Lulled by the rhythm of the ocean waves and the legendof Hiro, the giant demigod of thieves who cut the island in two with his canoe, Huahine-Nui (the big island), and Huahine-Iti, (the small island), lie dormant on a bed of coral.
Huahine, also called “the Woman Island”, overflows with a savage allure that makes her exceptionally attractive: her velvet slopes draped in exuberant tropical vegetation, her mirror-like lagoon reflecting the phosphorescent coral formations that lay scattered in their silent abode and her numerous snowy white sand beaches that envelope her in virginal modesty.
It takes three and a half hours to go around the island, a mystical tour due to a tormented relief. Rich in archaeological relics such as traditional dwellings and “maraes” (traditional temples built in honour of the polynesian gods), the island still vibrates from a mysterious past. A visit to the temple of Orohaehae or of the sacred lake of the ancient wizard kings is a wonderful occasion for the visitor to experience the untouched and enchanting authenticity of Huahine.
Fare, the main village located on Huahine-Nui and rooted in ancient Polynesian lifestyle, looks asleep in the shade of “badamier” (local chestnut tree) and acacia trees, awakening upon the arrival of cruiseships and cargo-schooners from Papeete.
The inhabitants welcome visitors as they experience the aromas of vanilla, coconuts, bananas, watermelons and even melons, while fresh colorful fish from the lagoon hang from the trees.
Wild and enticing nature: luxuriant vegetation, untouchedbeaches, deserted coves, idyllic “motus” (islets), abundant fruit trees and colorful enchanted lagoons these are the sorts of features available on this island.
Tourist and cultural centers: flourishing local arts and crafts; fish parks; villages with authentic fishermen; visit the sacred eels at Faie; and splendid gardens for botanical enthusiasts.
Motu Picnic (Full day island tour by boat)
Full Day Lagoon Cruise
The Natural Aquarium
Diving
Huahines dive sites are less discovered than other islands and present a quiet underwater world perfect for beginning and intermediate divers. Sites feature yellow coral gardens and concentrations of reef fish, eagle rays, tuna, and grey reef sharks.
Other activities and sites on Huahine include:
Bicycle rentals for flat rides on the lightly-traveled roads.
Snorkeling at the many quiet beaches.
For expert surfers, the passes are world famous.
Belvedere lookout on Mount Turi overlooking Maroe Bay.
The blue-eyed eels of Faie.
Ancient fish traps of Lake Fauna Nui.
Vanilla plantations and fruit gardens along the road on both islands.
Guided walking trips.
The resort restaurants are among the best in the Pacific and feature lavish and traditional Polynesian shows and music performed by the islands best musicians.
You can try the restaurants of the Hotel Maitai located next to Fare Town or the one of the Relais Mahana offering a charming local atmosphere of the isolated southern island. Try also the few roulottes and snack shops perfect for informal settings and picnics.
Health: 1 infirmary at Vaitape.
Banks: 1 “Banque de Polynésie”, 1 “Banque Socredo”.