Scenic Polynesia | Moorea
The best tours, food and resorts Moorea has to offer
By Rini Scherpenisse | Interior Designer | Mobilia
Le Cook’s | French Polynesia | Guide by Rini Scherpenisse
“Looking for an absolute thrill? Go over to the famous ‘White Valley’ of Tahiti where you have the chance to encounter tiger sharks up close!”
Known for her immaculate beauty and the laid back Tahitian lifestyle, Moorea has to be one of the most scenically striking islands in French Polynesia.
Eight voluminous mountain peaks rise from its translucent lagoon, creating a distinctive and rugged silhouette visible from the western coast of Tahiti.
Be amazed by the world's largest coral reef eco-system that consists of 3000 separate reefs during a snorkel trip or taste the typical local food in one of the waterfront restaurants.
Be guided by interior designer Rini Scherpenisse who visits the island regularly since his daughter Luna lives and works there.
Where to eat & drink
PURA VIDA FOODTRUCK
The freshest lagoon fish on the island, personally spearfished by your host and cook. It’s an absolute must for a taste of the island.
TROPICAL GARDEN
Healthy and fresh lunches made from local ingredients, from Uru and Taro to sweet potato.
LE COOK’S BAY RESTAURANT
A more upscale fine dining experience that combines French cuisine and cooking techniques with carefully sourced local ingredients.
LES SORBETS DE MO’OREA
Feeling like a little something sweet after dinner? Then this is the place to go for perfect handmade sorbets and icecream.
À L’HEURE DU SUD
French Polynesia has many ‘roulottes’ or food trucks but this one is by far the most popular on the island. Chef Fred and his team are creating absolutely delicious meals with fresh and local ingredients.
À L’HEURE DU SUD
French Polynesia has many ‘roulottes’ or food trucks but this one is by far the most popular on the island. Chef Fred and his team are creating absolutely delicious meals with fresh and local ingredients.
SNACK MAHANA
The place to try famous Tahitian raw fish dishes like Poisson Cru, Tartare de Thon or Sashimi.
Very nice local style waterfront restaurant with the freshest fish.
Where to stay
VILLA VANAKI
It is a beautifully restored traditional villa with four guest rooms and a private beach. Located on the side of the island where the sun sets, so amazing views are guaranteed.
MOOREA BEACH LODGE
Beautiful boutique hotel with a wonderful beach area in front. You’ll have all the luxury of a big resort but this lodge is much more intimate.
FENUA MATA’I’OA
Very charming waterfront boutique hotel with some of the best snorkelling spots on the island right in front.
The hotel is decorated in the local style, with plenty of shells and carvings. A good place to grab a morning coffee before paddling out to the famous sharks and ray sandbank close by.
LINAREVA MOOREA BEACH RESORT
Very secluded and off the beaten-path is this breathtaking resort, located on the South-West coast of the island.
Enjoy the untouched nature and the real Polynesian way of life at this spot. Check out the harmless nurse sharks that like to hang out in front of the dock at sunset.
What to do
MO’OREA FISHING ADVENTURES
A truly fantastic experience. Discover the most beautiful spots around the island and catch your own dinner with a local guide.
MOOREA BY FOOT
The island is full of beautiful mountain hikes with stunning views. However, they can be quite challenging and even dangerous to undertake by yourself. Luckily, this fantastic guide makes the islands most hidden gems accessible.
TAIANAPA CONCEPT HOUSE
An art gallery, boutique and cafe in one, with three living rooms decorated by local artists. Enjoy a coffee and live music while indulging on local culture.
MERMAID PRIVATE BOAT TOURS
Captain Clément, guide and photographer Luna will take you on a personalised boat tour of the lagoon. You will get the chance to see numerous wild-life such as dolphins, sharks and turtles as well as beautiful reefs.
Being on a private boat completely changes the experience and gives you the chance to fully admire Moorea’s breathtaking lagoon.
ENJOY MOOREA TOUR
Let a local guide take you on a day tour in a 4x4 vehicle. He takes a small group all around the island to teach them about Polynesian culture and takes them up in the mountains for some epic views.
For lunch he takes you to his private beach and prepares a delicious local style Poisson Cru au Lait de Coco for lunch. And to finish of the day you will hike to Moorea’s most beautiful waterfall.
PELAGIC SHARK SAFARI
The Moorea Moana Tours excursion will first take you to go spotting pelagic sharks. After that you will go over to the famous White Valley of Tahiti where you have the chance to encounter tiger sharks up close.
You will learn about sharks and their biology, their behavior, and their role in the ecosystem.
MOOREA IRIATAI SURF SCHOOL
Join local ripper Prisca Amaru for an unforgettable surf experience on the East coast.
Knowing the breaks by heart and having surfed on Moorea all her life, Prisca is the best person to take you out the beautiful reef break.
She also knows the spots with some more mellow waves to offer a more gentle introduction to reef-surfing.
