You will fall in love with Moorea island from the moment you step off the boat! The island resembles the shape of a heart and it´s absolutely gorgeous!
Known as ‘the magical island’, Moorea is one of French Polynesia’s premier destinations. There’s something for everybody here.
With a shape like a heart looking down at the island from above, it is no surprise that this island is the second most popular honeymoon destination on The Islands of Tahiti. Eight mountain peaks rise magically out of the ocean like a cathedral. High, sharp, inspiring green spires crowned by clouds.
The island of Moorea reflects the Polynesian lifestyle and offers visitors an authentic experience of The Islands of Tahiti, boasting “La vie heureuse,” as they say in Tahiti, a happy life.
The northern part of Moorea is home to the island’s most dramatic landscapes; most notably Mount Rotui, Opunohu Bay and Cook’s Bay.
How to get to Moorea island
First, you would need to get to Papeete (Tahiti island). There are direct flights from San Francisco and Los Angeles (flight time aprox 8 hours 30 minutes).
Flying from Europe, the best way would be getting to Los Angeles or San Francisco and from there to Papeete. Another good option is flying by Air Tahiti Nui from Paris to Papeete, with stopover in Los Angeles.
The best way to get from Tahiti to Moorea?
By ferry
It’s easy and inexpensive to catch the ferry. The Aremiti ferry leaves from Papeete. You can even take your rental car on the ferry to Moorea. The fare is about $15 USD one-way.
By plane
Air Tahiti flights to Moorea depart from Faa’a Airport several times a day, and the flight is only 15 minutes long.
Where to stay on Moorea island
This beautiful island offers an incredible number of different accommodation options, and which one you choose can really make a difference on your vacation.
Here’s the list of best Moorea resorts for a unique holiday in Moorea:
Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort
Just five minutes’ drive from the airport, it’s situated on a beautiful white sand beach and looks out across the lagoon towards Tahiti Island.
This Moorea resort boasts lovely bungalows made from natural materials and offers garden or beach views.
You can book your stay here: https://www.booking.com/Share-XaFgP9
Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa
This beach resort offers the perfect luxury experience, complete with panoramic views over the ocean. Located between two bays on Moorea Island, the hotel is just 20 minutes drive from the airport and 25 minutes from the ferry terminal.
The bungalows at this hotel are suspended over the turquoise water or nestled among exotic flowers and make this one of the best hotels in Moorea, French Polynesia. Some of them even boast a private plunge pool or a glass-bottom table that allows you to peek into the waters below.
The entire island is beautiful, but this particular region is especially breathtaking.
You can book your stay here: https://www.booking.com/Share-1GbW4m
Manava Beach Resort & Spa Moorea
If you’re looking for Moorea resorts with lots of amenities and stunning views, then the Manava Beach Resort & Spa is for you. It’s just ten minutes from the airport and 15 minutes from the ferry and offers the perfect beachfront experience.
You can book your stay here: https://www.booking.com/Share-xs8EZT
What to do & see
• Explore the Lagoon. There is no better way to explore a coral garden than in a transparent kayak for two!
• Snorkel with Sharks at the Lagoonarium – perfect mix of snorkelling, and authentic island meal and swimming with the local reef sharks and stingrays.
• Head to the best beaches in Moorea:
Tipaniers Beach, with the shallow reef for snorkeling;
Tema’e Beach, right by the Sofitel hotel, is another gorgeous beach for both: swimming and snorkeling.
Ta’ahiamanu Beach, a public beach located about halfway between the two beaches above.
Tiahura Beach, a tiny, narrow white-sand beach located inside a park with free showers, toilets, and fewer beachgoers.
• Climb to Belvedere Viewpoint. It offers some of the most striking views of Opunohu Valley and Cook and Opunohu Bays.
• Visit the Sea Turtles at Te Mana O Te Moana. It is a center for rescuing sick and injured sea turtles.
• Swim with Whales, Sharks, and Rays. If you’re in Moorea between July and November, it’s a great time to see humpback whales, dolphins, grey reef sharks, black reef sharks, pink whip rays, and leopard rays.
• Check Out the Views from Magic Mountain of Moorea. From the top of Magic Mountain, you’ll enjoy an incredible, sweeping view of the island’s coastline.
We left piece of our hearts in this place. There is something special here, all the greenery, breath-taking lookout points and crystal clear water beaches makes you feel like you´re in true paradise.
For more travel inspiration to French Polynesia check my posts here: https://travelwithanny.com/category/destinations/oceania/
Have a nice & safe trips
Your sincerely,
Anny