Arrival/Check-In: Moorea is a short 35-minute boat ride from Papeete. Our flight landed at 6 a.m., and by 7:30 a.m. we had reached the resort by boat and local taxi. Because our room was not ready for another few hours, staff welcomed us in the open-air lobby with refreshing punch, floral leis and cool towels while they explained resort amenities. The lobby’s tropical views made the wait pleasant. We had breakfast nearby, and shortly after, staff escorted us to our overwater bungalow. Our luggage arrived about 20 minutes later.
Guest Quarters: The overwater bungalow was impressive and private, with each unit separated to ensure a sense of seclusion. The high vaulted ceiling and dark wood floors helped keep the space cool. A glassed floor cutout provided a view of the water and marine life below. A king-sized bed sat at the center of the room, draped with ceiling netting for a romantic touch and positioned to face the deck and the ocean through a glass wall and sliding doors. A flat-screen TV offered satellite channels and music, and a small desk, well lit though with limited outlets, faced the deck.
Behind the bed, sliding double doors opened to a spacious bathroom. The freestanding shower was a standout feature, finished in black-and-white tile with an overhead waterspout and glass doors that allowed fresh air in. The double-sink vanity had excellent lighting and featured Molton Brown bath products.
The suite’s best assets were its two decks. The main deck off the room had two lounge chairs and broad ocean views. A lower private deck, reached by a few steps, provided extra sunbathing space and a ladder for direct access to the water.
Services/Amenities: The resort offers two dining options. K is an upscale restaurant open for dinner by reservation, with sand-level seating and a carefully chosen wine list that made our second-night meal memorable. Pure provides all-day dining with a mix of American favorites and French-influenced dishes. There is no formal fitness center, but long beach walks, jet skiing and complimentary basic scuba gear keep guests active. Le Spa by Sofitel provides couple’s massages, scrubs and facials; after several days in the sun I enjoyed a scrub that exfoliated away the sandy residue. WiFi is available for purchase by the hour and can be accessed across the property with a password.
The Experience: Sofitel Ia Ora Beach Resort on Moorea feels like its own peaceful world. There is plenty of entertainment and activities to fill multiple days, and the scenery makes it hard to leave. Staff were warm and attentive, and English was spoken well alongside touches of French that reflected the local culture. For travelers seeking a relaxed, low-key escape off the main island or as an alternative to Bora Bora, this resort is an excellent choice.
GT Checklist
- Doorman/valet
- Less than 10 minutes for check-in
- Separate tub and shower
- Large vanity
- High-quality towels
- Powerful, unattached hair dryer
- High-quality bed linens
- Large, flat-screen television
- Large desk with convenient outlets
- Large, complimentary laptop safe
- Complimentary in-room WiFi
- Complimentary bottled water
- Stocked minibar
- Ample lighting
- In-room coffeemaker
- Iron and ironing board
- On-site restaurant and bar
- 24-hour room service
- State-of-the-art fitness center
Sofitel Moorea Ia Ora Beach Resort
BP 28, Moorea
98728 – Maharepa
French Polynesia
tel 689 551212
sofitel.com