Maupiti

Holiday Destinations / Australasia and Pacific Ocean / French Polynesia / Travel Guide / Maupiti

Off the beaten track of French Polynesia, the small island of Maupiti, 11 square kilometers large, will be able to let you taste the true essence of Polynesia, being in contact with the local inhabitants. This island, accessible both by plane and by ship, has favored small tourist facilities managed by the local community, rather than the large hotel chains that follow one another on the main islands. This means that guests of the island can enjoy the true Polynesian culture from a close and privileged vantage point.

There are places in The Islands of Tahiti where you can indulge in five-star, brand name resorts, and there are places where you can immerse yourself into the ebb and flow of daily life, experiencing this island nation like a local. If you’re looking for a place where the brand names are sand, sea, sun, time and tide, the Maupiti will wrap you in her arms and gently indulge you like a member of the family.

Located 195 miles (315 km) northwest of the island of Tahiti  and 25 miles (40 km) West of Bora Bora, Maupiti is a tiny island (7 miles / 11 square kilometers), secluded and authentic. Whether you fly from Papeete or take the boat from Bora Bora, Maupiti will immediately seduce with its splendor and quiet pace of life. Magnificent sceneries, endless white sandy beaches both on the island and the motu, legendary rocky peaks and ancient marae all blend nicely with the friendly and smiling style of the islanders.

The unmatched charm of Maupiti is reflected in every inhabitant and family guesthouses where you will be introduced to the Tahitian lifestyle. Here, people mostly travel riding a bicycle or a canoe, which are marvelous ways to take your time and explore the beauties of the island. Stroll along the little road circling Maupiti or in the heart of the lagoon and enjoy every single moment of your time in The Islands of Tahiti.

Petroglyphs were carved on huge rocks in Haranae valley while the legendary outrigger canoe of the demigod and hero, Hiro, lies in Vaitia valley. Just like anywhere else around The Islands of Tahiti, the combination of nature and mythical stories is extremely powerful here.

Climbing up Mount Teurafaatiu (elevation 1,250 ft. / 381 m.) offers an amazing panoramic view. The 360-degree view on the lagoon, motu and shape of Bora Bora in the distance is unforgettable. From Tereia beach, superb and picturesque, you will walk to Motu Auria across, joined by stingrays. Cliffs, caves and other local discoveries await visitors.

We know Tahiti from personal experience and have done ourselves most of the activities we recommend here. If you’d like more information, tips and advice, and help planning and booking your holiday in French Polynesia, feel free to get in touch by chat, phone, videoconference, or email. We are always here to help.

Abe.
Travel Designer and Founder at Travelisto