Moorea, Tahiti-7-day-itinerary

Moorea, Tahiti: A 7-Day Itinerary

Located just a short ferry ride from Tahiti, Moorea is a tranquil island paradise with breathtaking scenery, crystal-clear waters, and a relaxed atmosphere. Here’s a suggested 7-day itinerary for exploring this beautiful island:

Day 1: Arrival and Island Orientation

  • Arrival: Take the ferry from Papeete, Tahiti to Moorea ( approx. 30 minutes)
  • Accommodation: Check-in at a local hotel or resort, such as the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa or the Moorea Surf Resort
  • Lunch: Head to the local market in Maharepa, the island’s main village, for some fresh seafood and traditional Tahitian cuisine
  • Afternoon: Explore the village, visit the local pearl farm, and get familiar with the island’s layout

Day 2: Belvédère Lookout and Moorea’s West Coast

  • Morning: Drive to the Belvédère Lookout (approx. 30 minutes) for stunning views of the island and its lagoon
  • Lunch: Enjoy a picnic at the lookout or head back to Maharepa for lunch
  • Afternoon: Visit the ancient Tahitian temples, Marae Taputapuatea, and explore the west coast beaches

Day 3: Snorkeling and Swimming with Dolphins

  • Morning: Take a snorkeling tour to Moorea’s coral reef, where you can spot tropical fish and sea turtles
  • Lunch: Enjoy a seafood lunch at a local restaurant
  • Afternoon: Swim with dolphins in their natural habitat (seasonal activity)

Day 4: Moorea’s North Coast and Waterfalls

  • Morning: Drive to the north coast (approx. 45 minutes) and visit the Opunohu Valley, known for its lush vegetation and waterfalls
  • Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch near the waterfalls or head back to Maharepa for lunch
  • Afternoon: Explore the north coast beaches and enjoy swimming and snorkeling

Day 5: Island Circumnavigation and Local Life

  • Morning: Take a guided island tour (approx. 4 hours) to discover Moorea’s hidden gems, including secluded beaches and ancient ruins
  • Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant
  • Afternoon: Visit a traditional Tahitian pearl farm and learn about the local fishing industry

Day 6: Beach Relaxation and Water Sports

  • Morning: Spend the day relaxing on one of Moorea’s beautiful beaches, such as Temae Beach or Opunohu Beach
  • Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a beachside restaurant
  • Afternoon: Try your hand at water sports, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, or jet-skiing

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring Maharepa village
  • Departure: Take the ferry back to Papeete, Tahiti (approx. 30 minutes)

Things to Know

  • Moorea is a small island, and transportation options are limited. Renting a car or scooter is recommended.
  • French and Tahitian are the official languages, but many locals speak English.
  • The local currency is the Pacific Franc (XPF), although euros and US dollars are widely accepted.
  • Be respectful of the local environment and culture.

Transportation

  • Ferry: The ferry from Papeete to Moorea operates several times a day. Book in advance to ensure availability.
  • Car Rental: Several car rental companies operate on the island, including Europcar and Avis.
  • Scooter Rental: Renting a scooter is a great way to explore the island.

Tips

  • Be prepared for occasional rain showers, even during the dry season.
  • Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Try traditional Tahitian cuisine, such as po’e (a type of bread) and ahima’a (a dish made with coconut milk and fish).
  • Respect the local environment and culture by not littering and not touching ancient ruins.

Other Things of Interest

  • Hiking: Moorea offers several hiking trails, including the popular hike to the summit of Mount Rotui.
  • Fishing: Moorea is renowned for its fishing spots. Try your hand at deep-sea fishing or fly-fishing.
  • Spas and Wellness: Treat yourself to a relaxing spa day or yoga class at one of the island’s resorts.

Enjoy your trip to Moorea, Tahiti!