Maupiti Island
An unspoiled paradise, Maupiti offers the authentic charm of French Polynesia with breathtaking lagoons and a tranquil, uncrowded atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sunny days, less rain
Maupiti Island
Best Time
Sunny days, less rain
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An unspoiled paradise, Maupiti offers the authentic charm of French Polynesia with breathtaking lagoons and a tranquil, uncrowded atmosphere.
"Skip expensive Bora Bora, here is even better! 🇵🇫🏝️🌺 Make sure you make room for a few days in stunning Maupiti."
Skip Bora Bora, Visit Maupiti!
Maupiti offers similar beauty to Bora Bora but with fewer tourists and a more authentic feel. :sparkles:
Embrace the Local Pace
Maupiti is about relaxation. Unwind, disconnect, and enjoy the tranquil island life. :palm_tree:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mount Teurafaatiu Summit
Maupiti Island
Hike to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views of the lagoon and surrounding motus. A must-do for stunning vistas!
The Lagoon's Turquoise Waters
Maupiti Lagoon
Dive into crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for snorkeling and swimming amongst vibrant marine life. Pure bliss!
White Sandy Beaches
Motus surrounding Maupiti
Relax on pristine, powdery white sand beaches, often with very few other visitors. Your own slice of paradise awaits.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Unspoiled Charm
Connectivity and Culture
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Skip Bora Bora, Visit Maupiti!
Maupiti offers similar beauty to Bora Bora but with fewer tourists and a more authentic feel. :sparkles:
Embrace the Local Pace
Maupiti is about relaxation. Unwind, disconnect, and enjoy the tranquil island life. :palm_tree:
Learn Basic French Phrases
While not strictly necessary, knowing some French enhances interactions with locals. :speech_balloon:
Pack Light & Smart
Focus on swimwear, light clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, and insect repellent. :bug:
Tips
from all over the internet
Skip Bora Bora, Visit Maupiti!
Maupiti offers similar beauty to Bora Bora but with fewer tourists and a more authentic feel. :sparkles:
Embrace the Local Pace
Maupiti is about relaxation. Unwind, disconnect, and enjoy the tranquil island life. :palm_tree:
Learn Basic French Phrases
While not strictly necessary, knowing some French enhances interactions with locals. :speech_balloon:
Pack Light & Smart
Focus on swimwear, light clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, and insect repellent. :bug:
Book Guesthouses in Advance
Limited accommodation means booking your charming guesthouse early is wise. :housewithgarden:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Maupiti is overwhelmingly praised for its stunning, unspoiled natural beauty, particularly its breathtaking lagoon and pristine beaches, offering a tranquil escape. However, some visitors have noted challenges with hospitality and communication, especially for non-French speakers, and the limited infrastructure can be a drawback for those seeking more amenities.
"My favourite island of Polynesia. Just stunning lagoon and views"
Sarah Agate
"The island is beautiful, the hike to the summit garanties magnificent views. But it is very difficult for non French speaking guests to find hospitality on this island especially in the pricey pensions. We were never treated so unwelcome in whole French Polynesia than on Maupiti."
Jay Kay
"Maupiti is Bora Bora’s little sister
Yes, these incredible shades of blue are real, probably the most beautiful lagoon so far!"
Imad Khadra
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Maupiti is accessible by a short flight from Tahiti (PPT) to Maupiti Airport (MAU), or via ferry from Bora Bora. Flights are more common and often recommended for convenience.
Inter-island travel primarily involves flights on Air Tahiti. Ferries are available for some routes, like between Bora Bora and Maupiti, but flights are generally faster and more reliable.
The island is small and best explored by bicycle or on foot. Boat tours are essential for exploring the lagoon and surrounding motus.
No, you'll need to fly into Faa'a International Airport (PPT) in Tahiti first, and then take a domestic flight to Maupiti.
The ferry journey from Bora Bora to Maupiti can take around 3-4 hours, depending on conditions. Flights are much quicker.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, it's highly recommended to book your guesthouse in advance, especially during peak season, as options are limited and popular.
There are no general entrance fees for the island itself, but activities like lagoon tours or excursions may have associated costs.
Maupiti operates on island time. Most natural attractions like beaches and hiking trails are accessible throughout the day.
While some activities can be arranged upon arrival through your guesthouse, booking popular tours in advance is advisable to secure your spot.
Information is usually available through your guesthouse or local contacts. It's best to coordinate with your accommodation for activity bookings and local advice.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit of Mount Teurafaatiu offers incredible panoramic views. The lagoon, white sand beaches, and vibrant coral reefs are also prime photography locations.
Sunrise and sunset offer magical light for photography. Midday provides bright, clear light for capturing the vibrant blues of the lagoon.
A good quality camera or smartphone with a decent camera is sufficient. Waterproof gear is recommended for capturing underwater shots in the lagoon.
Generally, there are no strict photography restrictions, but always be respectful of local customs and private property.
Expect stunning shots of turquoise lagoons, lush green mountains, pristine beaches, colorful marine life, and authentic island life.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Expect fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local Polynesian dishes. Many guesthouses offer delicious home-cooked meals.
There are a few small local restaurants and snack bars, but dining is often centered around guesthouse meals for a more authentic experience.
Options may be limited, but fresh fruits and vegetables are abundant. Communicate your dietary needs to your guesthouse in advance.
Try fresh fish dishes, poisson cru (raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime), and tropical fruits like papaya and mango.
Eating at guesthouses is generally more affordable than dining at the few restaurants. Prices are reasonable for a remote island destination.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Activities like snorkeling in the lagoon to see colorful fish and exploring the beaches are big hits with younger visitors. Renting bicycles as a family can also be a fun adventure, allowing you to discover the island at your own pace. While there aren't specific 'kid attractions,' the natural beauty and gentle pace of Maupiti provide ample opportunities for memorable family experiences.
💰 Budget Travelers
Utilize local transport like bicycles for getting around the main island, which is much cheaper than hiring private transport. Pack snacks and consider self-catering some meals if your guesthouse has facilities. While flights to Maupiti add to the cost, the overall daily expenses on the island are considerably lower than in more developed tourist hubs.
💑 Couples & Honeymooners
Staying in a cozy guesthouse provides a personal and romantic atmosphere. The tranquility of the island allows for uninterrupted quality time together, away from the crowds. The breathtaking natural beauty serves as a stunning backdrop for creating unforgettable honeymoon memories.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Maupiti: An Unspoiled Paradise
The island's small size (just 7 square kilometers) belies its incredible diversity. From the challenging yet rewarding hike up Mount Teurafaatiu, offering unparalleled panoramic views, to the vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life in its protected lagoon, Maupiti offers a rich tapestry of experiences. The local community is deeply connected to their environment, and visitors often remark on the islanders' friendly and welcoming nature, making you feel like a part of the family rather than just a tourist.
For travelers seeking an escape from the ordinary and a genuine connection with nature and local culture, Maupiti stands out. It's a destination that encourages you to slow down, breathe in the fresh ocean air, and immerse yourself in the simple yet profound beauty of Polynesian life. It's a place where the 'brand names' are indeed sand, sea, sun, time, and tide.
Navigating Maupiti: Getting Around and Staying Connected
For venturing into the stunning lagoon and visiting the surrounding motus (islets), boat tours are essential. These tours often include snorkeling excursions, visits to coral gardens, and opportunities to spot manta rays and other marine life. Your guesthouse can typically arrange these tours for you, offering a convenient way to experience the best of Maupiti's aquatic wonders.
When it comes to connectivity, be prepared for a digital detox. While some guesthouses may offer Wi-Fi, it can be intermittent and slow. This is part of Maupiti's charm – encouraging visitors to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature and themselves. Embrace the opportunity to truly unwind and be present in this idyllic setting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit