This Underrated Island Looks Straight Out of Moana
There’s an island in the South Pacific where emerald peaks rise straight out of the sea, where the ocean glows electric blue, and where locals still pass down stories through fire dancing and song.
It’s the kind of place that feels like it belongs in a movie… or better yet, a Disney film.
If you’ve ever watched Moana and thought, I wish I could go there, this island might be the closest you’ll ever get.
The jagged mountains, the overwater bungalows, the canoe rides through calm lagoons; it’s all real. And somehow, even with all that magic, it’s still flying under the radar.
The island? Mo’orea.
A (semi) heart-shaped paradise just a 25-minute ferry ride from Tahiti, and arguably one of the most beautiful, culturally rich places you can visit without the crowds of more famous islands.
Is Visiting Mo’orea Expensive?
I know what a lot of you might be thinking… “Sure, it’s stunning, but I bet it’s complicated to get there. And the flights and hotels? Probably insane.”
But honestly? It’s way more doable than people realize.
Getting to Mo’orea is as simple as booking a direct flight from Los Angeles to Tahiti, then hopping on a 25-minute ferry. That’s it.
As for cost, no, you don’t need to drop tens of thousands.
Every time we’ve gone, we’ve paid under $800 roundtrip for flights. And we’ve stayed in spots as low as $75 a night. Not hostels, actual nice guesthouses and beachfront bungalows.
Obviously, this depends on your travel style. You won’t be scoring a business class ticket or an overwater bungalow for under $800. But if you’re aiming for mid-range comfort with a bit of adventure? Mo’orea is surprisingly not bad.
Things To Do on Mo’orea
(That Feel Like a Disney Movie)
1. Swim With Humpback Whales
From July to November, humpback whales migrate to the warm waters surrounding Mo’orea to give birth. You can literally snorkel alongside these gentle giants. It’s respectful, guided, and unforgettable.
We’ve done it twice, with Moorea Moana Tours, and can honestly say it’s the most powerful experience we’ve had anywhere in the world.
2. Stay in an Overwater Bungalow
If you’ve seen those dreamy Instagram photos and thought they were only for honeymooners or celebrities… think again. You can book one of these bungalows using travel points (we’ve stayed in two for free).
Our favorite resorts for that classic overwater experience:
- Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort
- Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa
- Manava Beach Resort & Spa
Want our full guide on how to stay in overwater bungalows for free? Grab it below:
3. Hike to Magic Mountain
Yes, it’s actually called Magic Mountain, and yes, the view at the top is worthy of the name. It’s a short but steep hike (or a bumpy 4×4 ride), and the reward is a panoramic view of aquamarine water, lush mountains, and palm-lined beaches.
4. Snorkel at the Lagoonarium
If you want guaranteed marine life, head to this tiny islet on the east side of Mo’orea. You’ll see blacktip reef sharks, rays, and colorful fish swimming just below the surface. Time your visit for the daily fish feeding (before 11:30am) and bring cash; this place doesn’t take cards.
5. Catch a Cultural Show at Tiki Village
Watch traditional Polynesian dancers perform dances passed down through generations. The show alone is worth the ticket and it truly does feel like watching Moana come to life. Mike even got pulled up on stage to dance – haha!
6. Kayak with Sharks and Rays
You can paddle out from Tipaniers Beach to a shallow sandbar where rays and reef sharks just hang out. No need for a guide.. just a kayak, snorkel, and a little courage.
7. Explore the Island by eBike
Rent an eBike and loop the island (it’s only 37 miles around). You’ll ride past waterfalls, beaches, fruit stands, and mountain views in every direction.
We loved renting from eBike Moorea; affordable, friendly, and eco-conscious.
How to Get to Mo’orea
Getting to Mo’orea is actually way easier than people assume.
There are easy direct flights from Los Angeles to Tahiti (Papeete), and from there, it’s just a quick hop across the bay to Mo’orea.
To get from Tahiti to Mo’orea, you’ve got two options:
- Ferry: This is what we always take. It’s $15 USD, takes 25–45 minutes, and you’ll get stunning views the whole way.
- Flight: Around 15 minutes, but much more expensive, and often unnecessary unless you’re on a tight timeline.
Once you arrive in Mo’orea, taxis are available, but it’s best to rent a motorbike, eBike, or car to explore at your own pace.
How To Book Cheap Flights To mo’orea
Want to score the best deal on flights? Here’s how we do it every time:
Step #1) Start with Skyscanner. It’s our go-to for finding flight deals because it pulls in prices from tons of different airlines and booking sites all in one place.
Step #2) Use the “Whole Month” calendar feature. This lets you see the cheapest days to fly at a glance. If you’re flexible with your dates, this step alone can save you hundreds.
Step #3) Consider booking two separate flights – one from your home airport to Los Angeles, and another from L.A. to Tahiti.
Yes, there are a few risks with this strategy (like missing your second flight if the first is delayed), but the savings can be huge. We’ve saved $300–$500 per person doing this.
The Risk of Booking Flights Separately (And How to Avoid a Travel Nightmare)
Booking two separate flights can be a great money-saver, but it does come with some risk. If your first flight is delayed or canceled, the second airline isn’t obligated to help you out (since the tickets weren’t booked together).
Here’s how to do it in a smart way:
- Build in a buffer. I always recommend leaving at least 3–6 hours between flights. Ideally, do an overnight layover in L.A. so you’re not stressed about missing the second flight.
- Book the second flight for the next morning. This gives you wiggle room and lets you rest before the longer-haul to Tahiti. We’ve even used that time to grab dinner in LA or just chill at an airport hotel.
- Avoid checking bags on your first flight if possible. You’ll have to collect and re-check them anyway, and carry-on saves time and stress, but I also know that might be difficult for a bigger trip like French Polynesia.
- Use travel insurance if you’re nervous. It can help reimburse you if delays cause you to miss your second flight.
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So yeah, it’s a little less convenient, but if it means saving $500 and getting to Mo’orea with extra cash in your pocket? Totally worth it, in my opinion!
Where to Stay on Mo’orea
Honestly, you won’t go wrong with any of the following:
- Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa – best luxury stay.
- Moorea Island Beach Hotel – beautiful mid-range stay.
- Fare Moana – budget-friendly, fully-equipped apartment.
Best Eats On Mo’orea
Even though Mo’orea isn’t packed with restaurants, the local food scene has some gems. Here are a few favorites worth adding to your list:
- Allo Pizza – To be truthful, Allo Pizza is one of my favorite pizza places EVER, not just on Mo’orea. When we are on the island, we go to Allo Pizza at least twice a week.
Not only is it delicious, but it’s relatively cheap, too. Especially compared to other restaurants nearby.
- Restaurant Tiahura Chez Irène – This place is no-frills and local in the best way. I ordered the curry (highly recommend) and it came with a side of ʻipo, which is this soft, slightly sweet island bread that’s cooked in coconut water.
It’s one of those things that doesn’t sound like much until you try it, and then suddenly you’re dreaming about it months later!
- Ia Orana Smoothies – We discovered this smoothie stand the first time we stayed on Mo’orea (and thank god we did!). The second time we visited I was pregnant, and this was what I craved all day, every day.
They make each smoothie fresh with whatever island fruits are in season—papaya, banana, mango, pineapple. No added sugar, just pure, icy, tropical goodness.
My go-to was the strawberry, banana, and peanut butter combo. I was skeptical at first, but I eventually gave it a try, and it blew my mind!
- Rudy’s – You can’t talk about top restaurants on Mo’orea without mentioning Rudy’s. This place has been around forever and is more of a proper sit-down dinner spot.
It’s known for its French-Polynesian fusion and its signature dish: parrotfish stuffed with crab and baked in a light vanilla sauce. Sounds strange, tastes incredible. Make a reservation ahead of time since they fill up quickly, especially during high season.
Best Beaches On Mo’orea
Mo’orea is so much more than just pretty beaches, but let’s be real… the beaches here are straight-up magical.
A few of our favorites include:
- Ta’ahiamanu Beach – This one’s a local favorite located in ‘Ōpūnohu Bay. Here you’ll find calm water, great snorkeling, and usually a mix of locals and tourists. The lagoon views from this beach are out of this world, so make sure to bring your camera, too.
- Coco Beach – Set aside an entire day (or at least a half day) for Coco Beach, a chill beach restaurant on a tiny motu just off Mo’orea’s northwest coast.
You’ll get crystal-clear lagoon views, solid food and cocktails, and easy access to some of the best snorkeling in the area. It’s the kind of place where you kick your shoes off, order a piña colada, and never want to leave.
- Tema’e Beach – This public beach sits right next to one of the most luxurious resorts on the island, so you already know it must be gorgeous. This is also hands-down the best for snorkeling.
In fact, many snorkeling tours go here to access the best reefs, but you can swim out to them yourself if you’ve got a mask and fins.
How Many Days Do You Need?
If you’re wondering how long to stay: a week is the sweet spot. Long enough to settle in and experience the best of the island, but short enough that you’ll leave wanting more.
Over two trips, we’ve stayed for more than three months… and honestly, we could’ve stayed forever.
A Final Note
Mo’orea is not the polished, curated resort island that you’ll find in Hawaii. It’s real. It’s raw in the best way. It’s where you’ll get sand in your hair, salt on your skin, and a few (well.. maybe a lot) mosquito bites along the way.
But it’s also where you’ll feel the heartbeat of Polynesia.
Where legends still live, the ocean still speaks, and everything feels just a little bit enchanted.
If Moana were a real place… this would be it.
