Temae ranks as the best beach on Moorea’s east coast, thanks to its wide sugar white sand and calm, clear waters. The best public stretch of sand lies between the airport and the Sofitel Moorea Beach Resort. Snorkelers will find a colorful reef just off the beach, while experienced surfers can test their skills on the Temae surf break above the coral shelf.
Temae Beach fronts the town of the same name, home to Moorea’s airport at road marker PK 0. The best way to get there is to drive, but don’t leave any valuables in your car.
The public section of the beach can get crowded on weekends, so plan to visit on a weekday morning or during the low season (January to May).
While many of Moorea’s best beaches have been claimed by the island’s resorts, there are still some stellar stretches of white or black sand to enjoy. Opunohu Bay on the north coast has a half-mile beach, popular among local families, while Hauru Point on the west coast offers a 3-mile (5-km) stretch of beach.