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Moorea, French Polynesia

Temae Beach, Moorea

Introduction

Moorea is a butterfly shaped island in French Polynesia near Tahiti. You can easily take the ferry here from Papeete.

Where You're Docked

Cruise ships anchor in Oahapanu Bay and tender to the pier in the small town of Papetoai. The pier by Hotel Kaveka in Cooks Bay was used previously. Papetoai is remote with not much around the tender pier so you will need to find a taxi or take a tour to get out of this area. Rental car companies may provide shuttles to their offices.

From Frommer's - The major cruise ships now anchor in Opunohu Bay rather than in Cook's Bay. Although the location is gorgeous, it is also remote from shops, restaurants, and other facilities. Locals say the relocation was engineered by Moorea's most aggressive black-pearl merchant so that the ships' passengers would go ashore closer to his shop in Haapiti rather than competing dealers in Cook's Bay.

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Money and Tipping

French Polynesian's currency is the Franc (XPF). US dollars and Euros are widely accepted. There are banks and ATM's in larger towns though the banks may not be open on Sunday.

Local Transportation

Though there is bus service on the island, it tends to be infrequent. Locals tend to hitchhike. The best bets to get around are to rent a car (expensive) or take a tour. Official taxi rates here http://www.transports-terrestres.pf/IMG/pdf/DEPLIANT_4_VOLETS_TARIFS_2013-TAXI-4.pdf

Hotels

Search hotels in Moorea here

Sights

• Lagoonarium - An enclosed lagoon near Motu Ahi, off Afareaitu, with turtles, rays, and fish. A boat takes visitors from the shore to the island where they can spend all day swimming and snorkeling. Go there during feeding times and bring your snorkel gear since rentals are limited. You can also bring your own lunch. 3200 XPF (July 2014, cash only, USD and Euros accepted). http://lagoonarium.e-monsite.com/
• Belvedere Lookout - This viewpoint has views of Mt. Rotui, Cook's Bay, and Opunohu Bay
• Temae Beach - The largest public beach north of the Hotel Sofitel. There is a viewpoint over the Hotel Sofitel on the main road.
• Faimano Beach - Located beside the Sheraton Moorea Lagoon hotel.
• Intercontinental Hotel - has a Dolphin Center and Turtle Sanctuary

Shopping & Restaurants

There may be a small market setup at the tender pier. Shops and restaurants are dotted around the island. Jus de Fruits de Moorea sell souvenirs as well as juice.

Maps

Weather

Moorea Weather Forecast

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