What Are The TOP 20 Things To Do In Huahine Island?

Welcome to the best things to do in Huahine, a Society Island in French Polynesia!

 

What is this island so famous for? Discover activities most travelers miss!

 

Let’s get started!

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• 🌊 From snorkeling in the coral gardens, surfing uncrowded waves, and motu picnic tours to relaxing on beautiful beaches, there are many amazing things to do in Huahine!

 

• 🏛️ Rich history and culture: Explore ancient marae and traditional Polynesian feasts, and visit the Huahine Pearl Farm.

 

• 🚤 Exploring the island is easy and flexible: Rent an e-bike, scooter, or car for a self-guided adventure, or join a guided tour.

 

 

Overview of all the things to do in Huahine

Activity	Description	Cost	Duration	Booking
Lagoon adventures	Explore Huahine’s turquoise waters, coral reefs, and remote motus through snorkeling and boat tours.	$100–$200 per person	Half-day (3–4 hours) or full-day (6–8 hours)	Government website
E-bikes	Rent an e-bike to discover the island’s landscapes, scenic roads, and cultural sites at your own pace.	$20–$40 per day	Half-day (3–4 hours) or full-day rental	Huahine E-Bike Rental
Huahine Pearl Farm	Visit a floating pearl farm to learn about Tahitian black pearl cultivation and browse authentic pearl jewelry.	Free tours; pearl prices vary	30–45 minutes	Walk-ins are welcome
Feeding sacred blue-eyed eels	A unique cultural experience in Faie, where visitors can feed sacred freshwater eels with blue eyes.	Free visit; $5 for fish feed	15–30 minutes	No reservation needed
Pristine beaches	Relax and swim at Huahine’s unspoiled beaches like Avea Bay, Hana Iti Beach, and Fare Beach.	Free	Unlimited	No booking required
Surfing fun	Surf on uncrowded waves at top spots like Fare Reef, Ava Mo’a Pass, and Fitii Pass.	Free if with own board; $50–$100 for lessons	1–2 hours per session	Board rentals and lessons available
Huahine Distillerie Passion	Taste locally made fruit liqueurs, spirits, and rums at a family-run distillery in Parea.	Free entry; tastings $5–$10	30–45 minutes	Walk-ins welcome
Sunset views	Watch breathtaking sunsets at spots like Huahine Yacht Club, Fare Beach, and Belvédère Lookout.	Free	30 minutes to 1 hour	No booking needed
Culinary delights	Try local Tahitian cuisine, including poisson cru and Polynesian feasts, at restaurants like Chez Tara.	$10–$100 per meal	1–2 hours	Chez Tara, Te Marara
Water activities	Engage in snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, Jet Ski tours, and deep-sea fishing in Huahine’s waters.	$20–$200 depending on the activity	2–6 hours	Huahine Nautique and other local operators
Three Bays Pass	A scenic coastal route passing Maroe Bay, Bourayne Bay, and Avea Bay, offering stunning lagoon views.	Free if driving; boat tours $100–$150	1–2 hours by car, 3–4 hours by boat	Available through local boat operators
La Maison du Paréo	Discover and purchase authentic hand-dyed Polynesian pareos while learning about the dyeing process.	Free entry; pareos $20–$80	30–60 minutes	No reservation needed
Eden Park	Visit an organic farm near Maeva to learn about sustainable agriculture and taste fresh tropical fruits.	Free entry; fruit tastings $10–$20	1–2 hours	Local tour operators
Traditional Polynesian feast	Enjoy a traditional Ma’a Tahiti feast, cooked in an underground oven, featuring local delicacies.	$30–$60 per person	2–3 hours	Chez Tara (Sunday feast), local guesthouses
Huahine Shell Museum	Explore one of the largest private shell collections in French Polynesia in Fare.	Free entry; donations appreciated	30–45 minutes	Walk-ins welcome
Fare	Visit Huahine’s main town to experience local markets, waterfront cafés, and a laid-back island lifestyle.	Free	Half-day to full-day	No reservation needed
Ancient archaeological sites	Explore well-preserved Polynesian temples and fish traps at sites like Maeva Village and Marae Manunu.	Free entry; guided tours $50–$100	1–2 hours per site	Local guides in Fare
Motu picnic tours	Take a boat trip to a private motu for snorkeling, swimming, and a traditional Polynesian picnic.	$100–$150 per person	Half-day (4–5 hours) or full-day (6–7 hours)	Local tour operators
Fishing expeditions	Go deep-sea or lagoon fishing to catch mahi-mahi, tuna, wahoo, and trevally.	$100–$400 per trip	Half-day (4–5 hours) or full-day (6–8 hours)	Fishing guides in Fare
Environmental tours	Join eco-tours focusing on coral reef conservation, organic farming, and coastal preservation.	$50–$120 per person	3–6 hours	Local eco-tourism organizations

Now, let’s look at them in detail!

 

Lagoon adventures

Lagoon adventures in Huahine offer a chance to explore the beautiful island’s turquoise waters, coral reefs, and remote motus (islets).

 

These excursions include snorkeling, swimming with tropical fish, and relaxing on secluded beaches.

 

Many tours also stop at Coral Gardens, a well-known snorkeling site with marine life.

 

The best way to experience Huahine’s lagoon is by joining a boat tour.

 

The excursions are always a half-day experience (3–4 hours) or a full-day tour (6–8 hours) with a traditional Polynesian picnic on a motu.

 

• Cost: $100–$200 per person. KEEP IN MIND: The currency in Tahiti and French Polynesia is the French Pacific Franc. Learn about how it is different in our Tahitian currency guide.
• Duration: Half-day (3–4 hours) or full-day (6–8 hours)
• Booking: Available through local operators like Huahine Nautique or via the official government website.

 

TravelandLeisure even stated that this is one of the bluest islands in French Polynesia!

 

E-bikes

 

Exploring Huahine by e-bike is a great way to experience the island’s landscapes, scenic coastal roads, and archaeological sites at your own pace.

 

With minimal traffic and well-paved roads, Huahine is ideal for cycling, and an electric bike makes it easier to cover long distances and hills without much effort.

 

Most rental shops offer full-day or half-day rentals, allowing you to explore sites like Maeva Village’s ancient marae, the sacred blue-eyed eels in Faie, and stunning beaches like Avea Bay.

 

You can use our Google Maps for our e-bike tour!

The ride between Huahine Nui and Huahine Iti, connected by a bridge, is one of the most scenic routes on the island.

 

• Cost: $20–$40 per day
• Duration: Half-day (3–4 hours) or full-day rental
• Booking: Available from Huahine E-Bike Rental

 

If you are looking for eco-friendly things to do in Huahine, renting an e-bike is the way to go!

 

 

Huahine Pearl Farm

 

Visiting the Huahine Pearl Farm is a fascinating experience that offers a behind-the-scenes look at how Tahitian black pearls are cultivated.

 

Set on a floating platform in the lagoon, this family-run pearl farm provides guided tours explaining the process of pearl farming, from oyster grafting to pearl harvesting.

 

During the tour, you’ll learn about:

• The different grades of Tahitian pearls and how they are formed.
• The grafting process is where a technician inserts a nucleus into the oyster.
• How to identify high-quality pearls, including their size, luster, and shape.

 

At the end of the visit, you can browse the farm’s on-site boutique, where authentic black pearls are available at better prices than tourist shops in Tahiti or Bora Bora.

 

Practical details for Huahine Pearl Farm

• Cost: Free tours; pearl prices vary
• Duration: 30–45 minutes
• Booking: Walk-ins welcome or book through Huahine Pearl Farm

 

We highly recommend visiting a pearl farm as one of the cultural and educational things to do in Huahine. 

 

If possible, rent a scooter or car to visit the pearl farm! Discover below our must-visit route in Huahine!

 

Feeding sacred blue-eyed eels

 

Feeding the sacred blue-eyed eels is one of the most unique cultural things to do in Huahine.

 

Located in the village of Faie, these freshwater eels, some over 1.5 meters (5 feet) long, are considered sacred by locals.

 

Local guides or villagers will provide pieces of canned mackerel or fish to feed the eels, which rise from the water to take the food.

 

*The experience is safe, and the eels are used for human interaction.

 

• Cost: Free to visit; feeding costs about $5 for a can of fish
• Duration: 15–30 minutes
• Booking: No reservation needed; visit Faie Village on your own or with a tour

 

If you are looking for unusual things to do in Huahine, feeding sacred eels is your activity!

 

Pristine beaches

 

Huahine’s pristine beaches offer some of French Polynesia’s most untouched and scenic shorelines.

 

Unlike the more crowded beaches of Matira’s Beach on Bora Bora or Temae Beach in Moorea, Huahine’s beaches are peaceful and secluded, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing.

 

Best beaches in Huahine

• Avea Bay (Huahine Iti): The most famous beach on the island, with white sand, turquoise waters, and calm conditions for swimming. Snorkeling is also excellent here, with plenty of coral and marine life near shore.

 

• Hana Iti Beach: A hidden beach accessible only by boat or a short jungle hike. Perfect for a quiet escape with crystal-clear water and soft sand.

 

• Fare Beach: Located near the main town, Fare Beach is a great spot for watching sunsets and watching local fishing boats come and go.

 

Practical information:

• Cost: Free (all beaches)
• Duration: As long as you want
• Booking: No booking required; accessible by car, bike, or boat

 

Surfing fun

Surfing is one of the best things to do in Huahine and one of the island’s best-kept secrets.

 

Beautiful, uncrowded waves, consistent swells, and stunning tropical scenery exist.

 

Best surf spots in Huahine:

• Fare Reef: Located near the main village, this powerful reef break is the island’s most popular surf spot. It offers hollow barrels and long rides and is best for advanced surfers.

 

• Ava Mo’a Pass: A consistent reef break with waves suitable for intermediate and advanced surfers.

 

• Fitii Pass: A less crowded wave with right-hand and left-hand breaks, great for surfers looking for a more relaxed ride.

 

Practical information:

• Cost: Free if you bring your board; surf lessons start at $50–$100 per session
• Duration: 1–2 hours per session
• Booking: Board rentals and surf lessons are available at Huahine Nautique.
• Best time to go: April to October, when swells from the Southern Hemisphere bring the best waves

 

Surfing is the best option if you are looking for adventurous things to do in Huahine.

 

Huahine Distillerie Passion

 

Huahine Distillerie Passion is a local distillery that produces artisanal fruit liqueurs, spirits, and flavored rums using the island’s tropical fruits.

 

Located in Parea, this small, family-run distillery allows you to taste and purchase unique handcrafted spirits.

 

What to expect at Huahine Distillerie Passion:

• Tasting sessions: Sample locally made rums, pineapple and vanilla liqueurs, and tropical fruit-infused spirits.

 

• Production tour: Learn about the distillation process, from fermenting the fruit to bottling the final product.

 

• Handcrafted local products: Purchase small-batch liqueurs, perfect souvenirs, or gifts.

 

Practical information:

• Cost: Entry is free, and tasting sessions cost $5–$10 per person. Bottles, depending on size and rarity, start at $20- $50.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes
• Booking: Walk-ins are welcome, but calling ahead is recommended for group visits. For more information, visit the Distillerie Passion website.

 

This is one of the best unique and flavorful things to do in Huahine.

 

 

Sunset views

 

Watching the sunset is one of the most relaxing and scenic things to do in Huahine.

 

Huahine offers some of the best sunset spots in French Polynesia, with minimal crowds and breathtaking ocean views, perfect for a romantic evening!

 

Best sunset spots in Huahine

• Huahine Yacht Club: One of the most popular sunset spots, offering beachfront dining with panoramic ocean views. Perfect for enjoying a cocktail while watching the sun dip below the horizon.

 

• Fare Beach: Located near the main town, this spot has golden sand and a clear view of the sunset over the lagoon.

 

• Belvédère Lookout: A hilltop viewpoint with a stunning panoramic view of the lagoon, mountains, and distant islands.

 

INSIDER TIP: Go at least 30 minutes before sunset for golden hour.

 

This is one of the best things to do in Huahine for couples and honeymooners!

 

Culinary delights

 

Experiencing the culinary delights of Huahine is a must for you if you want to taste authentic Polynesian flavors and enjoy the island’s fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

 

Huahine offers a mix of traditional Tahitian dishes and French-Polynesian fusion cuisine.

 

Best culinary experiences in Huahine

• Poisson Cru: A must-try Tahitian specialty made with raw tuna marinated in coconut milk and lime juice.

 

• Traditional Ma’a Tahiti at Chez Tara: Chez Tara in Parea serves an authentic Polynesian feast cooked in a traditional earth oven (ahima’a) every Sunday.

 

• French-Polynesian Fusion at Restaurant Te Marara: A mix of French techniques with local ingredients, offering fresh seafood, coconut curry, and tropical fruit desserts.

 

Practical information:

• Cost: Local meals start at $10–$20, and fine dining ranges from $50–$100 per meal

 

If you are looking for delicious things to do in Huahine, visit Chez Tara!

 

Water activities

Huahine offers a wide range of water activities.

 

From snorkeling in coral gardens to kayaking across the lagoon, the island’s clear waters and rich marine life create endless opportunities for exploration.

 

Best water activities in Huahine

• Snorkeling at Coral Gardens: One of the best snorkeling spots in Huahine, where you can swim among colorful fish, rays, and vibrant coral reefs.

 

• Kayaking & paddleboarding in the lagoon: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the calm, shallow waters around Huahine Iti and Avea Bay.

 

• Jet ski tours: A thrilling way to circle the island by water, stopping at hidden motus and remote snorkeling spots.

 

• Deep-sea fishing charters: Join a fishing trip for a chance to catch mahi-mahi, tuna, or giant trevally.

 

Practical information:

• Cost: Snorkeling tours start at $50, Jet Ski tours $150–$200, kayak rentals $20–$40 per day
• Duration: 2–6 hours depending on the activity
• Booking: Available through Huahine Nautique and other local operators

 

Water activities are definitely one of the best things to do in Huahine.

 

Three Bays Pass

 

The Three Bays Pass in Huahine is a scenic coastal route that takes you through three bays: Maroe Bay, Bourayne Bay, and Avea Bay.

 

This picturesque drive or boat excursion shows cliffs, lush nature, and turquoise waters, making it one of the most scenic things to do in Huahine.

 

• Maroe Bay: A deep, fjord-like bay where you can often see local fishermen at work and enjoy views of the bridge connecting Huahine Nui and Huahine Iti.
• Bourayne Bay: A hidden gem with cliffs and calm, protected waters, great for kayaking and boat tours.
• Avea Bay: The most famous beach in Huahine, known for its white sand, crystal-clear waters, and excellent snorkeling spots.

 

Practical information:

• Cost: Free if driving; boat tours start at $100–$150 per person
• Duration: 1–2 hours by car, 3–4 hours by boat
• Booking: Available through boat operators or as part of a lagoon tour

 

La Maison du Paréo

 

La Maison du Paréo is one of the best places in Huahine to discover and purchase authentic Polynesian pareos (sarongs).

 

What to expect from Maison du Paréo

• Traditional hand-dyeing demonstrations: Learn about the art of pareo-making from local artisans.

 

• Unique, Locally Made Pareos: Choose from vibrant colors and Polynesian patterns.

 

• Cost: Entry is free; pareos range from $20–$80.

 

Eden Park

 

Eden Park is a hidden gem in Huahine. Its organic gardens are filled with tropical fruits, medicinal plants, and native Polynesian flora.

 

Located near Maeva, this family-run farm specializes in sustainable agriculture.

 

What you can expect at Eden Park:

• Guided garden tours: Walk through lush organic plantations while learning about local plants, herbs, and their medicinal uses.

 

• Tropical fruit tasting: Sample fresh mangoes, bananas, papayas, passion fruit, and more, grown without pesticides.

 

• Eco-friendly farming insights: Discover sustainable farming techniques used in traditional Polynesian agriculture.

 

Practical information:

• Cost: Free entry, but donations are appreciated; fruit-tasting experiences cost $10–$20 per person.
• Duration: 1–2 hours
• Booking: Walk-ins are welcome; for guided tours, contact local tour operators.

 

This is one of the best eco-friendly and educational things to do in Huahine.

 

Traditional Polynesian feast

 

A traditional Polynesian feast in Huahine is an unforgettable way to experience the island’s authentic flavors and cultural heritage.

 

Known as Ma’a Tahiti, these feasts feature dishes cooked in an ahima’a (underground oven). Hot volcanic stones slow-cook food for hours, creating rich and smoky flavors.

 

What you can expect at a traditional Polynesian feast:

• Ahima’a cooking method: Watch the unearthing of roasted meats, fish, and root vegetables after hours of underground cooking.

 

• Authentic Tahitian dishes – Enjoy classics like poisson cru (raw fish salad with coconut milk), roasted pork, taro, uru (breadfruit), and coconut desserts.

 

• Cultural Entertainment – Some feasts include live Tahitian music and dance performances, making it a full cultural experience.

 

Practical information:

• Cost: $30–$60 per person, depending on the location and inclusions
• Duration: 2–3 hours
• Booking: Available at Chez Tara in Parea on Sundays or through local guesthouses offering traditional meals (tripadvisor.com)

 

 

Huahine Shell Museum

The Huahine Shell Museum is a small museum showing one of French Polynesia’s largest private shell collections.

 

DID YOU KNOW: Frank, the museum’s owner, has a collection of over 700 seashells!

 

Located in Fare, this museum offers a detailed look at the diverse marine life of the Pacific. Its exhibits feature rare and colorful shells, coral formations, and traditional Polynesian shell artifacts.

 

What to expect at the Huahine Shell Museum:

• Extensive shell collection: See a variety of shell species from across the Pacific, including rare mother-of-pearl and giant clamshells.

 

• Educational displays: Learn about the ecological importance of shells and how they have been used in Polynesian culture for tools, jewelry, and trade.

 

• Local craftsmanship:  Browse a selection of handmade shell jewelry and decorative pieces available for purchase.

 

Practical information:

• Cost: Free entry, but donations are appreciated.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes
• Booking: No reservation is needed. The Huahine Shell Museum is located in central Fare and is easy to visit while exploring the town.

 

If you want cultural and educational things to do in Huahine, visiting the Huahine Shell Museum is necessary!

 

Fare

 

Fare is the main town and commercial center of Huahine. It offers a mix of local markets, waterfront cafés, cultural experiences, and easy access to the island’s best activities.

 

It’s a great place to immerse yourself in daily island life, whether shopping for fresh produce, relaxing by the lagoon, or planning your next activity.

 

What to expect from Fare:

• Local markets: Visit the morning market for fresh tropical fruit, fish, and handmade crafts.

 

• Beachfront relaxation: Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere at Fare Beach, an excellent spot for watching the sunrise or sunset.

 

• Shops and cafés: Stop by small boutiques and snack bars to try local specialties like poisson cru and coconut pastries.

 

• Gateway to adventures: Many boat tours, snorkeling excursions, and car rentals start from Fare, making it the perfect base for exploring Huahine.

 

Ancient archaeological sites

 

Huahine is one of French Polynesia’s most archaeologically rich islands, home to some of the best-preserved marae (ancient Polynesian temples) and historic landmarks.

 

The island’s archaeological sites offer a glimpse into the pre-European Polynesian civilization. They contain evidence of stone fish traps, sacred temples, and royal meeting places that date back over 1,000 years.

 

What to expect at Huahine’s ancient archaeological sites:

• Maeva Archaeological Site: One of the largest and most important marae complexes in Polynesia, featuring multiple stone temples, ancient house foundations, and traditional fish traps still in use today.

 

• Marae Manunu: A sacred site near Maroe Bay with impressive stone structures and lagoon views.

 

• Marae Anini: A less-visited but well-preserved marae surrounded by lush vegetation, offering a quiet, spiritual atmosphere.

 

Practical information:

• Cost:  Free entry for self-guided visits; guided tours range from $50–$100 per person
• Duration: 1–2 hours per site

 

For people interested in historical and cultural activities in Huahine, visiting the island’s ancient archaeological sites is a must!

Motu picnic tours

 

Motu picnic tours are one of the best things to do in Huahine.

 

They offer a relaxing way to experience the island’s crystal-clear lagoon, uninhabited islets, and traditional Polynesian cuisine.

 

What to expect on a motu picnic tour:

• Boat trip across the lagoon: Cruise through Huahine’s turquoise waters, stopping at snorkeling spots.

 

• Snorkeling and marine life: Swim with colorful reef fish, stingrays, and even small reef sharks at Coral Gardens.

 

• Traditional Polynesian picnic: Enjoy a meal featuring grilled fish, coconut rice, tropical fruits, and poisson cru served on white-sand beaches on a motu.

 

• Relaxation and exploration: Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach, wading in shallow waters.

 

Practical information:

• Cost: $100–$150 per person, depending on the tour package
• Duration: Half-day (4–5 hours) or full-day (6–7 hours)
• Booking: Available through Tripadvisor and local operators

 

For visitors looking for relaxing and scenic things to do in Huahine, a motu picnic tour provides the perfect mix of lagoon adventure, cultural immersion, and island-style dining in a breathtaking setting.

 

Fishing expeditions

Fishing expeditions in Huahine are a fantastic way to experience our favorite island’s rich marine life.

 

The waters surrounding Huahine are filled with fish, including mahi-mahi, tuna, wahoo, and giant trevally.

 

What to expect on a fishing expedition:

• Deep-sea fishing: Go into the ocean beyond the reef to target big game fish like yellowfin tuna, wahoo, and mahi-mahi.

 

• Lagoon and reef fishing: This is a calmer alternative for those who prefer to fish in the protected waters of Huahine’s lagoon, targeting parrotfish, snapper, and trevally.

 

• Traditional Polynesian fishing methods: Some tours offer a chance to learn traditional handline fishing techniques passed down through generations.

 

• Catch-and-release or keep your catch: Most charters allow you to keep your catch, which can be prepared for you at local restaurants.

 

Practical information:

• Cost: $200–$400 per boat (private charter) or $100–$150 per person for shared trips
• Duration: Half-day (4–5 hours) or full-day (6–8 hours)
• Booking: Available through local guides in Fare and tour companies like Huahine Nautique

 

A fishing expedition is one of the most exciting things to do in Huahine!

 

 

Environmental tours

 

Environmental tours in Huahine provide an opportunity to learn about the island’s biodiversity, conservation efforts, and sustainable living practices. 

 

What to expect on an environmental tour in Huahine:

• Coral reef conservation: Learn about reef restoration projects and snorkeling in areas where local groups are working to preserve marine biodiversity.

 

• Organic farming visits: Tour Eden Park, a local organic farm, and discover how traditional Polynesian farming techniques are combined with modern sustainability practices.

 

• Coastal and forest preservation walks: Explore Huahine’s protected natural areas, learning about native plants, endangered species, and efforts to maintain the island’s environment.

 

• Community projects: Some tours include visits to local sustainability initiatives, where you can engage with locals working on reforestation, clean energy, or waste reduction programs.

 

Practical information:

• Cost: $50–$120 per person, depending on the type of tour
• Duration: 3–6 hours
• Booking: Available through local guides and eco-tourism organizations in Fare

 

Also, our last activity, environmental tours, deserves its spot as one of the best things to do in Huahine!