Papeete or Moorea?

Hello friends,

I'm going on cruise of FP, flying from North America to Papeete. At the end of the cruise, we'll have two days to hang out before flying back home. Would you recommend staying in Papeete or Moorea? I understand taking the ferry from Papeete to Moorea is quick and easy, is this correct?

We'll be looking for nice beaches, snorkling, and everything else people look for when they travel to FP.

Also, is either island cheaper than the other (i.e. for hotel, food, etc)?

Thanks!

Papeete is a (small) city, it's on the island of Tahiti.

I would recommend that you head to Moorea, it's what you are looking for. The ferry indeed is quick and easy.

You get more value for your accomodation money on Moorea, food is cheaper on Tahiti.

I suggest you stay in Moorea! The island itself is beautifully picturesque with lots to see and do. The azure blue waters you seek are there as well. Lots of great snorkeling and the 4X4 tour is incredible! You can take the ferry over to Tahiti for a day trip as it's only about a 40 minute ride and inexpensive. Most people don't stay in Tahiti-Papeete long. Usually a forced overnight via their air schedules, or maybe just a day to explore the Le Marche (marketplace for shopping), museums or a drive around the island.

There are many inexpensive places to stay in Moorea. Check out the Les Tipaniers and the Hotel Hibiscus! Three star properties with lovely beaches. The higher end places such as the Sofitel, Sheraton, Intercontinental and Pearl are all lovely! The Sofitel just reopened and is all new! The Pearl is close to shops and restuarants within walking distance. The beach at the Sheraton is the very best for snorkeling and the Intercontinental has the dolphin quest!

sunny regards,
shully

Oh yes, I agree with the others -- head for Moorea for your last two days! The beaches are far superior to anything close to Papeete, and I find the accomodations (both budget and luxury) are nicer on Moorea for the same price ranges. If you are looking for mid-prices, I definitely agree with Shully that either Les Tipaniers or Hibiscus Hotel are wonderful, both on white sandy beaches with good restaurants on the grounds and within walking distance to many shops, restaurants, and a small grocery store. The northwestern side of Moorea where they are located has GORGEOUS sunsets!

Thanks guys! Moorea it is! I will definitely look into your recommendations for hotels.

One more question: we'll be carrying a lot of luggage (i.e. one big suitcase and carry-on bag each). Is it going to be difficult taking the ferry without a car? I'm not sure how this would work. Would you recommend renting a car in Papeete and then taking the ferry to Moorea and then back to Papeete airport? What are the driving conditions like in Moorea/Tahiti?

Thanks again!

It's possible to get a local bus from the airport to somewhere fairly close to the ferry port in Papeete - a backpack would be better than a suitcase though.

Local buses in Moorea meet the ferry, departing shortly afterwards. It's possible to get the bus to the islands budget camping/cheap dorms/cheap rooms places.

That said, it's fun to have a hire car for a few days on both Tahiti and Moorea - if you're budget can cope - traffic is fairly light.

You could leave luggage at the Left Luggage Papeete Airport and just bring what you need for the two days with you... would make the ferry journey easier...

we did this when we passed through and were spending a few days on Moorea as part of a longer trip and it worked out well...

I'd also recommend the Club Bali Hai for accom... it's on the shore of the stunning Cooks Bay... but not a beach...