Maupiti, formerly called Maurua, is a truly authentic Polynesian Island. Only 25 miles from Bora Bora, this mountainous island, with its crystal clear turquoise lagoon and numerous motu with white sandy beaches, bears a certain resemblance to the ‘Pearl of the Pacific’. It is often likened to “the Bora Bora of the sixties” because of its peaceful charm, which seems to belong in another age. There are no luxury hotels on Maupiti, but you’ll receive the warmest of welcomes at one of the many comfortable Tahitian Guesthouses..
What makes it so special
Why visit Maupiti?
On the lagoon and on the island
Maupiti has one of the most beautiful lagoons in Polynesia. The multiple shades of turquoise and blue will simply take your breath away. The coral reef teems with marine life in all shapes, colors and sizes. The white sand of the seabed can be clearly seen through the shallow water, letting you explore its beauty in complete tranquility.
Well-known for its hiking trails, Maupiti also offers a range of other activities through which you can discover some of the island’s magnificent scenic viewpoints. The welcoming population will be delighted to teach you all you need to know about the copra trade, traditional arts and crafts, local culture and the cultivation of the island’s principal source of revenue, melons and watermelons.
Not to be missed
What to do
Hiking is one of the main tourist activities on the island, and one of the trails takes you to the top of Mount Teurafaatiu to admire the panoramic view over the lagoon, the ocean and the neighboring islands. Many other trails crisscross the island through the luxuriant vegetation, including one to the marae at Vaiehu, where you can explore vestiges of the past.
Naturally, all forms of water sports are also very popular in Maupiti, especially kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling and diving. An almost endless choice of ways to observe the beauty of life beneath the waves. But perhaps most important of all, Maupiti is the perfect place to relax and unwind.
Suggested itinerary
Three days in Maupiti
Maupiti is in the Society Islands, just 40 km from the modern luxury of Bora Bora. Yet this tiny community seems a world away from its illustrious neighbor. The warm, friendly atmosphere, the tranquility and natural, unspoiled beauty of the island are like the Tahiti of old, the one that the first Europeans were privileged to find.
You’ll also enjoy
Relaxing on Motu Tiapaa in Maupiti
The crystal clear water which surrounds the island is the stuff of dreams. Take a nautical excursion for a day that will be rich in emotions. With flippers, mask and tuba, and swim among the many marine species which inhabit the lagoon.
You’ll enjoy a delicious traditional lunch at the water’s edge and can spend the rest of the day relaxing in the warm sea and sunning yourself on the soft white sandy beach. To quench your thirst, you’ll have the choice of local fruit juice or coconut water from a freshly picked nut.
Be inspired
Experiences
Maupiti is the ideal place to relax and unwind. Bora Bora’s little sister is a haven of tranquility, to be explored by bike, on foot, or in a traditional outrigger canoe. Go swimming with the manta rays, take a biking tour of the island, follow a hiking trail through fields of melons and watermelons. Take things easy, life is lived at a leisurely pace in Maupiti.
Vacation packages for Maupiti
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In search of discovery and relaxation, you’ll find everything you need to make your stay a unique and unforgettable one.
Staying in Maupiti
Explore the tranquility of Maupiti, French Polynesia’s hidden treasure. Relax in the peaceful setting of your authentic Tahitian Guesthouses. With white sand beaches and crystal-clear lagoons, Maupiti offers an intimate and authentic getaway. Book now for a unique experience.
Getting there and getting around in Maupiti
It’s just a 55 minute flight from Tahiti-Faa’a airport to Maupiti, where you land on the islet of motu Tuanai. A passenger ferry will take you on the 15 minute trip across the lagoon to the main island. Once there, you can choose to rent a bike to discover the small island, but also do it by boat or canoe. Your accommodations provider will give you all the details.
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