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Where to Stay in Moorea

Where to Stay in Moorea

Moorea Society Islands, French Polynesia Travel Guide

Accommodation Varieties

Main Lodging Options

  • Luxury Resorts

    These properties symbolize the apex of Moorea's accommodation. They display iconic overwater bungalows, private beach bungalows, and sometimes villas that have their own pools. Ideal for honeymoons or travelers seeking a premium, pampered experience. Find premier options through Booking.com or Agoda, including IHG properties like IHG Hotels.

  • Mid-range Hotels & Guesthouses

    These properties present comfortable rooms or bungalows, often with pools and beachfront access. They offer a good balance of comfort and value. Consider options available on Booking.com and Agoda.

  • Pensions de Famille (Family Guesthouses)

    These local, independently run guesthouses provide a personal, authentic, and often budget-friendly stay. Accommodations typically show simpler rooms or bungalows, at times with shared facilities. A cultural immersion awaits.

  • Vacation Rentals & Apartments

    Private homes, villas, or apartments exist through platforms like VRBO. These options include self-catering facilities (kitchens), more space, and privacy. They work well for families, groups, or travelers planning longer stays.

Specialized Stays

  • Camping & Outdoor Accommodation

    Moorea possesses very not much formal campsites. While some pensions might allow tent camping, it is not a common listing and rarely features dedicated facilities. TrustedHousesitters also lists unique stays: TrustedHousesitters.

  • Eco-conscious Lodging

    Some smaller establishments focus on sustainable practices, embracing the natural environment.

  • Boutique Hotels

    Intimate properties with unique design and personalized hospitality, a distinct alternative to larger resorts.

  • Hostel Stays

    For very budget-conscious travelers, a few scattered options provide dormitory-style lodging. Explore them on Hostelworld.

Neighborhood Guide

Moorea's main settlements and tourist areas stretch along the coastal road that circles the island. Each area displays a distinct character, shaping the type of experience you might have.

Temae Beach Area

Highlights
  • Convenient for incoming passengers and departures.
  • Easy access to Temae Beach, Moorea's largest public white sand beach.
  • Good for snorkeling close to shore.
  • Ideal for early morning sunrises.
Considerations
  • Fewer dining options outside of resort restaurants.
  • Less central for island exploration.
  • Quieter ambiance with limited evening activities.
  • Direct amenities are fewer than in commercial zones.

Maharepa Village

Highlights
  • Largest village and commercial hub on the northern coast.
  • Good for shopping, banks, pharmacies.
  • Variety of dining including popular Roulottes (food carts).
  • Central location for island excursions.
Considerations
  • Can show a more built-up feel, less secluded.
  • Higher pedestrian traffic in certain areas.
  • Parking can be challenging during peak hours.
  • Less of a pristine beach experience directly within the village.

Papetoai Coastline

Highlights
  • Home to the historic Papetoai Temple.
  • Features a calm lagoon, ideal for snorkeling and diving.
  • Has a tranquil atmosphere.
  • Sunsets display beautiful colors from this side.
Considerations
  • More distant from the airport/ferry terminal.
  • Fewer independent local dining options beyond resorts.
  • Access to some lagoon areas can involve crossing private land.
  • Distances to major commercial centers require vehicle use.

Booking Strategies

Advance Booking

High Season (July-Aug, Mid-Dec to Jan): Book 6-12 months in advance. Shoulder Season (May-June, Sept-Nov): Book 3-6 months in advance. Low Season (Feb-April): Book 1-3 months in advance.

Deposit & Cancellation

Policies vary widely by property. Luxury holiday resorts frequently seek significant deposits upon booking, with strict cancellation policies. Always review the terms before confirming.

Accommodation Recommendations

This table has general examples to guide your choices.

Budget & Mid-Range Stays

  • Fare Maheata, Moorea Guesthouse: XPF 6,000 - 15,000. Simple rooms, shared facilities often, local experience. Ideal for those backpacking, solo travelers.
  • Manava Beach Resort & Spa Moorea: XPF 15,000 - 45,000. Comfortable rooms, pool, beach access, on-site dining. Good for couples and families.
  • Hotel Les Tipaniers: XPF 15,000 - 45,000. Bungalows with garden or lagoon views, popular restaurant, activities.
  • Hotel Fenua Mata'i'oa: XPF 15,000 - 45,000. Boutique experience, unique decor, personalized approach.

Luxury & Family Stays

  • Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa: XPF 50,000 - 150,000+. Overwater bungalows, fine dining, spa. Ideal for honeymoons.
  • Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort: XPF 50,000 - 150,000+. Pristine beach, overwater bungalows, diverse dining.
  • Family-Friendly Options: Many resorts offer family bungalows, kids' clubs, and larger pools. Vacation rentals also offer more space.
  • Long-Stay Accommodations: Vacation rentals (villas, apartments) suit longer visits, offering kitchens and a home-like setting.

Considerations

Solo Traveler Recommendations
  • Pensions de famille offer a great opportunity for local interaction.
  • Generally more budget-friendly.
  • Communal atmosphere facilitates connecting with others.
  • Discover authentic island life.
Cultural Significance
  • Pensions de famille foster the most direct cultural immersion.
  • Experience authentic Polynesian hospitality.
  • Interact with local families and daily life.
  • Gain a understanding of island customs.

Image Credits / Source

Image Source

Image: Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa overwater bungalows

Source URL

Wikimedia Commons

Licensing

Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0