With its magnificent coral reefs, immaculate white sand beaches, and crystal-clear oceans, French Polynesia is a paradise on earth. One of French Polynesia’s undiscovered gems is the small island of Maupiti, which is a part of the Leeward group of the Society Islands. For anybody seeking a distinctive vacation experience, Maupiti is a must-visit location with its magnificent landscapes, blue lagoon, and rich culture. To assist you in planning your vacation to this enchanted island, we will examine the best attractions, activities, and useful facts about Maupiti in our travel guide.
How to Get to Maupiti
Maupiti is only accessible by boat or plane and is situated around 40 kilometers northwest of Bora Bora. Daily flights from Tahiti land on the island at a small airport, however the flights are frequently completely booked. As an alternative, you can travel there in about 45 minutes by ferry or private boat from Bora Bora. Travelers frequently choose the boat ride because it provides breathtaking views of the lagoon and the untamed coastline of the island. It is important to remember that weather conditions can affect the boat and airplane timetables, so it is best to check ahead of time and make appropriate plans.
Top Attractions in Maupiti
Although Maupiti is a small island, it is rich in both natural beauty and cultural diversity. Some of the great places to go in Maupiti are listed below:
The highest peak on the island, Mount Teurafaatiu, stands at 380 meters high and provides amazing panoramic views of the lagoon and the nearby islands. It takes around three hours to trek to the summit, but the view is well worth it.
Motu Tiapaa: On the southeast side of the island, there is a little islet called Motu Tiapaa. It is a well-liked location for swimming and snorkeling because of the beautiful seas and vibrant coral reef.
The lagoon in Maupiti is one of French Polynesia’s most beautiful and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. A large variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and vibrant fish, may be seen in the lagoon. The coral garden and the manta ray cleaning station are two of the lagoon’s hidden beauties that can be explored by boat or kayak.
The main settlement of the island, Maupiti, is a wonderful location to explore and learn about the island’s cultural history. The community is home to a lovely church, a traditional marae, and a number of gift shops where you may purchase handcrafted trinkets created by regional artists.
Tereia Beach is the primary beach on the island and a well-liked location for picnicking, swimming, and sunbathing. The beach is ideal for families with kids because of its beautiful white sand and shallow seas.
Outdoor Activities in Maupiti
Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities thanks to Maupiti’s stunning natural surroundings. The following are a few of the best outdoor activities in Maupiti:
Snorkeling and diving: With its crystal-clear waters, vivid coral reefs, and a wealth of marine life, Maupiti’s lagoon is a snorkeler and diver’s dream. Join a guided snorkeling or diving tour to see the lagoon’s most beautiful locations and undiscovered jewels.
Kayaking is a terrific method to independently explore the lagoon and find its isolated beaches and islets. You can spend a few hours or an entire day paddling around the lagoon by renting a kayak from the town.
Hiking: For intrepid tourists, Maupiti has some great hiking paths. The most well-known hiking track on the island is Mount Teurafaatiu, although there are other, less well-known hikes that provide breathtaking views of the lagoon and the rough coastline of the island.
Fishing is a well-liked sport in Maupiti, where a variety of fish species, including marlin, mahi-mahi, and tuna, can be caught. You can rent a boat and try your luck in the lagoon or sign up for a guided fishing tour.
For skilled surfers, Maupiti has some excellent locations with waves breaking on the outer reef. In Maupiti, the waves are continuous from May to September, making this the ideal period for surfing.
Where to Stay in Maupiti
Although there aren’t many places to stay in Maupiti, each one provides a special and authentic view of the island. Some of the best places to stay in Maupiti are listed below:
Traditional bungalows with garden or lagoon views are available at the guesthouse Pension Tautiare Village, which is situated in the center of Maupiti hamlet. The guesthouse features a restaurant serving delectable regional fare and a range of sports, like kayaking and snorkeling.
Located on the island’s southeast side, Pension Papahani offers bungalows with breathtaking views of the lagoon and Motu Tiapaa. The hotel’s restaurant serves food that is fresh and of high quality. The hotel’s restaurant serves food that is fresh and of high quality.
On the northwest coast of the island, the Havaiki Lodge offers bungalows with breathtaking views of the lagoon and Mount Teurafaatiu. The resort features yoga and snorkeling among its many activities, and it also has a restaurant that serves organic food.
Practical Information for Travelers
Here are some helpful hints and details for visitors to Maupiti:
Currency: The French Pacific franc (XPF), which is used locally, is accepted sparingly on the island. It is preferable to bring cash or use the ATM at Maupiti village to get cash.
French and Tahitian are the official languages, but English is commonly used in tourist areas.
Maupiti has a tropical climate with year-round average temperatures of roughly 27°C (81°F). The dry season is from May to October, and the rainy season extends from November to April.
Culture: Visitors are urged to respect the customs and traditions of the locals because Maupiti has a rich cultural legacy. Before shooting pictures of individuals or locations with cultural importance, it is acceptable to request permission.
Health & Safety: Although Maupiti is a tranquil and pleasant island, visitors should nevertheless exercise some common sense safety measures, like locking up their valuables and refraining from leaving their possessions unattended on the beach. Also advised are the usage of insect repellent and the consumption of only bottled water.
In conclusion, Maupiti in French Polynesia is a hidden gem that provides travelers seeking adventure, leisure, and cultural enrichment with a distinctive and genuine travel experience. Everyone can find something to enjoy in Maupiti, whether they enjoy being active outdoors, learning about other cultures, or just relaxing on the beach. Pack your luggage, purchase your tickets, and get ready to experience Maupiti’s magic.
Our Top FAQ's
Maupiti offers a range of attractions for visitors, including the stunning lagoon, Mount Teurafaatiu hiking trail, Motu Tiapaa, and the Maupiti village.
Maupiti offers a range of outdoor activities, including snorkeling, diving, hiking, fishing, and surfing.
Some of the top places to stay in Maupiti include Pension Tautiare Village, Pension Papahani, and Havaiki Lodge, all of which offer traditional bungalows with stunning views of the lagoon and the island.
The best time to visit Maupiti is during the dry season from May to October when the weather is pleasant, and the lagoon is calm, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as snorkeling, diving, and surfing.