The best beaches in Moorea
French Polynesia has not a lot of beaches, water is undoubtedly beautiful but contrary to what people might think, it is not easy to find beaches. I think that Moorea is one of the Polynesia islands with more beaches easy to enjoy. Here you’ll find our compilation of the best beaches on Moorea Island:
1. Temae Beach – The best beach in Moorea
This stunning beach is divided into two sections: the right side is a private beach owned by the luxurious Sofitel Ia Ora, while the left side is a public beach framed by a picturesque grove of coconut trees. Even if you’re not staying at the Sofitel, don’t miss this spot—it’s widely regarded as the most beautiful beach on the island.
Do not forget to bring drinks and something to eat with you, on this beach there is no place to buy something.
If you like flying drones, be carefull in this area. Drone flights are prohibited here as the beach is near the airport, which places it within a restricted red zone. To fly a drone, you’ll need to obtain a special permit. Without one, it’s possible your drone won’t even take off due to GPS restrictions.
This beach is full of coral, making it an ideal location for snorkeling fans. Don’t miss the chance to explore the vibrant underwater world here! You can easily spend hours snorkeling, be sure to protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen, or a rash guard. We personally use both.
Enjoying Snorkleling in the beach of the Sofitel
2. Beautiful public beaches in Moorea
There are several good public beaches in Moorea, here is my selection:
– TIAHURA ou HUARU Beach –
To reach this beach, head northwest on the island and pass the now-closed Intercontinental Moorea. Continue toward Hauru to find your destination at the right, just before the Hotel Hibiscus.
– TA’AHIAMANU Beach –
This beach is near Opunohu Bahia, and here you have an excellent view of the mountains from this beach. The sand is white and super fine and pleasant.
On both beaches, you’ll find showers and restrooms in excellent condition. You’ll need to take with you something to drink and eat because there are no places for buying on-site.
Ta’ahiamanu Beach
Ta’ahiamanu Beach from our drone
– PAINAPO –
On the other side of the island aound the Haapiti Zone (PK33), you’ll find also interesting shore but wilder one, you won’t find a real beach with showers or restrooms but a beautiful landscape and beaches full of coral, so you also have to be careful. Once in the water, you’ll find some spots of soft sand, but anyway, in Polynesia, I recommend using beach shoes all the time.
The spot is private but you can acces to the beach. There is a big statue of a man with a paddle, with one knee on the ground.
CONS: You have to find where to acces, not all the shore here is public.
Painapo
Painapo
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