Moorea - Showing up with no accommodation okay?

Hi guys,
My wife and I are arriving in Papeete May 1st through May 11th and want to know if we arrive Moorea by ferry the morning of May 2 from Papeete, what's the scene like at the dock as far as people there to sell you accommodations? We're having a heck of a time finding a decently priced place to stay in Moorea that has room for the 9 nights we need (apparently there are 2 major holiday weekends while we're there). In fact, we can barely find 3-4 nights.

We've been traveling in Asia for a year and just show up in places and are able to always make it work. Can we do this in Moorea? Will we find something affordable or is it absolutely necessary to book ahead? Most hostels and home stays we've contacted via TT are sold out.

If we get stuck in Papeete area, are there any decent places to stay/good beaches, or are we wasting our time?

Thanks much!

"what's the scene like at the dock as far as people there to sell you accommodations? "

There are no touts.

"We've been traveling in Asia for a year and just show up in places and are able to always make it work. Can we do this in Moorea? Will we find something affordable or is it absolutely necessary to book ahead?"

Forget everything about Asia. (Or imagine it being like Japan not Thailand) Accomodation is spread out and there is mininal public transportation. I suppose you can take Le Truck to Petit Village and then choose between Chez Nelson and Camping Moorea. However, you are competing with weekending locals for the best accomodations. Be aware that the USD is buying about 70 cfp nowadays. I would try contacting places of interest directly. Splitting up your 9 nights might not be a bad idea as different areas of Moorea are wonderful for different reasons.

"If we get stuck in Papeete area, are there any decent places to stay/good beaches, or are we wasting our time?"

Papeete is a city. The accomodations there are poor value for money and not what one goes to "Tahiti" for. Can't speak for the rest of Tahiti island. Tahiti Iti is supposed to be very scenic. (Do check when the big surf tournaments take place.)