Huahine Travel Guide
Things To Do & Places To See In Huahine
This section of the Huahine travel guide highlights all the top sites and activities on the island.
Fare
Fare is Huahine’s only town, and it’s one of the most charming in French Polynesia, though there’s nothing unique to it. From its colonial-style town hall to the seemingly spontaneous food market along the side of the ‘main street,’ you’ll love strolling through town to buy some groceries or just admire the sunset. It’s what you imagined a cute South Pacific town to look like, and there’s everything you could possibly need for your vacation right here. Fare has a large supermarket, gas stations, ATM, and the usual ‘small town’ amenities. But it also has a beach and a bit of nightlife.
The town’s excellent beach is conveniently within walking distance just north of the center of town. If the lagoon is nice and calm, the snorkeling is not bad though it gets quite deep quite quickly.
If that’s not enough, Fare even has a proper bar! The Huahine Yacht Club is the perfect place to watch the sunset. Grab a cocktail or grab some dinner, and you’ll probably be joined by a few visiting yachties. Happy hour from 5:30-6:30 pm, live music on Fridays.
Lake Fauna Nui
Lake Fauna Nui, a.k.a Lake Maeva (maeva means ‘welcome’ in Tahitian), is not actually a true lake as it’s partially enclosed by the large Motu Ovarei just across. The lake begins as you exit Fare, and it is possible to circle it via a dirt road that runs from the bridge to the airport.
Motu Tresor
This private museum might be free to enter and showcases an extravagant collection of local shells from the lagoon and the reef.
Maeva Marae Complex
Maeva is the next village south of Fare. There’s not much happening here these days, but it used to be the former seat of Huahine royals back in the day. This probably explains the high concentration of ancient temples (marae) found in and around the village and up on the surrounding hills – the highest concentration of ancient marae in French Polynesia. The complex is signposted off the coastal road.
There are thought to be over 30 such marae around this area. Hopping from one temple to another is like walking in an open-air museum. Just imagine what took place here some 500 years ago, way before the Europeans first arrived.
Three types of marae existed back in the day: community marae – used for sacrifices and gatherings, international marae like Taputapuatea in Raiatea – used for the gathering of key decision-makers from across the Polynesian Triangle, and royal marae – reserved only for the royal family as we’ll soon see.
Outside of the ‘official complex’ in Maeva, you’ll continue to come across more marae as you continue heading south.
Fare Potee Museum
Right on the water and in between the ancient marae, you’ll find this cute little museum built in traditional style (admission is around $3). Inside, you’ll learn about the ancient and modern history of Huahine. There are some super old photographs well over a century old, along with traditional art and replica Polynesian outrigger canoes. You’re already here, so you might as well pay a visit.
Matairea Hill Hike
The short hike in Matairea Hill is one of the best hikes in French Polynesia, and it’s perhaps the only hike in Huahine that does to require a guide. This one-hour (return) easy-going hike takes you through the rainforest and passes several tree-covered ancient temples before emerging out on a clearing overlooking the lake.
Commanding one of the most scenic parts of the island is yet another temple. The strategic and exclusive position of this particular marae suggests it was reserved for the royals. Up here, they would be close to the gods and away from the common villagers praying away on the shores of the lake.
Access to the Matairea Hill trailhead is from the Maeva temple complex. Follow the trail to the side of the public toilets and keep walking straight beyond the huge tree until you see the trail sign.
Ancient V-Shaped Fish Traps
Just a few meters south of Maeva, a bridge crosses to Motu Ovarei. It’s another lovely spot for pretty views of the lake but don’t forget to look at the river.
Laid in a pattern resembling the shape of the letter V, large stones take advantage of the current to draw fish into a ‘maze’ and eventually to a circular-shaped pool where they can’t escape. All that’s left for the locals is to pick them up, and voila! A centuries-old ingenious design… still used today.
Marae Manunu
Cross the bridge and take a left at the signpost to reach yet another impressive ancient temple. Marae Manunu is a massive structure with a wall 2 meters high and 7 meters wide. Right across from the temple, there’s a beautiful wild beach. Keep your bathing suit on, though, as it’s too dangerous for swimming. This beach is a favorite local spot for lobster fishing and whale watching.
Gallery Umatatea
Head back to where you took a left turn and continue straight – towards the very edge of Motu Ovarei. On your right, you’ll come across Gallery Umatatea. Pop inside and say hello to Melanie Dupre. Melanie came to Huahine from Ohio back in 1999 and simply fell in love with the island. Her beautiful paintings bring to life Huahine and its exotic people. You can buy prints starting at 8000F – an authentic souvenir that will surely bring back vivid images of your visit to paradise. Melanie’s Tahitian partner (who is depicted in quite a few paintings) is in charge of the ice cream! Grab a scoop or two before heading back on the road (go for taro and coconut).
The Old Sofitel Beach
Drive to the very tip of Motu Ovarei, the site of the old Sofitel resort. After 9/11, several resorts closed in French Polynesia, and this was one of them. These days, it’s an official public until a developer will do something with this lovely spot.
The beach is also known as la Cite de Corail, and that’s because the snorkeling out here is superb. The only catch? The current is super strong! I came here on two occasions, and it was simply not enjoyable to snorkel, even if it looked very promising at first.
(1) The Old Sofitel Beach is a lovely picnic spot but during the dry season, it might get very windy here in the afternoon. Come prepared. (2) If you do wish to snorkel, enter at the far end of the beach and drift towards the remains of the Sofitel’s pontoon.
Huahine Nui Pearls & Pottery
Floating in the middle of the lagoon, you can reach the Huahine Nui Pearls & Pottery with a free ferry running every 15 minutes from the marina in Faie (Monday – Saturday, 10 am – 4 pm, Sundays until noon). American-born owner Peter Owen met his Tahitian wife in California and they bought some property on one of the motu to start their life. The problem was the mosquitos, who made living on the motu a nightmare. Peter had a great idea to build a floating home in the middle of the lagoon and farm black pearls. And that’s how the pearl business began.
Visitors to the floating pearl farm and pottery shop are treated to an in-depth explanation of how the black pearls are produced. This is all demonstrated on a live oyster, something I haven’t come across in previous tours like in Tahaa Island. Naturally, you can buy pearls and pottery in the floating shop. Prices start really low and climb to a few hundred dollars for high-quality pearls. Of course, you can simply just relax and enjoy the view!
Most or all lagoon tours in Huahine stop at the floating pearl farm.
Sacred Blue-Eyed Eels
The coastal road curves around Faie Bay until reaching the tiny village of Faie. If you didn’t come prepared with a couple of cans of sardines from the supermarket in Fare, see if any can be bought from locals in the small village. Carefully climb down into the river and toss in a few chunks. In a matter of seconds, the famous blue-eyed eels will storm in for the easiest catch they’ll ever have. If you’re brave enough, you can even hand-feed them (they can’t bite).
These particular eels have blue eyes because they cannot actually see. They only live in this particular river in Huahine and can be found on a small number of other streams in French Polynesia. The eels are considered sacred – carrying the spirits of the dead islanders. Spooky and amazing all at the same time!
Belvedere Scenic Lookout
From the river in Faie, the road steeply climbs on the slopes of Mount Turi (the highest point in Huahine) to the Belvedere scenic lookout. Like the belvederes of Tahiti, Moorea, and Raiatea – Huahine’s prime lookout point offers fine views south towards Maroe Bay and Huahine Iti. From up here, you really get a sense of just how wild, lush, and sparsely populated the island is.
Maroe Bay
The road sharply drops from the Belvedere to Maroe Bay, a tranquil and gorgeous part of the island. The fun here is just to stop along the side of the road wherever you feel like and appreciate the addictive vibe of Huahine.
Eden Park is a private botanical garden that showcases Huahine’s abundance. As of August 2023, Eden Park is still closed. Perhaps this will reopen by the time your visit. If it does, please let me know.
Bridge To Huahine Iti
Before crossing to Huahine Iti (‘little Huahine’,) walk along the longest bridge in French Polynesia (72m) for some more great views. During the late afternoons (especially on weekends), local kids showcase impressive diving skills as they somersault into the warm waters of the bay.
Road To Avea Bay
Once you cross the bridge, take a right and climb the hill just above Haapu Bay before descending to Avea Bay. If Huahine Nui wasn’t calm enough for you, you’d have the roads on Huahine Iti all to yourself. That’s what other drivers think as well, so do approach the many blind bends on the roads with caution – and don’t forget to enjoy the views.
Hana Iti Beach
Of Huahine’s “public” beaches, Hana Iti is the toughest to reach. But it’s also the island’s wildest beach, throwing you into some scene from Treasure Island. There used to be a resort named Hana Iti on what is today a sandy beach. In 1997, a cyclone destroyed the property, and it was never rebuilt. A Dutch investor recently purchased the land, so in the future, the public may not be able to visit Hana Iti Beach. Another fun fact about Hana Iti Beach, the French film The Prince of the Pacific was filmed here.
You can reach Hana Iti by boat or on foot. If you’re driving from Fare, make a left on the dirt road BEFORE the turn-off suggested by Google Maps. You’ll know if you made a mistake if you drove to a hilly residential area. On the dirt road, keep driving until you see the makeshift sign to Hana Iti. Park the car somewhere and follow the trail for about 15 minutes via the lush rainforest down to the beach.
Hana Iti Beach is a great spot for a picnic lunch in Huahine. Pack everything you need, including garbage bags, as there are no facilities here.
Avea Bay
Avea Bay is a stunning area in Huahine, home to a long stretch of white and soft sand backed by coconut palms. It’s easy to find your own spot for a picture postcard break! A popular place to chill is in and around the Le Mahana Hotel – with its famous pontoon featured in many images promoting the island. If you’re not staying at the hotel, perhaps stop here for lunch or a drink so you can take advantage of the beach.
If you don’t want to base yourself at Le Mahana, grab a spot on the soft sand beyond the hotel. This is technically private land, so you should ask for permission to cross from the road to the beach. However, the beach itself is public.
As for dining options, head to Hotel Le Mahana’s restaurant or try Chez Tara next door for some local dishes. More on that in the ‘places to eat & drink’ section.
Coconut Plantation
Beyond Hotel Le Mahana, the coastal road swings by a lovely coconut plantation. It’s a beautiful sight to see the rows of palm trees swaying in the wind.
Marae Anini
Look for the sign for Marae Anini, perhaps Haunine’s most impressive coastal marae. The beach next door is a great spot for a picnic lunch.
Panorama de Tefarerii
Yet another worthwhile stop along the coast. I was completely alone out here and had this gorgeous view of the turquoise lagoon all to myself. Look out for the frigate birds riding the thermals over the warm waters and the sign on the side of the road.
Guided Island Tour
Guided island tours are a great option if you don’t want to drive or if you want to get explanations and a local’s perspective on things. Some island tours offer combo options that also tour the lagoon. I recommend sticking to an island tour and a separate lagoon tour if time and budget allow. For an exceptional guided island tour in Huahine, book a spot with Hina Ora Vai. I’ve sent several customers on this tour with excellent feedback. The full-day version of the tour also includes lunch in Vai’s home.
Huahine Lagoon Tour
You cannot visit Huahine without spending a day in its pristine lagoon. On two occasions, I went on a full-day lagoon tour with Huahine Nautique. The tour departs from Fare, but the crew picks you up from your accommodation around the island.
We started the lagoon tour with a quick snorkeling session with sharks just off Fare. In the past, the crew would feed the sharks in a thrilling demonstration as guests watched the mayhem underwater while holding a rope that established a safe perimeter. However, this practice is prohibited, and you now “just” get to swim with the harmless sharks.
This is what it looked like and might be waiting for you as well.
The tour then continued to a beautiful coral garden not far from Hana Iti Beach. This is by far one of the best snorkeling spots in Huahine. You’ll have lots of time to snorkel and swim with the colorful lagoon residents.
The boat then crossed to the other side of the lagoon beneath the bridge that separates Huahine Nui from Huahine Iti, affording pretty views of Maro’e Bay and the coastline. Once we cleared the bay, we headed north towards the floating pearl farm, passing dreamy floating islets such as Motu Obama. Some of these islets have just one rustic shack on them, while the larger ones are owned by a single extended family. That’s what I call having the right family connections.
Stretch your legs with a stop at Huahine Nui Pearls & Pottery, where you’ll also learn about the process of producing the black pearl. This is a good opportunity to purchase black pearls directly from the source as well as beautiful pottery decorated with Polynesian motifs.
The crew will then head to one of the motu (islets) for a memorable Polynesian buffet lunch. Learn how to prepare the national dish, the poisson cru, as your cup is constantly filled with homemade lunch (a.k.a ‘magic juice’). The delicious national dish is prepared with marinated raw chunks of fresh tuna and coconut milk mixed with vegetables and lime. So simple and so delicious. If it’s a nice day, grab a plate and dine feet in the water. After lunch, the crew might show you interesting rock formations along the coastline on the way back to your accommodation.
(1) Private lagoon tours are also possible to book. (2) Most lagoon tour operators also offer combo tours that include visits to sites on the main island. This is recommended only if you’re pressed for time. (3) Bring your passport in case you’ll want to purchase pearls and qualify for a tax refund. (4) If it’s a windy day, pack something warm for the boat and something to cover your eers with. If you suffer from motion sickness, prepare accordingly.
Places To Eat & Drink In Huahine
Here are a few places I sampled and enjoyed:
Self Catering
Fare has a large supermarket, so stay nearby if you wish to self-cater while in Huahine or rent a car if sleeping outside the main village.
Maitai Lapita Village
The restaurant at the Maitai Lapita Village also welcomes outside guests. Check to see if any special themed dinners are taking place during your stay in Huahine.
The Huahine Yacht Club
Finally! A laid-back South Pacific island with a proper bar. The Huahine Yacht Club in Fare is a great place to watch the sunset with a cocktail in your hand. They also have a romantic little restaurant and a pool table room. It’s a favorite spot for yachties moored out in the lagoon as well as families, couples, and thirsty backpackers. Dinner reservations are recommended, live music on Friday evenings, and most importantly – happy hour daily from 5:30-6:30 pm.
Food Trucks
Locals in French Polynesia love to dine at food trucks. Known locally as roulottes, Fare naturally has the widest selection, but you’ll also find a food truck or two around Avea Bay. In Fare, you’ll find these food trucks along the quay and next to Chez Guynette.
Hotel Le Mahana
The Hotel Le Mahana is perfectly situated along the prettiest beach in Avea Bay. Their beach restaurant is also open to outdoor guests. Enjoy traditional dishes as well as Western “classics”.
Chez Tara
The next-door neighbor of Hotel Le Mahana, Cheze Tara, offers indoor seating overlooking the lagoon. They’re known for their ma’a Tahiti, a traditional Sunday feast cooked in an underground earth oven with a side of local music (±4,000 XPF pp | reservations recommended).
What’s Next?
I hope you’ve found this Huahine Travel Guide useful. For more information about Huahine and French Polynesia, check out these recommended guides.
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