Moorea is often described as one of the most beautiful islands in French Polynesia, and even a short stay here is worth it. With dramatic green mountains rising straight from the lagoon and water that shifts between shades of turquoise and deep blue, it feels like a world away. For travelers visiting before or after a cruise, adding one day in Moorea to a French Polynesian itinerary is a perfect way to build in true relaxation time.
We decided to book the Manava Resort & Spa before joining a Windstar cruise around Tahiti and the Society Islands. It was the perfect way to get over our jet lag!
Getting from Tahiti to Moorea
You will fly into Fa’a’ā International Airport in Tahiti, and it’s a 20 minute taxi ride to the ferry / cruise port. The taxi fare was $20 USD (as of December 2025).
The island of Moorea sits 35 minutes by ferry away from the ferry port in Papeete. We had originally booked ferry tickets in advance to get to Moorea, but the ferry was cancelled. Luckily, there are 3 companies that run the route, so we were able to turn up at the ferry terminal, buy tickets and get on a ferry within 30 minutes of arrival!
Arriving at the port in Moorea, there were taxis lined up to make transportation simple. We grabbed one and headed to Manava Beach Resort and Spa, which is a 15 minute drive away, on the north side of the island. The taxi from the ferry to the resort was about $20 USD each way for the 3 of us.
About Manava Beach Resort & Spa Moorea
We chose Manava for a couple of different reasons. First of all, if you arrive early (before check-in) they allow complete access to the resort. This includes showers, changing rooms, restaurants, pools, etc. No day pass is required like some of the other resorts. This was important to us since we were driving so early after a very long travel day.
Another reason is for the over the water bungalows. Moorea was where the first over the water bungalows were created back in 1960. Fortunately, after arriving and enjoying breakfast our room was available for early check-in. This is always based on availability and not guaranteed, naturally.
Room Types and Resort Layout
There are many types of accommodations available on resort. There are basic hotel type rooms, garden bungalows, beach bungalows, over the water bungalows (facing back to the beach) and premium over the water bungalows facing out to the ocean.
We chose the premium for the most privacy and best views. Compared to the bungalows in the Caribbean, these are about 1/3 of the price.
Resorts in Tahiti are not all inclusive but at this resort, breakfast is included each day. Breakfast was served buffet style and included an omelet station.
Dining at Manava Resort
There are 2 restaurants on site and a bar – the food was exceptional as well as the service.
We spent the day in the pool, enjoying multiple meals and relaxing in our bungalow. After a long travel day, a down day is a must to recharge and adjust to the time difference.
Every Wednesday and Saturday there is a Polynesian performance. We were fortunate to be there on a Wednesday. There is no charge for the show. However, the best views are from the restaurant, so reservations are recommended.
The show was great and involved guest participation which was quite comical (we do not have the grace of the dancers performing!)
What to Do in One Day in Moorea
A day on Moorea is geared towards relaxation, so we enjoyed a very restful day mostly on the resort!
Activities On Resort:
- On resort, water sports such as kayaks, paddle boards and snorkeling are included
- Diving is available on site with a third party vendor for an additional cost
- The infinity pool was our favorite place on resort – plenty of chairs and shade available
- Manea Spa has a range of massage and beauty therapies, for a truly relaxing time on Moorea
Exploring Moorea Beyond the Resort
- Shopping – The market is located 10 minutes away (walking) from the resort – here you will find shops, souvenirs, restaurant and many local activities.
- Island Tour – A half-day guided tour or self-drive around Moorea highlights viewpoints, pineapple plantations, local villages, and scenic coastal stops without feeling rushed.
- Boat Tour – Join a small boat excursion to snorkel with rays and reef sharks in shallow, clear water. Many tours also include coral gardens and sandbank stops.
- Pearl Farm – Learn how Tahitian black pearls are cultivated and see the grading process before browsing locally made jewelry.
Visiting Moorea Pre or Post-Cruise
Adding a day in Moorea before or after a cruise is surprisingly easy and well worth the effort. With frequent ferries from Tahiti, and a short transfer time, extending your trip requires very little extra planning.
Even a single night allows time to experience the island’s dramatic scenery, calm lagoons, and relaxed Polynesian pace that many travelers hope to find in French Polynesia.
For cruise guests especially, Moorea offers the perfect opportunity to slow down, recover from travel, and begin or end a sailing with a true island experience rather than rushing straight through.
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