The next morning, the wind and waves piped down to a more reasonable 20 knots.  However, the conditions at sea were not favorable for a Roratonga run for at least another three days, perfect for exploring Maupiti.  We gathered up Jonas the Swede and our Pacific Passage Pals, Phil and Laura from Lufi to make a second run to the manta spot.  "Get low, everyone!" Grin shouts, "This is a dinghy race!"  We see more mantas, and we play with the funny bottle brush animals growing in the coral. They come in all colors of the rainbow; Put your finger close by and they retreat like a flash into their hiding spot.

We hiked straight up the sheer island to a lookout point with absolutely stunning views.  The hike was so steep, ropes had been installed to help you climb up and down.

From there, we could see the crazy narrow pass we traversed just a couple days before and The strange patterns caused by coral shallows and depths in Maupiti's beautiful lagoon.

"It's whale season.  It would be neat to see some whales from here."  Someone in the group says as Andrew simultaneously points out to sea and exclaims "Hey!  There is a whale!"   

"Speak of the Trolls!" Jonas responds.  This is apparently Sweden's version of "speak of the devil" and I like it so much better.

We can see Sonrisa, Lufi and Alma all relaxing in the anchorage below.  Time to head back down!

Following our hike, we needed to cool off!  We gathered up some beers and headed to the “Sand Bar”.  This spot is quite literally a sand bar in the middle of the lagoon.  The water is crystal clear, a pleasant 80 degrees and only about a foot and a half deep.  We anchored the dinghy and Jonas pulled out his “peanut boat”.  Sitting waist deep in water, we enjoyed the view, the company of good friends, and a cold beer.  We vote this the Best Bar of 2016!

We finished off this epic day with espresso aboard a German boat owned by new friends Sebastian and Suzie and dinner cooked by Laura and Phil aboard Lufi.  A day filled with awesome sea life, amazing views, The Sand Bar, and friends.  That is a good day by any measure.