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Moorea... the sister island
 Tourism Itineraries
Magic: The show at Tiki Village , in Haapiti. An entire village reconstituted to look like in the old days, with local "actors" to initiate you to ancient customs. Great show every night with singing and dancing, not to mention the tradition: copra preparation, making of tapa and flower or plants leis, initiation to "ma'a tahiti" (a tahitian feast shared by all the guest), etc. For lovers, it is possible to plan a traditional wedding ceremony following ma’ohi rituals, in traditional attires and authentic atmosphere. A fantastic experience, with a cast of dozens of tattooed warriors and seductive vahine. Unique memories and photos as soon as you arrive... at a sometimes prohibitive cost  More
 Unforgettable: The Toatea Vista Point in Temae, above the Sofitel IaOra. You can admire the lagoon's typical colors and a magnificent panorama on the island of Tahiti. This is the only slope on the road around the island.
Grandiose: Cook's Bay, surrounded by very jagged mountains, where large cruise ships come to moor. This large and deep bay features some good spots to anchor when arriving by sea.  The many docks around its shores make it easy to reach the land.
A little further, Opunohu Bay more untouched, where Captain Cook actually anchored in 1777. It is probably the most beautiful bay in Polynesia! It is less populated than its neighbor and its small secluded beaches inspire the visitors in search of the true paradise. Many historical movies have been shot in this bay (Bounty with Mel Gibson, etc).
An absolute must: The Belvédère, easily accessible by road, located at the heart of the island, 500 m (1,500 ft) in altitude. There you will discover one of all Polynesia's most beautiful panoramas: Opunohu Bay on the left and Cook's Bay on the right, separated by Mount Rotui in the middle. From there a choice of many hikes in the area in search of wild waterfalls and an exhuberant nature. Access is easy via two roads, one from Cook's Bay, going through pineapples fields in the center of the island, the other road from Opunohu, going through Moorea's natural preserve and the land of the Agriculture School along many archeological sites.
Authentic: The small pensions (guesthouses) on the North coast. Their owners are quite blase about the euphoric Papeete weekenders landing in their houses, but they are always ready to tell you anecdotes. The scenery is gorgeous, and it is enhanced by the atmosphere. The encounters with other guests, but even more with the locals, are rich in memories and unforgettable evenings (improvised bands of musicans and informal foods are on the program). On top of royal tranquility, you will enjoy one of the most beautiful scenery in the world. Sharp mountains in the background, enchanting lagoon in the foreground.
Our favorites:
 Sea and sun: Moorea's beaches are very beautiful, there are many of them, bordered with white sand. The most beautiful beach is located between the Sofitel IaOra and Temae Point, near the airport, facing Tahiti. This is a public beach, easily accessible. Along a nearly one-kilometer natural strip of white sand stretching along high coconut trees, and offers easy access to the lagoon for a swim. The beaches on the North coast are also superb, but sometimes difficult to get to (private access alleys owned by the hotels).
Sports and leisure: For the lovers of true mountain hikes, some unforgettable excursions are on the menu, namely a hike across the island, from Vaiare to Pao Pao. North of the port of Vaiare, a marked trail leads to Mount Mouaputa Pass (350 m, 1,000 ft). The climb is great, through a purau and mango tree forest. On top of the pass (about 400m), the view is breath-taking on either side. The descent to Pao Pao Bay follows the old volcanoes slopes, through impressive mape trees, bamboos and giant ferns. Figure on a 3-hour hike.
Surf, Surfing and the Big Blue: Moorea is without a doubt, with Bora Bora, the island offering the largest number of sea and lagoon related activities:diving(with some remarquable spots), fishing, surfing, windsurfing, canoeing, kayaking, parasailing, etc. All hotels and guesthouses are well organized and will contact the various activity providers for you, according to your wishes. The "Motu Ahi" Lagoonarium, in Afareaitu, to swim amid rays, turtles and colorful fishes. A perfect activity for those who do not always feel up to getting scuba equipment.
Nature and traditions : The MaraeThese ancient structures made of stone or coral and pyramid shaped had several superimposed levels. Human sacrifices were often performed there. Moorea's oldest marae, in Afareaitu, is said to go back to year 900. The road leading to the Belvédère, between the Cook and Opunohu Bays, will make you discover a few that have been partially restored. Well designed, description boards tell you about some episodes of the Polynesians' tumultuous history. Other marae can also be seen in the island's interior.
Do not miss: An opportunity to live a unique experience an encounter with sting rays. In front of Hotel Tipaniers, in about one meter (3 ft) of water, and about 100 m from the shore. They come in big numbers, used to playing their game, to get petted and rub themselves against you without any fear or danger for their happy visitors. Bring food for them (small pieces of meat or fish, as they are carnivorous) just enough to tame them: they have been used to be fed now for years. A unique experience accessible to seniors and young children!
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