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Maupiti is a tiny, mountainous island about 40 km west of Bora Bora, often described as Bora Bora before the resorts: a dramatic peak, a dazzling lagoon and white-sand motu. There are no large hotels, only family-run pensions. It’s for travelers who want hiking, manta rays and real island life. Plan three to four nights.
Researched and maintained by Empyrean Travel · How we research
- Archipelago
- Society Islands (Leeward group)
- Getting there
- About 55-min flight from Papeete
- Ideal stay
- 3–4 nights
- Best for
- Hiking, authenticity, slow travel
- Pairs well with
- Bora Bora, Raiatea
Why visit Maupiti?
Maupiti is a postcard without the crowds. A central peak of dark rock rises over a wide, shallow lagoon ringed by motu with white-sand beaches, and the whole island can be cycled in an afternoon. There are no luxury resorts; lodging is in family-run pensions, which keeps visitor numbers small and the welcome personal.
Getting in is part of the character. The airport sits on Motu Tuanai, so a short boat ride takes you to the main island. The lagoon’s single pass is narrow and can be hazardous for boats in big swells, one reason Maupiti has stayed so untouched.
What is there to do on Maupiti?
Days on Maupiti revolve around the lagoon and the mountain, with long lunches in between.
- Hike Mount Teurafaatiu: a short but steep climb to the summit for a 360-degree view of the lagoon and, on clear days, Bora Bora. Start early to beat the heat.
- Snorkel with manta rays: local guides take small groups to see mantas in the lagoon.
- Tereia Beach: the main island’s best beach, with shallow water stretching toward Motu Auira; check conditions locally before wading out.
- Motu picnic: a day on a motu with grilled fish and fresh coconut.
- Cycle the island: the coast road is short and quiet, passing villages and melon and watermelon fields.
- Vaiehu marae: a trail leads to a stone marae, a window into the island’s past.
Where should you stay on Maupiti?
Maupiti’s pensions sit on the main island and on the motu, and many include breakfast and dinner, since restaurants are few. Rooms are simple and comfortable; the real luxury is the setting and your hosts’ knowledge of the lagoon.
Capacity is small, so book early for July, August and holidays. Bring enough cash, because card acceptance is limited on small islands. If you want a resort finish, end the trip on Bora Bora, a short flight away.
When is the best time to visit Maupiti?
May to October is drier and pleasant for hiking, though large swells can occasionally affect boats using the pass. November to April is warmer and wetter, with greener hills. Because flights to Maupiti are less frequent than to the bigger islands, build a little slack into your plans. Our month-by-month guide has more detail.
How do you combine Maupiti with other islands?
Maupiti pairs best with Bora Bora: rustic first, then a resort finale. It also fits into a Leeward Islands route with Raiatea. Air Tahiti flights connect Maupiti with Papeete and nearby islands, sometimes with a stop. See our island-hopping guide.
Maupiti highlights
Mount Teurafaatiu summit
Main island
A steep hike to the island’s high point for a panoramic lagoon view.
Manta rays
Lagoon
Snorkel with mantas on a small-group outing with a local guide.
Tereia Beach
Main island
The main island’s best beach, with shallow turquoise water.
Motu picnic
Lagoon day
Grilled fish, coconut and swimming on a white-sand islet.
Cycling the island
Coast road
A slow loop past villages, gardens and melon fields.
Vaiehu marae
Cultural site
An ancient stone temple reached by a short trail.
Frequently asked questions
Are there resorts on Maupiti?
How do you get to Maupiti?
Is Maupiti like Bora Bora?
How many days should you spend on Maupiti?
Official sources
Rules, fees and schedules change — confirm the latest details at the source before you travel.