Maupiti Island: 13 TOP Things To Do in 2026 + Map

Welcome to Maupiti Island, one of French Polynesia’s most beautiful and off-the-world islands.

 

But why should you spend your time here? Why is it WORTH A VISIT if you can also go to Bora Bora and Moorea? 

 

We’ll cover why it is worth it, how to get there, what to expect from the island, the top things to do, and accommodations.

 

Let’s get started.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• 🏝️ Just 25 miles from Bora Bora: Perfect for a day trip, Maupiti is famous for its rugged peaks, turquoise lagoon, and motu (small coral islands) with pristine white sand beaches.

 

• 🌟 Activities: Hiking Mount Teurafaatiu, snorkeling with manta rays, and exploring ancient marae sites to learn about Polynesian culture.

 

• 💸 Budget-Friendly Alternative: Compared to Bora Bora, Maupiti provides a more affordable escape. You can expect to spend $800–$1,000 for a 2-day visit, all-inclusive.

 

 

Location of Maupiti in French Polynesia

Maupiti is a circular and tiny island in the Leeward group of SOCIETY ISLANDS, French Polynesia.

 

It lies around 40 kilometers (25 miles) west of Bora Bora and 1,300 kilometers (800 miles) from Tahiti. The central island is ONLY REACHABLE BY BOAT OR SMALL PLANE.  

 

DID YOU KNOW: Maupiti is formed by a DEAD VOLCANO, which is surrounded by a lagoon. The lagoon, in turn, is surrounded by a barrier reef.

 

Looking for a Maupiti itinerary around the island? Take a look at the map below! 

SOME STATISTICS about Maupiti:

• Area: 11 square kilometers (4,2 sq miles)
• Peak: Mount Teurafaatiu (372 m = 1,220.5 ft)
• Districts: Vaiea (main village), Petei, Farauru, and Pauma.
• Population: 1,286 (2022)

 

Maupiti belongs to the Society Islands

The Society Islands are a collection of 14 French Polynesian islands that make you dream of PARADISE.

 

The Society Islands are mostly famous for the big islands like Moorea, Tahiti, and the idyllic Bora Bora, the most beautiful island on EARTH.

 

 

How do you get to Maupiti Island?

Let’s take a look at how you get to Maupiti Island from BORA BORA and TAHITI.

 

How do I get from Bora Bora to Maupiti?

ACCESS to Maupiti is EXCLUSIVE.

 

From Bora Bora, you can choose to travel either by AIR OR BY SEA.

 

From Bora Bora to Maupiti by airplane

The trip begins with a scenic 15-minute flight from Bora Bora Airport (BOB) to Maupiti Airport (MAU), operated only by Air Tahiti.

 

At Maupiti Airport, flights run a few times per week, and the cost of a one-way ticket ranges from $70 to $100.

 

DID YOU KNOW: The airport in Maupiti is situated on the very small Motu Tuanai, and a ferry shuttle service will take you to the main village in about 30 minutes?

 

You can use our widget from Aviasales below to discover how expensive your fight tickets will be! French Polynesia is NOT a CHEAP destination…

From Bora Bora to Maupiti by boat

If you are a fan of adventure, you must take the Maupiti Express Ferry II!

 

KEY FEATURES of the Maupiti Express Ferry:

• 🌬️ Air-conditioned high-speed vessel
• 📅 Operates THREE times weekly
• 👥 Capacity: 140 passengers in the lagoon, 120 outside the lagoon
• 🏝️ Destinations from Maupiti: Bora Bora, Taha’a, Raiatea
• 🎟️ Tickets are available onboard or at the Vaitape ticket office
• ⏰ Departure times may vary

 

Visit the official Maupiti Express website for more information.

 

How do I get from Tahiti to Maupiti?

If there is no time to lose, and you want to go directly from Tahiti to Maupiti without stopping at Bora Bora? Fully possible.

 

Direct flights from Tahiti’s Faa’a International Airport (PPT) to Maupiti Airport (MAU) are offered by Air Tahiti.

 

They operate several times a week.

 

The journey from Tahiti takes only about 55 MINUTES, and the cost of a one-way flight ranges from $130 to $180.

 

TOP 13 things Maupiti is famous for!

Maupiti has many amazing activities. The island  is famous for its rugged PEAKS, turquoise LAGOON, and many MOTU (small coral islands) filled with white sand beaches.

 

Let’s dive deeper.

 

1) Lagoons and beaches

Maupiti is surrounded by the stunning MAUPITI LAGOON, with shades of turquoise and crystal-clear waters.

 

The beautiful lagoon makes it perfect for water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, diving, and kayaking.

 

This favorite island also has beautiful pristine white-sand beaches.

 

Choose from half-day or full-day excursions offered by the island’s guesthouses for an up-close encounter with MANTA RAYS, parrotfish, butterflyfish, and surgeonfish (see further below).

 

2) Mount Teurafaatiu

For the adventurous, you MUST CLIMB Mount Teurafaatiu.

 

From the summit, the entire mountainous island of Maupiti unfolds, showcasing the island’s lush landscapes, the Maupiti lagoon, and the endless ocean.

 

To reach the summit at 380 meters (1 246 feet) above sea level, it requires a two-hour hike.

 

The BEST TIMING for the hike is early in the morning to evade the midday heat.

 

The hiking trail begins slightly beyond the Tarona snack bar, near the base of the large antenna, close to a small refreshment stand. Look for a red and white marker to guide you.

 

Download your trail FOR FREE here!

 

TESTIMONY: The trail, unmarked but widely recognized by the island’s inhabitants, starts opposite the Tarona Restaurant signpost. En route, a picturesque view of the town awaits halfway up, with rocky sections demanding a climb facilitated by ropes. The steep incline may challenge those uneasy with heights, yet the breathtaking panoramic vista atop it justifies the exertion. Our trip included a lunch at sunset, although the descent in darkness proved much more unsettling without a torch than we thought it would be.

 

3) Motu Tiapaa

 

Motu Tiapaa, a small islet within the Maupiti Lagoon, offers a tranquil escape.

 

Its white sandy beach and warm, shallow waters are perfect for picnicking, snorkeling, or simply relaxing.

 

Rent a kayak or canoe to reach the motu, or join a guided lagoon tour that includes this idyllic spot in the itinerary.

 

4) Tereia Beach

 

Tereia Beach, on the island’s western edge, is Maupiti’s BEST SWIMMING BEACH.

 

The scenery throughout the crossing is amazing, with emerald Polynesian waters, and you might even spot rays and sharks.

 

DID YOU KNOW: At low tide, you can WALK ACROSS A SANDBANK to the nearby motu Auira for a unique experience?

 

The crossing takes about 30 minutes by foot!

 

 

5) Visit Maupiti Village

Take a stroll through Vaiea Village, Maupiti’s main village.

 

6) Snorkel the Maupiti Pass

 

The Maupiti Pass, connecting the crystal-clear lagoon to the open ocean, is a hotspot for snorkeling and diving.

 

The currents bring in nutrient-rich waters, attracting marine life, including sharks, rays, and tropical fish.

 

7) Discover Maupiti Cemetery

Visit Maupiti’s historic cemetery to see beautifully decorated graves with flowers and seashells.

 

The cemetery, on a hill with stunning views of the lagoon, has several historic tombstones dating back to the 15th century.

 

8) Watch Manta Rays

 

Maupiti is famous for its manta ray cleaning station. The spot is underwater in the lagoon at a depth of 8 meters.

 

Guided tours allow you, as a snorkeler, to witness this phenomenon up close.

 

Boat trips leave early in the morning, and prices range from $50 to $100 per person for snorkeling trips.

 

9) Enjoy Sunset at Tereia Beach

 

End your day with a stunning sunset at Tereia Beach, where the lagoon glows in shades of orange and pink.

 

In our view, Tereia Beach is pure paradise—even surpassing Bora Bora’s Matira Point.

 

Tereia Beach is all about simplicity and authenticity.

 

Picture pristine white sand, coconut palms, turquoise waters, and breathtaking mountain views. Honestly, what more could you ask for?

 

10) Snorkeling and scuba diving trips

 

Maupiti’s lagoon offers snorkeling and diving opportunities, with excellent visibility to explore coral reefs and underwater tunnels.

 

Expect to see lemon sharks, reef SHARKS, and even manta RAYS.

 

Guided snorkeling trips typically cost $50–$100, while full-day diving excursions, including equipment and lunch, range from $100 to $150.

 

11) Kayak or Paddleboard Across the Lagoon

For a peaceful way to explore Maupiti, rent a kayak or paddleboard and peddle across the calm lagoon waters.

 

12) Visit the Sea Palace (« Palais de la mer »)

Just outside the village on the lagoon side, you’ll see ‘The Sea Palace’, a house crafted from coral blocks, shells, and eclectic sculptures.

 

You can explore the house with Ah-Ky, the host of this unique site, a vibrant personality who gained fame in the 1980s as a singer-songwriter.

 

The experience includes a guided tour, a tasting, a song, and a woven hat. While intriguing, it might not be a must-do, as the price feels a bit steep for what’s offered.

 

You can explore the site for 8 euros (9 USD).

 

13) Eat raw fish at the Tarona Snack Bar

 

The Tarona Snack Bar is the best restaurant on Maupiti Island, offering a laid-back atmosphere and authentic Polynesian flavors.

 

The menu features a variety of dishes, including fresh seafood, sandwiches, and classic Tahitian specialties like poisson cru.

 

It is located right next to the trailhead to Mount Teurafaatiu, so it’s a great spot to fuel up before or after a hike.

 

 

Maupiti Island: One-day itinerary

Discovering Maupiti is not so difficult. The only road in the area runs about 10 kilometers (6 miles)! It can be done via bike or foot (2-3 hours of walking).

 

We suggest you tour the island by bike, which can be rented from almost all guesthouses.

 

Things to see on your bike ride:

1. Starting Point: Maupiti Village (Vaiea)
2. Ruins of Marae Vaiahu: A short distance from the village.
3. Tereia Beach and Tere’ia Village: Accessible by bike or a short drive.
4. Mount Teurafaatiu Trailhead: Located near the Tarona Restaurant signpost.

 

Cultural Insights

Maupiti offers a unique insight into the cultural history of French Polynesia, preserving traditions that have been lost on other islands.

 

Polynesian lifestyle

The heart of Maupiti lies in its people and their connection to the LAND AND SEA.

 

One of the most captivating cultural experiences is the traditional TAHITIAN DANCE and music performances.

 

These performances are a celebration of the island’s history, mythologies, and communal bond.

 

Archaeological sites

Scattered across the land of Maupiti are ANCIENT MARAE, sacred sites.

 

These historical ruins tell the stories of Maupiti’s ancestors.

 

You can explore these ruins on foot or arrange for a GUIDED TOUR with a local guide. Want to see more marae? Then, visit Huahine, an island not so far from Maupiti.

 

Local Cuisine

The local Tahitian cuisine also reflects the island’s cultural heritage, with dishes that incorporate freshly caught seafood, tropical fruits, and root vegetables, often cooked in a UMU or earth oven, a traditional Polynesian cooking method.

 

The must-try local dishes are:

• Poisson Cru (Ia Ota): A signature Tahitian dish made from raw fish, typically tuna, marinated in lime juice, and blended with coconut milk for a fresh and flavorful taste.

 

• Fe’i (Banana): Native bananas with reddish-orange flesh, prepared in various ways such as roasted, boiled, or turned into sweet desserts.

 

• Uru (Breadfruit): A tradition in Maupiti, cooked in numerous ways like roasting, frying, or as part of ‘Ma’a Tahiti’, a traditional dish prepared in an earth oven.

 

• Taravana: A flavorful local soup made with fresh seafood, including fish, crabs, and shrimp, combined with vegetables and spices.

 

• Taro Root: A popular side dish with a nutty flavor, served boiled, baked, or mashed, complementing many local meals.

 

How much does a Maupiti Holiday cost?

Maupiti is the perfect destination for both luxury and mid-budget travelers.

 

It is a lot cheaper than the ultra-luxury islands like Moorea and Bora Bora.

 

At Huahine, for two days, you can expect the costs below: 

Category	Cost (USD)	Cost (EUR)
Flights (Tahiti to Maupiti, round trip)	350	320
Accommodation (2 nights, mid-range guesthouse)	200	185
Food (meals for 2 days)	80	75
Activities (snorkeling tour, hike, pearl farm visit)	150	140
Souvenirs (pearl or local crafts)	100	95

When should you go to Maupiti?

The best time to visit Maupiti is during the month of May.

 

Temperatures during this period are pleasant, ranging from 25°C to 28°C (77°F – 82°F) and the rainy season is at its very end.

 

WHY?

 

The costs for the month of May are lower than for the months of June and July when high season starts.

 

Avoid visiting between December and March, as this is the RAINY SEASON, with high humidity and very tough rain showers.

 

Accommodation in Maupiti, French Polynesia?

Finding the perfect place to stay in Maupiti, French Polynesia is difficult.

 

KEEP IN MIND: We are not in Moorea or Bora Bora, so do not expect luxurious overwater bungalows! The locals have always refused to install large hotel complexes 

 

There are not that many stays on the island. However, we have found some hidden gems. You can take a look at our widget below or follow our recommendations!

Luxury Option

Maupiti Residence if you are seeking luxury.

 

Offering amazing beachfront bungalows with private decks and beach chairs that overlook the turquoise lagoon, it merges Polynesian tradition with modern luxury.

 

Its secluded location ensures a peaceful and exclusive stay, with rates starting at around $350 per night.

 

Budget Lodging

Pension Tautiare Village is an excellent budget-friendly option if you want to experience Maupiti without breaking the bank.

 

Offering basic but comfortable bungalows near the beach, it’s an ideal choice for backpackers and solo travelers.

 

Rates start at around $60 per night.

 

Family Guesthouse

Fare Vai Nui is a family guesthouse that provides a personal experience.

 

With its welcoming hosts, homemade meals, and direct access to the lagoon, staying here feels like becoming part of the island’s family.

 

The cost for a night, including meals, starts at roughly $120.