Snorkeling in Mooera: 7 Best Spots and Tours [Guide]

Looking to snorkel in Moorea? You’re in the right place.

Just like many other islands, snorkeling is a popular activity on the island of Moorea. The island is known for its clear blue waters, great marine life and coral reef environment. The water here at most spots is so clear that you can even see reefs and fish right up from your boat.

This article is your ultimate guide to snorkeling in Moorea. You’ll learn about all the best spots to snorkel and the top tours to take for an unforgettable underwater experience.

What’s it like snorkeling in Moorea?

Moorea is located in the South Pacific Ocean which is known for its blue waters, great marine life and coral reef system. The water here is crystal clear and teeming with a vareity of marine life which make snorkeling on this island worth experiencing.

The water is pleasantly warm with average temperatures around 80°F (26°C) with mild to moderate current. Near the shore, it’s pretty shallow like 3 to 10 feet but it gets deep as 80 meters as farther out you go.

Moorea’s reef ecosystem has a variety of soft and hard coral formations, and it’s home to a wide range of marine life. There was a coral bleaching event in 2019 that had a negative impact on the reef, but a lot of it remains in good condition and definitely worth exploring.

What’s the best time to snorkel?

The best conditions for snokeling in Moorea are during the dry season from May to October. Since most days are clear during this period, the water is clearer which results in better visibility and hence enhances the snorkeling experience.

Additionally, the water feels really nice and warm during this time with average temperatures between 77°F and 81°F.  The weather in Moorea at this time is also nicer outside, all this makes this a great time to visit Moorea overall.

If you’re in Moorea at other times, you can still snorkel but you might miss out on activities like whale watching which only happens from August to November.

How much does it cost to go snorkeling in Moorea?

In Moorea, you can pay for a guided experience which can cost anywhere from $80 to $300 per person, depending on the type of snorkeling tour and the company you’re selecting.

If you decide to snorkel on your own, then there’s no cost. You just need snorkeling gear, find a public beach and jump in to explore the lagoons.

Is snorkeling better in Moorea or Tahiti?

Snorkeling is better in Moorea because there are more spots with clear waters and better visibility due to white sandy sea bed. The reefs are healthy, there’s tons of marine life, and most spots are super easy to get to.

In contrast, Tahiti has a very few snorkeling spots with white sand and good snorkeling conditions. Most of the beaches have black sand and choppy waters. Many from Tahiti come here, not because there is no snorkeling there, but because the experience is much better here on Moorea.

Is snorkeling better in Moorea or Bora Bora?

Snorkeling on both Moorea and Bora Bora is outstanding, you can’t really go wrong with either these islands. But Moorea takes the lead for its casual snorkeling and easy accessibility compared to Bora Bora where you need a boat to get to the best snorkeling.

That said, it really depends on where you snorkel. If you don’t hit a good spot in Moorea, you might say Bora Bora is better and vice versa. So in the end, it depends on spots that you’re snorkeling at.

Is snorkeling better in Moorea or Taha’a?

Taha’a has better snorkeling compared to Moorea because of its seclusion that has helped preserve its underwater bio in great condition. The corals are the healthiest, which makes snorkeling a treat here.

But that doesn’t Moorea is bad, you won’t be disappointed with either island. But if you really are a snorkeling lover, then Taha’a is the way to go.

Best places to snorkel in Moorea

If you want to go snorkeling on your own instead of taking a tour, you can do so. But you should know how to snorkel and also know the spots where to snorkel.

I can’t help you with snorkeling lessons here but I’ve got you covered on snorkeling spots. Some of the best snorkeling spots in Moorea are listed below.

1. Ta’ahiamanu Beach

Ta’ahiamanu Beach is an easy-to-get-to snorkeling spot in Moorea located right next to the island’s main road on the west coast. This public beach is a popular picnic spot among locals and tourists, and gets lively on weekends.

The water here is crystal clear and usually with low tides, which makes snorkeling here easy & fun. If you’re a beginner, you’d be happy after snorkeling here, but this might not be a favorite spot for experienced snorkelers due to scarced marine life, and corals that aren’t as spectacular.

If you want to shore snorkel, you can do that, but I’d suggest swimming about 20 to 30 meters towards the ocean. By doing so, you’ll find an improved underwater environment, and see more fish, turtules, rays and even sharks sometimes.

Another good thing about this spot is that current is usually calm here which makes for a pleasant snorkeling as well as diving experience here on Moorea.

2. Hauru Beach (Plage de Tiahura)

Hauru Beach also known as Tiahura Beach is a popular relaxing spot for locals. The soft white sand and shallow waters here invite you to dive in and snorkel around. It’s perfect for couples and families.

There are plenty of fish in the water like angelfish, starfish, clownfish, and more. You can also spot rays and turtles here on this small public beach. But the thing is there’s not much to see underwater near the shore, you’ll have to go about 50 meters out in the ocean to see all that fish and more.

The current at Tiahura Beach is very mild, but it can be strong if you swim out in the ocean especially where the coral wall is.

You can find this snorkeling place on the northwest coast of Moorea, approximately one kilometer away from Tipaniers Beach. Parking area and showers are available at the spot.

3. Tipaniers Beach

If you’re staying at Hotel Les Tipaniers or nearby, the beach at hotel is a nice spot for both relaxing and snorkeling. It’s located on the northwest coast of Moorea near Tiahura Village.

There is good snorkeling opportinty here but surely there are better spots than this one. You can see corals, sea turtles, rays, different other fish. You’ll need to swim a further for better underwater expereince, but beware of the current as it can get strong if you go out too far.

Besides snorkeling, you’ll also see people doing activities like kitesurfing, scuba diving and kayaking here. You can try those too once you’re done snorkeling!

From this beach, you can easily get to Motu Fareone and its coral garden and sandbank. There, you can only see great reefs there but also swarms of colorful tropical fish swimming around.

4. Temae Beach (Public Beach)

Temae Beach is one of the best public beaches in Moorea for snorkeling located on the east coast of the island, about 2 miles from ferry dock.

The clean blue water here is packed with tons of marine life like juvenile fish, longhorn cowfish, butterflyfish, whiprays, etc. I’d suggest swimming out about 100 meters towards the barrier reef in order to get an enhanced underwater experience.

Keep in mind that current here can get pretty strong, so bring your fins. And you also need to be a good swimmer to enjoy the drift snorkel here.

5. Moorea Lagoonarium (Jardin de Corail du Motu Ahi)

If you love snorkeling, you should visit Moorea Lagoonarium also known as Jardin de Corail du Motu Ahi. It’s a popular spot among snorkelers in Moorea. It’s located to the east of the island, adjacent to Motu Ahi, which is a short boat ride away.

This place is teeming with coral reefs and a of fish. You can see blacktip reef sharks, stingrays, wrasse, butterflyfish, and many other fish that make snorkeling here well worth it.

One thing you should know is that usually current is strong here, which could make snorkeling difficult for you. So this is place isn’t complete beginner freindly and you have to be a strong swimmer. The good thing is that there are ropes underwater that you can hold onto if current gets too strong.

Keep in mind that motu ahi is a private islet, and a certain companies are allowed to entertain the people who wanna snorkel there. So you’ll need to make a booking before you can go there. Booking for one person will cost about $35. You can also take this tour if don’t want to book your boat ride from Jardin de Corail office.

6. Coral Garden Tiahura

Coral Garden Tiahura has a rich coral reef environment that is home to numerous fish. The clear blue water here and sandy bottom is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, but sometimes current can get a little more work out from you, but nothing to worry about. Don’t forget to bring your fins though!

This place is located north west of Moorea. You can exactly find this spot between Motu Tiahura and Motu Fareone.

There are three ways to get there, either by a renting kayak (about $10/hour) or through a tour or by Coco beach restaurant boat. I wouldn’t recommend going by a kayak the day when current is strong, it’ll be difficult for you to make your way out and back.

Because this place is tucked away from the crowds, the reefs here are in pristine condition, and a vareity of sea life present here, like stingrays, butterflyfish, wrasse, surgeonfish, yellow strip goat fish and so many more. All these make for an awesome underwater experience.

7. Shark Sandbank

Shark sandbank is a popular site to see sharks in Moorea. This place is known for blacktip sharks and stingrays, which are plentiful here. Here you have a chance to see sharks up close which you don’t ususally get at most snorkeling spots.

Blacktip sharks here are not considered dangerous and don’t swim away if you get close, but if you try to chase them, they do swim away. So you stay calm and move slowely. They’re friendly and just as curious as you are and might get close enough to make you a little nervous – but don’t worry, they keep their respectful distance.

The water at this spot is super clear and shallow (it’s around 5 feet deep), which makes it beginner friendly. But I’d not recommend going on your own as you’ll want someone professional with you to help you interact with sharks and rays, and to keep you away from the current that can pull you off the course and make snorkeling a little more difficult.

This shallow sandbank is located on the north coast of Moorea which can only be reached by a boat, kayak, and through a tour. This spot does get busy at certain times and you may see more boats and snorkelers around.

Moorea Snorkeling Map

Snorkeling Tours in Moorea

Snorkeling & Lunch Tour – Shared Tour

• Rating: 5/5 Stars
• Tour Length: 6 Hours

This tour by Moorea Miti Tours is small-group snorkeling tour (up to 12 people) for a fun day swimming with fish, stingrays, and turtles near Motu Tiahura. You’ll also learn island tricks like cracking coconuts, get cool woven hats, and enjoy a tasty local lunch. This tour is not just about snorkeling but also about experiencing the Tahitian islands life.

Sea Scooter Jet Snorkeling “Moorea Dream Adventure”

• Rating: 5/5 Stars
• Tour Length: 4 Hours

If you’re looking for a unique snorkeling experience, then this sea scooter jet snorkeling tour is for you. Like the name says, the tour operator will hook you up with sea scooters so you can cruise and snorkel around the Moorea’s water without much effort.

You’ll visit multiple snorkeling spots, see coral gardens, stingrays, sharks, and maybe even turtles, dolphins, or humpback whales. They also film your underwater adventure, and you can later grab the video as a fun memory.

Snorkeling excursion, discovery of the lagoon, small group

• Rating: 5/5 Stars
• Tour Length: 4 Hours

If looking for an intimate snorkeling tour, then this tour by Alex Lagoon Tours is the perfect one for you.

The tour guide will take you to multiple locations (usually there are four stops), away from crowds, giving you a more private snorkeling experience.

You’ll see vibrant coral reefs, tons of fish, rays, sharks, turtles, and even some rare fish you’ve never heard of.

Overall, it’s an awesome small group tour that is informative and fun, and delivers everything you’re looking for and more.

Swimming with Whales and Dolphins in Moorea (Half Day tour)

• Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
• Tour Length: 4 Hours

If you are looking for a tour that offers more than just snorkeling, especially giving you the chance to swim with whales and dolphins, then this Moorea whale watching tour is for you.

You’ll get all the gear and guidance needed, but can stay on the boat if snorkeling isn’t your thing. Your guide will take you to spots where you can see whales, dolphins, sharks, stingrays, and more. It’s a bucket-list experience, perfect for anyone who want to swim or don’t want to swim in.

Night Snorkeling

• Rating: 5/5 Stars
• Tour Length: 1.5 Hours

Usually, it’s the day when all the snorkeling fun happens, but why not try something different and have a unique experience of snorkeling at night.

This short night snorkeling tour by Moorea Dark Waters allows you to experience the ocean’s nightlife at Temae Beach. You’ll get to see different sea animals that are only more active at night, which include lobsters, shrimps, eels, crabs, octopuses, sea cicadas, etc.

This whole activity is close to the shores, making it a totally safe excursion. Whether you’re a snorkeling pro or newbie, this could be the highlight of your Moorea trip.

Private Boat Tour of Moorea Lagoon

• Rating: 5/5 Stars
• Tour Length: 3 Hours

In this private snorkeling tour, you’ll start with some island sightseeing, then they’ll take you to quiet snorkeling spots. After the water fun, you’ll be provided with some snacks and juices to refuel your energy.

If you are not a good swimmer, don’t worry. The guides on the tour are pros and can help you with that. You’d feel welcomed and taken care of and that’s what makes this tour so special. You’ll also get photo and video keepsakes of your adventure from your tour operator

Moorea Lagoon Tour by Transparent Kayak

• Rating: 5/5 Stars
• Tour Length: 2 Hours

This fun, affordable kayak tour takes you through Moorea’s clear lagoons in cool transparent kayaks and see underwater life right through your kayaks. You’ll stop at Motu Tiahura for some fruit and juice, and a little chill time for a breather.

Since it’s timed in the afternoon, you’ll likely catch a sunset on the way back, so bring your camera for stunning photos.

This short about 2 hours tour would be a workout for your arms, but gives you a good overview of what the waters around the Moorea have to offer.

Moorea snorkeling resorts

Hilton Moorea

Hilton Moorea is one of the best places to stay in Moorea if you want to snorkel right from your hotel.

The water here is usually clear and calm unless it’s windy, and is filled with lots of reefs and fish. The better snorkeling is near the overwater bungalows. Here the water is around 5 feet deep, so it’s safe to swim and snorkel here.

If you swim to the right of the overwater bungalows, you’ll find a dense coral reef and a variety of marine life. You’ll see stingrays, eagle rays, black tip sharks, butterflyfish, white spotted puffer, and other colorful reef fish.

You can also snorkel in front of overwater bungalows but will have to swim farther out into the ocean, which isn’t very safe. I wouldn’t recommend it unless you’re a strong and experienced snorkeler.

If you’re not staying at hilton but still want to snorkel, you can get a day pass. Or you can do it for free – you’ll just have to go about 300 meters east of the Hilton and step into the water from there and swim about 50-60 meters out towards the corals.

Sofitel Moorea

if you’re looking for the best resort for snorkeling, Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea is a great choice. It features a pristine beach right out front that’s only accessible to hotel guests. In fact, Sofitel has one of the best hotel beaches in Moorea.

The water here is so calm and clear that you can see fish and corals without even getting in. There are two main areas to snorkel, one is in front of the overwater bungalows and other is near Temae Beach. You’ll see a lot of fish in all shapes, sizes, and colors.

Manava Moorea Resort

Manava Moorea Resort has an amazing beach and lagoon. You’ll love snorkeling here because it’s just off the beach at the hotel. The water is crystal clear with so many fish to see.

While this place isn’t for seasoned snorkelers, there’s a good amount of marine life that you can spot underwater like parrotfish, triggerfish, turtles, rays, and even sharks that sometimes pass by.

Linareva Moorea

If you’re on the west side of Moorea and looking for a hotel with great snorkeling, Linareva Moorea is a good option. It has clear blue waters that invite you to dive in and explore underwater.

Right off the shore, you won’t find much underwater, but if you go to the pier and jump off it, you’ll find a bunch of corals and fish. You can see turtles, stingrays, sea anemone, clownfish, sometimes blacktip reef sharks, and more.

You can go farther out in the ocean by using free kayaks from the hotel and explore more corals and marine life – just be careful of the current.

Marine life observings in Moorea

Following are some of the many aquatic species you can see underwater during your snorkeling trip in Moorea:

• Stingrays
• Eagle rays
• Manta rays
• Blacktip sharks
• Lemon sharks
• Humpback whales
• Sea turtles
• Clownfish
• Butterflyfish
• Goatfish
• Parrotfish
• Scorpionfish
• Triggerfish
• Spinner dolphins
• Barracudas
• Coral reefs
• Moray eels
• Crabs
• Octopus

Moorea snorkeling essentials

If you’re heading out for a snorkeling trip, make sure you’ve got your gear. If you’re going with a tour, though, they often give you snorkel gear, so you can pack a little lighter.

Here’s a list of some useful items to bring on your snorkeling adventure in Moorea:

• Snorkel and Mask for better visibility and breathing underwater.
• Fins will help with kicking and swimming.
• Wetsuit/Rashguard to protect your body against the sun.
• Reef-safe sunscreen to protect yourself from sunburn.
• Dry bag will keep your belongings safe from water.
• Travel towel of your own to dry off.
• Waterproof phone/camera case for taking pictures underwater.
• Life jackets can be helpful for inexperienced swimmers and snorkelers.

Snorkel rentals in Moorea

When you’re heading to Moorea, it’s better that you bring your own snorkel gear – at least a mask and snorkel if not the full set. Since it’s an island and you’ll probably spend a lot of time in the water. Having your own gear isn’t just more convenient, but also more hygienic and will fit you better.

If you didn’t bring your gear, no need to worry, you can buy it from Champion supermarket in Moorea. You can also check with your hotel, many beachside hotels offer snorkel gear to their guests for free.

And if you can’t find it anywhere locally, then search on the internet. I’m sure there are places in Moorea that rent out snorkel gear.