Best things to do in Huahine, the Secret Island

Huahine: a hidden gem

Almost half the size of Moorea, it has only a third of the inhabitants, totalling just 6,000. Huahine is a peaceful oasis in the Society Islands (consisting of Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, Taha’a, or Raiatea). While exploring the island, visitors often feel a powerful connection with nature, tapping into the unique "mana" of Huahine.

In Tahitian or Reo Ma'ohi, Huahine means the sex (Hua) of a woman (Hine). It is the easternmost island of the Raro Mata'i (Leeward Islands). The island is actually split into two parts: Huahine Nui (Big Huahine) in the north and Huahine Iti (Little Huahine) in the south. The majority of the population live in eight villages, which are distributed equally between the north (Fare, Maeva, Faie, Fitii) and the south (Maroe, Haapu, Parea, Tefarerii).

Fare is a small town where you can find all the services you need during your stay: car or scooter hire, a bank, a post office, a supermarket, and more. For activities and excursions (boat tour, jet ski tour, professional guides, etc.), we recommend you ask once you're at your accommodation.

Discover the history of Huahine and French Polynesia

To the northwest of the town, the Maitai Lapita Village hotel is truly a special place. In 1952, excavations in Huahine uncovered unique pottery fragments, the likes of which had never been found before in the region. This revolutionary discovery led to the identification of the existence of an ancient Polynesian society, the Lapita people, who were responsible for creating a particular type of pottery. Sites have now been identified from New Guinea to Eastern Polynesia, illustrating a long tradition of voyages spanning the vast Pacific Ocean aboard large double-outrigger boats. 

Some key sites from this period of colonisation are found in the Society Islands, including Vaito'otia-Fa'ahia in Huahine. During the construction work on Bali Hai, the island's first hotel (1970s), several archaeological artefacts were discovered. Further exploration unearthed a major Lapita site, offering new insight into the lives of Huahine's first Polynesian settlers, who probably arrived 1400 years ago through the pass known as Ava Mo'a, opposite the hotel.

Museum displays were specially created to showcase the findings. Whether or not you are staying at the hotel, they are well worth a visit.

Huahine Lake, Fa’una Nui

First stop: Fa'una Nui (big head) lake, famous for its brackish water, a rare natural curiosity in Eastern Polynesia. It once belonged to the royal family, and is known for its Ava (milkfish) and other prized fish, which were historically reserved for the ruling families. 

The Manunu Marae

Marae (ancestral places of worship) are an important part of Polynesian history and culture. On the road towards the village of Maeva, which runs along the lake, you can visit the Manunu Marae, one of the island's many archaeological sites. Check the small museum set up in the Fare Pote'e (oval house). It is both humble and fascinating. 

Traditional fish traps

To the south of the lake, you can admire the fish parks in specific areas of the lagoon. An ancient method to ensure a supply of fresh food, their construction is a testament to people's ability to adapt to their environment.

The Sacred Eels of Fā’ie

No trip to Huahine would be complete without paying your respects to the Puhi Tari'a. Famous for their "ears", these sacred eels can be admired near Fā'ie, in a stream running between the roots of the Māpē (local chestnut trees). They can grow up to two meters in length, and their blue eyes are mesmerizing. For the inhabitants of the island, their divine presence is a reassuring sign of prosperity. 

The Anini marae

In the very south of the island, in Huahine iti, facing the Ara'ara Motu, near the magnificent beach of Avea Bay and its turquoise lagoon with thick white sand, home to the celebrated Mahana hotel and its famous restaurant, the Anini Marae makes an interesting stop. Standing next to the Titoi Marae, this royal Marae was dedicated to the god 'Oro and to sacrifices. Its altar (Ahu), made up of small platforms, is considered a resting place for the gods.

Viewpoints for admiring the scenery

As you head towards Mārō'ē, the island soars up towards the sky. The road climbs steeply, and is best tackled on an e-bike. Otherwise you will need some serious pedal power! However, the viewpoint is worth the effort. It offers magnificent views of the landscape, the bay, the interior of the island, the irregular coastlines, and hundreds of types of green vegetation. 

After passing Tefarerii, there is another viewpoint, this time facing the lagoon. Turquoise blues and greens intermingle to form an exquisite pattern, inviting you to swim. Huahine also has some stunning beaches and Motu (reef islets) where you can enjoy a dip in 28 °C blue water.

Enjoying the lagoon: swimming, water sports, and snorkeling

Life on Huahine revolves around the ocean. It’s even home to water sports enthusiasts like Stephan Lambert and surfing champion Vahine Fierro.

The lagoon of Huahine is every bit as beautiful as those of its neighbors, such as Taha’a (the vanilla island) or Bora Bora… On the main island, you’ll find magnificent white sand, quiet coral beaches away from the road. You can spend a lazy day on the beach or put on your mask and snorkel to try to spot all kinds of fish or leopard rays swimming along the shore. It’s the perfect activity if you’re traveling with children.

Boat and jet ski excursions are also available year-round, allowing you to explore the rest of the lagoon, admire the motu beaches, experience thrilling sensations, and learn more about the underwater wildlife. If your itinerary allows it, plan at least one day on a guided boat tour to go snorkeling and enjoy the island’s most stunning scenery.

So, would you rather spend your days relaxing on the beach, doing some snorkeling or going for some jet ski rides? It’s up to you to decide once you’re there!

Our travel tips to visit Huahine

Now you know what to do in Huahine! But did you know that your travel experience in The Islands of Tahiti is also influenced by the type of accommodation you choose?

For example, you can stay in a small or large, fully equipped hotel to enjoy a relaxing vacation with beautiful views over the lagoon and take advantage of the amenities and excursions offered by the hotel.

The second, more affordable option is a guesthouse or small family-run bed-and-breakfast, ideal for discovering an authentic island like Huahine! You’ll be able to live closer to the island’s residents, benefit from their advice, and enjoy unique guided tours and excursions. Always close to the beach, you can recharge your batteries surrounded by nature. It’s up to you to choose your ideal type of trip based on your budget and preferences.

Feel free to check out our travel offers to find out the price of a trip to Huahine and our other destinations in French Polynesia.