Swim With Sharks & Stingrays in Mo’orea: A Simple Guide to an Epic Experience!

During our time in Mo’orea, one of the absolute highlights was kayaking out to swim with blacktip reef sharks and stingrays. It’s easy, affordable, family-friendly, and something you can do without joining a big tour. Here’s exactly how we did it and what you need to know.

The Experience

We hired a kayak from Tip Nautic on the north-west coast of Mo’orea. Tip Nautic is located on the beach front of Les Tipaniers hotel. The water in this part of the lagoon is incredibly clear and usually calm, which makes the paddle out straightforward — even with kids on board.

It takes about 10–15 minutes to kayak to the sandy area where the sharks and stingrays gather. When you arrive, the water suddenly becomes a bright, shallow turquoise, and you’ll see the shadows of sharks cruising below.

Once we tied up the kayak, we slipped into the water and were immediately surrounded by blacktip reef sharks and stingrays. The sharks kept a calm distance, swimming just below us, but the stingrays were very interactive — they swim right up to you and often glide across your arms, legs, or body. They’re soft, gentle, and surprisingly relaxed around people - they're super friendly, so prepare to get up close!

You’ll have around 30 minutes in the water before kayaking back, and that’s plenty of time to enjoy the moment, take photos, and just soak in the experience.

How Much Does It Cost?

Kayak rental prices at Tip Nautic (approx.):

• Single kayak: 1,000 XPF per hour

• Double kayak: 1,500 XPF per hour

You only need 1 hour to paddle out, snorkel, and return.

If you want to explore more — like visiting the coral gardens afterwards — you can hire the kayak for up to 3 hours.

Kayak rentals are generally available between 8:00 am and 6:00 pm, depending on the season.

Best Time to Go

The best light is from mid-morning to mid-afternoon.

The sun sits high, the lagoon turns electric blue, and visibility is at its best for snorkeling and photos.

Important Tips

• Always tie your kayak to a buoy or something secure before getting in the water — otherwise it will drift away with the current.

• The sharks here are blacktip reef sharks, which are small and known to be shy and non-aggressive.

• Stingrays are used to people and will swim right up and glide over your arms or body.

• You can pat the stingrays. DON"T pat the sharks.

• The water is generally shallow, calm, and suitable for confident kid swimmers.

• Wear reef friendly sunscreen — the sun reflects off the lagoon and gets intense.

Family-Friendly Notes

This is a great activity for families, especially if your kids are comfortable in the water.

• The paddle is short and easy.

• The lagoon is shallow in many places, adults can stand.

• Life jackets are available at Tip Nautic.

• Younger children can stay in the kayak while older kids or adults swim.

• If your kids love marine animals, this will likely be one of their favourite memories.

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What to Bring

Sun Protection:

• Reef-safe sunscreen

• Hats + sunglasses

• Rash shirts / UV swimwear

Snorkel Gear:

• Mask + snorkel (available to rent if needed)

• Fins (optional)

Kayak + Water Items:

• Water bottle

• Go-Pro / waterproof camera

• Check that the kayak has a rope to tie up when you stop

For Families:

• Proper-fitting life jackets for kids

• Floaties or a noodle for less-confident swimmers

• Change of clothes

Final Thoughts

Kayaking to see the sharks and stingrays in Mo’orea is one of those activities that feels adventurous but is actually very doable. It’s affordable, it doesn’t take much time, and it’s a safe and exciting way to experience the marine life this island is famous for.

If you’re heading to Mo’orea, definitely put this on your list — it’s simple, unforgettable, and perfect for families.