
Weather can be unpredictable in the wet season
Travel Tips for Moorea
Book tours in advance during peak season, especially whale-watching trips.
Rent a car or scooter to explore the island at your own pace.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the lagoon’s fragile ecosystem.
Combine Moorea with Bora Bora or Huahine for a diverse French Polynesia itinerary.
Final Thoughts – Is Moorea Worth It?
Absolutely. Moorea is a destination that offers the best of French Polynesia—breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant marine life, luxury accommodations, and authentic island culture—without the remoteness (or price tag) of Bora Bora.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic honeymoon, a family-friendly adventure, or a solo escape, Moorea delivers an experience that feels both indulgent and genuine. Here, you can spend the morning hiking through pineapple fields, the afternoon snorkeling with rays, and the evening watching the sunset from your bungalow deck.
Moorea is not just a place you visit—it’s a place you feel. And once you’ve been, it will call you back.