Where to Sleep in Moorea?

Nestled in the heart of the French Polynesia archipelago, Moorea is a stunning vacation destination in the islands. If you're here, you're likely looking for a place to stay in Moorea, so I suggest reading this practical article to discover the best places and hotels where you can settle in!

Known as the 'sister island' of Tahiti, Moorea enchants with its breathtaking landscapes, combining lush mountains, turquoise lagoons, and fine sandy beaches. With its terrain dominated by the steep peaks of Mount Rotui, you can follow the trails to discover breathtaking views or explore the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island to admire a vibrant underwater world.

In this guide, discover the areas to prioritize for accommodation in Moorea. And if you're considering a road trip through the various Polynesian islands, this comprehensive guide will offer you the best advice!

Between luxury resorts, overwater bungalows, and more authentic accommodations immersed in local culture, the choice is vast in Moorea. But if there's one thing to remember, it's that the cost of living is high in Polynesia, so accommodation will take a significant part of your budget!

Before booking your hotel in Moorea, it's important to understand that the island is not very large. It only takes about 1 hour to drive around it. This information is surely reassuring since, no matter where you choose to stay, you'll always be close to everything.

Now, not all areas are created equal. Most people prefer to stay between Cook's Bay and Opunohu Bay for their beautiful beaches and multitude of activities. Alternatively, the northeast side is equally interesting, serving as the main entrance to Moorea with various accommodation options!

Another area that might attract snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts is the northwest and south part of Moorea. Here, you'll find beautiful beaches and great spots to observe sharks, but hotels are scarce, so book your nights in Polynesia as soon as possible.

If you don't want to read the entire article, here's a quick summary of my favorite accommodations in Moorea in French Polynesia:

Moorea Happy Bungalow is a whole accommodation with a private pool overlooking the ocean and a large terrace in Teavaro. Expect to pay €114 per night.

Pension Te Ahora is a family pension in a lush and quiet setting for €98 per night.

For those with a more comfortable budget, Moorea Beach Lodge offers beautifully decorated and well-equipped accommodations, as well as a bike rental service and a private beach. Expect to pay €236 per night for two people.

The choice of accommodation will primarily depend on your budget. If yours is comfortable and flexible, then you can really treat yourself and stay overwater, the Polynesian dream, or rent a villa with a private pool or any type of accommodation that offers high-end services and amenities.

If you have a mid-range budget, it is possible to find double rooms or entire vacation homes for rent if you're in a group. In most cases, Moorea has many family pensions and guesthouses at affordable rates to meet the needs of budget travelers.

Finally, one of the cheapest options remains camping in Polynesia. Even though the country has clearly sought to develop luxury tourism, camping is an interesting choice. There are a few places where you can pitch your tent, such as Camping Nelson located in Haapiti, which offers sites for €20 per person per night.

Cook's Bay and Opunohu Bay, located on the island of Moorea, offer a paradise landscape that will enchant any traveler in search of natural beauty and adventure. These two bays, surrounded by lush mountains and bordered by crystal-clear waters, are among the best places to stay when visiting Moorea.

Cook's Bay, named after the famous British explorer James Cook, is known for its calm, turquoise waters, ideal for snorkeling. The coral reefs are teeming with colorful marine life, offering a unique experience for nature enthusiasts. The white sandy beaches invite relaxation, while the high, rugged mountains in the background create an enchanting atmosphere.

On the other side to the west, Opunohu Bay offers a more wild and preserved landscape. The hills surrounding the bay are dotted with waterfalls and hiking enthusiasts will find their happiness exploring the picturesque trails that lead to panoramic viewpoints overlooking the bay and ocean.

For those considering staying in this area, several accommodation options are available. Overwater bungalows offer a luxurious experience with stunning ocean views while welcoming family pensions allow for authentic immersion into local culture.

Among the activities, you'll find yourself close to Tahiamanu Beach, a beautiful public beach with white sand. You'll also find the Rotui pineapple production factory, as well as the eco-museum to learn more about Moorea's past. Of course, the Tiki Village, located about 20 minutes by car, is a Tahitian cultural center that offers a dive into Polynesian history with exhibits on traditional art and culture. This place is lively with meals and traditional dance performances.

Paina Paopao Backpacker is a youth hostel located between Cook's Bay and Opunohu Bay. It is about 2 km from Ta'ahiamanu Beach and offers small, comfortable double rooms. The overall setting is very lush with a view of the mountains. The house is fully equipped, and there's even a tour desk. Accommodations start at €34 per night per person.

Eco Lodge Village Temanoha is located in the mountains, about a 10-minute drive from Maret Beach and 12 minutes from the Moorea ferry terminal. This establishment offers beautiful bungalows with fully equipped kitchens, seating areas, and private bathrooms. You will also enjoy the pool, large garden, and even a car rental service. Expect to pay from €145 per night for two people.

By choosing to stay near the Moorea ferry terminal, you will be just steps away from the main entry point to the island. The village of Maharepa offers an authentic dive into local life, with colorful markets brimming with exotic fruits and local specialties to soak in the culture...

You will also find Temae Beach, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Moorea, known for its preserved natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. The shallow, clear waters are perfect for swimming, especially since this place is known as a starting point for boat excursions to nearby islets, giving visitors the chance to explore marine treasures!

Nearby is Moorea Airport, as well as the Toatea Belvedere, a panoramic site that offers breathtaking views of the island's mountainous landscape. Perched at a significant altitude, this observation point allows you to contemplate the peaks, valleys, and sparkling bays on the horizon.

This part of the island hosts many high-end and luxury resorts. However, it's also possible to find more affordable accommodations, but don't wait until the last minute!

Haere Mai I Te Fare is a beautiful guesthouse offering family rooms and comfortable bungalows. This place is a true little slice of paradise located 2 km from Temae Beach. On-site, you can participate in various activities nearby and a car rental service is available. For a night in a family room, expect around €123 (for 2 people) and up to €185 for 3 to 4 people.

Moorea Happy Bungalow is a large rental bungalow for about €114 per night. It features a beautiful garden, terrace, and an outdoor pool with an ocean view. This accommodation is air-conditioned and fully equipped. It has a large double bed and a sofa bed. The ferry terminal is 6 km away.

Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort is ideal if you have a comfortable budget. It offers elegant overwater bungalows constructed from natural materials. You will enjoy the pool, restaurants, bar, and spa. Expect to pay starting from €461 per night for a bungalow with garden view, including breakfast.

Heading south, you will discover the Opunohu Valley, with its lush forests and winding rivers, offering exceptional hiking opportunities. If you are coming to Moorea for snorkeling and diving, this is where you should settle between Motu Tiaharu and the Tipaniers Beach in the northwest.

The south of Moorea is famous for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Afareaitu Bay is known for its colorful coral reefs, and while you're there, you can also explore the village of Afareaitu, steeped in the charming atmosphere of local life.

If you want to sleep in this part of the island, hotels are expensive and few. So, to ensure you find a place, make a reservation as soon as possible. Alternatively, opt for guesthouses and B&Bs, which are affordable accommodations that shine brightly throughout the area.

Pension Te Aroha - Te Rai is a family pension offering rooms available from €98 per night. You will enjoy the garden, terrace, and a well-equipped private kitchen. The hosts are very warm and welcoming, the environment is soothing, and an airport shuttle service is available.

Fare Anuanua offers a small vacation home with a pool overlooking the sea, a garden, and private parking. For €174 per night for 4 people, you will stay in a heavenly setting located in Haapiti, 15 km from Moorea lagoon and 23 km from the airport. A local breakfast is included in the price.

Moorea Beach Lodge has a private beach and offers lodge-style rooms in an extraordinary environment. The accommodations are tastefully and elegantly decorated, well-equipped, and you will have access to a shared kitchen; bike rental service is available. Starting at €236 per night for two people.

In general, the dry season between May and October is considered the best time to visit. During these months, the days are sunny, temperatures are pleasant, and rainfall is minimal - ideal conditions to enjoy the beaches, lagoons, and lush mountains of the island!

If you travel during the rainy season from November to April, there are also advantages. Although downpours are frequent, the landscapes are stunning with lush vegetation. The temperatures are mild, and with the marine life quite active, this can be a benefit if you're going snorkeling.

It's important to note that the high tourist season coincides with the dry season, which can lead to higher prices and greater crowds. If this period interests you, be sure to book your plane tickets and accommodation as soon as possible, as well as activities; buy your tickets online!

And that's all from me! Now you know where to sleep in Moorea. I hope you enjoyed this article, and if you want to discover other islands during your stay, I recommend reading the article where to sleep in Polynesia, already available on this blog. I also recommend my Polynesia Diary (4/4): Moorea, sea and harmony for more information about this wonderful destination