5 Days In Maupiti Itinerary
Pretty little Maupiti is known as ‘the preserved island’. It’s a magical destination reserved only for those seeking to experience laid back traditional Polynesian life. Maupiti is said to be similar to the way Bora Bora used to be before mass tourism took over. Apart from its physical resemblance to its big sister, Maupiti feels like a world away. Tiny enough to be discovered on foot and beautiful enough to make you swear you’ll be back – Maupiti is an island destination you’ll never forget. To help you make the most of your time on the island, here’s a sample Maupiti itinerary.
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Maupiti Travel Guide Video
Here’s a sneak peek of what awaits those who travel to Maupiti.
Maupiti Itinerary Map
All places of interest described in this Maupiti itinerary are highlighted on this map. Click on the image to open in Google Maps:
The most tangible testament to Maupiti’s unspoiled vibe has long be the lack of an ATM on the island. After years in the making, an ATM has been inaugurated on the island in 2022. That being said, it might be out of service when you visit, so bring enough cash for your stay on the island.
Day 1: Arrival and Beach Time
We kick off this Maupiti itinerary with arrival to the preserved island. Use your first day in Maupiti to slow things down and spend time on the beach. Your arrival time on the island determines just how much relaxation time you have on this first day.
The Flight to Maupiti
If you’re flying to Maupiti, sit on the plane’s right side. The flight from Tahiti takes less than an hour, passing over the entire Society Islands archipelago before touching down in Maupiti.
Taxi boat From Airport to Village
The wow factor kicks in as you land on an airstrip extending to the lagoon and realize you’ve just arrived in paradise. Then, you’ll be transported by a taxi boat to the main island just minutes away, where your local pension host will welcome you with a fresh necklace of heavenly scented tiare flowers. In fact, the whole island just smells so good!
Checking In to Your Pension
Maupiti has no resorts or hotels, just laid-back family-run pensions. On my four visits to Maupiti, including on my honeymoon in French Polynesia, I stayed at Pension Tautiare Village with Dawn and her husband Vetea. The family will take excellent care of you, with communal dinners you’ll never forget! Other recommended options on the main island include the self-catering Maupiti Residence, Pension Tereia, Pension Espace Beach, and Pension Taravanui. If you really want to get away from it all, stay at pensions located on one of the outer motus (islets). The best ones are currently Pension Papahani and Le Kuriri.
If all pensions are full (and that can certainly happen) but you don’t want to give up and insist on visiting Maupiti, check out Maupiti Camping for additional options.
Tereia Beach
When you’ve settled into your room, grab your beach gear and head to Tereia Beach – the best beach on the main island. On your way, the road will take you to the top of a hill overlooking sections of Maupiti. Such a pretty sight!
The road then drops down to Tereia Point, where one end is a muddy beach with small fishing boats slightly raised above the waterline, while the other hosts the prettiest beach on the main island. Find a spot on the soft white sand and enjoy shallow, warm waters.
Sunset View
Stick around Tereia Beach to watch a glorious sunset, or head back to the scenic viewpoint.
Dinner at the Pension
As the sun begins to set, head back to the pension and get ready for dinner. I’m guessing that fish is on the menu! The question is whether the tuna will be served grilled or raw – in one of the signature Tahitian dishes. If the night sky is clear, count the stars from the edge of the pontoon or head back to the lookout point for some serious nightly views.
