Curator’s statement
As an American married to a Tahitian, I first experienced French Polynesia as a wide-eyed traveler—and now, as a local. Mo’orea is a place where nature, culture, and community intertwine beautifully, offering travelers something beyond paradise and luxury. Curating journeys here allows me to share the magic and everyday wonder I’m lucky to call home.
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Where to stay in Mo'orea, French Polynesia
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Things to do in Mo'orea, French Polynesia
Humpback whales bless Mo'orea's waters from late July to early November.
Toatea lookout: Walk here from the Sofitel, or park your car to soak in the incredible views of Tahiti, the lagoon, and Temae beach. One of the best sunrise spots in Mo’orea that doesn’t require a hike. Have your camera ready!
Mo’orea Green Pearl Golf Course: Nestled between lush mountains and the turquoise lagoon, this 18-hole course—designed by Jack Nicklaus—invites players of all levels to enjoy a round surrounded by breathtaking views. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or simply curious, the serene setting and nearby amenities make it a perfect stop for couples, families, or solo travelers looking to unwind in style. Look out for whales (during the season) on hole 7, where the reef is very close to shore.
Belvedere Lookout & Opunohu Bay: Drive through ancient history at beautiful Belvedere Park, which offers many trails, picnic areas, and marae (ancient sites). At the top, you’ll find stunning panoramic views of Opunohu Bay and Paopao (Cook’s) Bay. Mo’orea’s ecomuseum, a local shrimp farm, and Tiki Parc (ziplining) are also located via this same road. Trois Pinus and Trois Cocotiers are beautiful hikes with rewarding views for seasoned hikers.
Magic Mountain: 200 cfp and (optional) amazing smoothies grant you access to the Magic Mountain Hike. It’s a fairly steep 30–45 minute walk with beautiful views throughout the hike and an incredible panoramic view at the top. Look out near the reef for the chance to spot dolphins or whales. If coming by foot, I recommend arriving shortly after they open at 8 am to beat the crowds and tours. Otherwise, consider coming on an ATV-Jetski Combo tour.
Private boat tour: Whether you want to go on an intro dive, explore the best snorkeling spots, or toast to a gorgeous ocean sunset, Mo’orea’s beautiful waters and ocean life have an incredible experience for you. There is something truly special about going on an ocean tour with a Polynesian captain who can tell you about the wildlife, landscapes, and the legends of their people and islands.
Snorkeling with humpback whales: Humpback whales travel from Antarctica to the French Polynesian islands to mate, give birth, and nurse their young. One of the few places in the world where you can swim with humpback whales, snorkeling tours operate from August 1 through the second week of November. If you’re lucky, you may see a mom and baby, playful juveniles, or hear the enchanting song of a male singer. Going with a vetted company that respects regulations and other boats is a must.
Flower crown atelier: Step into your sovereignty with a 2–3 hour workshop that provides all you’ll need to leave with your very own flower crown, made from your very own hands. The flowers in French Polynesia are vibrant and incredibly perfumed. If you don’t have time for an atelier, the best vendors are near the ferry.
Places to eat & drink in Mo'orea, French Polynesia
Poisson cru au lait du coco (raw fish in coconut milk) with a French rose and red tuna capaccio with local Hinano beer.
Lizard Jaune: Our favorite dinner in Mo’orea. If you like ginger, don’t miss the poisson cru appetizer, it’s a special one! Everything on the menu is fantastic, and they have exceptional service.
Coco Beach: Make reservations ahead of time for this awesome restaurant on a motu. Everything on the menu is great—I recommend taking an early boat (10 am, the earliest, if possible), and bringing your snorkel, sunnies, and towel! Try one of the sashimi dishes or one of their delicious cocktails.
Escale No Temae: This unassuming gem located inside Mo’orea airport has some of the best dishes you’ll find on Mo’orea. Open daily for lunch, including on Sundays. When most of the island is closed and sleepy, they’re open with live music. Try a “suggestion du jour” (suggestion of the day).
Ke’iki: This lovely spot reopened in 2025 with an expanded dining area and full cocktail menu. I recommend trying a daily special, though the local staples on their set menu won’t disappoint. Reservations recommended.
Te Honu Iti: A long-standing dinner spot in Pao Pao Bay. I love to come for dessert (try the tarte tatin) while watching rays, sharks, and fish swim by from their outdoor deck.
Snack Mahana: A must in Mo’orea—everything is delicious. The Mahi Mahi Pane (Breaded) and Poisson Cru au Lait du Coco are fantastic. This is a cash-only establishment, and reservations are not accepted. Try to be there when they open at 11 am for choice seating—they often sell out of their best dishes before 1 pm.
Holy Delices: Previously known as Holy Steakhouse, this is a tried-and-true upscale dining experience in the Tiahura area. Seafood dishes (including a great take on shrimp dumplings) and salads are available if steak isn’t your thing. Reservations recommended.
Mo’orea Golf Restaurant: Reopening in 2026 by the same chef as “Escale No Temae” above, the Golf Course of Mo’orea—one of the most beautiful golf courses in the world—is getting an upgrade! If it is anything like the airport restaurant, it will be a huge success.
Need to know
Tahitian people: Tahitians are regarded as some of the most genuinely friendly people in the world. Locals share a generally happy and friendly disposition. You’ll find you are often greeted by a kind smile and salutation. Don’t be shy—practice your Tahitian and say, “Ia Ora Na!” (hello!)
Ferry: Mo’orea is 17 kilometers northwest of Tahiti, accessible by a short ferry ride. Aremiti and Vaeara’i (my favorite!) offer 45-minute ferries to and from Tahiti. The Aremiti 6 offers a faster 30 minute ferry. Terevau and Tauati also service the islands. Use the links above to view the ferry schedule.
Live music: Carmeline has music on Friday. Call to confirm and book a table. Vaiare Pizza has open-mic style live music on Friday evenings. Chez Pascal has live music on Sundays from 12 pm–3 pm.
Sundays: Sundays are taken seriously as a day of rest, to be spent at home with family. Wake up early to witness the local ritual of buying homemade Tahitian plates, freshly picked fruit, and wild-caught fish off the side of the road, with some of the island’s best sold out by 6 am, and most wrapping up their sales by 8 am. There are Protestant, Catholic, 7th-day Adventist, and Mormon churches on Mo’orea, and mass typically begins at 10 am, though Eglise Saint Famille begins at 7:30 am. Most stores or “magasin” will close by noon. A handful of restaurants stay open for Sunday dinner, though most will close until Wednesday. Magasin Takeya is an exception, open daily until 7 pm.
Supermarkets: The biggest grocery stores on the island are Champion in Vai’are (near the ferry) and Super U Are in Paopao (Cook’s Bay). There are many stands selling fruit, vegetables, and other local goods in front of Champion, and next to Super U Are.
Public beaches: The public beaches of Temae, Ta’ahiamanu, and Hauru are great places to swim, snorkel, and get a glimpse of local life. Open from sunrise to sunset. Temae Beach is currently under threat of being purchased as an extension of the Sofitel—you may see signs of protest on the beach.
Black pearls: Black pearls can make for a beautiful honeymoon souvenir. They come in many hues—purple, green, gray, even pink. I recommend buying your pearls in Mo’orea or Bora Bora. In Mo’orea, I recommend Jan with Mo’orea Treasures, or Wendy with Have A Nice Pearl (at the Manava hotel, as well as the Tahiti Airport). Both are fluent in English.
Food: Root vegetables like sweet potato and taro, as well as fruits like pineapple, coconut, papaya, banana, and passionfruit are aplenty. Depending on the season, you may also enjoy mango, avocado, breadfruit, starfruit, and other exotic fruits. Support locals by purchasing fruit, vegetables, coconut, and fish from vendors along the street before going to the store.
Travel Advisor
Elizabeth Gonzalez
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