If turquoise lagoons and tropical daydreams are calling your name, I suggest you brace yourself because we’re dropping anchor in paradise!
With waterfall hikes and lazy lagoon swims, Moorea stands out as the glittering jewel of French Polynesia. This island may be petite but it packs some serious wow factor with its spectacular sights, super kind people, and amazing eats.
That being said, finding the right place to stay can be something of a hassle, especially if you’re visiting in peak season. But don’t worry though: I’ve got your back as always!
In this guide, I put together the best places to stay in Moorea so you can make the best choice based on your budget and preferences. So…let’s check them out!
Where is the Best Place to Stay in Moorea
Planning a relaxing stay in Moorea? Or maybe you’re just passing by as part of an epic backpacking trip across French Polynesia. I’ve listed an incredible my top 3 recommendations for where to stay! Take a look below.
Best Hotel in Moorea: Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort
Set just a few steps from Te’avaro, Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort is a great option for families traveling with kids.
Numerous room options await, including Luxury King Bungalows, Superior Bungalows with Ocean Views, and Beachfront Bungalows. Each unit provides a king-sized bed and a sofabed bed.
If you don’t feel like leaving the hotel, you’ll be glad to learn that there’s an onsite restaurant offering traditional French cuisine with plenty of seafood on the menu. There’s also a beach bar, a pool, and a poolside bar.
Best Guesthouse in Moorea: Haere Mai I Te Fare
For something more affordable, you can always consider this sustainable guesthouse which features sweeping views of the mountains.
One of my favorite places to stay in Moorea, Haere Mai I Te Fare offers easy access to various types of activities, including cycling, snorkeling, and hiking.
After soaking up everything the island has to offer, you can always take advantage of the onsite barbecue facilities before retiring to the family room. In the morning, grab a hot brew from the hotel’s coffee shop before heading out.
Best Airbnb in Moorea: Ocean-Facing Villa for 6
I sure hope you’re ready to be wowed because this villa in Tiahura is all set to deliver one heck of a memorable stay!
Located smack by the lagoon, the property features two bedrooms for four guests. If you need to squeeze in two more people, they can enjoy a comfy snooze on the double sofa bed in the living room.
Oh, and did I mention that the villa also provides kayaks so you can head out to the ocean whenever you want?
Moorea Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Moorea
Maharepa
First things first though: if you’re looking for a laidback area to lay your head, this isn’t the neighborhood for you since Maharepa always seems to be buzzing with one thing or the other!
Tiahura
If your plan is to be near the pubs and restaurants, then I suggest you drop anchor in Tiahura! Home to both Sunset Beach and Tiahura Beach, this Moorea neighborhood is found on the northwestern corner of the island.
Te’avaro
Traveling with the kids and wondering where to stay in Moorea? Then be sure to check out Te’avaro, one of the swankiest spots on the island! Think upscale resorts decked in classic Polynesian style and high-end houses with plenty of amenities for the kids.
Moorea is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor. People usually opt to stay in Tahiti. But I can assure you that this little island sure packs a punch!
If this is your first time visiting the island, I suggest that you drop anchor in Maharepa, a super happening place that’s said to be at the very center of everything fun! It’s one of the best places to stay in Moorea since this neighborhood is centrally located, with easy access to the airport and ferry port.
Photo: @amandaadraper
Travelers who want to take in that Polynesian nightlife can always consider staying in Tiahura, another happening neighborhood that houses plenty of pubs and restaurants. Unlike Tahiti, Moorea doesn’t quite have a super energetic nightlife, but you’ll find several places offering live entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights.
Traveling with the kids? Then I suggest that you stay in Te’avaro, home to plenty of upscale resorts and accommodations. Now, this is one of the most luxurious neighborhoods on the island, so prices can be higher than elsewhere in Moorea. A lot of the scenery on this island is completely untouched, so you’ll definitely want to bring a good travel camera.
Moorea’s Three Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Now, let’s take a look, in more detail, at the five best neighborhoods to stay in Moorea. Each is a little different from the last, so make your journey a little more tailored to you by picking the right neighborhood.
1. Maharepa – Best Place to Stay in Moorea for your First Time
If you ask me, there’s no better place to stay in Moorea for your first time than Maharepa in the Temae district.
First things first though: if you’re looking for a laidback area to lay your head, this isn’t the neighborhood for you since Maharepa always seems to be buzzing with one thing or the other!
Hailed as the epicenter of everything fun in Moorea, this neighborhood is brimming with restaurants, boutiques, and quirky cafes. This is also a great place to base a trip to French Polynesia for booking various types of excursions since there are plenty of licensed operators around.
What I loved the most about staying in Maharepa is that it’s pretty close to both the airport and the ferry. You’ll also be a short distance from both Opunohu Bay and Cook’s Bay, both packed with adventures!
If you want to visit French Polynesia but are unsure of where to stay, this would be my top choice.
Best Resort in Maharepa: Manava Beach Resort & Spa Moorea
Here’s a hotel that perfectly embodies Tahitian culture and luxury!
Located just 15 minutes from the ferry terminal, this hotel houses a spa with an extensive range of beauty treatments and massages – perfect for soothing your muscles after a full day of sightseeing. Themed events are also held every Friday and Saturday night.
Guests can take their pick from garden and pool bungalows. If you’re feeling particularly decadent, you can always opt for an Over Water Bungalow.
Best Hotel in Maharepa: Hotel Kaveka
With its private beach, Hotel Kaveka offers traditional bungalows, some with direct beach access. Parents traveling with children can always opt for the Family Bungalow that can accommodate up to four guests.
When it’s time to explore, you can always head over to Maharepa Town, located just 11 kilometers from the hotel.
Best Airbnb in Maharepa: Villa Oona
Unblemished ocean views and plenty of lush outdoor spaces await in this charming wooden villa for six!
Easily the best place to stay in Moorea, this villa lies close to the Manava Hotel Resort and Spa. With the ocean literally on your doorstep, you can go for a dip in the lagoon whenever the mood strikes.
There’s also a terrace where you can enjoy your meals, Al Fresco style.
Things to See and Do in Maharepa:
- Embark on a thrilling ATV-guided tour that’ll take you past Moorea’s fields, bays, and plantations.
- Hike the Magic Mountain trail for some incredible views of the island. Bear in mind that some parts can be quite steep. If visiting in warmer months, remember to bring plenty of water.
- Check out the Routui Hike, which is best suited to experienced hikers.
- Learn how to sail a monohull in the beautiful Pacific Ocean with a sunset sailing tour.
- Head over to Cook’s Bay where you can explore the Robert Wan Pearl Museum and the Tiki Village Cultural Center.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Tiahura – Best Place to Stay in Moorea for the Nightlife
Moorea basks in the sunlight, revealing its stunning beauty as one the most beautiful islands in French Polynesia. While it’s not exactly famed for its nightlife, rest assured that you’ll still find something to do after dark.
If your plan is to be near the pubs and restaurants, then I suggest you drop anchor in Tiahura! Home to both Sunset Beach and Tiahura Beach, this Moorea neighborhood is found on the northwestern corner of the island.
Speaking of Sunset Beach, I think that this spot does live up to its name since it’s one of the best areas in Moorea for watching the sun go down. Remember to grab yourself a cocktail from one of the oceanfront shacks as you relax with your toes in the warm sand!
Best Hotel in Tiahura: Moorea Sunset Beach
Commanding a great location just a 15-minute walk from Tiahura Beach, Moorea Sunset Beach features numerous units, including suites and family rooms.
Select units add ocean-facing units or terraces- perfect for kicking back with a coffee while watching the sunrise! Alternatively, you can always book one of the hotel’s independent bungalows, fitted with kitchens.
If you don’t feel like cooking, you can always check out nearby eateries like Maison de Réunion Abarahama and Snack Fifi.
Best Guesthouse in Tiahura: La Maison Orange
Not only is La Maison Orange located just a 10-minute walk from the Tiahura neighborhood, but it also lies close to both Papetoai Beach and Ta’ahiamanu Beach.
With a stay at the guesthouse, you can choose from standard double rooms, triple rooms, or family rooms. All rooms feature a fully equipped kitchen, a dining area, and seating spaces.
Rest assured that you’ll find heaps to do nearby, including golfing at the Green Pearl Course and snorkeling at the Lagoonarium.
Best Airbnb in Tiahura: Ocean-Facing Villa for 6
I sure hope you’re ready to be wowed because this villa in Tiahura is all set to deliver one heck of a memorable stay!
Located smack by the lagoon, the property features two bedrooms for four guests. If you need to squeeze in two more people, they can enjoy a comfy snooze on the double sofa bed in the living room.
Oh, and did I mention that the villa also provides kayaks so you can head out to the ocean whenever you want?
Things to See and Do in Tiahura:
Photo: @maxpankow
- Enjoy a 3-hour guided lagoon tour on a kayak, complete with snacks and smoothies! Keep your eyes peeled for colorful shoals of fish and rays.
- Spend an evening at Vaiare Pizza, known for its open stage on Friday nights.
- Treat yourself to Rudy’s, a coastal restaurant specializing in steak and seafood.
- Hop on a Sea Scooter to explore Temae Bay, one of the most popular snorkeling spots in Moorea.
- Catch some rays from Tiahura Beach, popular for its soft white sand and clear lagoon.
3. Te’avaro – Best Area in Moorea for Families
Traveling with the kids and wondering where to stay in Moorea? Then be sure to check out Te’avaro, one of the swankiest spots on the island! Think upscale resorts decked in classic Polynesian style and high-end houses with plenty of amenities for the kids.
This neighborhood is undeniably on the more expensive side, but if you don’t mind splurging, believe me when I say it’s entirely worth it!
More importantly, this neighborhood is centrally located, making it easy for you to access all sides of the island. There are heaps to explore around, including Temae Beach and Toatea Lookout.
Best Hotel in Te’avaro: Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort
Set just a few steps from Te’avaro, Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort is a great option for families traveling with little ones.
Numerous room options await, including Luxury King Bungalows, Superior Bungalows with Ocean Views, and Beachfront Bungalows. Each unit provides a king-sized bed and a sofabed bed.
If you don’t feel like leaving the hotel, you’ll be glad to learn that there’s an onsite restaurant offering traditional French cuisine with plenty of seafood on the menu. There’s also a beach bar, a pool, and a poolside bar.
Best Guesthouse in Te’avaro: Haere Mai I Te Fare
For something more affordable, you can always consider this sustainable guesthouse which features sweeping views of the mountains.
One of my favorite places to stay in Moorea, Haere Mai I Te Fare offers easy access to various types of activities, including cycling, snorkeling, and hiking.
After soaking up everything the island has to offer, you can always take advantage of the onsite barbecue facilities before retiring to the family room. In the morning, grab a hot brew from the hotel’s coffee shop before heading out.
Best Airbnb in Te’avaro: Gorgeous Bungalow with Lagoon Views
A glorious retreat for families, this cottage is perched right by the lagoon. With both a master bedroom and a mezzanine room, the property easily sleeps four.
With a stay at the cottage, you’ll be just 10 minutes from a lively shopping center. Parents traveling with picky kids will be glad to learn that the cottage also features a kitchen for home-cooked meals.
Things to See and Do in Te’avaro:
- Take in all the best sights in just one day with a private customized tour.
- Visit the Moorea Tropical Garden, home to scenic hiking trails, vanilla vines, and fruit trees. Not to be confused with the Tropical Garden restaurant!
- Explore the Rotui Juice Factory where you will learn more about the local pineapple plantation and juice-making process before sampling some refreshing delicacies.
- Visit the Fare Tutava Farmer’s Market, home to the best fresh fruits, honey, jams, and smoothies in Moorea.
- Spend the day on Ta’Ahiamanu public beach, known as one of the best beaches on Moorea.
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Hide Yo’ Money!Don’t Forget Your Moorea Travel Insurance
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Moorea
As soon as I stepped off the ferry and felt that shockingly silky sand between my toes, Moorea had me hooked! The island’s glorious waterfalls, majestic coastlines, and picturesque lagoons are bound to seduce even the pickiest of travelers!
I hope this guide helped you decide where to stay in Moorea but if you’re still on the fence, then the Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort’s got my vote!
Photo: @harveypike_
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around French Polynesia.
- We’ve also got where to stay in French Polynesia covered with our epic guide.
- You’re gonna need to know the best islands in French Polynesia to plan your trip
- Tahiti’s the next stop on your adventure! Check out our guide to where to stay in Tahiti.
- Our in-depth Oceania backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
