Huahine is actually two islands called Huahine-Nui and Huahine-Iti
(Big Huahine and Little Huahine). Connected by a short bridge,
both of these beautiful tropical islands can be easily explored
in one or two days. It is generally regarded as the cradle of
ancient Polynesian civilization, and is one of the best places
to experience the traditional Polynesian way of life on your
island vacation. As lush and beautiful as Bora Bora and Moorea,
this island has far less tourists, and two of its drawing points
for those who stay here are solitude and quietness. This ancient
mecca boasts an incredible abundance of maraes (Polynesian temples),
including Maeva, the former royal village, which offers a glimpse
back into a civilization that existed over 1,000 years ago.
Huahine is also considered the garden isle of Tahiti because
of its agricultural richness. Its main village is Fare, where
frequent ferries from Papeete arrive. Highly recommend is a
four-wheel drive jeep safari to explore the isolated beaches
and lagoons of this majestic island.
HUAHINE RESORTS
HUAHINE ACTIVITIES
Lagoon Excursion
Rich with sea life and dotted with tiny islets, Huahine’s
lagoon beckons you to spend a day of exploration in an outrigger
canoe. Picnic lunch included.
Full day - approx $75 per person.
Scuba Diving
Dive the lagoon or the outer reef’s coral walls, where
rays, sharks, Napoleon-fish, tuna, barracuda, eels, and countless
tropical fish attract novice and experienced divers alike.
One tank dive - approx $70 per person
Jeep Safari
Discover Huahine in a 4x4, passing plantations, fording streams,
and venturing into the natural, wild interior. Climb high
above the lagoons and bays, into another world, for lofty
views of the mighty Pacific Ocean.
Half day - from $50 per person
Rental Car
Drive the partially-paved road that winds around the twin
islands of Huahinne-Nui (ìbig Huahineî) and Huahine-Iti
(“little Huahine”). Luxuriant foliage lines the
route, which passes by several small villages, giving you
the opportunity to meet the people who are fortunate enough
to live here.
8-hour rate - $72 per car
Marae & Plantation Tour
Delve into the mystery of the ancient marae, open-air sanctuaries
where religious ceremonies took place, and savor the sweet
scents of Huahineís fragrant vanilla bean.
Half day - from $45 per person
Surfing
If surfing’s your thing, you won’t want to miss
the renowned waves of Avo Moía Pass.
Biking
With its open roads and manageable, courteous traffic, Huahine
is a particularly safe place for cyclists. Rent a bike from
any of the reputed rental agencies like Europcar and Pacificar,
and pedal your way to ecstasy. Some hotels also offer bikes.
Hiking
There's something about Huahine that brings out the vagabond
in visitors, so stock up your backpack and hit the island's
many winding trails.
Climb the steep paths up Matairea Hill, examine the ancient
"marae" stones of Marae Manunu, or take in the panoramic
view at Moua Tapu Trail. Huahine's many archeological relics
and natural wonders will keep even the most experienced hiker
occupied for days.
Horseback Riding
Hitch up one of the Marquesian horses at La Petite Ferme in
Fare Quay, and embark on an excursion deep inside Huahine's
picturesque interior.
The horses here are trained in the western style, and will
accommodate both beginners and experienced riders. In fact,
the horses are safe for children over the age of 8. Guides
speak French, English, German and Spanish.
Choose between full-day and 2-day excursions. Among the sites
along the La Petit Ferme tour are Lake Fauna, beach and coconut
groves, vanilla plantation and mountains. There's even a 3-day
circle island tour, with meals included.
Deep Sea Fishing
Explore Hauhine's undersea realm with a deep sea fishing excursion.
Skipper and picnic are included in the deal. Deep sea "safaris"
are arranged by request.
Fishing
Huahine's bountiful waters are home to a bevy of fish, including
mahimahi, marlin and tuna. Fishing enthusiasts can charter
a boat and snag their own aquatic treasures.
Sailing
The sailing cruises offered on Huahine are for visitors who
stay in hotels but who wish to treat themselves to a real
yachting day. During your tour of Huahine's waterways you
will have the unique opportunity to view this splendid island
from vantage points only accessible by sea.
Scuba Diving
With its remarkable underwater sites, Huahine is considered
to be the most beautiful and most authentic of the Leeward
Islands. Don your scuba gear and enter a sub-sea world of
eels, rays, tunas, jack-fishes and neon-colored tropical fish.
Snorkeling
Huahine is still fairly unknown as a dive destination, so
the waters are not overrun by humans. Sealife life is abundant
and includes larger fish, in addition to standard reef fish.
Surfing
Huahine's righteous waves and consistent breaks are the most
popular in all of French Polynesia. So it comes as no surprise
that the island is the surfing mecca of the Society Islands.
The Fare area of Huahine is especially popular with surfers,
thanks largely to its accessibility. Fitii and Parea are also
excellent sites.
