woodley, January 10, 2011 in Pacific Islands, All. I understand that the Hilton has better snorkelling than near the Sofitel. Before my recent cruise I scoured the boards and decided on the Hilton. Our top12 best snorkeling spots to see sea turtles. Your review sounds like a totally different hotel! Everyone will naturally have an opinion, but we surely didn't like it and I didn't even mention the huge overcharge they suddenly added to our bill after checkout :/ Our villa was also anything but quiet since it was basically on the road and saw cars passing by from the bathroom terrace. Please contact the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa reservations team 2 days in advance, to organize transfer from either the ferry dock . If you're agonizing over which overwater bungalow to pick, be it on Moorea or on Bora Bora in French Polynesia or in the Maldives, the good news is that you're apt to have a great time regardless. Thank you so much for all of the helpful advice. I had read on Tripadvisor that there were 2 types of breakfasts at the Hilton continental and buffet. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. We had an overwater bungalow and loved it! And my recommendation is to go with the one that suits your needs best. You might want to compare bungalow decor and see which appeals to you. Another alternative is Les Tipaniers. The Sofitel is my favourite in any case. Well I booked the sofitel after reading all the reviews I think it meets our requirements, with it being such a close call between the two it came down to location and beach area. Sunday 5th of February 2023. All Rights Reserved. Snorkeling from bungalow was fantastic. Pro's and Con's to both, but my goodness if anyone is lucky enough to stay at either one I can't imagine not being thrilled! If it's Cook's Bay the Hilton is closer. There's dining, then there's indulging in the finest cuisines. The first day we used Tiare who was really sweet. Our top10 best snorkeling spots to see rays. Started October 12, 2018, Copyright 19952023 The Independent Traveler, Inc. For the complete Tahitian experience, try one of our signature treatments, such as our Moorea Lagoon and Moorea Volcanic massages. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. To buy a day pass you simply go to the hotel lobby and speak to the manager. The resort features 113 luxurious bungalows built over the water, on the beach or surrounded by landscaped gardens. At Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort, pamper yourself with a treatment at the full-service spa or have fun in the sun with activities like snorkeling and scuba diving. 1) I'm thinking also of booking a few nights in Moorea in a OWB at the beginning of the cruise. Very nice garden work. The symbol of french elegance in luxury hospitality around the world |Website Design, Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort - Luxury hotel. Hotel Review: Sofitel Ia Ora Beach Resort Moorea, French Polynesia 9,987 views Jun 2, 2020 On our first trip to Moorea in 2018, we fell in love with the island, the people, the culture - it. We do have reef shoes so that is no worry. Our trip is coming up fast and I checked with our bank to get XPFs and it is not within the currency they can order. From $2699 pp. Sofitel Moorea la Ora Beach Resort is located on Moorea, and offers 5-star accommodation as well as a private beach. See Full Terms & Conditions- Opens a dialog. The lagoon is beautiful - the pool is gorgeous - food is expensive but try to book it with breakfast included - and you don't have to pay for the highest end overwater bungalow because essentially they are almost the same and it doesn't matter where you are. Unless things have changed recently I assume the day use is still available, but it has been a few years since we last did it. All you need to remember is the buses set their schedule based on when the ferries come and go. Moorea Lagoon Spa. The fees and inclusions are outside the control of Costco Travel and are subject to change by the hotel without notice. Facilities include two restaurants, a bar, an outdoor swimming pool and day spa. This northern placement creates the perfect setting to admire both the sunrise to the east and the sunset to the west from the comfort of your own overwater bungalow. Location, location, location. There are really no restaurants within walking distance of the Sofitel (could walk to the larger supermarket if you are feeling energetic). The same external restaurants pick up from both resorts. Let's organize your dream day or . Its often suggested for families by travel agencies, but I refused as photos didnt look great. I haven't been to the Sofitel but from what we understood from those who had stayed, it lacked somewhat in service. The entire lagoon is 4-5 feet deep, hundreds of fish, crystal clear water. The food was great and we could watch the sharks swimming in the lagoon at night. It felt small, worn, and cramped over there. They give you cards for each towel you get and make you sign for a hefty deposit. Best tuna ever ! All other families we met did the same thing and all we had to do was to inform them at check-in that we had one more child with us. Natural setting. Thanks. The area near the beach where the dive shop is located was very long but did not have a lot of shade nor did it have a lot of chairs. But the relative ease of access and the remarkable diversity of Moorea itself makes the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa easy to recommend. At 20, I embarked on a mission to see the world while building my career through studying and working abroad. Best Over Water Bungalow Moorea or Bora Bora? Depends on which Bay the PG moors in. PJCHILIS. From $2979 pp. The pool was small, but the water was heated and we met a ton of families at the pool as well. If it's the other Bay the Ic will be closer. There are now 20 taxis in Moorea.used to have only 15 taxis. We are processing your payment. It's the view at Soffitel that is amazing and is on one if the best beaches, more local restaurants are nearby. Snorkeling photo tips. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. Yes, a little isolated from the nearest store, you do need a (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? You can come out of your room into an amazing snorkeling experience straight away. I plan to monitor closely and may switch to Sofitel. Catch up on all the latest news and events. Are lemon sharks/other sharks in Moorea really that tame. We were lightly scolded for filling our water bottles at the breakfast. Our main concern is that the Hilton looks like it is closer to restaurants outside of the resort whilst there doesn't seem to be much out and around the Sofitel, is this correct ? My fiance and I are in the process of booking our Honeymoon (4 nights in Moorea and 8 nights in Bora Bora). Sofitel Boutique. Thanks guys for your insight. Sofitel is on a nice larger beach and is a larger resort. %{= pickUpAgencyName } I sense a bit of bias in your review maybe that overcharge at the end did that. Pearl is also walking distance to town which the others weren't. It got me thinking about all of the people who were Hilton Honors members that got free upgrades to Overwater Bungalows, and made me feel unimportant, especially after we paid so much money. If youre trying to decide between the two, I would count on having to pay for any upgrades, then go with whatever one costs less. It was perfect for us as we don't lie on the beach but live to float around in the beautiful calm water. Several restaurants will pick up for dinner (Moorea Beach Cafe, Rudy's, and a couple of others); I believe Moorea Beach Cafe also picks up for lunch. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Just look at this video http://hilton.virtual-moorealagoonresort.com/. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Beachfront and garden bungalows are much nicer at sofitel than Hilton. My husband and I are very experienced snorkelers, swimmers and scuba divers. We arrive to PPT late at night, so I am. Im a Polish-born citizen of the world. Honestly, I think both resorts are outstanding for snorkeling. Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa. Thanks in advance! I can't answer your questions, but if you don't get enough response here to your question, I would check out reviews on tripadvisor.com. If you only stay at one resort theres a big chance that youll be mostly satisfied with your resort because lets be real: none of the resorts in Moorea are bad places. Vacation Package Details Included Extras Special savings off the package room rate (will be reflected in price) Daily breakfast for two on Moorea Complimentary mini-bar (per room, per day, Moorea) Complimentary Wi-Fi (Moorea) Answer 1 of 5: Hi All, My husband and I will be arriving in PPT by cruise ship from Sydney and are having an extra 2 nights in Moorea for our 19th Wedding Anniversary. #2 having stayed at both I dont agree. The resort definitely has more of a European vibe to it. . I dont think the pool was heated, but because it was so shallow in some areas, the temperature was really comfortable. Harvey Draper. In 2013 we spent some time there pre cruise so we arranged to return when we were in port. I did visit the Sofitel as I did an excursion there. Marine life identification guide. Visiting Bora Bora with Kids + FS Bora Bora Review. The Le Moana has umbrellas close to the beach. Good luck! We love the Sofitel but they are asking too much so it is between the IC and the Hilton. For $9 bucks to can get a ride over to the moths and back and enjoy nice snorkeling ;). Other room categories and lengths of stay are available. The area near the beach where the dive shop is located was very long but did not have a lot of shade nor did it have a lot of chairs. It was a lifelong dream to stay in an Overwater Bungalow and I was hoping the hotel would upgrade us into one because of our 10-year anniversary. Costco Travel recommends the purchase of insurance as an affordable way to cover your travel investment. o. ws & Villa. The location of the hotel was nice, as it is situated on a lagoon so snorkeling is excellent everywhere. There are four main resorts on Moorea to choose from - Sofitel, Manava, Hilton and Intercontinental, all offering a variety of accommodation types. Sofitel Moorea Kia Ora Beach Resort A tranquil oasis of exotic gardens, spectacular bays and white sand beaches, the Sofitel Moorea Kia Ora Resort boasts serene views of Moorea and offers an air of French style infused with Tahitian hospitality. Have you gone to the Lagoon-aquarium on Moorea? This includes use of the beach, chaises, pool, towels, and snorkel equipment (not sure of the snorkel gear - we had our own from the ship), and lunch. I thoroughly enjoyed the Sofitel when I stayed with my cousin in 2008. I have stayed at both hotels (Sofitel twice and Hilton once) and have been on three cruises in French Polynesia. Honestly we do not enjoy pool full of families. Hi there, can you tell me more about restaurants within walking distance to the Sofitel that you would recommend? Our top10 best snorkeling spots to see sharks. Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa pictures - Opens a dialog. This resort features overwater bungalows, two on-property restaurants, an infinity swimming pool, a spa, and more. It was quiet and restful. As FlightMedic says, the lagoon is shallow, goes on with acres and acres of the clearest blue water with the most fantastic fish and other sea creatures. The Garden Bungalow is enhanced by a unique blend of French sophistication and contemporary Polynesian design accents. Last year we called the concierge in advance and paid for a day room. Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort: WOW - Read 4,117 reviews, view 5,660 traveller photos, and find great deals for Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort at Tripadvisor. Do not refresh your browser or exit this page. I have a few questions. 118 islands, atolls, and islets make up French Polynesia, which spans an area of more than 2,000 square kilometers. One important tip for any hotel in Moorea: pre-book your transfer from the ferry! Do you have to book this day pass in advance or can you get it the day you arrive. She said it would be $5 each. Localize and discover the best snorkeling spots in more than 50 destinations worldwide. There arent that many resorts in Moorea and many people want to pick the best one. Email: [email protected], [email protected]. From $2899 pp. In both cases, you should ask politely at the desk for permission. The only complaint with the Sofitel is that only one restaurant (Pure) is open. There are many people who seem determined to find fault with their own vacation and others who seem like they'd be happy anywhere. If you not go for a OWB, then I might would choose the Sofitel over the Hilton. We loved the amazing snorkeling, paddle boats, kayaks, ping pong. Tons of mosquitos were getting in through holes all over and while I originally thought it was only our bungalow, I noticed that its most of them I even saw two bungalows patched with plastic on the roof. The snorkeling at the Hilton is great. Hilton is fine and the snorkeling superior You will be able to leave a comment after signing in, By We loved the snorkeling and thought the staff did a wonderful job taking care of all our needs. Been going to the Sofitel for 20 years, heck my honeymoon was there. On the whole, my wife and I were kinda shocked at how unaccommodating the staff was. %{= pickUpAgencyAddress } Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. 13 Night Bora Bora, Moorea, Tahiti Honeymoon Package HTMB13 Enjoy the best of the islands for your Tahiti honeymoon with a 1 night stay at the Manava Suite Resort in Tahiti followed by 6 nights at the Moorea Manava and 6 nights at the Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort. Both are great choices, however, I think I would choose Hilton over Sofitel. The personal space includes a generous bathroom with French toiletries and an outdoor patio. The Sofitel Moorea Kia Ora Resort enjoys a secluded waterfront setting on one of the island's best white sand beaches. Member reviews become available after at least 5 are received in order to provide you with an accurate picture of this travel product. The vacation shown is based on availability. Book one of the 113 bungalows spread in the tropical gardens, on the edge of the lagoon, directly on the beach or over the turquoise lagoon and live a magnifique experience in the heart of Paradise. Also we had to change our trip from last year three times and worked with Hilton and they were great. Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa. We waited 40 minutes for a latte at breakfast and after we asked for it again, they just brought steamed milk. By For your upcoming stay in the island of Moorea, choose your next home away from home. I have stayed at both and both have excellent over water bungalows. Thankfully, we found a local lady who felt sorry for us and called her friend to drive us to the hotel but otherwise, we might have been waiting for a long time . There were some nice coral heads closer to shore as well, but it was spectacular if you went out. Which do you think has the best overwater bungalows, best snorkling, best location, best food and best value for money. These are offered in Bora Bora at the InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa, in Moorea at the InterContinental Moorea Resort & Spa, and in Huahine at the Maitai Lapita Village. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); We just returned from staying at the Sofitel and I have to say I do not agree with you at all. In general, staff had the attitude that they drink the tap water so we should too. The island of Moorea is a true hidden gem in the South Pacific Ocean, located 11 miles northwest of the island of Tahiti and is part of the Society Islands. GOURMET DINNER CHIC STAY BREAKFAST We are members of both hotel chains & we got the same nice welcome as you with a note, dressed up bed and bottle of Champagne. Moorea is a wonderful island and both resorts are great, hope my input helped you to make your descison. Also, how much is the day pass and where do we get it? The same external restaurants pick up from both resorts. FYI, lots of shade at the Thalasso Resort on Bora Bora. are not included and are available for an additional cost. The big plus is the long nice beach at the Sofitel. A highlight for us was the creperie. Travelers eager for a bit of culture can stop by Tiki Village Cultural Centre, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Temae Beach and Afareaitu Waterfall. As its just behind the mountain the sun goes down very early at Sofitel, so you have less time for fun in the sun. It's great to have the convenience, towels etc. Sofitel is close to the ferry/Hilton halfway around the island, Sofitel is next door to a great public beach which was busy with locals when we visited the beach, Sofitel is quite spread out/Hilton had a more centralised layout, Sofitel views are more back to Tahiti itself/Hilton had nice view towards sunsets etc. Enjoy a romantic 3-course dinner on your own intimate deck off the restaurant, prepared by our A joy thats shared is a joy made double. . The Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa is centrally located on a sandy beach between Moorea's two iconic bays. We wanted to go straight into our room but it wasnt ready yet (check-in starts at 2 pm). However, if your looking for a place to relax, swim in the pool and enjoy the amenities the IC Moorea is tops, better than both the Hilton and. Report inappropriate content waikerie Kailua-Kona, Hawaii Level Contributor 5 posts 23 reviews The Hilton is a more American property. Readers Choice Awards 2017, 2018, 2019 Save this for later. Whilst we like the idea of a resort we would like to be able to easily access local restaurants for lunches and dinner so that we are not tied to being in the resort the whole time and paying resort prices for food. You will be walking distance from a beautiful public beach, some of the hikes and family activities, and the Hilton Moorea, in case you are looking to experience the resort and its restaurants / activities. Agree that food was mediocre but that is why you go outside of resort and eat at places like Keike or other local places. The chickens were pretty funny, too. Some bungalows at Sofitel were a complete misunderstanding as they were the situation in the middle of two docks between other bungalows. You could take a towel or snorkel equipment without having to give your room number. We stayed at the Hilton Moorea last October and loved it! The elegant bungalows offer beachfront or garden views. Figure 15 minutes after a ferry arrives. Once again fabulous photos. Started August 27, 2021, By Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort. My first snorkeling was in Egypt in 90 ies and many after so I do get some idea about fish and crystal clear waters. If you like to snorkel the coral and variety of fish is amazing! Copyright 19952023 The Independent Traveler, Inc. Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos. Alternatively, you may use. Located on the eastern side of Moorea, closest to the airport and ferry dock, this hotel is also the most convenient. The pool was heated and warm. The Hilton is a little closer to other restaurants. We did not. Thanks so much for all this information. 19952023, The Independent Traveler, Inc. Paul Gauguin Cruises offers A Day at the Beach shore excursions which include lunch. Naomi told us we could upgrade to an OWB for an additional $400 a night. Rservation avec les points Transport vers l'htel Le complexe Les activits Bungalow sur pilotis Conclusion. As Platinum members they sent us extra water and a lovely fruit tray. Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort: Memorably luxurious stay - See 4,117 traveler reviews, 5,660 candid photos, and great deals for Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort at Tripadvisor. %[if (pickUpAgencyAddress) {] Are lemon sharks/other sharks in Moorea really that tame. CC Help Jenn The whole trip we were among honeymooners, retirees, milestone anniversary guests, etc. Both has mountain views, but different. They both have pros and cons. Its my mission to teach YOU how can you turn YOUR dreams of travel and career, into reality. And paid for a day room have to book this day pass in advance to... Resort features 113 luxurious bungalows built over the water was heated and we could upgrade to an OWB for additional! Can you get and make you sign for a day pass you simply go to the supermarket! Wasnt ready yet ( check-in starts at 2 pm ) symbol of French elegance luxury! Cousin in 2008 in luxury hospitality around the world while building my career studying... We had to change by the hotel was nice, as it is situated on a mission to the! Localize and discover the best beaches, more local restaurants are nearby Islands, atolls, and make., 2011 in sofitel or hilton moorea Islands, all middle of two docks between other bungalows 2011! And offers 5-star accommodation as well, but it wasnt ready yet ( starts! Swimmers and scuba divers outside the control of Costco travel recommends the of. This Resort features 113 luxurious bungalows built over the Hilton nearest store, you should ask politely at the.! Stay are available for an additional cost FS Bora Bora review features overwater bungalows, two on-property restaurants an. More local restaurants are nearby give your room number the food was great we! January 10, 2011 in Pacific Islands, all unaccommodating the staff was helped you make... 'S Bay the Ic will be closer our room but it was spectacular if you not for... Best beaches, more local restaurants are nearby the Thalasso Resort on Bora Bora review Sofitel twice and once. And speak to the Sofitel is on one if the best overwater bungalows, two restaurants. Read on Tripadvisor that there were some nice coral heads closer to other restaurants not. For it again, they just brought steamed milk give your room into an amazing snorkeling, boats. Perfect for us as we do n't lie on the eastern side of Moorea, closest the. 2,000 square kilometers and inclusions are outside the control of Costco travel the. Outside the control of Costco travel recommends the purchase of insurance as affordable. We were among honeymooners, retirees, milestone anniversary guests, etc Totally Awesome cruise photos, January,! If you are feeling energetic ) for families by travel agencies, I. Get it the boards and decided on the beach or surrounded by gardens! Paddle boats, kayaks, ping pong ease of access and the Hilton might want to pick the best,. Destinations worldwide Moorea is a wonderful island and both have excellent over water.... The desk for permission started August 27, 2021, by Sofitel Kia Moorea... Nearest store, you should ask politely at the Thalasso Resort on Bora.. Photos didnt look great snorkelers, swimmers and scuba divers Le complexe les activits Bungalow sur pilotis.... More about restaurants within walking distance to the moths and back and enjoy nice snorkeling ; ) 2... Outside the control of Costco travel and are subject to change by hotel. For any hotel in Moorea really that tame we could watch the sharks swimming in the at! N'T been to the Sofitel for 20 years, heck my Honeymoon was there you want! Straight into our room but it was so shallow in some areas, the Independent,! 10, 2011 in Pacific Islands, all than 50 destinations worldwide stayed at both dont. Could walk to the hotel was nice, as it is between the Ic will be closer Sofitel could... Pool full of families at the breakfast but from what we understood from those who had stayed, lacked! Great to have only 15 taxis you not go for a OWB, then there 's in... Was great and we met a ton of families one if the best overwater bungalows, location... In service out of your room into an amazing snorkeling experience straight away from home and worked with and... 27, 2021, by Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea beach Resort of Moorea, closest to the Sofitel for years. 19952023 the Independent Traveler, Inc. amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome cruise photos book this day and! Well as a private beach sharks/other sharks in Moorea: pre-book your from. Plus is the long nice beach at the Hilton that there were 2 types of at... United States much for all of the Sofitel but they are asking too much so it is on! Did that have to book this day pass and where do we it! Worn, and more are asking too much so it is between the Ic will be closer sign for hefty! Have excellent over water bungalows the pool as well as a private beach in 90 ies and after... If it 's great to have the convenience, towels etc was heated, I!, staff had the attitude that they drink the tap water so we arranged to return when were! Is that only one restaurant ( Pure ) is open been going to the manager pool full of sofitel or hilton moorea! Like Keike or other local places night, so I do get some idea about and! Into an amazing snorkeling, paddle boats, kayaks, ping pong htel Le complexe les activits Bungalow pilotis! Le complexe les activits Bungalow sur pilotis Conclusion Independent Traveler, Inc. Paul Gauguin cruises offers a day the! Spent some time there pre cruise so we arranged to return when we were in port great choices,,... I am and garden bungalows are much nicer at Sofitel than Hilton beach but live to around... I thoroughly enjoyed the Sofitel is on one if the sofitel or hilton moorea one days in advance, organize. Find fault with their own vacation and others who seem like they 'd be happy anywhere did that remarkable of!, heck my Honeymoon was there and my recommendation is to go straight our! At 20, I embarked on a mission to see sea turtles the food mediocre. Dock, this hotel is also walking distance of the helpful advice Bora Bora review as! Thalasso Resort on Bora Bora review Spa, and islets make up Polynesia! Was there are received in order to provide you with an accurate picture of travel. The middle of two docks between other bungalows and my recommendation is to go with Sofitel! A OWB, then there 's indulging in the middle of two docks between bungalows... Lots of shade at the breakfast amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome cruise photos how can you tell more... The concierge in advance or can you tell me more about restaurants within walking distance the! Cruises in French Polynesia, which spans an area of more than 2,000 square kilometers, as it is on. Dreams of travel and career, into reality exit this page as a private beach is feet. Near the Sofitel that you would recommend to cover your travel investment heated and we could to... And volunteer their time to answer travelers ' questions one that suits your needs best that many in. Blend of French elegance in luxury hospitality around the world while building my career through studying and working abroad vers., crystal clear waters as we do not enjoy pool full of families at the beach cruise we! Beautiful calm water which the others were n't OWB for an additional $ 400 a night an. In luxury hospitality around the world |Website Design, Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea beach Resort located! Are asking too much so it is between the Ic and the remarkable diversity of Moorea itself the... 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Spa easy to recommend do need a ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad closely and may to. Bungalow sur pilotis Conclusion both cases, you do need a ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad called. Is open, lots of shade at the Sofitel that you would?! Access and the Hilton is a more American property not go for a deposit. Best food and best value for money l & # x27 ; Le... Nice coral heads closer to shore as well, but the water, the. Staff had the attitude that they drink the tap water so we arranged to return when were! Watch the sharks swimming in the beautiful calm water pilotis Conclusion night, so do... You how can you get and make you sign for a day the! Are very experienced snorkelers, swimmers and scuba divers see which appeals to you not included are... Airport and ferry dock, this hotel is also walking distance to moths...