A Complete Guide to Raiatea Uturoa

Welcome to Uturoa in Raiatea, French Polynesia.

Are you wondering what to do in Raiatea Uturoa and why so many people visit the city?

We’ll cover all the essential information about Uturoa below!

Let’s go.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Activities: Explore markets, try Tahitian dishes at food trucks, and visit attractions like pearl farms, waterfalls, and the UNESCO-listed Taputapuatea Marae.

• Location: Uturoa, the second-largest town in French Polynesia, lies between a turquoise lagoon and Mount Tapioi on Raiatea Island.

• Practical Details: Just 5–10 minutes from Raiatea Airport, Uturoa offers supermarkets, a covered market, and ATMs. Keep in mind that cash is often needed.

Introduction

Raiatea is the SECOND LARGEST ISLAND in the group of Society Islands after Tahiti.

Raiatea is the HOMELAND of the Māori people, as it is widely assumed that the migrations of people to the Hawaiian Islands and New Zealand started with travel from Raiatea.

Top things to do in Uturoa

Explore Uturoa, the biggest town in Raiatea.

Uturoa, the second-largest town in French Polynesia after Papeete, is located between the turquoise lagoon and the bottom of Mount Tapioi.

By day, the village’s main streets are lively with locals shopping, grabbing sandwiches at snacks (small eateries), or visiting charming boutiques.

In the evening, the town changes into a lively place with food trucks in the center.

These food trucks offer cheap Tahitian and Chinese dishes.

INSIDER TIP: Try the Poisson Cru at one of the food trucks for a real Tahitian experience.

TRIPADVISOR REVIEW from a booking with Raiatea Jet in Uturoa: “Pearl Farm, Tahitian vanilla farm, swimming with the sharks, floating through the motu’s current, and lunch on a beach of a mini motu are the memories we will never forget making“.

Journey from Uturoa to Avera

Heading south from Raiatea Uturoa, the coastal road winds through several small villages.

During your road trip, we recommend you visit the Vairua Perles, one of the famous pearl farms in Raiatea.

Visiting a pearl farm offers very good insight into real black pearl production, one of the best exporting products of French Polynesia.

INSIDER TIP: At Vairua Perles, you can sometimes watch locals harvest pearls from oysters.

Take a road trip around Raiatea

Raiatea’s 100 km (62 miles) coastal road offers one of the most scenic drives in the Society Islands.

The island’s landscapes, reminiscent of Moorea but far less crowded, provide an ideal setting for exploration.

You can rent a car or join a guided 4×4 or quad bike tour to circle the island.

These tours often include these stops:

• Taputapuatea Marae is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important cultural sites in Polynesia.
• The botanical garden, where you can discover native plants and trees.
• Hidden waterfalls and ancient trails that show Raiatea’s natural beauty.

INSIDER TIP: Some parts of the coastal road are quite narrow, so drive with caution.

Practical information about Uturoa

Raiatea Uturoa provides everything you need for a comfortable visit, blending local charm with practical amenities.

Here’s what you should know:

Travel time Raiatea Airport to Uturoa

Raiatea Uturoa is located 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) from Raiatea Airport (Aéroport de Raiatea).

The travel time by car or taxi is 5–10 minutes. By bike, this will take 15–20 minutes.

How much to pay?

• Taxis: Available at the airport, with fares costing 1,500–2,000 XPF (€12–16 or $13–18) for a one-way trip to Raiatea Uturoa.

• Car rentals: Several car rental companies operate at the airport. Expect daily rentals starting at 5,500 XPF (€46 or $50).

• Bikes: Some accommodations or rental services in Raiatea Uturoa offer bicycles.

Supermarkets and shopping essentials

Raiatea Uturoa has several supermarkets in the town center, making grabbing groceries or other necessities easy.

Some of these supermarkets are also open on Sundays.

INSIDER TIP: If you’re planning a day trip, stop by the supermarkets to stock up on fresh snacks and bottled water.

The covered market

The covered market in Raiatea Uturoa is a spot for locals and visitors.

The Raiatea Uturoa-covered market is open on weekdays and Saturday mornings.

Here’s what you can expect:

• On the ground floor, you’ll find a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables grown locally.

• The top floor has a small café and stalls selling handmade artisan goods. Popular items include vanilla pods, necklaces, oils, and beautiful wood carvings.

Public toilets

Public toilets are available near the marina and at the covered market, but they are not well maintained.

ATMs and banking services

Raiatea Uturoa has several ATMs located in the town center, near the post office, and along the main streets.

You can withdraw local currency (CFP Franc, XPF), and most machines accept major international cards like Visa and Mastercard.

Banking hours are generally Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

INSIDER TIP: Always make sure you have cash on hand as not many stores accept VISA. French Polynesia has a specific local currency, the French Polynesian Franc, which is tied to the Euro. Read more about it in our blog post about the Tahitian currency.

Public transport

Public transport on Raiatea is limited. Le Truck, the local bus service, occasionally operates between Raiatea Uturoa and nearby villages, but schedules can be inconsistent.

Taxis are available, but they are expensive.

INSIDER TIP: Renting a car or scooter is the best way to explore the island, especially for reaching more remote areas. Daily rentals are between €50–70 ($55–75) for a car and around €30 ($33) for a scooter.

Shopping streets

The main shopping streets of Raiatea Uturoa are small and easy to navigate on foot.

You’ll find a mix of boutiques, souvenir shops, and local snacks.

Popular streets include the area around the covered market and the main boulevard near the marina.

INSIDER TIP: Look for handwoven hats and bags at small stores; they are unique to Raiatea and make great gifts. You can even follow a workshop to learn the art of handwoven hats.

The best time to visit Raiatea Uturoa

The weather pattern in Raiatea:

• The average annual temperature is 26°C (79°F).
• The driest months are August and September, offering warm, sunny days ideal for exploring Uturoa, snorkeling, or road trips.
• The wettest month is December, with average annual rainfall of 1,800 mm (71 inches). Expect short but intense tropical showers during this time. We do not recommend to visit during the low season as you’ll spend a lot of money on flights and accommodation and the weather is not reliable.

Peak and low seasons

• Peak season (June to September): These months are popular with tourists due to the dry weather, making it perfect for outdoor activities. Costs for accommodations and activities are generally higher during this period.

• Low season (November to April): This period coincides with the rainy season, bringing occasional downpours and lower prices for flights and accommodations. However, rain showers are typically brief and don’t significantly impact your travel plans.

The best month to visit Uturoa

The best time to visit Raiatea Uturoa is during the shoulder months of May and October.

These months offer a balance of good weather and moderate costs, avoiding both the peak season crowds and the rainy season’s heaviest downpours.

Do I need a visa to visit Uturoa?

There are visa exemptions for Citizens of the European Union (EU), the United States, Canada, and Australia. These citizens do not require a visa for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Schengen visa holders: If you already hold a valid Schengen visa, it generally allows entry to French Polynesia, but you must confirm this with your local French embassy or consulate.

Longer stays: For stays longer than 90 days, you’ll need a long-stay visa or residence permit. Check with the French consulate in your home country for application details.

For the most accurate and up-to-date visa requirements, consult the official French Polynesia government website.

What languages are spoken in Raiatea Uturoa?

The primary languages spoken in Raiatea Uturoa are:

• French: As the official language of French Polynesia, French is widely spoken in business, government, and schools. You’ll find French signage, menus, and most official communication in French.

• Tahitian: Many locals also speak Tahitian, the traditional Polynesian language. It’s primarily used in cultural and social settings and adds to the island’s charm.

• English: While less common, English is understood in tourist areas like Uturoa, particularly by hotel staff, tour guides, and shop owners. Learning a few basic French or Tahitian phrases can enhance your experience.

INSIDER TIP: locals will often greet you with a cheerful “Ia orana” (hello in Tahitian).

Accommodation in Uturoa

Hotels

Raiatea Lodge Hotel

• Location: A short drive south of Uturoa, offering lagoon views and colonial-style architecture.
• Features: Pool, on-site restaurant, free kayaks, and paddleboards.
• Price: From €200–300 ($220–330) per night.
• Website: raiatealodgehotel.com

Fare Vai Nui

• Location: About 20 km (12 miles) from Uturoa in a tranquil area overlooking the lagoon.
• Features: Comfortable bungalows, infinity pool, and an on-site restaurant specializing in Polynesian cuisine.
• Price: From €160 ($175) per night.
• Website: farevainui.com

Guesthouses (Pensions)

Faré Mahi Mahi

• Location: Close to Uturoa Center.
• Features: Budget-friendly rooms, homemade meals, and a welcoming local experience.
• Price: From €70 ($75) per night.
• Booking: Faré Mahi Mahi

Pension Les Trois Cascades

• Location: A short drive from Uturoa, near Raiatea’s lush interior.
• Features: Family-run pension with clean rooms and easy access to the Taputapuatea Marae.
• Price: From €90 ($100) per night.
• Booking link

Is it safe to travel to Uturoa?

Yes, Uturoa and the rest of Raiatea are considered very safe.

General safety in Uturoa

• Low crime rate: Raiatea, including Uturoa, has a very low crime rate, making it one of the safest destinations in French Polynesia. The local community is friendly and welcoming.

• Theft: While rare, petty theft can occur, particularly around tourist areas like the marina or markets. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid leaving valuables unattended.

Natural hazards

• Tropical storms: French Polynesia’s rainy season (November to April) can bring heavy rains and the occasional tropical storm. These storms are typically short and well-predicted.

INSIDER TIP: If traveling during the rainy season, monitor weather updates through reliable sources like Meteo France Polynesia.

• Mosquitoes: Mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever occasionally occur in French Polynesia. Protect yourself by wearing insect repellent and covering exposed skin, especially in the evenings.

Tip: Accommodations often provide mosquito nets or air conditioning to reduce exposure.

Transportation safety

• Roads: The roads around Uturoa and Raiatea are generally well-maintained, but some sections of the coastal road are narrow and winding. Drive cautiously, especially at night, as street lighting is limited.

Health facilities

• Healthcare: Uturoa has a modern hospital and several pharmacies. For serious issues, medical evacuation to Tahiti is available.

INSIDER TIP: Bring basic medications with you, as pharmacies may not stock every international brand.