Tips for Your Vacation in Maupiti

Published on 29 August 2023

Reading time: 4 min.

If you’ve dreamed of a vacation in one of the paradise islands of French Polynesia, then Maupiti, the sister island of Bora Bora, is the perfect destination for you.

Superb scenery, a very laid back, South Sea island atmosphere, and the chance to swim with manta rays in a dreamlike lagoon. Before you set off, here is some advice and a few tips to make sure your vacation in Maupiti is everything you dreamed it would be.

The best way to get to Maupiti

The easiest way to get to Maupiti is by plane with Air Tahiti, or by helicopter with Tahiti Nui Helicopter. You can also fly to Bora Bora and then catch the Maupiti Express, a passenger ferry that sails between the two islands.

Join Maupiti with Tahiti Nui Helicopter © Grégoire Le Bacon Tahiti Nui Helicopters

Air Tahiti, a domestic airline c Tahiti Tourisme — Join Maupiti with Tahiti Nui Helicopter © Grégoire Le Bacon Tahiti Nui Helicopters

There are no hotels on Maupiti, only Tahitian Guesthouses. Clean, comfortable and welcoming, these family run businesses offer an authentic experience and an immersion in the local culture. Your hosts will ensure that you make the most of your stay on their island. Your evening meal will be a culinary delight and the opportunity to learn some of the island’s tales and legends.

Activities in Maupiti

The most popular activity in Maupiti is swimming with the manta rays and observing them at their ‘cleaning station’. This is a place in the lagoon where they come to let small fish clean the parasites from their skin. Bring your own mask and tuba with you if you can.

If you’re a hiking enthusiast, don’t miss the trail to the top of Mount Teurafaatiu. It’s 1,200 feet to the summit, and you won’t get a better view anywhere. The hike is a little strenuous and you should avoid trying it during the hottest part of the day. Remember to take plenty of water with you, and wear a hat.

Diving with a manta ray © Grégory Lecoeur

Another feature of Maupiti that you’re sure to enjoy is the cuisine. Seafood and poisson cru, grilled fish, fresh fruit and vegetables; simple home cooking but delicious. Like everywhere in French Polynesia, the cuisine is based on fresh, local produce. At the island’s craft market, and the Maison du Coquillage you’ll be able to buy souvenirs to take home.

Practical advice for your vacation in Maupiti

Make sure that your suncream is eco-friendly. Coral reefs are fragile ecosystems and some ordinary suncreams contain harmful chemicals. Bring your own mask and tuba if you can, although it is possible to hire snorkeling equipment on the island. Remember, there is a limited amount of accommodations in Maupiti, so make sure that you have a reservation before you arrive.

Please respect local customs and traditions., don’t leave litter anywhere and do your best to contribute to the presevation of this natural treasure, so that future generations will be able to enjoy it, too.

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