Moorea

The picturesque island of Moorea, located in French Polynesia just a few kilometers from Tahiti, attracts travelers with its emerald peaks and crystal-clear lagoons. It is the perfect destination for those seeking a blend of relaxed beach holidays and active adventures in the heart of the Pacific Ocean. Reaching this tropical paradise is possible by both air and sea, making the journey a convenient and exciting part of any itinerary across the archipelago.

The fastest way to reach the island is by air. The local Temae Airport (MOZ) receives regular flights connecting the resort with the main international hub on Tahiti and other islands of the archipelago. The flight usually takes no more than 10–15 minutes, offering passengers stunning bird's-eye views of the coral reefs.

The airport is situated on the northeast coast and offers good transport accessibility. Despite the terminal's modest size, it ensures a comfortable arrival for tourists, allowing you to head almost immediately to your chosen hotel or overwater bungalow.

Rail transport on the island of Moorea is completely absent, as the volcanic island's terrain and small size do not support railway construction. Tourists accustomed to trains will need to switch to other modes of transport here.

To move between beaches, viewpoints, and villages, travelers usually use rented cars, scooters, or bicycles. This allows you to freely explore the island, enjoying the landscapes at your own pace.

It is impossible to reach Moorea by intercity bus, as the island is separated from mainlands and other large islands by the ocean. Bus service here is exclusively local and intended for movement within the island.

There is a local public transport system known as Le Truck, the routes of which are often tied to ferry arrival schedules. This is a budget-friendly option for traveling from the pier to the main tourist zones; however, the schedule can be irregular, so many tourists prefer alternative methods of transportation.

It is impossible to drive directly to Moorea due to its island location, but many travelers transport rented cars on passenger-cargo ferries from the neighboring island of Tahiti. The crossing takes about 30–45 minutes and allows you to continue your journey in the same vehicle.

On the island itself, a car is one of the most convenient means of transport. A ring road approximately 60 km long runs along the coast, offering access to all key beaches and attractions. Taxis can also always be found at the ferry terminal and airport.

To ensure your trip to this tropical island is perfect, it is worth considering a few local features in advance. Here is a list of practical recommendations for guests of Moorea:

1. Clothing and Footwear: Bring light clothing made of natural fabrics, modest swimwear, and definitely special swimming shoes ("reef shoes") to avoid injuring your feet on corals or sea urchins.
2. Transport: Public transport runs rarely. For freedom of movement, it is best to rent a scooter or a small car.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Pacific Franc (XPF). Cards are accepted in hotels and large shops, but it is better to carry cash for markets and small cafes.
4. Sun Protection: The sun here is very active. Use sunscreen with a high factor (SPF 50+) and headwear, even if it is cloudy.
5. Language: The official language is French, but English is spoken well in the tourism sector. Learn a couple of words in Tahitian, such as "Ia Orana" (Hello), to delight the locals.
6. Operating Hours: Life on the island quiets down early. Shops may close as early as 17:00–18:00, and on Sundays, many establishments do not work at all.
7. Water Safety: Do not touch corals or marine inhabitants with your hands — this can be dangerous to your health and harms the ecosystem.
8. Connectivity: The internet can be slow. It is recommended to buy a local SIM card at the airport upon arrival for a more stable connection.

Observing these simple rules will help you avoid minor inconveniences and fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Polynesian hospitality and natural beauty.