Experience the Wonders of Moorea

Turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and lush peaks — the unparalleled beauty of French Polynesia is bound to wow even the most seasoned travelers. Jet-setters tend to flock to honeymoon-favorite destinations like Bora Bora and Tahiti, but with 118 islands and atolls making up this overseas territory in the South Pacific, there are endless pockets of paradise worth exploring. One of these is Moorea, an adventure-filled volcanic island only a 30-minute ferry ride from Papeete, Tahiti’s largest city. If you’re keen on making your tropical travel dreams a reality by enjoying an overwater bungalow, look no further than the Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort.

1. Unmatched Beauty of Moorea

Sitting on the edge of a protected marine area off Temae Beach (the longest on the island), the resort offers a beachfront infinity pool, two open-air dining venues, an on-site Tahitian pearl shop, and 38 overwater bungalows with easy access to a crystal-clear lagoon. Additionally, there are plenty of onshore accommodations from bungalows inside tranquil gardens or directly on the beach to a luxury villa fit for families and large groups.

2. Luxurious Accommodations

Experiencing the opulence of an overwater bungalow has always been high on my travel wish list. There’s something truly special about this type of ultra-private accommodation: the sound of lapping waves lulls you to sleep, while you wake up refreshed only a few steps from the water. Floor-to-ceiling windows transform the space into your own personal solarium, with views that resemble a postcard. Use the in-room snorkeling gear to explore the lagoon directly from your bungalow’s private platform, or peer through the indoor glass floor panel to catch a glimpse of the thriving marine life below.

3. Culinary Delight at Sofitel

Dining at the resort is a treat. The on-site restaurants — Pure and K — specialize in both local Polynesian and international cuisines. “Boasting French style infused with Tahitian hospitality, the hotel’s two acclaimed restaurants provide an intimate setting with incredible panoramic views and live entertainment,” says Sabine Lamberts, the general manager. Pure offers three meals a day, including a daily breakfast buffet, as well as lunch and dinner menus. The weekend ends with a bang here when guests enjoy a traditional Polynesian dance performance followed by a captivating display of Samoan fire knife dancing on the beach.

K, a beach restaurant serving a specially curated tasting menu on Thursday and Friday evenings, offers a more private atmosphere. The space is illuminated by torches, making it perfect for a romantic evening. Enjoy expertly selected wine pairings as you toast to your tropical getaway with toes in the sand.

4. Adventure Activities

While lounging on a private deck with a cocktail is bliss, the resort offers much more. Striking the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation, guests can explore Moorea by land and sea. The island features a single main road that easily navigates the 37-mile perimeter, making it easily accessible. A local tour guide, Yvette, shared knowledge of the region’s culture and history, enriching our experience as we ventured to lesser-known spots.

One memorable hike was to Moorea’s Āfareaitu Waterfall, where despite the rain, swimming at the base felt spiritual. Describing this place, the Tahitian word means “sacred valley of gods and kings.” Following this venture, we enjoyed jet skiing across the symmetrical bays with stops to admire the island’s spectacular peaks. A private boat tour brought snorkeling with stingrays, nurse sharks, and even sea turtles, showcasing Moorea’s rich biodiversity.

The excitement peaked when we spotted dolphins while heading to a private motu for lunch, greeted with piña coladas and fresh grilled meals, surrounded by tranquil waters – a perfect tasting experience of French Polynesia’s renowned hospitality.

5. Getting to Moorea

French Polynesia is undoubtedly a remote destination; however, direct flights on Air Tahiti Nui from major U.S. cities such as Los Angeles and Seattle make it reasonably straightforward to travel. The two-hour time difference from Pacific Standard Time helps too, allowing West Coast visitors to avoid jet lag upon arrival.

Moorea’s unspoiled beauty and thriving culture, combined with Sofitel’s top-notch service, made this resort an ideal place to fulfill the dream of staying in an overwater bungalow. Discover more about the Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort and all its incredible offerings.