Moorea — Where the Mountains Touch the Sea

Destination Overview

Moorea is often called “the heart of French Polynesia” — and for good reason.Just a short ferry ride from Tahiti, this island feels like a world of its own: a perfect blend of lush mountains, hidden waterfalls, turquoise lagoons, charming villages, and encounters with incredible marine life.

It’s the most diverse island in French Polynesia, offering a mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic island culture.Whether you’re hiking through jungle peaks, swimming with sharks, tasting fresh fruit at local markets, or watching humpback whales breach in the distance — Moorea gives you everything in one place.

🐋 Whale season: July to October.During these months, humpback whales visit the warm waters around Moorea — and swimming with them (with respect and guidance) is a life-changing experience.

Why We Loved It

Moorea completely stole our hearts. 💙

After visiting many islands, this one felt like the perfect balance — breathtaking nature, accessible adventures, amazing food, and just enough nightlife to keep things lively.

Every day here felt different — one morning we were hiking to a hidden viewpoint, the next we were swimming beside manta rays or sipping cocktails at sunset.It’s the kind of island that makes you feel alive — where every road leads to another piece of paradise.

Where We Stayed

Moorea offers a wide range of stays — from local Airbnbs to luxury resorts.

🏡 Airbnb near the airport — Cozy, comfortable, and perfect for exploring the island. We cooked simple dinners, had coffee with mountain views, and started each morning with fresh baguettes and sunshine.

🌺 The Sofitel Moorea Kia Ora Resort — Our overwater bungalow experience was pure magic. Crystal-clear water beneath the deck, endless horizon views, and that surreal sunrise over Mount Rotui.Even if you don’t stay overnight, a day pass here is absolutely worth it.

🌄 Airbnb in the hills — A hidden gem overlooking the mountains.

The view of Moorea from a different angle — especially at sunrise — was breathtaking. Highly recommended for a peaceful, local experience.

Where to Eat

Moorea’s food scene is surprisingly diverse, with everything from fine dining to local favorites. Here are a few spots we loved:

🍕 Casa Vincenzo — Probably the best pizza on the island. Cozy, local, and full of flavor.

🥥 North Shore Poke & Smoothie Bar — For an early breakfast or post-snorkeling refresh. Their açaí bowls are next-level.

🌴 Moorea Maitai — Great lunch spot right by the water, with beautiful lagoon views.

🍹 Coco Beach Moorea

If there’s one restaurant you shouldn’t miss on the island — it’s Coco Beach Moorea.

Located on a tiny private motu (islet) just off the coast, this open-air beach restaurant offers one of the most unforgettable dining experiences in French Polynesia.

To get there, you’ll take a short boat ride over turquoise waters but here’s the catch: you must reserve well in advance (we mean weeks ahead!).

The vibe is pure island paradise: feet in the sand, music playing softly, and dishes of freshly grilled fish, lobster, and tropical sides served right by the lagoon.

It’s the perfect place to spend a lazy afternoon — eating, swimming, and soaking in that postcard-perfect Moorea view. 🌺🌊

🍹 And of course — plenty of casual beach bars for a sunset cocktail or two.

Top Things to Do

🐋 Swim with Humpback Whales (July–October)

One of the most emotional experiences in French Polynesia.Seeing a whale beneath you — hearing their songs underwater — is something you’ll never forget. 👉 Book in advance! Spots are limited and weather-dependent.If possible, reserve two tours to increase your chances of a successful sighting.

🌊 Lagoon Tour with Miti Tours

An unforgettable day.We swam with blacktip reef sharks, stingrays, and schools of tropical fish — all surrounded by Moorea’s famous turquoise waters.The vibe is relaxed, authentic, and full of Polynesian charm.

✨ Tip: Sit on the outrigger hammock on the side of the boat — it’s the most fun (and photogenic) seat onboard!

🚤 Rent a Small Boat (No License Needed)

Explore Moorea’s lagoon at your own pace.Stop wherever you want — snorkel, sunbathe, or just drift between motus with a fresh coconut in hand.It’s freedom, Polynesian style.

💦 Hike to Trois Pinus Viewpoint

A must!This trail starts from the main Belvedere viewpoint and leads to a hidden swing overlooking the stunning Opunohu Bay and Mount Rotui.The hike takes about an hour each way — moderately challenging but totally worth it.Bring water, good shoes, and your camera — the view will take your breath away.

🌈 Waterfalls & Nature Trails

After a good rain, the waterfalls of Moorea come alive.A short 1–1.5 hour hike each way brings you through lush jungle to fresh pools where you can swim beneath the falls.Go early and enjoy nature at its purest.

🐠 Temae Beach

One of the island’s most beautiful beaches — long, white, and perfect for snorkeling.Spend the day here with a picnic and watch the planes glide above the lagoon as they land nearby.

🏝️ Other Beaches to Explore

• Ta’ahiamanu Beach — calm and family-friendly.

• Mareto Public Beach — crystal-clear water and plenty of shade.

• Temae and Opunohu Bays — great for kayaking and paddleboarding.

🔥 Polynesian Fire Show & Dinner Night

For a fun local evening, head to one of the island’s cultural shows — a beautiful mix of music, dance, and fire performances under the stars.

Best Photo Spots

📸 Trois Pinus Swing — the most iconic view on the island. 📸 Opunohu Bay Lookout — panoramic perfection. 📸 Lagoon Tour — the drone shots of sharks and rays are unreal. 📸 Sofitel Lagoon at sunrise. 📸 Whale encounters (if you’re lucky!).

Best Time to Visit

☀️ May to October – dry season, calm seas, and perfect weather around 27°C (80°F).🌦️ November to April – warmer and more humid, with occasional rain — but the island is greener and quieter.🐋 Whale watching season: July to October.

Travel Tips

💡 Book whale tours and lagoon excursions early — spots fill fast! 💡 New regulations require either a wetsuit or life vest to swim with whales — plan accordingly. 💡 Rent a car or scooter to circle the island (takes about 1.5 hours total). 💡 Bring reef-safe sunscreen — Moorea’s lagoon is full of delicate coral. 💡 Pack snorkel gear and water shoes — there’s something to see everywhere.

How to Get There

🚢 By Ferry:Just 20–25 minutes from Tahiti. No need to book in advance unless you’re bringing a car.

✈️ By Plane:A short 15-minute domestic flight from Tahiti (Air Tahiti).

Both options offer beautiful views of the ocean and Moorea’s dramatic peaks as you approach.

Final Thoughts – Travel With Love

Moorea is pure magic — the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and romance. It’s big enough to explore and small enough to feel intimate.From the moment you arrive, you’re surrounded by nature’s masterpiece — lush peaks rising from a luminous lagoon.

This island has it all — waterfalls, whales, mountains, and magic. It’s the kind of place that reminds you why you travel in the first place — to feel, to connect, and to be amazed.

For us, Moorea wasn’t just another island — it was every island in one.A paradise where the ocean meets the mountains, and the soul finds peace. 🌴💫