Moorea

Most people visiting Moorea stay near Cook's or Opunohu Bay within
easy access to the Belvedere viewpoint and the higher end lodgings.
We stayed a little off the beaten track from tourist areas at Pension
Aute on the opposite side of the island. The pension has several
bungalows both on the lagoon and in the gardens. They also have
kayaks available for paddling around.

Patrice and Elodie are amazing hosts and the bungalow we stayed in was
right on the beach. We were able to watch the waves while eating
breakfast or dinner on our porch. Elodie brought gifts of fresh
pineapple, pineapple cake, banana cake, and poison cru on a regular
basis. Patrice cut open some fresh coconuts so we could enjoy the
coconut water. If we were ever in need of anything, they were happy
to help. We were very happy we decided to stay here instead of near
the tourist center.

We highly recommend renting a scooter or at least a good bicycle while
on Moorea. The stores and towns are fairly spread out so walking is
not always a viable option. If nothing else, it will make getting
groceries a lot easier. We rented a scooter for 24 hours and were
able to explore the island at a leisurely pace. It was a great place
to start the Polynesian leg of our travels.