MOOREA, The Romantic island of the south pacific

Things to do in Moorea | Hiking Trails | Snorkeling and Tours | Where to Stay

Moorea, Tahiti’s little sister, is a real gem for nature lovers. From picturesque vistas to mind-blowing snorkeling and stunning hiking through the rainforest slopes of Mount Tohivea.

Things to do in Moorea

Go to the Belvedere Lookout for the most beautiful panoramic views of Tahiti and beyond. It was also the setting in the popular movie, “Return of the Bounty”. Furthermore, it is known as “one of the most spectacular panoramic vistas in the South Pacific”.
- Brief directions by car: Take Round Island Road toward Opunohu Bay. After the bridge by the beach, go up the paved road that leads to Moorea’s central valley. You will pass the Titiroa Marae. The road will take you to Belvedere Lookout.
‘Ōpūnohu Bay is another hot spot
Public Beach, Ta’ahiamanu
Tiki Village is a Tahitian cultural center with shows
Toatea Lookout is about 800 m from Sofitel Kia Ora Beach Resort. The lookout, which showcases Moorea’s beautiful lagoon, is an easy stop for people of all abilities right at the side of the road with no walking required. With such an incredible ocean view, Toatea Lookout is a must-see on Moorea Island and another Instagram-moment!

Hiking Trails in Moorea

Mount Rotui

The people of Moorea don’t mind sharing their spectacular nature with tourists. Like when you do the Mount Rotui hike which is only possible by using the homeowners’ driveway.

On the opposite side of the road where the Hilton Resort is, you’ll find a tree with a sign that reads “Rotui”. Walk down that driveway and follow the signs. Don’t mind that you’re walking behind someone’s house, it is okay. You’re on the right track. Thereafter, turn to walk up the hill until you find the path to the top. There’s quite a bit of stretching uphill as you will be climbing over boulders here and there.

Belvedere Lookout

As I said before, you can reach it four-by-four style but of course, you can also climb it. Park at the bottom and start walking towards Belvedere Lookout. Watch out for signs that say “XTerra” – there are plenty of them. Pick any one of them and you’ll be good to reach the beautiful and popular Belvedere Lookout.

Afareaitu Waterfalls

I left this one for last because it is a bit more tricky to reach. The start is in a rough terrain, so getting there via a normal sedan will not be a good idea. However, if you have no alternative, simply don’t drive all the way to the parking area but walk up to the parking area instead. Where there is a will, there is a way!

Now, to get to the parking area I suggest you search and find “Middle School D’afareaitu” on your GPS. The entrance of the school is on the same road that takes you to ‘Āfareaitu Waterfalls.

You’ll need your swimsuit because the swimming area is a treat, and you need NON-slip footwear to avoid falling from slippery rocks.