Lagoonarium, Moorea: Hours, Address, Lagoonarium Reviews: 4.5/5
Lagoonarium
Lagoonarium
4.5
Aquariums
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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4.5
1,306 reviews
Excellent
1,016
Very good
206
Average
44
Poor
17
Terrible
23
Samantha H
Virginia Beach, VA35 contributions
Dec 2019 • Couples
The lagoonarium is a patch of reef in the lagoon adjacent to a small offshore motu (small island) that is delineated with ropes and buoys. The fish are friendly and abundant because of daily feedings that happen around 11:00 and 2:00. The guide is very entertaining and comfortable with the wildlife, and he attracted birds, stingrays, and fish to eat out of his hand during the feeding. He did a good job moving around and bringing the fish with him so that each guest could get an up close view during the feedings. We saw 2 rays and 3-4 black tip reef sharks during the afternoon feedings which were friendly and safe to swim around. Some other logistics: the water was a little choppy here compared to the lagoon closer to the shore, but there were secure ropes running around the perimeter and through the lagoonarium so you could pull yourself along them easily rather than swimming against the current. Please be careful not to step on the coral because the ropes are anchored on rocks which have coral growing right up near them, so still use caution even with pulling yourself on the ropes. Some coral is dead here, I suspect from tourist damage, but overall there is plenty of live coral and fish. To get here, you park and pay at the shack on the main island and then catch a boat over. It’s a short, gentle 5-10 minute boat ride through the lagoon to the lagoonarium. We had no wait to get on a boat and they go frequently enough for return trips as well (except for a pause around feeding times). You do have to walk through the water about 30-50 yards from the shore to the boat, but it’s only about knee deep with sandy/ gravel bottom. I walked in flip flops with no problem but you could use reef shoes if you’re concerned about stepping on a rock. When you arrive at the lagoonarium, there are little shacks to get shade and store your stuff, but they were all taken by the afternoon when we arrived so we stayed in the main space shade. There is a small restaurant/ bar on the island with free water, coffee, and hot chocolate. Free kayaks as well to use if you don’t want to snorkel. Overall it was inexpensive, easy to see lots of fish and some sharks/ rays, and easily accessible without needing to book in advance. Would recommend spending a half day here.
Written January 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
tplife
San Diego, CA592 contributions
Apr 2022
The Lagoonarium is not "permanently closed", and the same family still operates it. The local Polynesian government "closed" the two highly popular shark feedings there due to pressure from the same environmental extremists who try to close our California zoos and aquarium exhibits. We spoke with the "big boss" at his home the day before and spent a full day on the motu Monday holiday enjoying the snorkeling and facilities. Yo motored us out, and gave us fresh coconut water and pineapple while introducing us to the tiny island. His warm Polynesian attitude made our day at the Lagoonarium the highlight of our Moorea trip. He showed us secret spots around the coral gardens that were chock full of various species that were not seen as much at the cable network. Yo went above and beyond for my wife and I to give us something from Mo'orea that money simply cannot buy. It was tough to leave this place, and the enthusiasm and friendliness of Yo during our visit will never be forgotten. Mauruuru!
Written May 4, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Kathy H
9 contributions
Oct 2020
We didn't know what to expect coming here, but this has been one of the highlights of our time in Moorea.
We arrived around 9:30am in the morning to inquire when the next departure time was, and the woman at the front said we can leave in 5 minutes. It seems that they run the boat between the hut and the island pretty frequently and the ride is quick! The price for admission is $40.
When the boat pulls up, you wade into the water to hop on the boat, and you're off on an awesome adventure. They first give you a quick tour of the place, and set you up in a small bungalow. You can rent snorkel gear for $6/person there, and kayaks are free. We easily spent the majority of our day there, alternating between snorkeling and relaxing in the bungalow. You can make this trip a quick 1-2 hour adventure but I would recommend setting aside the whole morning and afternoon to enjoy the place. It's the best snorkeling I have ever done! The diversity in coral and sea creatures was really stunning and vibrant!
In terms of packing list, I suggest the following: towels, beer/drinks, packed lunch, sunscreen, water shoes and a book to read in your downtime.
We arrived around 9:30am in the morning to inquire when the next departure time was, and the woman at the front said we can leave in 5 minutes. It seems that they run the boat between the hut and the island pretty frequently and the ride is quick! The price for admission is $40.
When the boat pulls up, you wade into the water to hop on the boat, and you're off on an awesome adventure. They first give you a quick tour of the place, and set you up in a small bungalow. You can rent snorkel gear for $6/person there, and kayaks are free. We easily spent the majority of our day there, alternating between snorkeling and relaxing in the bungalow. You can make this trip a quick 1-2 hour adventure but I would recommend setting aside the whole morning and afternoon to enjoy the place. It's the best snorkeling I have ever done! The diversity in coral and sea creatures was really stunning and vibrant!
In terms of packing list, I suggest the following: towels, beer/drinks, packed lunch, sunscreen, water shoes and a book to read in your downtime.
Written October 23, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Julie G
Manchester, NH19 contributions
Aug 2020
A short boat ride takes you to a tiny island where you are provided with a small hut and chairs. There are restrooms and an area with coffee and water. Plenty of room for sunbathing. The current is strong so ropes are provided to help you enjoy the fishes comfortably. A wide variety of fish abound and 2 daily feedings attract even more. This is really great for inexperienced snorkelers who want lots to see in a safe environment.
Written August 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Laurent C
Saint-Jeannet, France43 contributions
Mar 2020 • Couples
As seasoned travellers, we were a bit blasé at the idea of swimming in a lagoonarium. We were so wrong!!
Fantastic experience... The Lagoon is crisscrossed with cables so you can hang on during strong currents which is great for security and not getting tired.
Feeding time is a real thrill... A plethora of fish of all species and sizes, even friendly reef sharks and very affectionate stingray!!
Matehau is a fantastic guide and is super friendly and helpful.
Lunch is yummy... All in all, a really chilled day.
Fantastic experience... The Lagoon is crisscrossed with cables so you can hang on during strong currents which is great for security and not getting tired.
Feeding time is a real thrill... A plethora of fish of all species and sizes, even friendly reef sharks and very affectionate stingray!!
Matehau is a fantastic guide and is super friendly and helpful.
Lunch is yummy... All in all, a really chilled day.
Written March 14, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Kary P
Pennsylvania5 contributions
Nov 2020
Go here! My husband and I were staying at the Hilton and weren't sure if the Lagoonarium would offer more than we could find at the hotel, but they did! It's a great location out on the Motu that offers simple huts to keep your things while you snorkel through a wonderful underwater coral city. The current is strong, so they've outfitted the entire thing with a network of ropes that you can follow to explore the area without getting swept away. The staff also are very supportive for those who need assistance.
The people who work there are great, and are right at home with the local wildlife. Definintely go during a feeding time- you'll probably get to touch a stringray and be surrounded by so many fish. This was a true highlight of our trip and a must see if you're in Moorea. It was the best snorkeling we did on the island, and we did a lot!
The people who work there are great, and are right at home with the local wildlife. Definintely go during a feeding time- you'll probably get to touch a stringray and be surrounded by so many fish. This was a true highlight of our trip and a must see if you're in Moorea. It was the best snorkeling we did on the island, and we did a lot!
Written November 19, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Sunnydaze105
Minneapolis, MN18 contributions
Jan 2020 • Family
Such a great place for kids to snorkel and a nice controlled environment for everyone to get acquainted with snorkeling on Moorea. Everyone was so helpful and happy to share their love of the lagoon. Nice cozy bungalows are offered so you can leave your belongings and escape the sun. We saw many fish, sharks, and stingrays. The stingrays seemed like hungry little puppies coming in for a treat. The fish were far more aggressive at gobbling up the food than the sharks. They would lurk around and scoop up any leftovers. There were ropes around the lagoon for you to tow yourself around to the better viewing spots. All purchases must be completed before getting on the boat to the lagoon. We purchased lunch and it was one of our favorite meals on the island. You do have to walk out in knee deep water to get on the boat that takes you to the lagoon. Make sure you wear good water shoes. We had a great day here and would highly recommend!
Written January 29, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
fosket
chicago5 contributions
Feb 2020
Our family, a party of 12 (8 adults, 4 children) visited the Lagoonarium and each of us had a unique, interesting experience with snorkeling and the demonstrations. The staff at the ticket cabin were very helpful in finding a taxi for us to return to our hotel even though it was a busy day due to there being a cruise ship in town. Highly recommend!
Written March 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Rachel S
California20 contributions
Jan 2021
We spent half a day at the Lagoonarium and I'd highly recommend it. We were able to snorkel at our hotel and a local beach so we wondered if this would be worth it but it definitely was. The sheer number of fish, sharks, moray eels, sting rays, etc we saw was mind boggling. You get to watch the feeding and even have an opportunity to touch them. The staff are very friendly and helpful. The amenities are nice--your own private little hut to store your things and just rest for a minute if you'd like. You can also leave whenever you'd like so you can make it an all day excursion if you want to. Overall, a great experience!
Written March 12, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Jesus
San Jose, CA2 contributions
Nov 2020 • Couples
Great experience! We were able to see so many fish and sharks. This was our second time visiting and it does not disappoint. We love the multiple huts you can hang out and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings. Would highly recommend visiting this amazing place.
Written November 15, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Gohawgsgo
Bentonville, AR276 contributions
We have been on Mo’orea for 6 days - we have another 6 days and think we want to do this. What is the best way to get there and back to your resort?
icedtee
Vancouver, Canada189 contributions
Would it be safe to leave luggage in our rental car while spending a few hours at the Lagoonarium?
Thanks!
gadi a
Israel43 contributions
We are here for 6 days . Felling very safe , you almost see no policemen arround which means that the crime rare us very low .
JJtheWhaleWatcher
Auckland, New Zealand111 contributions
Does anyone who has been recently to Moorea know if the coral bleaching has affected the fish life? We like to do underwater photography of fish, but don’t want to visit a fishless desert.
Albaneve J
Little Bay, Australia11 contributions
Fish will be there no doubt on it, even if the coral suffers warmth .
valrie8025
Pierrelaye, France12 contributions
Bonjour,
Comment vous êtes vous rendus au lagoonarium ? Existe t il des navettes ?
Merci !
Moorea C
Tahiti, French Polynesia3 contributions
J'ai fait le tour guidé le lagoonarium snorkel tour avec un centre nautique de Sofitel, Moorea Water Games. Ils sont venus nous chercher jusqu'à notre hôtel.
Tocci
1 contribution
Quel est le meilleur moyen pour s'y rendre? Faut il passer par une agence d'excursion?
Sarah M
7 contributions
Hello- I am confused about lagoonarium- I hope someone can help- if I take the ferry over to Moorea do I buy tickets at the pier? Where do you purchase tickets? Do you take a boat there from the ferry is or do you have to take a cab to where the boats take you over? I appreciate any info
IslandLubber
Rio Rancho, NM795 contributions
Hello, you buy admission at the Lagoonarium (in Afareaitu, Moorea). Getting there is a little difficult. There are no transfers so if you dont rent a car (Very expensive), you'll have to take a taxi (expensive), rely on the unreliable buses (as of Sept 2018 only run with the Aremiti Ferrys schedule), or hitchhike.
Sarah M
7 contributions
How do you get tickets? On the pier? and they take you there? I booked a tour with Viator and it picks up at 1;30 and it's only 2 hours- it sounds like you guys stayed all day? If we take the ferry to the pier will they take us there? thanks
IslandLubber
Rio Rancho, NM795 contributions
Iaorana, Ive always purchased admission at the office on the shore. They dont transfer from the dock to the Lagoonarium, as of Sept 2018. Taxis are expensive unless there's a group and you split the fare. The Bus from the ferry are not reliable. If I remember right, they only service the Aremiti passenger.
LivingtheDINKlife
San Antonio, TX215 contributions
Anyone visit from a cruise ship? How did you get there?
IslandLubber
Rio Rancho, NM795 contributions
That would be a little difficult and very expensive. They don't pick up folks so a taxi would be necessary, and expensive. All my visits I never met anyone who came from a cruise ship.
elizacass
La Jolla, CA2,171 contributions
Hi! We would like to do this in a couple of weeks when we go to Moorea. Is it open every day? If we just show up , how often do the boats take you over there? Thanks!
Jankhaus
Frankfurt, Germany200 contributions
Should be open every day. The boat takes you when there are a couple of people or on your own! So should Not be a problem!