Huahine Travel Guide

Discover the wonders of Huahine, from cultural attractions to outdoor adventures and local cuisine. Plan your trip with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Huahine

Located in the Society Islands of French Polynesia, Huahine is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a true island-life experience. Often called the “Garden of Eden,” this secluded oasis is known for its lush greenery, crystal-clear lagoons, and fascinating Polynesian culture. Whether you are looking for relaxation, adventure, or cultural exploration, Huahine is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to plan your dream trip to Huahine.

List of Places to Visit in Huahine

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Huahine is steeped in Polynesian history and culture, which is evident from the many significant historical landmarks scattered throughout the island. The most famous of these are:

  • Fare Pote’e: a traditional hut that showcases the ancient Polynesian art of tattooing.
  • Marae Anini: a fascinating archeological site that features old temples and sacred landmarks.
  • Faie: a village that is home to the unique blue-eyed eels of Huahine.

Natural Attractions of Huahine: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Nature plays a major role in Huahine’s appeal, as it is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders you’ll ever see. Here are some of the must-visit natural attractions in Huahine:

  • Maeva archaeological site: an impressive collection of ancient stone structures, located amidst a lush tropical garden.
  • Lake Fauna Nui: a serene lake that sits at the heart of Huahine.
  • Mata’irea Hill: a lookout point that offers panoramic views of the island and its lagoons.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Huahine

Explore the natural beauty of Huahine at your own pace with these walking and biking routes:

  • Huahine Iti: a 9 km track that takes you through lush greenery, along rocky coasts, and hidden beaches.
  • Huahine Nui: a 25 km biking track that covers a spectacular array of landscapes and natural wonders.

Best Things to Do in Huahine: Activities and Tours

Huahine offers tons of activities and tours that cater to all kinds of travelers. Here are some of the top-rated things to do in Huahine:

  • Snorkeling and scuba diving: explore the colorful underwater world of the island.
  • Boat tours: discover the unique lagoons of Huahine on a boat tour.
  • Cultural tours: delve deep into the island’s history and culture on a guided tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Huahine

The following itinerary will help you make the most out of your week-long stay in Huahine:

Day 1: Arrival, beach relaxation Day 2: Cultural tour of the Marae Anini, Faie village, and Fare Pote’e. Day 3: Snorkeling adventure at Motu Maha’ea and Maeva village archaeological site. Day 4: Mata’irea Hill lookout point and a visit to Lake Fauna Nui. Day 5: Biking tour of Huahine Nui track. Day 6: Kayaking tour of the lagoons, exploring coral gardens, and underwater fauna. Day 7: Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Huahine

Huahine’s culinary scene is a reflection of its Polynesian culture, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and tropical fruits. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Poisson cru: a raw fish salad that is marinated in lime juice, coconut milk, and vegetables.
  • Bananas in coconut milk: a sweet dessert made from ripe bananas that are cooked in coconut milk and sugar.
  • Grilled lobster: fresh-caught lobster grilled to perfection, only found at local restaurants.

Local Beverages

  • Hinano beer: a well-known beer in French Polynesia, often enjoyed after a day full of adventures.
  • Mai Tai: a tropical cocktail that mixes light and dark rum, orange curacao, lime juice, and orgeat syrup.
  • Noni juice: a superfood juice made from the noni fruit that boasts many health benefits like boosting immunity and mental clarity.

Where to Stay in Huahine: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Huahine offers a range of accommodation options catering to all kinds of budgets and preferences. Whether you are looking for luxurious resorts or budget-friendly guesthouses, Huahine has something for everyone. Here are some of the top places to stay on the island:

  • Royal Huahine: a 4-star luxury beachfront resort offering stunning views of the lagoon.
  • Pension Fare Maeva: a small budget-friendly guesthouse, located in a quiet and peaceful setting.
  • Hotel Le Mahana: a cozy 3-star hotel that is perfect for a relaxing tropical vacation.

What to Buy in Huahine: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Huahine has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its arts and crafts. Some of the most popular souvenirs and local products to bring home include:

  • Hand-carved tiki statues
  • Black pearls
  • Polynesian sarongs and pareos

Local Culture and Customs of Huahine

Polynesian culture plays an essential role in daily life on the island of Huahine. During your stay, you’ll find that locals place high importance on respect, hospitality, and community. Here are some customs to keep in mind during your visit:

  • Remove shoes before entering someone’s home
  • Dress modestly when entering a Marae or a church
  • Greet people with a warm “Ia orana” and say “Mauruuru” (thank you) often

Best Time to Visit Huahine

The best time to visit Huahine is during the dry season, which spans from May to October. During this period, the weather is mild and sunny, and the water temperature is ideal for water sports like snorkeling and diving. However, keep in mind that peak tourist season is from June to August, so book your accommodation early to avoid any last-minute disappointments.

Do’s and Don’ts of Huahine

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Be environmentally conscious and avoid littering
  • Take time to interact with the locals and learn about their culture

Don’t:

  • Do not touch or take anything from the Maraes and historical sites
  • Do not swim in prohibited areas or feed the marine life
  • Do not leave valuables unattended on the beach

Safety and Health

Safety in Huahine

Overall, Huahine is a relatively safe destination, with low levels of crime and violence. However, keep in mind that the island is prone to natural disasters, such as hurricanes, so it’s best to check the weather forecast before planning an outdoor activity. Also, take standard precautions such as locking up valuables and keeping a close eye on your belongings while at the beach.

Health in Huahine

French Polynesia has a high rate of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and Zika virus, so it’s a good idea to take precautions like wearing insect repellent and protective clothing. The tap water is also not safe to drink, so stick to bottled water during your stay.

Getting to Huahine: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Huahine

Huahine has its airport, Huahine-Fare Airport, which offers daily flights to and from Papeete in Tahiti.

Bus Stations Near Huahine

There are no bus or train stations in Huahine.

Other Options

Ferries are available to travel between the different islands of French Polynesia. You can also rent a car, take a taxi or opt for an organized tour to explore the island at your pace.

How to Get Around in Huahine

To get around the island, there are several modes of transportation:

  • Walking: Huahine is a relatively small island, and walking is the best way to explore the natural beauty of the island.
  • Biking: bicycles are available to rent at various locations throughout the island, which is a great way to explore Huahine Nui and some of the off-beaten paths of Huahine Iti.
  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Huahine and can be flagged down on the street or arranged through your hotel.

Where to Go Next from Huahine: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Huahine is the perfect hub to explore the other gems of French Polynesia. Here are some of the nearby destinations that are worth visiting:

  • Bora Bora: Bora Bora is home to crystal-clear beaches, stunning coral reefs, and luxurious overwater bungalows. Day trips to Bora Bora from Huahine are possible.
  • Raiatea: Raiatea is a historical island that served as the hub of Polynesian settlements and also boasts stunning natural beauty, such as the Faaroa River and Marae Taputapuatea.

Conclusion

Huahine is truly a paradise on earth, offering an immersive travel experience to its visitors. From cultural attractions and outdoor adventures to culinary delights and stunning natural landscapes, Huahine has something for every traveler. Don’t wait any longer; book your trip to Huahine today and embark on an unforgettable journey.

Haapu Bay, Huahine Iti Haapu Bay, Huahine Iti