🌴 Moorea Travel Guide 2025

When most people think of French Polynesia, Bora Bora is the first island that comes to mind. But let me tell you a secret: Moorea is just as magical—maybe even more. Just a short 30-minute ferry ride from Tahiti, Moorea combines stunning lagoons, jagged volcanic peaks, and a slower, more authentic vibe. It’s paradise without the price tag (or crowds) of Bora Bora.

In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know before visiting Moorea—how to get there, where to stay, the best things to do, and a few insider tips I wish I had before my trip.

✈️ How to Get to Moorea

Getting to Moorea is surprisingly easy. Most international flights land at Tahiti’s Faa’a Airport (PPT). From there, you have two options:

Ferry: The most popular choice is the ferry from Tahiti to Moorea. It takes about 30–40 minutes, runs several times a day, and costs around $15–$20 each way. Two main companies operate the route: Aremiti and Terevau. Pro tip: buy tickets online in advance if you’re traveling during high season.
Domestic Flight: Air Tahiti also offers quick flights (about 10 minutes) from Tahiti to Moorea, but they’re pricier and less scenic than the ferry.

👉 If you want the full “wow” moment, take the ferry. Watching Moorea’s jagged green peaks rise from the ocean is unforgettable.

🛶 Where to Stay in Moorea

Moorea has something for every budget:

Luxury: If you’ve always dreamed of an overwater bungalow, check out the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa or Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea. These resorts offer the iconic “floating villa” experience, with direct access to the lagoon.
Mid-Range: For boutique charm, Hotel Manava Beach Resort is a favorite, with a mix of bungalows and beachfront rooms.
Budget: Moorea has plenty of Airbnbs, guesthouses, and pensions. Many are run by locals and offer an authentic, family-style stay. Camping is also possible if you’re adventurous.

💡 Tip: Stay near Temae Beach if you love snorkeling, or Cook’s Bay for dramatic scenery.

☀️ When to Visit Moorea

Moorea is beautiful year-round, but here’s what to know:
Dry Season (May–October): Sunny skies, cooler temps, and less humidity. Best time for outdoor adventures.
Wet Season (November–April): Hotter and more humid, with afternoon rain showers. Still gorgeous but pack light rain gear.
Whale Watching Season (July–October): Humpback whales migrate here, and you can join tours to see (and even swim with) them.

🌊 Best Things to Do in Moorea

Moorea is small, but it’s packed with adventures:

Snorkel with sharks and stingrays: The water is shallow and clear, and local guides make sure it’s safe - they are all trained on how to keep snorkelers safe when swimming with sharks.
Snorkel with humpback whales (July - October) - Highlight of the trip. It’s one of only five places in the world where you can actually swim alongside them. These gentle giants migrate here to breed, give birth, and nurture their calves. If you’re lucky, you may even hear the haunting songs of the males—so powerful you can feel the vibrations echo through your body. Truly unforgettable. If you are here to swim with humpback whales, most people book multiple tours to ensure whale sightings.

(sound on)

Lagoon & motu tours: Spend a day snorkeling coral gardens, then enjoy a picnic of fresh poisson cru (raw tuna with coconut milk) on a private islet.

Belvedere Lookout: A must-see viewpoint with panoramic views of Cook’s Bay and Opunohu Bay. You can get here by hiking, ATV or horseback riding tours.

Hiking/biking/horseback riding: The Three Coconuts Trail leads through lush valleys with rewarding views

Beaches: My personal favorite was Temae Beach—free, uncrowded, and incredible for snorkeling.
Shopping: there are a lot of cute little stores around the island - just ask your taxi driver or the concierge.
Circle the island: Rent a car or scooter and drive the 60 km loop road. You’ll find fruit stands, tiny villages, and hidden beaches along the way.

Credit to Moorea.com

🍍 Food & Drink in Moorea

Food in Moorea is a mix of Polynesian flavors and French influence.

Poisson cru: The national dish, made with raw tuna, lime juice, and coconut milk.
Mahi mahi with vanilla sauce: A local specialty.
Snack stands & roulottes: Affordable food trucks serving crepes, burgers, and island-style plates.
Fruit stands: Moorea is known for its pineapples—don’t miss the fresh juice at Rotui Juice Factory.
Drinks: Local rum, Tahitian beer (Hinano), and tropical cocktails are everywhere.

💡 Budget tip: Eat where locals eat. It’s cheaper and often tastier than resort dining.

🚗 Getting Around Moorea

Moorea doesn’t have much public transport, so your best options are:

Car Rental: The most convenient way to explore the island. Book early—cars can sell out.
Scooters & Bikes: Fun for short trips, but roads can be hilly.
Taxis: Limited and expensive. Not ideal for exploring.

💰 Budget & Costs

Moorea can be done luxuriously or on a budget:

Luxury: $500–$1,000+ per night for overwater bungalows.
Mid-Range: $150–$300 per night for hotels.
Budget: $50–$100 per night for Airbnbs or guesthouses.
Food: $5–$10 at snack stands, $20–$40 at mid-range restaurants, $50+ at resort dining.
Excursions: Lagoon tours and shark trips run about $80–$120 per person.

💡 Tip: Stock up on snacks at the local supermarkets to save money.

🌺 Hidden Gems & Local Tips

Opunohu Bay fruit stands: Try fresh pineapple and homemade jams.
Rotui Juice Factory: Free tastings of local juices and rum.
Sunset spots: Grab a drink and watch the sun set behind the mountains from a quiet beach.
Respect the reef: Always use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid standing on coral.

📌 Essential Travel Tips

Language: French is official, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Money: Pacific Franc (XPF). Credit cards accepted, but carry cash for small vendors.
Connectivity: SIM cards available at Tahiti airport. WiFi at most hotels.
Safety: Moorea is very safe. Just be cautious on hikes and in the water.
Packing list: Reef shoes, bug spray, dry bag, reusable water bottle, reef safe sunscreen

✨ Final Thoughts

Moorea is everything you dream of in a tropical island—turquoise water, lush mountains, and a relaxed island vibe. Whether you’re coming for a honeymoon, a family trip, or a solo adventure, you’ll leave with memories that feel like pure magic. 🌺

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Moorea - Bora Bora's little sister