Huahine Island: Why Worth A Visit in 2026?

Welcome to HUAHINE, one of French Polynesia’s most beautiful islands in the South Pacific!

 

This blog post discusses what to expect from the island, the top things to do, and accommodations.

 

We’ll even give you a complimentary 4-DAY HUAHINE ITINERARY!

 

Let’s get started!

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• 🏝️ Nature, culture & snorkeling – Huahine is known for its lush mountains, pristine beaches, and sacred marae (Polynesian temples). The island also offers incredible snorkeling spots, like Coral Gardens and Motu Mahare.

 

• 🚗 Getting Around – The easiest way to explore Huahine is by rental car, scooter, or e-bike. Public transport is limited, and taxis are expensive.

 

• 💰 Cost of Staying in Huahine – Accommodation ranges from budget bungalows ($50–$150 per night) to mid-range hotels ($150–$300 per night) and luxury resorts ($300–$600 per night).

 

 

Why visit Huahine?

Huahine is one of our favorite islands in French Polynesia. But WHY?

• Natural beauty with turquoise lagoons,
• Cultural heritage in Huahine life,
• Adventures and activities,
• Authentic Polynesian lifestyle.

 

DID YOU KNOW: Huahine has been recognized by the New York Times and Lonely Planet as a must-visit travel destination?

Huahine Nui vs Huahine Iti

IMPORTANT TO KEEP IN MIND: Huahine comprises TWO ISLANDS: Huahine Nui (large Huahine) and Huahine Iti (small Huahine).

 

Separated by just a few hundred meters of water, a SANDPIT emerges at low tide to connect the two.

 

A little BRIDGE now spans the gap between Huahine Nui and Huahine Iti.

 

Location of Huahine, French Polynesia

Huahine is an island in the Leeward group of SOCIETY ISLANDS, French Polynesia, in the South Pacific.

 

It is 110 kilometers (68 miles) northwest of Tahiti.

 

DID YOU KNOW: There are only eight small villages scattered across Huahine Island, but there are many things to do on the island?

 

SOME STATISTICS ABOUT HUAHINE:

• Surface area: 75 square kilometers (29 square miles)
• Circumference: 30 km (19 miles)
• Highest peak: Mount Turi (669 m = 2,195 ft)
• Districts: Fare (main village), Parea, and Maroe.
• Two islands: Huahine Nui (the big Huahine) lies to the north, and Huahine Iti (the little Huahine) lies to the south.
• Population: 6,194 (2022)

 

For more information on the Tahiti Islands, please visit the official government website.

 

What does ‘Huahine’ mean?

The name Huahine comes from the term “woman’s sex,” which translates as “pregnant woman” due to the resemblance of Mount Tavaiura to a pregnant woman lying down.

 

 

How do you get to Huahine Island?

Traveling to Huahine from Bora Bora or Tahiti is quite easy and accessible.

 

Reach Huahine Island by plane.

The airport is Huahine Fare Airport (HUH), which serves domestic flights (mainly from Tahiti).

 

From TAHITI: Air Tahiti offers direct flights from Faa’a International Airport (PPT) in Tahiti to Huahine. The flight takes around 40 minutes. The cost varies between €200 ($215) in low season to €400 ($430) one way in high season.

 

From BORA BORA: Take a domestic flight with Air Tahiti. The flight duration is approximately 20 minutes. Flights are available daily.

 

INTERESTING TO KNOW: With Air Tahiti, you can take a multi-island pass, where you pay a fixed fee for multiple flights to different islands. A good way to discover French Polynesia! The Bora Bora pass includes Huahine!

 

Reach Huahine Island by ferry.

It’s also possible to reach Huahine Island by ferry from ApetahiExpress. The ferry leaves in Tahiti and arrives four hours later in Huahine!

 

4 Amazing Attractions in Huahine

We’ll cover all the activities below, but what is Huahine famous for?

 

1) Sacred Blue-Eyed Eels of Faie

One of Huahine’s most unique and intriguing attractions is the sacred eels of Faie. These large, FRESHWATER EELS, with their thick, glossy skin and striking blue eyes, are considered SACRED by the locals.

 

According to LEGENDS, these eels are the guardians of the streams and must be respected and protected.

 

You can even take a guided tour to discover them up close!

 

2) Maroe Bay

Maroe Bay divides Huahine Nui and Huahine Iti, offering views of the lush, mountainous landscapes that rise from the water’s edge.

 

This bright blue bay is encircled by overgrown jungles, swaying palm trees, and gorgeous cliffs.

 

Not only is it visually spectacular, but Maroe Bay is also a site of archaeological interest. It is home to several ancient MARAE (sacred Polynesian stone temples).

3) Ancient Ruins at Maeve Village

Maeva village, 7km (5 miles) east of Fare, served as the hub of royal authority on the island.

 

Famous for its pre-European archaeological sites, particularly the marae (traditional temples) positioned along the coast and extending uphill on Matairea Hill.

 

4) Spectacular Fare Beach

Fare Beach is arguably the crown jewel of Huahine’s natural attractions, boasting miles of WHITE SANDY BEACHES with azure waters.

 

Fare beach in Huahine is not only perfect for relaxing and swimming but it’s also the place to be if you want ton go snorkeling at the best spot on the island, where the coral reefs are filled with tropical fish!

 

 

Activities and Experiences

Below, we list some of the best activities you can do on Huahine Island.

 

1) Huahine Nautique Lagoon Tour

Explore Huahine’s lagoon with a day tour.

 

This guided excursion takes you on a Polynesian outrigger canoe, exploring the blue lagoon and its coral reefs, where you can snorkel among tropical fish.

 

The tour also takes you to secluded white sand beaches and sacred isles, providing insights into the island’s culture and history, making it a must-do if you want to visit Huahine Island.

2) Island Tour by Scooter or Car

Renting a bicycle, car, or scooter in Huahine is the best way to explore the island at your own pace.

 

Public transport is limited, and taxis are expensive, making a rental bike or car the most flexible and cost-effective option.

 

At your own pace, you can: 

✔️ Discover hidden beaches and off-the-beaten-path viewpoints.

✔️ Visit archaeological sites and cultural spots without relying on tours.

✔️ Drive around the island in a day, stopping wherever you like.

Fare, the main town, is where most visitors arrive by boat or plane. Rental cars are available at the airport (Huahine – Fare Airport, HUH) or in the town center. Gas stations are limited, so it’s best to fuel up before heading out.

 

🚗 Recommended route: Circle Tour of Huahine (45 km / 23 miles)

Destination	Distance from Fare	Distance in Miles	Highlight
Marae Manunu (Sacred Site)	7 km	4.3 mi	Ancient Polynesian temple remains
Faie (Blue-Eyed Eels)	9 km	5.6 mi	Feed the sacred eels in the river
Belvédère Panorama	13 km	8 mi	Best island view overlooking the lagoon
Maeva Archaeological Sites	15 km	9.3 mi	Ancient temples and stone fish traps
Hana Iti Beach	22 km	13.7 mi	Hidden white-sand beach accessible by a short hike
Huahine Pearl Farm	26 km	16.1 mi	Learn about Tahitian black pearls
Parea Viewpoint	37 km	23 mi	Stunning lagoon views on Huahine Iti
Avea Bay (Best Beach on Huahine Iti)	40 km	24.9 mi
Marae Anini (Ancient Site)	45 km	28 mi	Sacred site near a picturesque beach

 

3) Island hopping adventure in Huahine

An island-hopping adventure in Huahine is a must for travelers looking to explore the island’s remote Motus (small islets), coral reefs, and stunning lagoons.

 

Since Huahine consists of two main islands, Huahine Nui and Huahine Iti, hopping between them by boat gives you access to hidden beaches, snorkeling spots, and cultural sites that aren’t reachable by car.

 

How to go island hopping in Huahine

🚤 Boat tours & rentals:

• Join a guided lagoon tour or private boat rental from Fare or Parea Beach.
• Some tours include a Polynesian picnic on a motu and snorkeling in coral gardens.

 

🛶 Kayaking & paddleboarding:

• Rent a kayak or paddleboard from local hotels and explore the small Motus at your own pace.
• Best spot: Motu Mahare near Avea Bay, a secluded islet perfect for a picnic.

 

Best stops for Huahine island hopping (+ distance from Fare by boat)

Island/Motu	Distance from Fare	Distance in Miles	Highlight
Motu Mahare	8 km	5 mi	A peaceful islet with crystal-clear water
Motu Araara	10 km	6.2 mi	Great for snorkeling with colorful fish
Motu Murimahora	12 km	7.5 mi	Secluded white-sand beach & coral gardens
Avea Bay (Huahine Iti)	20 km	12.4 mi	Calm turquoise waters & a great lunch stop
Motu Vaiorea	22 km	13.7 mi	Private islet perfect for a quiet escape
Coral Gardens Snorkeling Spot	25 km	15.5 mi	Best snorkeling with tropical fish & stingrays

 

4) Sacred sites and historical tours

Huahine is often called “The Garden Island,” but beyond its natural beauty, it is also one of French Polynesia’s most important cultural and historical destinations.

 

The island is home to well-preserved marae (ancient Polynesian temples), traditional fishing traps, and sacred sites.

 

How to Explore Huahine’s Sacred Sites

• 🚗 Self-Guided Historical Tour – Rent a car and explore at your own pace. Many sites are located along the coastal roads of Huahine Nui and Huahine Iti.

 

• 🛶 Lagoon Tour to Sacred Sites – Some boat excursions include archaeological stops at historic sites only accessible by water.

 

• 👣 Guided Cultural Tour – Book a local guide who can explain the history, legends, and spiritual significance of each site.

 

Top sacred sites & historical landmarks (+ distance from Fare)

Site	Distance from Fare	Distance in Miles	Highlight
Marae Manunu	7 km	4.3 mi	Large ancient Polynesian temple
Faie (Blue-Eyed Eels)	9 km	5.6 mi	Sacred freshwater eels , a Polynesian legend
Maeva Archaeological Site	15 km	9.3 mi	Best-preserved marae , ancient stone fish traps
Marae Anini	20 km	12.4 mi	Remote, spiritual temple site with ocean views
Marae Rauhuru	25 km	15.5 mi	Overgrown ruins of an important ancient temple
Parea Petroglyphs	30 km	18.6 mi	Ancient rock carvings depicting Polynesian history

  

 

5) Nature hikes

Huahine is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers, with lush mountains, hidden waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints.

 

Best hiking trails in Huahine (+ distance from Fare)

• ⛰️ Mount Turi Hike (3 km / 1.9 mi) – Short but steep climb with 360° views over Fare and the lagoon.
• 🌿 Belvédère Hike (5 km / 3.1 mi) – Easy walk to a scenic viewpoint overlooking Huahine’s coral reefs.
• 🏝️ Hana Iti Beach Trail (6 km / 3.7 mi) – Jungle hike leading to a secluded white-sand beach.
• 🏞️ Mount Pohue Rahi (Huahine Iti) (8 km / 5 mi) – Advanced trail with coastal views and lush rainforest paths.

Where to Eat on Huahine

When it comes to dining in Huahine, the island offers a mix of local and international cuisine, all served with the warm hospitality Polynesians are known for.

 

We loved having dinner at Chez Tara!

 

• 🍽️ Chez Tara – Located in Parea, this legendary spot is famous for its traditional Polynesian buffet, especially on Sundays, with four Tahitien ovens and live local music.

 

• 🌅 Huahine Yacht Club – A favorite for seaside dining and sunset views, serving fresh seafood and international dishes in a relaxed setting.

 

• 🥗 Maeva Snack – A casual spot near Maeva’s historic sites, known for quick bites, fresh juices, and poisson cru.

 

• 🍷 Restaurant Te Marara – A fusion of French and Polynesian cuisine featuring fresh, local ingredients with a seasonally changing menu.

 

• 🏡 Pension Ariitere – A family-run guesthouse in Fare, offering homemade Polynesian meals in an intimate, welcoming setting. 

 

How much does it cost?

Let’s calculate how much a 4-DAY STAY in Huahine would cost you.

 

Accommodation:

• Luxury resorts: $300-$600 per night
• Mid-range hotels: $150-$300 per night
• Budget bungalows: $50-$150 per night

 

Transportation:

• Car rental: $50-$100 per day
• Scooter rental: $30-$50 per day
• E-bike rental: $20-$40 per day
• Fuel: $20-$40 for the stay

 

Activity fees:

• Guided tours: $50-$100 per tour
• Cultural site entries: $10–$20 per entry
• Lagoon tours: $100-$200 per tour

 

Food and dining:

• Local restaurants: $10–$20 per meal
• Self-catering: $20–$40 per day
• High-end restaurants: $50-$100 per meal

 

Souvenirs and local crafts: $50-$100

 

Contingency fund: $100-$200

 

Total estimated budget for a 4-day stay in Huahine: $800–$1800

 

The best time to go to Huahine

 

The best time to visit Huahine Island is during the dry season, from May through October.

 

During these months, the weather is sunny, with temperatures between 70°F (21°C) and 85°F (29°C).

 

This period avoids the wet season’s heavy rains and high humidity levels, providing perfect conditions for exploring the island’s lush landscapes and beautiful beaches. The sea temperature remains warm, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and lagoon tours, averaging around 79°F (26°C).

 

Waves are generally calmer, making it an excellent time for water activities. The island receives sunlight for about 11 hours per day, with sunrise around 6 AM and sunset close to 6 PM.

 

Huahine Accommodations

We recommend three amazing accommodations to fit your budget.

 

You can use our interactive widget below to discover the best places to stay in Huahine! 

Luxury – Maitai Lapita Village Huahine ($600+/night)

🌊 Overwater bungalows with direct lagoon access make Maitai Lapita Village one of the best stays in Huahine.

 

Enjoy stunning turquoise waters, premium amenities, and a serene spa for relaxation.

 

The on-site restaurant serves Polynesian and international cuisine, blending fresh local flavors with a fine dining experience.

 

Mid-Budget – Hotel Tifaifai ($150–$250/night)

🌿 A blend of Polynesian charm and modern comfort, Hotel Tifaifai sits among lush gardens near a peaceful lagoon.

 

It’s a perfect escape while close to Huahine’s main attractions.

 

Rooms are simple but cozy, offering a quiet retreat after a day of exploring.

 

Budget – Fare Tiare ($50–$150/night)

🏡 Self-catering, budget-friendly, and comfortable—Fare Tiare offers a private 1-bedroom holiday home in Fare, the island’s main town.

 

The stay includes air conditioning, a full kitchen, free WiFi, and a terrace with garden views.

 

 

Ultimate 4-Day Huahine Itinerary 

Based on our experiences on the island and input from locals and tour operators, we have created a comprehensive 4-day itinerary with the top things to do in Huahine that covers the best activities, from exploring sacred sites to snorkeling in coral gardens and hiking scenic viewpoints.

Day 1: Cultural Heritage & Sacred Sites 🏛️

🌅 Morning – Explore ancient marae

• 🚗 Start with a self-guided or guided tour of Huahine’s sacred Polynesian temples (marae) and archaeological landmarks.
• 📍 Marae Manunu (7 km / 4.3 mi from Fare) – One of the island’s largest ancient temples, set against a lush mountain backdrop.
• 📍 Maeva Archaeological Site (15 km / 9.3 mi) – Walk among well-preserved marae and traditional stone fish traps.
• 🚤 Visit the Huahine Pearl Farm (26 km / 16 mi) to learn about Tahitian black pearl cultivation.

 

🍽️ Lunch – Maeva Snack 🥗

Enjoy a quick, casual lunch near Maeva’s sacred sites with fresh poisson cru and tropical juices.

 

🌿 Afternoon – Pearl farming & viewpoints

• 📍 Faie (Blue-Eyed Eels) (9 km / 5.6 mi) – Stop by the sacred freshwater eels, a unique part of Huahine’s folklore.
• ⛰️ Drive up to Belvédère Lookout for stunning views of the lagoon and coral reefs.
• 🏝️ Relax at Hana Iti Beach, a secluded white-sand paradise, perfect for an afternoon swim.

 

🍽️ Dinner – Huahine Yacht Club 🌅

Enjoy fresh seafood by the water while watching a beautiful island sunset.

Day 2: Lagoon & island hopping 🚤🐠

🌅 Morning – Snorkeling

Join a small-group lagoon tour to explore Huahine’s best snorkeling spots & motus.

 

📍 Motu Mahare (8 km / 5 mi) – A quiet islet with crystal-clear water and coral gardens

 

📍 Coral Gardens Snorkeling Spot (25 km / 15.5 mi) – Swim with tropical fish, rays, and reef sharks.

 

🍽️ Lunch – Chez Tara 🍖

Enjoy a traditional Polynesian buffet with dishes cooked in an authentic Tahitian earth oven.

 

🌿 Afternoon – Kayaking & relaxation at Avea Bay

🚣 Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the calm waters and scenic coastline of Avea Bay.

 

🏝️ Spend the afternoon swimming in turquoise waters and enjoying the white-sand beach.

 

🍽️ Dinner – Pension Ariitere 🏡

Enjoy a homemade Polynesian dinner in a family-style setting.

Day 3: Hiking & sailing 🥾⛵

🌅 Morning – Hike to Huahine’s best viewpoints

⛰️ Mount Turi Hike (3 km / 1.9 mi) – A steep but short climb to one of the best panoramic views of Fare and the lagoon.

 

⛰️ Mount Pohue Rahi (8 km / 5 mi) – A longer, more challenging hike with jungle trails and stunning coastal views.

🌿 Afternoon – Catamaran Sailing & Sunset Cruise

Charter a catamaran or join a guided sailing tour to explore hidden snorkeling spots and private motus.

 

🚤 Sail along the Huahine Nui coastline, stopping at beaches for a swim.

 

🍽️ Dinner – Bora Bora Sunset Cruise & Dinner 🌅

Enjoy a romantic dinner on a boat featuring grilled seafood and local specialties.

Day 4: Shark encounter & exploring Huahine Iti 🦈🏝️

🌅 Morning – Shark & stingray snorkeling cruise + jet ski tour

🚤 Snorkel with blacktip reef sharks and stingrays in pristine blue waters.

 

🏍️ Hop on a Jet Ski and ride around Huahine Iti, stopping at remote beaches and hidden caves.

 

🍽️ Lunch – Small-group lagoon snorkel & BBQ lunch 🍖

After snorkeling, enjoy a traditional barbecue lunch on a motu with grilled fish, coconut bread, and fresh fruit.

 

🌿 Afternoon – Flight

After spending four days on the island, it is time to take a flight back to Tahiti, or if you are already there, use the Air Tahiti multi-island pass to take a flight to the next island!