Ultimate Travel Guide to Moorea

Just a short ferry ride from Tahiti, Moorea is often called a “love island,” for its heart-shaped outline when viewed from above. It is well known for the dramatic volcanic peaks, lush green valleys, turquoise lagoons, and pineapple plantations. Whether you’re seeking thrilling activities, serene beaches, or cultural immersion, Moorea offers something unforgettable for every traveler.

If this is your first time to visit French Polynesia, check Kathy’s Ultimate Travel Guide to French Polynesia. Need inspirations, visit Kathy’s French Polynesia Travel Gallery. For information on the island of Tahiti, check Kathy’s Ultimate Travel Guide to Tahiti.

Click the map to selectively view the locations of top attractions, accommodations, or restaurants.

Table of Content

• Top Attractions
• Accommodations
• Restaurants
• Itinerary and Activities

Top Attractions

Magic Mountain Lookout

• A breathtaking viewpoint offering the magical, awe-inspiring scenery of Moorea’s coastline, the Opunohu Bay, and surrounding water. It is accessible via a short, steep hike on a paved trail (30-40 minutes one way) or by ATV.
• To access this trail, you will be charged a fee of 200 XPF per person ($2) at the parking area.

Opunohu Bay

• Moorea’s most picturesque natural harbor. It is located on the northern coast of the island. Surrounded by lush green mountains and volcanic peaks, the bay is less developed than nearby Cook’s Bay. It’s a popular spot for boating, snorkeling, and exploring the island’s rich biodiversity.

Mount Mouaputa

• Also known as “The Pierced Mountain,” Mount Mouaputa is one of Moorea’s most iconic peaks, standing tall at 830 meters (2,723 feet). Its name comes from a prominent hole near the summit, which gives the mountain its distinct and mysterious appearance.
• The hike to summit Mount Mouaputa is very challenging (4.8 miles out-and-back, 2,700 feet elevation gain). It requires stamina and technical skills due to steep and uneven terrain. It is recommended to hike with a guide due to the trail’s difficulty and to learn about the mountain’s legends and cultural significance.

Mountain Rotui

• One of the most iconic and dramatic peaks in Moorea, Mountain Rotui is situated between the Opunohu and Cook’s Bays. The mountain is best admired from viewpoints like Belvedere Lookout or during a boat tour of the bays.
• Some hikers call it “the double black diamond of all trails,” Rotui Mountain hike is one of the most challenging hikes on the island, because the trail is steep, narrow, and rugged (4.2 miles out-and-back, 3,500 feet elevation gain, 6+ hours). Several deaths have been reported from hiking this trail. However, you will be rewarded with incredible view of Moorea whether you make to the top or just half way. The most frequently used trailhead is located near the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa, just a short walk down the opposite side of the road. You will see a sign “Rotui” that will point you to the trailhead.

Plage Publique de Ta’ahiamanu

• Also known as Mareto Beach, Plage Tahiamanu is a beautiful public beach located on Moorea’s northern coast, near Opunohu Bay. It features soft white sand, calm turquoise waters, and plenty of shade from coconut trees. It is a popular spot for relaxation, picnic, and swimming, and a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Plage publique de Temae

• Located on Moorea’s northeastern coast, it is one of the island’s most beautiful and popular public beaches. Known for its soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, it offers stunning views of the lagoon and the neighboring island of Tahiti. The calm, shallow waters make it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing under the sun.

Toatea Lookout

• A viewpoint near Plage de Temae offering breathtaking panoramic views of the turquoise lagoon, Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort, and the island of Tahiti. The best time to visit this lookout is at sunset, when the lagoon’s colors and the silhouette of Tahiti create a magical scene.

Plage Publique de Tiahura

• Located on the northwestern coast of Moorea, it is a beautiful white-sand beach renowned for its calm, shallow waters and stunning views of the lagoon. It is ideal for exploring the turquoise lagoon, nearby motus (small islands), and Coral Garden.

Coral Garden Tiahura

• Located off the northwestern coast of Moorea near Tiahura Beach, it is a popular snorkeling spot renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. This shallow area is perfect for snorkeling enthusiasts of all skill levels.

Opunohu Valley

• A lush and picturesque area known for its dramatic mountains, dense tropical forests, and cultural significance. The valley is home to vast pineapple fields, where you can see and learn about one of Moorea’s most important crops. Numerous trails wind through the valley, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes leading to ancient marae (Polynesian temples) and forested areas.

Tiki Village

• A cultural center of Moorea. The site is designed as a traditional Tahitian village with replicas of ancient homes and temples, offering visitors a cultural experience of Polynesia. The highlights include traditional Polynesian dance performance, traditional Polynesian feast (tama’ara’a), cultural workshops such as weaving, tattooing, and learning about pearl farming.
• Business hours:
  • Daytime Visits: Open from Tuesday to Saturday, 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. During these hours, guests can explore the village, participate in workshops, and observe traditional crafts.
  • Evening Shows: Available on select days, 6:00PM to 10:00PM: High Season (May to October): Shows on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday.
  • The center is generally closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Accomodations

Kathy’s Experience: Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa ($$$$)

• A luxurious 5-star resort situated between Cook’s Bay and Opunohu Bay on the island of Moorea. It is about 20 minutes by car from Moorea Airport, and 25 minutes by car from Moorea Ferry terminal. The resort has 104 bungalows, including garden bungalows with private plunge pools and overwater bungalows with direct lagoon access. It has three on-site restaurants: Arii Vahine Restaurant, Rotui Grill & Bar, and Toatea Crêperie & Bar. The resort has a spa, an infinite pool, a fitness center, and two tennis courts. It also provides free equipment for activities such as snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
• Rates: Room rates vary depending on the season, bungalow type, and booking platform. On average, Garden Bungalows start at approximately $500 to $800 per night. Overwater Bungalows start at approximately $1,000+ per night.
• Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa Map
• Kathy’s experience: The best part of Hilton is the lagoon. The water is crystal clear, and not too deep (3-6 feet). There are plenty of coral reefs and marine life to check out. It is a good alternative to enjoy a stay in overwater bungalows without paying the outrageously high prices in Bora Bora. However, I am not enthusiastic about the food options, and I am especially disappointed about their buffet dinner accompanying the night Polynesian dance program.

Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort ($$$$)

• A luxurious 5-star resort situated on Moorea’s northeastern coast, renowned for its stunning white-sand beaches and crystal-clear lagoon waters. The resort offers 113 bungalows and villas, including garden bungalows, beachfront bungalows, and overwater bungalows. It has four on-site dining venues: Pure Restaurant, K Restaurant, Value Bar, and Beach Bar. The resort has a spa, an infinite pool, a fitness center, and two tennis courts. It also provides free equipment for activities such as snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
• Rates: Room rates vary depending on the season, bungalow type, and booking platform. On average, Garden Bungalows start at approximately $500 to $700 per night. Overwater Bungalows start at approximately at $1,000+ per night.
• Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort Map

Hotel Manava Beach Resort & Spa Moorea ($$$$)

• A 4-star traditional Polynesian-style resort, located in Maharepa, Moorea. It is about 10 minutes by car from the airport and 15 minutes by car from Moorea ferry terminal. It offers a variety of accommodations, including rooms, apartments, garden bungalows with private plunge pools, beach bungalows, and overwater bungalows. It has two restaurants and a bar providing local and international cuisine.
• Rates: Room rates vary depending on the season, room type, and booking platform. On average, rooms start at $400 to $600 per night, Garden Bungalows start at approximately $500 to $900 per night. Overwater Bungalows start at approximately at $800 to $1,000+ per night.

Moorea Sunset Beach ($$$)

• The property is located in Ha’apiti on Moorea’s western coast, close to Coral Garden Tiahura. It is about 30 minutes by car from the airport and 35-40 minutes by car from Moorea ferry terminal. It offers fully equipped apartments and bungalows, each featuring air conditioning, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a seating area with a flat-screen TV. Some units include terraces or balconies with sea views
• Rates: Room rates vary depending on the season, room type, and booking platform. On average, rooms start at $250 to $350 per night.

Linareva Moorea Beach Resort ($$)

• A charming 3-star, highly-rated guesthouse located in Haapiti, on the western coast of Moorea. The resort offers a variety of accommodations, including studios, suites, villas, and traditional Tahitian bungalows (fares). Each bungalow includes a private bathroom with hot water, a fully equipped kitchenette, satellite TV, and a covered patio with ocean views. It is a good option for extended stays or a big family.
• Rates: Room rates vary depending on the season, bungalow type, and booking platform. On average, rooms start at $120 to $200 per night.

Restaurants

Kathy’s Recommendation: Rudy’s Moorea Steak and Seafood ($$$)

• A family-owned establishment located in Maharepa, Moorea, well known for its French and American cuisine infused with local island flavors. It offers a diverse menu featuring fresh seafood and quality meats. Famous for their crab-stuffed parrot fish, seafood casserole, and warm, family-run atmosphere.
• Business Hours: Thursday to Tuesday: 5:30PM to 9:00PM. Close on Wednesdays.
• Extra: Rudy’s offers complimentary shuttle service for guests staying at nearby hotels. It’s advisable to make reservations (rudysmoorea@gmail.com, 689 40 56 58 00) in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability.
• Kathy’s Experience: We had one of the best meals at Rudy’s. We liked the restaurant so much that we went back there again the next night. You MUST try its its signature dishes.

Kathy’s Recommendation: North Shore Poke and Smoothie Bar ($$-$)

• A popular eatery located right across the Plage Publique de Ta’ahiamanu. It offers different types of fresh poke bowls, Açaí Bowls, and smoothies.
• Business Hours: Wednesday to Sunday: 11:00AM to 3:00PM. Close on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Kathy’s Recommendation: Aoy Thaï Food ($)

• A highly regarded Thai food truck nearby Hilton Moorea., known for its authentic Thai cuisine. The establishment offers a rotating menu with two different dishes each day, often including options like green curry and pad thai.
• Business Hours: Wednesday to Saturday: 11:00AM to 2:00PM; 4:00pm-7:30PM. Close on Sundays to Tuesdays.

Kathy’s Recommendation: Manutea Tahiti – Rotui Juice Factory & Distillery ($$)

• A popular attraction on Moorea, offering visitors an opportunity to learn about the juice and liqueur production process and sample delicious beverages made from local fruits . Check out its distillery tour, and enjoy free tastings of Rotui juices and Manutea spirits, including their rum, pineapple wine, and liqueurs. It also has a gift shop to shop for nice souvenirs to take home.
• Business Hours: Monday to Friday: 8:00PM to 5:00PM. Saturday: 8:00AM to 12:00PM. Close on Sundays and public holidays.

Kathy’s Recommendation: Coco Beach Moorea($$$)

• A popular beachfront restaurant located on Motu Tiahura, a picturesque islet off the northwest coast of Moorea. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, Polynesian-style cuisine, and stunning lagoon views, it offers guests a unique dining experience with their feet in the sand. The restaurant specializes in fresh seafood and local dishes, such as Poisson cru, grilled fish and meat, papaya salad.
• Business Hours: Wednesday to Sunday: 11:00AM to 2:00PM. Close Mondays and Tuesdays.

Moorea Beach Cafe ($$$)

• A popular waterfront restaurant located in Maharepa, offering a blend of French, Polynesian, and international cuisine. It is a great place for cocktails or waterfront dining with gorgeous sunset views. Popular dishes include gourmet pizzas, Tuna tartare, and lobster ravioli.
• Extra: It offers complimentary shuttle service for guests staying at nearby hotels. Book in advance at +689 40 56 29 99.
• Business Hours: Open daily: 8:00AM to 9:30PM.

Snack Mahana RESA ($$)

• A good lunch spot for casual Polynesian and seafood fare. Beachfront dining with a relaxed vibe; excellent poisson cru.
• Business Hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 11:00AM to 2:00PM. Close on Sundays and Mondays.

Manuia Grill ($$)

• A casual open-air restaurant located in Maharepa, directly opposite the Manava Beach Resort. The restaurant specializes in local-style barbecue, including fresh seafood, grilled meat, and tuna dishes.
• Business Hours: Open daily: 6:00PM to 10:00PM.

Restaurant La Grand Voile ($)

• A charming eatery located in Maharepa, within the Centre Les Colorées. Known for its warm ambiance and generous portion, it has garnered praise from both locals and visitors. The restaurant offers Crêpes, burgers, poke bowls, and desserts.
• Business Hours: Monday to Saturday: 11:00AM to 3:00PM. Close on Sundays.

Itinerary and Activities

Moorea has plenty of authentic French Polynesian experience to offer. It is well worth to stay for 3-4 days to enjoy its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and outdoor adventures. This 4-day itinerary can be easily modified based on your interest and the duration of your visit.

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation

• Morning: Arrival in Moorea
  • Take the ferry from Tahiti or arrive by plane.
  • Check into your hotel (e.g., Hilton Moorea, Sofitel Kia Ora, or Manava Beach Resort).
• Afternoon: Explore Your Surroundings
  • Walk along the beach or enjoy your resort’s facilities.
  • Snorkel in the lagoon or relax by the pool.
• Evening: Sunset Dinner
  • Enjoy a romantic dinner at Rudy’s Restaurant.
  • End the night with drinks and lagoon views.

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Day 2: Land Adventure and Culture

• Morning: Belvedere Lookout and Opunohu Valley
  • Drive or bike to Belvedere Lookout for panoramic views of Cook’s and Opunohu Bays.
  • Take a hike on the Three Coconuts Trail or Three Pines Trail, or explore other trails in Opunohu Valley, passing pineapple plantations and ancient marae.
  • Grab a lunch to go at Aoy Thaï Food or North Shore Poke and Smoothie Bar, and enjoy a picnic on the nearby Ta’ahiamanu Beach.
• Afternoon: Tiki Village Cultural Center
  • Visit the Tiki Village Cultural Center for an immersive Polynesian cultural experience.
  • Learn about traditional crafts, tattooing, and more.
• Evening: Polynesian Feast and Dance Show
  • Stay at the Tiki Village for a traditional Tama’ara’a (Polynesian feast) and dance performance (check out its schedule and plan accordingly).

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Day 3: Lagoon and Marine Life

• Morning: Lagoon Tour:
  • Kathy’s Recommendation: Moorea 6-Hour Snorkeling and Lunch Shared Tour
  • Take a guided lagoon tour to snorkel with rays and blacktip reef sharks.
  • Stop at a motu (small islet) such as Coco Beach Moorea for a BBQ lunch.
• Afternoon: Coral Garden and Beach
  • Snorkel at Coral Garden Tiahura for vibrant marine life.
  • Relax at Tiahura Beach or Temae Beach.
• Evening: Dinner at Manuia Grill
  • Enjoy fresh seafood and grilled meats in a casual, open-air setting.

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Day 4: Adventure and Farewell

• Morning: Magic Mountain Hike
  • Hike or take an ATV to Magic Mountain for breathtaking views of the lagoon.
• Afternoon: Shopping and Relaxation
  • Visit Manutea Tahiti – Rotui Juice Factory & Distillery, take a distillery tour, enjoy free tastings of Rotui juices and Manutea spirits, and pick up a few bottles of locally produced liqueurs and wine to take home.
  • Shop for souvenirs at Maharepa.
  • Enjoy a relaxing massage at your resort’s spa.
• Evening: Farewell Dinner
  • Have your last meal at Toatea Crêperie & Bar (Hilton Moorea) for an overwater dining experience.

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