Maupiti Things to Do

On the white sand beaches on the motus you are never alone. And no, I'm not talking about people but about those little shells.

Just watch the sand and you will notice several small shells walking around. So watch out where to put your feet.

Contrary to the motus, you won't find a lot of beaches on the main island. There is, however, a lovely beach at point Tereia. From here you can walk across the lagoon to the motu, in waste-deep water.

Maupiti is rich in remains from the past. Between the points of Puoroo and Pohiva, on the North coast, ancient marae succede one another along the lagoon. These are family marae. There are some fifty of them on the island of Maupiti.

The non restored Vaiahu Marae in Vaiea includes a large trunk made of white coral hiding four craved stones shaped like fishes. Still today, the people of Maupiti respect this site which ensures them good fishing.

Vaiea is the main village of the island where the town hall, schools, post office, church and a few small stores and snack shops are located. The village was hurt badly by the Cyclone Osea that hit town in November 1997 but has mostly recovered from the destruction.