Fare Club - Moorea

The location has a lot going for it, with restaurants, shops, lively surroundings, and a public beach all within walking distance. The hosts were genuinely kind and tried hard to make us feel welcome. I hope they can improve the place, because it has potential, but during our few days at FARE CLUB Holiday Cottage the property felt run down and noisy. Our check-in was confusing: they didn't recognize our booking at first, and we were only assigned a bungalow after reopening Airbnb. Inside, the rooms were dark, the mosquito nets were dirty, and the very old bathroom and toilet barely worked. Two standing fans helped circulate air, though it still felt stuffy. We initially had no hot water because the gas needed replacing, and it worked by the second day. The terrace door was also extremely difficult to open and close. It seemed like things weren't replaced until they broke completely. We were told the property used to be a Club Med, but it no longer meets that sort of standard. The area around the small beach wasn't well maintained, the available seats weren't comfortable, and the beach is shaded most of the time. The hosts were doing their best, but guests should be ready for a somewhat neglected stay.

Louise and her husband were so welcoming and kind, which made our stay especially nice. The room was comfortable, with its own bathroom, and breakfast had lots to choose from, including fresh mango, bread, cereal, juice, and fresh milk. Right across from the hotel there are local restaurants with great music. The beach is right in front, and Tipanier beach, where you can swim with sharks and rays, is about 10 minutes away. We really enjoyed it and would recommend staying here.

The owners are a lovely couple, very friendly and ready to help if you need anything. We liked having fresh mango at breakfast, and the private beach was a nice place to watch the beautiful sunset. The rooms were clean, and there was plenty to do within walking distance. A great base for a few nights while traveling around the island.

Louise was one of the best parts of the stay, so sweet and almost like a mom when you're far from home. We also loved having easy access to the beach. There's lots of rocky shoreline for snorkeling, and after daytime swims we walked around at night with a flashlight. We spotted red and white coral shrimps, little white eels, a moray eel, a needlefish, and even a stonefish. During the day the fish were more colorful, so watch where you step and look around! Kayaks and snorkeling gear are available to borrow, though you need to get there early before someone else takes them. The kayaks let you reach nearby motus for free, and you can have lunch at the Coco Beach Club or snorkel with sharks and rays. We saw a big stingray from the kayak. It's a cheap place and we weren't expecting luxury. Our room had a fan and small fridge but no AC, which we managed with. Unit #1 also had a little kitchen, so we cooked a bit and made tea. It was fun, and there are plenty of nearby restaurants and food options. If you want snorkeling and kayaking, I'd definitely recommend staying here. Thanks, Louise, for a great visit!