Moorea Travel Guide (Society Islands/French Polynesia/Polynesia/Oceania)

Moorea is a stunning and culturally rich island located in the Society Islands, French Polynesia. With its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and stunning natural beauty, it has become a popular tourist destination. This comprehensive travel guide includes everything you need to know to plan a perfect trip to Moorea - from the best places to visit and things to do to transportation options and safety tips.

Introduction to Moorea

Moorea, also fondly known as the “Magical Island”, is a small island located just a few miles from Tahiti, the largest of the Society Islands. Known for its emerald green cliffs, white sandy beaches, and crystal-clear lagoons, Moorea is paradise on earth. The island is surrounded by a lagoon ring, which is dotted with small motus (islets). It has a population of approximately 17,000 people and occupies an area of 51 square kilometers.

List of Places to Visit in Moorea

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Moorea has a rich and fascinating history, and there are several museums and historical sites that you can visit to learn more about it. The Museum of Tahiti and the Islands is a great place to start. Here, you can learn about the island’s flora and fauna, as well as its history and culture through various exhibits and artifacts.

The Tiki Village Cultural Center is another must-visit attraction on the island. It is an authentic Polynesian village that offers visitors the chance to experience the traditional Polynesian way of life. You can also witness live cultural shows, including fire dancing and traditional music and songs.

Natural Attractions of Moorea: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you’re looking for natural attractions, Moorea doesn’t disappoint. The island is known for its turquoise lagoon, which is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. You can also take a boat tour of the lagoon to get up close and personal with the island’s marine life.

The Belvedere Lookout is another must-visit attraction offering panoramic views of the island. You can hike or drive to the site, and once there, you will be awed by the breathtaking view of the Opunohu and Cook’s Bay below.

For hiking enthusiasts, the Three Coconut Trail, which spans 21 kilometers, is a beautiful way to explore the island’s lush greenery and stunning waterfalls. For those who prefer biking, the island has several bike rental shops that offer guided tours of the island’s picturesque sites.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Moorea

As mentioned earlier, the Three Coconut Trail is one of the most popular hiking routes on the island. It is a relatively easy hike that allows you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the island. Other popular hiking routes include the Magic Mountain Trail and the Afareaitu Waterfall Trail.

For those who love cycling, there are several bike rental shops and guided tours available on the island. You can take a leisurely ride along the coastline or challenge yourself with a more difficult route such as the one leading to Belvedere Lookout.

Best Things to Do in Moorea: Activities and Tours

Besides hiking and biking, there are several other activities you can engage in while in Moorea. Some of the most popular ones include:

Snorkeling and diving - Moorea’s lagoon is teeming with marine life, and snorkeling or diving gives you a chance to experience it up close.
Jet-skiing and water sports - The island has several water sports operators that offer jet-skiing, water-skiing, and parasailing among other activities.
Sailing and boating - You can take a boat tour around the island or even charter a boat to explore the surrounding atolls and motus.
Island tours - There are several tour operators on the island offering cultural, botanical, and historical tours.

Week-Long Itinerary for Moorea

To help you plan your visit, here is a sample week-long itinerary for Moorea:

Day 1: Check-in at your hotel or resort and explore the nearby beaches.

Day 2: Take a guided tour of the Tiki Village Cultural Center, followed by lunch at a local restaurant.

Day 3: Hike to Belvedere Lookout or rent a bike to explore the island’s rugged coastline.

Day 4: Take a boat tour around the lagoon, stopping at the various motus along the way.

Day 5: Spend the day snorkeling or diving in the lagoon, followed by a relaxing spa treatment.

Day 6: Take an island tour, stopping at the Museum of Tahiti and the Islands, and other culturally important sites.

Day 7: Day of leisure before departure.

Food and Drink Scene of Moorea

No trip to Moorea is complete without trying some of the local delicacies and beverages. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Poisson cru - A raw fish salad, with coconut milk and lime juice.
Ma’a tinito - A Polynesian dish made of roasted pork and taro leaves.
Po’e - A dessert made from banana, mango, or pumpkin and thickened with cornstarch.

Local Beverages

Hinano - A fruity and refreshing local beer.
Vanilla-infused rum - A perfect souvenir to take home that also serves as a great gift.

Where to Stay in Moorea: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Moorea has a wide range of accommodation options, including luxury hotels, mid-range resorts, and budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels. Some popular options include the Hilton Moorea, Sofitel Moorea Ia Ora Beach Resort, and the Pension Motu Iti. A more budget-friendly option is the Te Fare Mihi.

What to Buy in Moorea: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to take back home, Moorea has several options. Some popular ones include:

Tahitian pearl jewelry - A great way to remember your trip to the island.
Handicrafts - There are several local markets and shops selling handcrafted items such as pareos, wooden carvings, and woven baskets.
Vanilla - Moorea is known for its high-quality vanilla, and you can find it in various forms such as vanilla-infused rum, vanilla pods, and vanilla extracts.

Local Culture and Customs of Moorea

The local culture of Moorea is deeply rooted in Polynesian traditions and customs. Respect for elders and hospitality towards visitors are highly valued in the community. Visitors are encouraged to learn and embrace the local culture. Polynesian dance and music are an important part of the cultural heritage and are often performed during cultural festivals and events.

Best Time to Visit Moorea

Moorea can be visited year-round. However, the best time to visit is during the dry season (May-October), where temperatures are pleasant, and there is little rainfall. The wet season (November-April) is also great for those who enjoy surfing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Moorea

Do:

Respect the local culture and customs.
Take care of the environment and marine life, by not littering or touching marine creatures.
Try some of the local dishes and interact with locals.

Don’t:

Take off your clothing on public beaches, as it is considered disrespectful.
Purchase black pearls from unauthorized vendors.
Engage in disrespectful behavior towards the local culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Moorea

Moorea is generally a safe destination for visitors, with low crime rates. However, visitors are advised to take caution in remote areas, especially at night. It is also recommended to keep valuables locked up in a safe and be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Health in Moorea

Visitors are advised to speak to their health providers about vaccinations before traveling to Moorea. It is also recommended to bring mosquito repellent, as there is a risk of mosquito-borne diseases.

Getting to Moorea: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Moorea

Moorea has one international airport, the Moorea Airport. It has daily flights to Tahiti’s Faa’a International Airport, which is a major hub for international flights to French Polynesia.

Bus Stations Near Moorea

Moorea does not have a public transportation system. Visitors can either rent a car or take a taxi to explore the island.

Other Options

Another option to get to Moorea is by boat, from nearby Tahiti or other nearby islands. Several ferry companies operate between the islands.

How to Get Around in Moorea

The best way to get around Moorea is by car or scooter. There are several car rentals available on the island. Visitors can also opt for bicycle rentals or use taxis to get to different locations.

Where to Go Next from Moorea: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Moorea is located close to several other stunning islands in French Polynesia, such as Bora Bora, Huahine, and Raiatea. Visitors can take short flights or boat rides to these destinations to extend their trip.

Conclusion

Moorea is an incredible destination, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan the perfect trip to this island paradise, taking advantage of its stunning scenery, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences. Remember to respect the local culture and customs, take care of the environment, and enjoy everything the island has to offer.