Can I use a card to pay for taxis in Moorea, or should I carry local cash?
My experience in Moorea taught me to never expect cards to work with taxis. The infrastructure just isn’t there yet. Unlike big cities, there are no meters or card machines. Every driver I used wanted francs in hand at the end of the ride. Some even refused USD, so don’t count on foreign currency either. If you’re staying at a resort, arrange transfers through them because you can pay by card at checkout. Otherwise, cash is the only realistic option.
Honestly, taxis in Moorea are not card-friendly at all. I asked three different drivers, and all said cash only. Some hotels offer shuttles where you can pay by card at the front desk, but that’s different from normal taxis. If you’re traveling with luggage, keep enough CFP francs ready because rides add up quickly. Also, taxis aren’t everywhere-you often have to call in advance. So it’s better to budget cash specifically for those transfers while you’re on the island.
During my trip to Moorea, I found taxis to be expensive and cash-only. Drivers didn’t even pretend to have a card machine, and some wouldn’t take US dollars either, insisting on local currency. It’s better to pre-arrange transfers with your hotel because those can often be charged to your room and settled by card later. For regular taxis on the island, cash is essential. I also recommend carrying small notes because not every driver has change for larger bills.
Moorea is stunning, but when it comes to taxis, cards are rarely accepted. I learned that quickly after getting off the ferry from Tahiti and trying to pay by card. The driver smiled and shook his head-only cash in CFP francs was welcome. The rides aren’t cheap either, so you’ll need more than just a few small bills. I’d say withdraw or exchange enough francs before arriving because finding a working ATM late or depending on cards in taxis is asking for trouble.