Huahine has protected its authentic roots from the outside world. This snapshot of "Old Polynesia" is a great place to take a deep breath and slow down. While not as luxurious as Bora Bora or Tahaa, if you are looking to recharge or escape from the modern world, there couldn't be a better place.
Huahine s divided into Huahine Nui and Huahine Iti (big and small) and surrounded by a wide, turquoise blue lagoon, with magnificent bays and white-sand beaches adding to the tropical experience.
There are circle roads on both portions of the island with a solitary bridge connecting them. Huahine is a great place to rent a car for a day and explore on your own. Stop at the grocery store in Fare and grab a few items for a picnic, then head south down the island. This island features a Belvedere point with amazing views, gorgeous beaches that are perfect for a picnic, several maraes (remnants of temples that once stood with stone floors and wooden pyramids) and more! To drive the entire island is about 30 miles – but be sure to leave some time for stops to enjoy the amazing views!
There are many exciting land and sea adventures to partake in while on Huahine. We have listed a few of our favorites below:
Have a day of adventure around the island of Huahine and its lagoon. Your guide will introduce you to the island’s legends and Faie’s famous eels before gliding along the lagoon to the coral garden and pearl farm. Let the water wash over your feet whilst you feast on delicious local delicacies prepared before your very eyes (you are welcome to muck in!) at lunchtime on the motu! Your day out also includes plaiting demonstration, fruit tasting and snorkeling.
Your 4×4 driver will take you around the island and visit Maeva’s marae, Faie’s enormous blue-eyed eels and Maroe’s Belvedere for impressive views. You will also visit the only pearl farm on water and Huahine’s traditional fish parks. You will learn about the island’s culture and legends throughout the tour.
Set off on an educational exploration of the island and learn all about Polynesian geology, botany, anthropology, archaeology, sociology, economy, history and traditions. An American anthropologist who has lived in Huahine for many years will be your driver and will share his knowledge and experience with you.
What could be better than traveling through Huahine in a comfortable, air-conditioned, luxury SUV? Set off from the main village of Fare and visit the historic and archaeological sites around the village of Maeva which still harbors archaeological relics. Next, head to Faie and its river full of blue-eyed eels before enjoying a lunch of local fish at Poe’s home, specially prepared by her.
Most of your dining on Huahine will be at your resort. There are a few small local restaurants and snack shops located in the village of Fare if you want to venture out for a bit of local flavor. You will find the Huahine Yacht Club and Chez Guynette, both of which are with walking distance of the Maitai Lapita Village Resort. There is also a grocery store when you can stock up on drinks and snacks for your room.