Huahine, often dubbed the 'Garden Island,' is one of French Polynesia's best-kept secrets. It offers a tranquil atmosphere filled with verdant rainforests, dramatic volcanic peaks, and some of the most inviting blue lagoons in the South Pacific. Unlike its more famous neighbors Bora Bora and Moorea, Huahine feels untouched by mass tourism, making it a dream come true for travelers seeking genuine peace and natural beauty.
The island is split into two main parts—Huahine Nui (big) and Huahine Iti (small)—connected by a short bridge over a turquoise channel. Highlights include exploring ancient marae (Polynesian temples), snorkeling the vibrant coral gardens of Fare and Avea Bay, and visiting the island’s famed blue-eyed sacred eels in Faie. The rolling landscape is dotted with quaint villages and a handful of small, friendly resorts, giving every visitor a chance to mingle with locals, sample fresh fruit at roadside stands, and learn about the island's rich traditions.
Huahine’s vibe is slow and welcoming, with an emphasis on authentic Polynesian hospitality. Colorful outrigger canoes and fishermen heading out at sunrise are part of daily life here. Markets in Fare burst with tropical flavors, and there’s always someone willing to share stories about the island’s legendary queen or show the best way to tie a pareo.
Getting around the island is straightforward—most visitors rent a car, scooter, or bicycle to discover hidden beaches and scenic viewpoints. Accommodations range from charming guesthouses to intimate overwater bungalows, all with stunning views. Dining out is a pleasure, with local specialties like poisson cru (marinated raw fish) and coconut bread on offer, as well as French-inspired treats.
The ideal time to visit Huahine is during the dry season from May to October when the weather is cooler, and the chance of rain is low. Don’t miss the annual Heiva festival if you’re here in July—traditional dancing and canoe races give a deeper glimpse into Polynesian culture. No matter when you come, Huahine’s relaxed pace and lush landscapes invite you to slow down and savor island life.
The island is split into two main parts—Huahine Nui (big) and Huahine Iti (small)—connected by a short bridge over a turquoise channel. Highlights include exploring ancient marae (Polynesian temples), snorkeling the vibrant coral gardens of Fare and Avea Bay, and visiting the island’s famed blue-eyed sacred eels in Faie. The rolling landscape is dotted with quaint villages and a handful of small, friendly resorts, giving every visitor a chance to mingle with locals, sample fresh fruit at roadside stands, and learn about the island's rich traditions.
Huahine’s vibe is slow and welcoming, with an emphasis on authentic Polynesian hospitality. Colorful outrigger canoes and fishermen heading out at sunrise are part of daily life here. Markets in Fare burst with tropical flavors, and there’s always someone willing to share stories about the island’s legendary queen or show the best way to tie a pareo.
Getting around the island is straightforward—most visitors rent a car, scooter, or bicycle to discover hidden beaches and scenic viewpoints. Accommodations range from charming guesthouses to intimate overwater bungalows, all with stunning views. Dining out is a pleasure, with local specialties like poisson cru (marinated raw fish) and coconut bread on offer, as well as French-inspired treats.
The ideal time to visit Huahine is during the dry season from May to October when the weather is cooler, and the chance of rain is low. Don’t miss the annual Heiva festival if you’re here in July—traditional dancing and canoe races give a deeper glimpse into Polynesian culture. No matter when you come, Huahine’s relaxed pace and lush landscapes invite you to slow down and savor island life.
Expected Weekly Budget
$1400-$2000 USD (per person, excluding flights)
Known For
Things to Do
- Snorkel or scuba dive at coral gardens in Fare
- Visit the ancient Maeva marae and archaeological sites
- Swim with sacred blue-eyed eels in Faie
- Relax on Avea Bay's white-sand beach
- Rent a bicycle or scooter to circle Huahine Nui and Huahine Iti
- Enjoy a Polynesian picnic on a motu (small islet)
- Go on a lagoon tour with local guides
- Sample fresh island cuisine at a waterfront restaurant
Notable Sites
- Maeva Marae
- Fare Village Market
- Faie Blue-eyed Eels
- Avea Bay
- Motu Murimahora
- Bridge between Huahine Nui and Huahine Iti
- Marae Anini
- Lake Fauna Nui
General Advice
Huahine is an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility, connection to nature, and an authentic Polynesian experience. Plan to take things slowly—many of the best moments here come from unhurried explorations, chatting with locals, or simply lounging by the lagoon. Make sure to bring reef-safe sunscreen, as the island’s coral and marine life are incredibly vibrant and precious.
Security & Safety
Huahine enjoys a low crime rate, but standard safety measures apply. Always keep valuables in a safe place at your lodging and avoid leaving personal belongings unattended at the beach or in unlocked cars. While the island is safe to explore, if you venture off the main roads or go hiking, let someone know your plans and take water and a cell phone with you.
Travel Tips
- Renting a car, scooter, or bicycle is the best way to explore the island independently.
- ATMs are limited, especially on weekends, so carry enough cash for markets and small shops.
- Book accommodations in advance if traveling in high season (July to October).
- Try the poisson cru with coconut milk—a local specialty found at most restaurants.
- Buy fresh fruit at village stands; mangos, pineapples, and bananas are delicious.
- Respect cultural sites and ask before photographing marae or religious ceremonies.
- Bring snorkeling gear for spontaneous swims, as some beaches are quite secluded.
- Mosquito repellent is recommended, especially after rain or near lakes and rivers.
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Traveler Comments
Visited in May 2024
Huahine felt like paradise. We rented scooters and cruised from one stunning beach to another, often with nobody else around. Watching local fishermen at sunrise in Fare was such a peaceful way to start each day. I’d come back in a heartbeat just for the atmosphere.
Traveled here in November 2023
Loved the slow pace and friendly locals. Swimming with the sacred eels in Faie was unexpected and memorable. We stayed in a small pension with amazing lagoon views. Only downside was a couple rainy afternoons but we just relaxed with a book.
Stayed in August 2023
Really appreciated the lack of crowds—totally different from busy islands like Bora Bora. Hired a local guide for a historical tour, and learning about the marae was fascinating. If you're into quiet beaches and culture, this is your place.
Visited in March 2024
The coral gardens in Fare were great for snorkeling. Food was fresh everywhere we went, and we enjoyed biking the whole island. Be warned, ATMs aren’t easy to find—bring cash!
Traveled here in July 2024
We visited during the Heiva festival and it was amazing to see traditional dancing and canoe races. Our bungalow on Avea Bay was pure relaxation. Sometimes the local buses didn’t run on time, but everyone was so helpful if we needed a ride.
Visited in December 2023
A fantastic romantic island for couples. We took a boat to a motu and had a picnic—it was like having a private island for the afternoon. Grocery prices were a bit high but worth it for all the fresh fruit.
Stayed in October 2023
If you love nightlife or lots of dining options, Huahine might not be for you. But if relaxing, snorkeling, and small local restaurants sound good, it's perfect. Mosquitoes were plentiful after rain, so don’t forget repellent.
Traveled here in April 2024
This was our family’s first trip to French Polynesia and Huahine set the bar high. Our kids loved the sacred eels and seeing chickens everywhere! The local hospitality made us feel so welcome.
Visited in June 2024
Stunning scenery and almost untouched by tourism. Best sunsets I’ve ever seen from Motu Murimahora. Renting a car gave us so much freedom to explore places that felt remote and untouched.
Traveled here in February 2024
We enjoyed sunrise walks along the Avea Bay shoreline and delicious coconut bread at the Fare market. Sometimes it rained heavily, but it made the island even more lush. Absolutely worth the journey from Tahiti.
Visited in September 2023
Cultural sites are well preserved and the guides are full of stories. We went kayaking in the lagoon and saw eagle rays up close. WiFi was spotty in some areas, but honestly, disconnecting wasn’t a bad thing.
Stayed in January 2024
Delicious poisson cru and French pastries—what a combination! The snorkeling was fantastic around the piers near Fare, and the market was full of music and friendly faces. Highly recommend hiring bikes.
Traveled here in December 2023
We joined a group boat tour and explored small islets. It felt so personal compared to bigger islands. If you’re looking for nightlife, though, it’s very quiet after dinner time.
Visited in July 2024
The annual festival was vibrant and so much fun—lots of dancing and local music. Our guesthouse owner even invited us to a home-cooked meal. One minor thing: insect bites can be an issue, so bring spray.
Stayed in May 2024
This is my go-to spot in French Polynesia for escaping crowds and reconnecting with nature. Loved hiking around Lake Fauna Nui, seeing wild horses, and stargazing at night with almost no light pollution.
Traveled here in June 2023
The tranquility here is unmatched. My husband and I swam, cycled, ate fruit right off the trees, and felt totally refreshed. Some beaches were a bit rocky but still lovely for a dip.
Visited in January 2024
As a solo traveler I felt very safe. Locals are happy to chat or point you in the right direction if you look lost. Not a lot of budget eats, so plan to splurge a little.
Traveled here in November 2023
Such pretty views and peaceful villages. It’s a bit tricky to get here since flights are limited, but if you’re after true relaxation, Huahine is spot on. I wish there were a few more organized tours.
Visited in April 2024
We ate at several roadside roulottes (food trucks) and loved the homemade vibe. The bridge between Huahine Nui and Iti made for a cool photo spot. If you’re into exploring by kayak or paddleboard, bring your own if you can.
Stayed in June 2024
Two weeks on Huahine left me feeling renewed and happy. The mornings were filled with birdsong and coffee by the water, afternoons spent snorkeling, and evenings chatting with our hosts. Can't recommend it enough if you like things quiet and beautiful.
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