Curator’s statement
Moorea is unlike anywhere I've ever been. If you've always dreamed of visiting a tropical island destination without the heavy tourist crowds, this is your place. The views are unmatched, the water couldn't be bluer and clearer and the marine life is incredible.
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Where to stay in Moorea
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Things to do in Moorea
Beach: Moorea has multiple beautiful public beaches!
Jet Ski Tour: We did a tour with Top Jet & Top Quad Moorea, and it was the highlight of our trip. The views are absolutely incredible.
Snorkeling: This is some of the best snorkeling in the world. There is so much marine life to see! There are coral reefs near shore on many beaches. I recommend a tour if snorkeling is a top priority!
Swim with Sharks and Stingrays: Must do while in French Polynesia! The lagoon is shallow, you can stand in the sand and the stingrays and blacktip sharks will come right up to you.
Hiking: There are quite a few hiking trails that offer scenic views of the island. Most of the island is undeveloped. This can be a challenge during the wet season because they get pretty muddy.
Swim with Whales: We, unfortunately, didn't visit during whale season. However, from July to early November, you can swim with the whales here. It's one of the only places in the world that you can. It looks incredible!
Places to eat & drink in Moorea
Fare La Canadienne Burger House Moorea: This is seriously one of the best burgers I've ever had. I do not know how they got their buns so fluffy.
Golden Lake: This seemed to be the spot where the locals would go. Delicious Chinese food. The snack window is also amazing for lunch.
Super U Aré: Yes, this is a grocery store. They have a hot, ready-made section. This grocery store had one of the best pain au chocolat I've ever had. The egg rolls and sandwiches are also pretty great.
Allo Pizza: This is a true roadside eatery; there are barstools at a bar outside right on the side of the road. The pizza is delicious! I've never been a fan of crêpes, and their pineapple crêpes made me a convert.
Manuia Grill: If you want to try fresh, local food, this is your place. They have a lot of skewer options and daily specials. Very friendly staff and great atmosphere.
Need to know
We learned a few things from our trip to Moorea:
1. You'll have the best time if you embrace the local vibes. If you're looking for fancy, Bora Bora is more your speed. Moorea is an island with more of a local feel. Many of the accommodations are more rustic than other places we have traveled.
2. You have to fly into Tahiti if you're arriving from an international destination. The easiest way to get to Moorea from Tahiti is the ferry. You can buy tickets in the morning at the ferry terminal. Make sure you check the ferry schedule while planning your trip, they stop running for the day in the early evening. You may need to spend a night in Tahiti before coming to Moorea (if you do, I highly recommend the Intercontinental Tahiti)!
3. The dominant language is French. Most people we encountered knew some English.
4. I recommend water shoes if you are planning on going into the water. The coral can be sharp.
5. They use European outlets here. Make sure you bring an adapter!
6. The French influence on the food can definitely be seen. Baguettes, pastries and butter are excellent here.
7. Most people recommend not drinking the water in Moorea. We got a pack of bottled water from the store.
8. The local juice, Rotui, is made in Moorea. Try juice whenever you have the opportunity. It's so fresh and delicious. There was a blend of strawberry, orange and banana that was the best juice I've ever had.
Travel Advisor
Alyssa Wolf
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our French Polynesia page.