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Any visit to Tahiti must include a trip to this gorgeous island. Only 16km northwest of Papeete (on Tahiti), Moorea offers visitors the laid-back atmosphere and white-sand beaches that many may find lacking in the capital city and surrounding area. Although heavily developed as a tourist destination, and yes, very upscale, there are many places on Moorea where travelers can find some peace and quiet away from the hordes of sunbathers and dissolute merrymakers. Most of the luxury accomodation is on the north side of the island, leaving the south side to those who want to explore a bit off the beaten track, hobnob with the locals, and generally get away from the holiday vibe that can be felt from the ferry dock all the way to Hauru Point.
For those who may have spent several weeks in less-touristed parts of the South Pacific, this is a great place to splurge and take a break from the Ramen noodles and your quest to find the lost tribes of Polynesia. Like it or not, Moorea is made for tourists. You know what they say--if you can't beat 'em, join 'em!
For those who have come to use up their energy on Moorea, rather than regain it, the island offers plenty of opportunities for biking, hiking, and all manner of strenuous activities. It is not a flat island--if you attempt to go up to the Belvédère lookout by bicycle, you will become aware of this very quickly! Incidentally, bicycle is a great way to see the whole island; I managed to explore the entire perimeter of Moorea this way without sacrificing my freedom or my ability to zip around quickly from place to place. Highly recommended if you can tolerate the heat and humidity.
There is no shortage of archaeological sites on Moorea. Specifically, the Opunohu Valley has a number of marae easily accessible from the main road up to Belvédère. Since most visitors seem to be more interested in the beaches and resorts, you may find you have a few of these sites all to yourself. Don't miss this opportunity to see some of the remnants of Polynesia's interesting past.
- Pros:gorgeous scenery, beautiful beaches, interesting sites to explore
- Cons:touristy, expensive, lots of visitors
- In a nutshell:A great escape from Papeete in a picture-perfect setting!
Reviews (10)
Moorea Lagoon
Favorites
(1)
Despite its touristy feel, Moorea Lagoon really is quite lovely. There are some beautiful bungalows built over the... more travel advice
Marae Nuurua
Off The Beaten Path
(2)
This marae is a bit out of the way, and as a result, doesn't seem to get many visitors. It's composed of some small... more travel advice
Marae in Opunohu Valley
Things to Do
(2)
Those interested in Polynesian archaeology will have a field day in the Opunohu Valley, which stretches from the head of... more travel advice
Belvédère lookout
Things to Do
(2)
This is probably the best overall view on the island. The imposing sight of Mt. Rotui lies before you, and behind you... more travel advice
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Moorea Travel Guide
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Have you been to Moorea?
Share Your TravelsLatest Activity in Moorea
- Wrote a Review Moorea Lagoon in Moorea Favorites
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Desert
Jungle and Rain Forest
BackpackingLatest Moorea hotel reviews
- Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa
- 481 Reviews & Opinions
Latest: May 22, 2012 - Sofitel Moorea la Ora Beach Resort
- 346 Reviews & Opinions
Latest: May 18, 2012 - Legends Resort Moorea
- 55 Reviews & Opinions
Latest: Mar 29, 2012 - InterContinental Resort & Spa Moorea
- 327 Reviews & Opinions
Latest: May 21, 2012 - Pension Motu Iti
- 15 Reviews & Opinions
Latest: Apr 12, 2012 - Pension Marie Lou
- 2 Reviews & Opinions
Latest: Mar 20, 2009 - Fare Vaimoana
- 7 Reviews & Opinions
Latest: Apr 12, 2012 - Hotel Hibiscus
- 29 Reviews & Opinions
Latest: Jan 13, 2012 - Moorea Camping
- 4 Reviews & Opinions
Latest: Feb 11, 2012 - Fare Arana
- 7 Reviews & Opinions
Latest: Mar 11, 2012 - Moorea Fare Miti
- 17 Reviews & Opinions
Latest: Apr 24, 2012 - Hotel Les Tipaniers
- 66 Reviews & Opinions
Latest: May 1, 2012
Comments (8)
Moorea Lagoon Hotel looks very nice, but too expensive for me!
It is a very nice sunset :)
Hi Sean! Great photos and tips as usual!! Thanks for sharing! :)
Aaaah! OooooH Wooowwww!! ... what else?? I am jaleous it is not ME who went there!!!!
Interesting page. I have noticed too that even in very touristy destinations, it is always possible to easily find almost desert places with no other visitors !
As helpful and practical tips as usual, showing a different Moorea from other pages.
I hope you weren't one of those guys munching on Ramen the entire length of your trip....Glad you've exploited some of the less trodden-on parts of Moorea.
Very helpful info!!!
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