Marae Taputapuatea: Polynesia's Sacred Heart
Explore Polynesia's most sacred temple, Marae Taputapuatea, a UNESCO World Heritage site on Raiatea, rich in history and cultural significance.
Marae Taputapuatea, a UNESCO World Heritage site on Raiatea, is the most important ancient temple in Polynesia. Established around 1000 AD, this sacred site was once the religious and cultural epicenter of Eastern Polynesia, where chiefs, priests, and warriors gathered for rituals and to exchange knowledge. Today, it stands as a powerful symbol of Polynesian heritage and a testament to the skill and vision of the Maohi civilization.
A brief summary to Marae Taputapuatea
- 5J7R+MJG, Taputapuapea, Opoa, PF
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-5 pm
- Thursday 7 am-5 pm
- Friday 7 am-5 pm
- Saturday 7 am-5 pm
- Sunday 7 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience a peaceful atmosphere.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the site involves walking on uneven terrain.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning natural beauty and historical architecture.
- Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the site's cultural significance.
- Respect the sacredness of the site and follow local customs and guidelines during your visit.
Getting There
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Car
If arriving by car from Uturoa, the main town on Raiatea, the drive to Marae Taputapuatea is approximately 25 minutes. Head south from Uturoa. The site is located on the southeastern coast of the island. Limited parking is available near the site.
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Public Transport
Local bus services in Raiatea may offer routes toward Taputapuapea. Check with local providers in Uturoa for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. From the nearest bus stop, the marae is approximately a 10-15 minute walk. Bus services may not run frequently, so plan accordingly.
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Walking
If you are staying in or near the village of Opoa, you can walk to Marae Taputapuatea. From the center of Opoa, head south on the main road, following signs for the marae. The walk is about 20 minutes along the coastline.
Discover more about Marae Taputapuatea
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hôtel Atiapiti
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Raiatea Sur Mer
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Fareatai
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Pension Te Maeva
4.5 km
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Raiatea Pearl
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Raiatea Village
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Raiatea Quad
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Subdivision des Iles Sous le Vent
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Motu Nao Nao
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Motu Ofetaro
12.7 km
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Restaurant Villa Ixora
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Chambre d'Hôte Gîte Pension Te Ava Piti Lodge Raiatea
13.1 km
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Raromatai Pro Api
13.2 km
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Tahiti Tourisme, Raiatea
14.7 km
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La Raie'Gate
14.8 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Motu IRIRU
5.3 km
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de Raiatea Botanical Garden
7.0 km
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Mystery House Raiatea
7.1 km
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Mont Temehani
10.0 km
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FAAROA CRUISE
14.7 km
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RAIATEA BLUE LAGOON
14.9 km
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Tahiti Pearl Regatta
14.9 km
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Motu Aito
15.8 km
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Raiatea Jet
16.8 km
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Hemisphere Sub Plongée
17.4 km
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Motu Api
18.1 km
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Motu Mahaea
22.4 km
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Fare Vanira
22.7 km
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Poerani tours
26.0 km
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Tahaa Earth & SEA
30.9 km
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Essential places to dine
SNACK TAMARA
1.0 km
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Opoa Beach Hotel
2.2 km
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Roulotte Tevahine
4.4 km
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Roulotte Chez Mahin’s
8.2 km
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Roulotte OHANA RFP
8.2 km
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Pizzeria Utufara
8.8 km
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Roulotte Pilialoha
8.9 km
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L’Atelier Saveurs
11.6 km
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Snack Punaeroa
12.3 km
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Mega Pizza
13.2 km
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Snack Tonoi
13.9 km
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OIKOS
14.2 km
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TOOTOOMIRO BURGER
14.2 km
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Brasserie de Tahiti
14.3 km
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Ninamu Lagon
14.5 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
LTB FENUA Organic Farm & Camping
1.3 km
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Magasin Opoa
1.7 km
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Perle D'Ô
7.0 km
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Rainbow Bay - l'Atelier du Pāreu
7.1 km
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Raiatea
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Pharmacie Lafayette Avera
8.4 km
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Boulangerie Pain du Fenua
8.6 km
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Vairua Perles
9.8 km
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Orama store
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Mataio vanille
12.4 km
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Suptepua
13.1 km
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Boutique Faremeho
13.2 km
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Vodafone Raiatea
14.4 km
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Nautisport Raiatea
14.5 km
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Magasin Teroto
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Villa Lou Faret
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Top food
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Manuia bar
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Huahine
37.8 km
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Snack Parea
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Chez Robert Et Tina
51.5 km
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InterContinental Le Moana Bora Bora Resort
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Vini Vini Bar
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BUBBLES BAR
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The Lucky House Fare Manuia Restaurant
51.9 km
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Beach Bar
52.1 km
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Bora Bora Beach Club
52.2 km
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Sofitel Bora Bora Marara Beach Resort
52.3 km
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Ukulele Bar
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La Villa Mahana
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Vahine Summer
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A Hura Raiatea
15.1 km
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Tennis club de Raiatea
15.8 km
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Raiatea Yacht Club
17.6 km
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Hotel Le Mahana Huahine
39.4 km
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Huahine Secret Tours
39.5 km
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Bloody Mary's Bora Bora
53.4 km
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Restaurant Saint James
56.2 km
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Le Récif
57.3 km
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Bora Bora Yacht Club
57.5 km
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Uaina Bar
59.5 km
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