After spending 31 days crossing the Pacific on a friends 38-foot sailboat and then catching a flight from Nuku Hiva, our family was more than ready for some well-deserved downtime. And for that, we chose Moorea, one of French Polynesia’s most breathtaking islands.

We spent 9 days on Moorea, and honestly, it wasn’t nearly enough. If you want to balance relaxation with exploring all the incredible things to do in Moorea with family, you could easily spend two full weeks here. From snorkeling with tropical fish to chasing waterfalls and soaking in the island’s laid-back vibe, there’s so much to enjoy.

That said, we know not everyone has that kind of time, so if you’re looking for a quick getaway, we’ve also put together a 3-day Moorea itinerary to help you make the most of a shorter trip here.

Spend the Day at a Resort with a Moorea Day Pass

Before Addison and I even arrived in Tahiti, Amanda and Audrey were already soaking up the island vibes, and one of the best ideas she had was spending a day at a resort. While she and Audrey checked out the Hilton (that story’s in our 3-day Moorea itinerary), in this guide I’ll focus on our experience at the Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort.

We called ahead to confirm that they offered a resort day pass in Moorea, and they did! At about $100 USD per person, here’s what’s included:

• Full access to the property
  
  
• Use of the infinity pool, beach chairs, towels, and other amenities
  
  
• Free use of kayaks, snorkel gear, and water activities
  
  
• Lunch at one of the onsite restaurants (we dined at Restaurant K)

We arrived around 8 a.m. and ended up spending about 7 hours at the resort, it felt like forever in the best way. At the gate, your name is checked against the guest list, and then you park in the small lot before checking in at the front desk. They’ll hand you a map of the property and a bracelet for the day. (Not the most aesthetic accessory for photos, but YOLO!)

The Sofitel sits on one of the softest white sand beaches in Moorea, with a reef just a short swim from shore. It’s the perfect spot for snorkeling, you’ll see schools of tropical fish without needing to book a tour. When you’re ready to dry off, grab a lounge chair under the palms or order a mai tai or rum punch from the beach bar.

Lunch at Restaurant K

Lunch here was one of the highlights. Restaurant K sets tables right in the sand under a beautifully built palapa roof, just steps from the ocean. The menu is small but delicious. We ordered pizza, a cheeseburger, shrimp salad, and a club sandwich, all served with fresh bread, drinks, and dessert. Everything was flavorful, fresh, and filling.

We left completely satisfied and convinced: spending a day at a resort is one of the best things to do in Moorea. With the Sofitel Kia Ora day pass, you get the luxury resort experience without booking an overwater bungalow, though after spending the day here, we’re already tempted for next time.

Click here to book your Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea day pass.

Coco Beach Moorea – Lunch, Beach, and Snorkeling on a Motu

Coco Beach Moorea is one of those little slices of paradise you can’t miss. This private motu near Moorea is just a short boat ride from the main island, tucked inside the barrier reef on the northwest side.

How to Get to Coco Beach Moorea

To visit, you’ll need a reservation, either for lunch or a boat transfer, since captains won’t let you board without one. You can book directly on their official site. Once you arrive, check in with the hostess and take a peek at the Coco Beach Moorea menu, which includes fresh grilled fish, burgers, and plenty of tropical cocktails, all cooked right on the outdoor grill.

Snorkeling at Coral Garden Tiahura

The real magic is Coco Beach’s location, just a short swim from Coral Garden Tiahura, one of the island’s top snorkeling spots. Here you’ll see colorful triggerfish, leopard flounder, and schools of tropical fish right off the beach by your picnic table. The entrance can be rocky, so water shoes are a smart choice.

Why Visit Coco Beach?

Even though the sandy stretch here isn’t one of the widest or softest beaches in Moorea, the atmosphere makes it special. With the smell of fresh food on the grill, ocean views in every direction, and the chance to snorkel just steps away, Coco Beach is one of the most unique experiences we’ve had in all our travels.

If you’re searching through Coco Beach Moorea reviews, wondering if it’s worth it, the answer is yes. Between the boat ride, beach day, and snorkeling, it’s an island gem you’ll remember long after your trip.

Visit Moorea’s Public Beaches

La Plage Temae (Temae Beach Moorea)

If you’re chasing one of the best public beaches in Moorea, head to La Plage Temae, located just below Toatea Lookout. From the lookout, look for the small brown sign, cross the little bridge, and follow the sandy road through a patch of jungle until the turquoise water comes into view.

This beach sits right next to the Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort, giving you the same million-dollar views without the price tag. The wide grassy area lined with tall palms is perfect for shade, picnics, and iconic Moorea photos.

And here’s a fun twist: you might meet Orea, a friendly local dog who belongs to a nearby bungalow owner. She was a regular at our stay and even joined us on the beach. With her black torso, white belly, and spotted face, she’s easy to spot and always ready for an adventure.

Plage de Ta’ahiamanu (Opunohu Bay Beach)

Over on the east side of Opunohu Bay, Plage de Ta’ahiamanu is a great all-rounder beach for a day in the sun. There’s sand, shade, restrooms, rinse-off showers, and even a small calisthenics workout area if you’re feeling active.

The grassy area here is lined with picture-perfect palm trees, making it one of the best coconut palm tree photo spots in Moorea. On clear days, the mountain ridges in the background add to the magic.

We also had a bit of a random adventure here meeting up with a sailor who needed help troubleshooting his diesel pump. Even though we couldn’t fix the issue, the encounter just added to the charm of this already memorable spot.

Both of these beaches prove that in Moorea, you don’t need a resort to enjoy postcard-worthy views. Sometimes the best places are the ones open to everyone.

Hauru Public Park & Plage de Tiahura

If you’re looking for an easy, family-friendly stop on the northwest side of Moorea, head to Hauru Public Park. It’s a relaxed green space where locals gather for picnics, games, and weekend events, making it a great spot to get a feel for everyday island life. 

Right across the road you’ll find Plage de Tiahura, one of Moorea’s most loved public beaches. The lagoon here is calm and shallow, ideal for kids to swim and play, and it’s also a gateway to Coral Garden Tiahura, where you can snorkel among colorful fish and coral just a short swim or kayak away. Between the park and the beach, this area is the perfect mix of local charm and lagoon adventure.

Visit the Toatea Lookout

One of the most popular viewpoints in Moorea, the Toatea Lookout is an easy stop just five minutes from the ferry dock. Because of its close location, parking can fill up quickly, especially right after the ferry arrives, so plan your visit accordingly.

From here, you’ll get a breathtaking panoramic view of Tema’e Beach, the turquoise lagoon, and the coral reef stretching out in the distance. It’s the kind of view that makes you pinch yourself and wonder if you’ve just stepped into a postcard.

For the most vibrant colors, aim to visit between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on a sunny day, when the lagoon glows in that perfect shade of tropical blue. Even on a cloudy day, though, the lookout is still one of the best spots to soak in Moorea’s natural beauty and snap a few photos.

Belvedere Lookout, Three Pines Lookout & Swing

The Belvedere Lookout is one of Moorea’s most famous viewpoints and for good reason. From this elevated spot, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Mount Rotui, the lush green peak that sits dramatically between Opunohu Bay and Cook’s Bay. It’s the kind of view that makes Moorea’s rugged beauty unforgettable.

If you’re up for a little adventure, combine it with the Three Pines Lookout and Swing hike. This 1.8-mile out-and-back trail winds through the jungle, passing by ancient Polynesian ruins along the way. 

The final stretch is a steep climb that rewards you with sweeping views and the iconic wooden swing perched high above the valley. It’s a popular photo spot, so you may need to wait your turn, but the experience is well worth it.

For families who love hiking, this combo is the perfect mix of culture, nature, and adventure, all wrapped up in one of the best panoramic views on the island.

Visit the Tiki Village Cultural Center

Located on the quieter east side of Moorea, the Tiki Village Cultural Center is one of the best places to dive into traditional Polynesian culture. The center is open most days from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. and again from 6 p.m.–10 p.m., making it easy to fit into your itinerary whether you want a daytime workshop or the famous evening show.

The grounds themselves are free to explore, so even if you don’t join a program, you can still stroll through the village, admire the Polynesian architecture, and enjoy the beach views. But if you can, we highly recommend booking at least one of the experiences, especially the restaurant or the Polynesian dinner show at night.

Workshops give you the chance to try hands-on cultural activities like weaving with coconut or pandanus palms, making baskets and hats, or even learning how to prepare Poisson Cru (Tahitian raw fish in coconut milk), a dish similar to ceviche with its own island twist. You can also try your hand at Tahitian dance steps or music lessons for a truly immersive experience.

Our personal favorite was the Peinture de Pareo workshop, where you design and paint your own pareo (sarong). It’s a fun, creative way to make a personalized souvenir you’ll actually use, and a memory you’ll take home forever.

The center also hosts weddings, complete with canoe arrivals, flower leis, and full Polynesian ceremony traditions. We happened to see one during our visit, and it was magical.

But the highlight for most visitors is the evening Polynesian show, complete with traditional drumming, fire dancing, and an underground-roasted pig feast. Think Hawaiian luau vibes, but with Tahitian flair. Reservations are required, so plan ahead, it’s one of those Moorea experiences you won’t want to miss.

The Best Snorkeling in Moorea

When it comes to snorkeling in Moorea, the truth is, you can’t really go wrong. The island’s reef is one of the healthiest in French Polynesia, thanks in part to local conservation efforts from groups like Coral Gardeners, who work to restore and protect the coral ecosystem.

That said, a few spots stand out as family favorites. We saw the most marine life while snorkeling near Coco Beach Moorea and at Temae Public Beach, right by the Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort. These areas are calm, kid-friendly, and best of all, have very little boat traffic, so the risk of running into one while swimming is almost nonexistent.

Highlights from our time in the water included spotting a graceful spotted ray, schools of colorful reef fish, and even a sleek bluefin trevally cruising by. Combine that with soft white sand, swaying coconut palms, and Moorea’s laid-back island vibe, and you’ve got the perfect snorkeling day.

If you’re planning your trip and want to explore even more options, we’ve put together a full guide: The Best Snorkeling Spots on Moorea for Families.

Fishing & Spearfishing Lessons in Moorea

While we didn’t get the chance to try it on this trip, fishing and spearfishing in Moorea is at the top of our list for next time. I didn’t pack my gear last visit, but next time we plan to head out with the team at Tahitian Pirates, who offer both reef and deep-sea fishing adventures.

If you’ve never tried spearfishing, they offer beginner lessons right on the shallow reef. You’ll learn the basics of loading and aiming a speargun, plus what to expect when you dive in for the first time. It’s a fun and sustainable way to connect with the ocean, especially if you love the idea of catching and eating your own fresh fish.

For those craving a bigger challenge, you can also head offshore for deep-sea fishing in Moorea. Think marlin, tuna, and mahi mahi. As someone who loves fishing, I (Alex) can tell you, there’s nothing like battling a yellowfin tuna for over an hour to finally bring it aboard. Doing it in Moorea’s stunning waters makes it even more special.

Shop for Pearls at Herman Pearls Design (Moorea)

In Polynesian culture, pearls are so much more than jewelry. They symbolize fertility, protection, wealth, and the sacred connection between the spiritual and physical worlds. For centuries, Tahitian royalty wore them as treasures, and they’re still gifted today during weddings, births, and other milestones to signify love, respect, and good fortune.

Tahitian pearls in particular are considered powerful talismans, believed to ward off evil, promote peace, and keep families connected to their ancestors. That’s why shopping for pearls in Moorea feels less like buying a souvenir and more like bringing home a piece of the island’s heritage.

We chose to stop by Herman Pearls Design in Moorea, where we found elegant pieces and incredible quality. We picked up necklaces both as a memory of our trip and as a way to honor our love for the ocean. Whether you’re looking for a special keepsake or a meaningful gift, Herman Pearls is a beautiful place to experience the artistry and tradition behind Tahitian pearls.

Get a Flower Crown and a Lei from the Aunties

In Polynesian culture, flower crowns (hei) and leis are more than just pretty accessories, they symbolize hospitality, welcome, love, and the deep bond between people and nature. Made with fresh blooms and greenery, they smell as good as they look and instantly make you feel connected to the island.

Wearing a flower crown with a lei adds something truly special to your Moorea photos, capturing that authentic island vibe you can’t find anywhere else. And the best part? You can get them right after you arrive on the island. 

Once you exit the ferry, take the main road to the left and look for a couple of tables set up along the ocean side, near this GPS location: -17.5223350, -149.7813776. The local aunties sell their handmade creations here, no storefront, just traditional island hospitality.

Pro tip: To keep your flower crown and lei fresh after wearing them, lightly sprinkle with water, place them in a plastic bag, and keep them in the fridge. This will help them last a few extra days, so you can enjoy that island magic a little longer.

Visit Coral Gardeners in Moorea

One of the most meaningful experiences on our trip was visiting Coral Gardeners in Moorea, a local organization dedicated to restoring and protecting the reefs of French Polynesia. Amanda and Audrey spent a few hours with a team member learning about coral anatomy, the threats reefs are facing, and the innovative methods being used to bring them back to life.

They even got a hands-on introduction to microfragmentation, a process that helps coral grow faster, and learned how the team plants these corals back onto the reef around Moorea. Beyond restoration, Coral Gardeners also run incredible outreach programs to educate locals and visitors about the importance of healthy oceans.

We picked up some merch to support their mission, but what we really wish we’d done was join one of their snorkeling sessions at the coral nurseries, they actually have two sites around the island where you can swim alongside the restoration projects. That one’s high on our list for next time, and honestly, it’s a must if you’re looking for an experience that combines adventure with a positive impact.

Paddle Through Paradise: Kayaking in Moorea

One of the best ways to experience Moorea’s beauty is by kayak. It’s peaceful, affordable, and gives you a whole new perspective of the island’s turquoise lagoons and mountain backdrops. We borrowed kayaks from our Airbnb host and paddled around the bay. It was such a fun way to explore without needing to be in the water the whole time.

Kayaking in Moorea is especially magical at sunset, when the sky lights up in shades of orange and pink and the lagoon turns glassy calm. If you’re not a big fan of swimming after dark (we get it, night water can feel a little spooky!), this is the perfect way to still enjoy those views from the water.

Whether you rent from your hotel, grab one from a tour company, or get lucky like us with one included in your stay, kayaking is a must-do activity in Moorea for families, couples, or anyone who loves being out on the ocean.

Go Surfing in Moorea

While surfing in Moorea isn’t as famous as the legendary breaks in Tahiti, the island does have some notable spots that attract both locals and visiting surfers. We didn’t get the chance to paddle out ourselves, our skills aren’t quite there yet, but watching the waves roll in was still a thrill.

Haapiti Surf Break

The most well-known surf spot in Moorea is Haapiti, located south of the island past the Tiki Village and across from the Eglise de la Sainte Famille Catholic Church. When conditions are perfect, Haapiti produces waves reminiscent of Teahupo’o in Tahiti, powerful, glassy, and world-class. On average days, you can still spot the outer reef break from the road, and it’s incredible to think that such epic surf exists just a short trip from the capital.

Cook’s Bay Surf Break

Another spot is the Cook’s Bay reef break, where we saw plenty of surfers during our time on the island. This break sits on the barrier reef and offers both a left and right, depending on which side of the channel you’re on. The paddle out is fairly short from the cruise ship tender dock but a much longer paddle if you’re coming from Ta’ahiamanu Park. Either way, it looks like a fun session for surfers confident on reef breaks.

For families or beginner surfers, Moorea isn’t the easiest place to start, but for experienced surfers looking for adventure, these breaks deliver some of the most beautiful waves in French Polynesia.

Day Sail & Sunset Cruise on a Wharram Catamaran

For a unique sailing experience in Moorea, we recommend booking a tour with Voila Moorea. They operate a Wharram Tiki 30, a Polynesian-inspired catamaran designed for ocean crossings but perfectly outfitted for day tours around Moorea’s lagoons and bays.

The boat is cozy and welcoming, making it ideal for a small-group adventure. During the day, you can join one of their snorkeling tours to the island’s famous shark and stingray spot, or opt for a sunset cruise to soak in those epic views as the sky lights up over the lagoon.

If you’re into sailing or just curious about Wharram catamarans, this is a fantastic way to get a taste of their design while enjoying Moorea’s crystal-clear waters. It’s equal parts relaxing and adventurous, a must for ocean lovers and you can Check out Voila Moorea here.

Must-Try Eats in Moorea, Recommended by Locals

Iaorana Smoothies

If you’re looking for a fresh and affordable bite in Moorea, Iaorana Smoothies is a must-try. This tiny roadside hut became one of our go-to stops during our stay, especially since it’s open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., perfect for grabbing something quick before a snorkel tour, hike, or beach day.

We happened to be there during mango season, which meant full-on mango smoothies for us every morning. But their menu is loaded with tropical fruits like banana, passion fruit, coconut, papaya, pineapple, guava, kiwi, and even strawberries. Everything is blended to order and tastes like it was just picked off the tree.

If you’re craving a little extra, you can boost your smoothie with peanut butter, protein powder, or spirulina. It’s not quite Jamba Juice, but honestly, it’s better. Fresh, tropical, and full of island flavor, Iaorana Smoothies is one of those simple Moorea food stops you’ll want to visit more than once.

Eat Dinner at Tama Hau, Opunohu’s Bay

If you’re looking for dinner and a show in Moorea, Tama Hau in Opunohu’s Bay is the place to go. It’s not just about the food here, it’s the Polynesian show that makes the evening memorable.

We decided to give it a try on a Thursday night (check their Facebook page for the latest schedule), and the experience did not disappoint. The menu includes a mix of pizza, burgers, fresh fish dishes, and of course, poisson cru, Tahiti’s signature raw fish in coconut milk.

We arrived around 6 p.m. to order dinner, and by 7 p.m. the show began. For the next hour and a half, we were treated to traditional Polynesian dancing, live music, and an epic fire performance that had the whole crowd captivated.

The only hiccup for us was a light rain shower that rolled through mid-show. Luckily, we were able to move under a bigger covering and keep watching without missing a beat. 

Pro tip: if you’re visiting during rainy season, bring a small umbrella just in case.

Dinner at Tama Hau may not be fine dining, but it’s a fun, family-friendly night out that combines food, culture, and entertainment, all set against the backdrop of Opunohu’s Bay.

Local Favorites: U Express Supermarché Rémi & Taro Iaorana Gelato

One of the best parts of traveling is finding those little local gems you’d probably miss without a tip from someone in the know. Our Airbnb host recommended we try Iaorana Gelato Homemade Italian Ice Cream, a small-batch brand that was born in Bora Bora and is now sold across French Polynesia.

While browsing U Express Supermarché Rémi in Moorea, we came across their taro flavor—and trust me, it’s worth hunting down. For those not familiar, taro is a tropical root vegetable often used in Polynesian cooking (you’ll also spot it in Hawaii and other Pacific islands). 

In gelato form, it’s subtle yet unique: lightly sweet, nutty, earthy, and with delicate notes of vanilla and coconut. No single flavor overpowers the other, and the balance is perfection.

As a self-proclaimed ice cream enthusiast, I’d absolutely buy it again. It’s a fun and flavorful way to experience a bit of Polynesian food culture, one pint at a time.

What Are the Best Things to Do in Moorea With Family?

If you’re visiting Moorea with kids, a few experiences rise straight to the top. Snorkeling at one of the island’s public beaches in Moorea is a must, whether it’s swimming at Tema’e Beach or exploring the reefs near Coco Beach.

Don’t forget to pick up a flower crown and lei from the aunties by the ferry dock, those little touches make for unforgettable photos and authentic Polynesian memories. And of course, the views from Toatea Lookout and Belvedere Lookout are non-negotiable, offering some of the most breathtaking panoramas in French Polynesia.

These aren’t just activities they’re memory-makers your whole family will talk about long after your trip. Moorea has endless adventures waiting, but if you want that perfect mix of culture, nature, and family fun, these are the best things to do in Moorea you simply can’t miss.