Huahine, Society Islands

One of the most significant sites is the Marae of Maeva, a remarkable archaeological area with the largest concentration of pre-European marae (temples) in Polynesia. Located along the shores of Lake Fauna Nui, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the island's history and is just a short drive from Fare.

A unique cultural experience awaits in the village of Faie, where you can see the Sacred Blue-Eyed Eels. These large, revered eels are considered sacred by locals and can be seen in a freshwater stream.

No trip is complete without visiting a pearl farm. The Huahine Nui Pearl Farm & Pottery is set over the lagoon and offers tours explaining the cultivation of Tahitian black pearls, with opportunities to purchase jewelry directly from the source.

Huahine is a self-contained destination, and day trips are typically focused on exploring different parts of the island itself rather than other islands. The primary village is Fare on the northern island, Huahine Nui, which is the hub of all activity and where cruise tenders arrive.

A popular excursion is to travel to Huahine Iti, the smaller, more secluded southern island. You can reach it by crossing the bridge that connects the two landmasses. Huahine Iti is known for its pristine, empty beaches, lush agricultural plantations, and a slower, even more relaxed pace of life. Exploring this part of the island offers a wonderful contrast to the more bustling (by local standards) Huahine Nui.

Cruise ships visiting Huahine do not dock at a pier but instead anchor in the beautiful Maroe Bay or just outside Fare Harbour. Passengers are then brought ashore via tender boats.

The tender pier is conveniently located directly in Fare, the island's main village and administrative center. From the moment you step ashore, you are in the heart of the town. All of Fare's amenities, including small shops, a supermarket, cafes, rental car agencies, and tour operator stands, are within easy walking distance. No shuttles are needed to explore the immediate village area.

The official currency is the Comptoirs Français du Pacifique Franc, abbreviated as CFP or XPF. While some tour operators or larger shops in Fare may accept U.S. Dollars or Euros, it is highly recommended to use the local currency for most transactions to get the best value.

ATMs are available in the main village of Fare, typically near the bank, where you can withdraw CFP Francs. Credit cards like Visa and MasterCard are accepted at hotels, larger restaurants, and pearl shops, but smaller vendors and market stalls will require cash. It's wise to carry some local currency for smaller purchases and tips.

Huahine is widely regarded as a very safe and welcoming destination for tourists. The local community is friendly, and crime rates are very low. It is generally safe to explore the island independently by rental car or scooter, and the main village of Fare is comfortable to walk around at any time of day.

Standard travel precautions should still be observed. Secure your valuables and do not leave items unattended on beaches or in unlocked vehicles. When swimming or snorkeling, be mindful of coral and sea urchins, and be aware of ocean currents, especially in the reef passages. Using insect repellent is recommended, particularly when hiking or exploring the island's lush interior, to protect against mosquitoes.

Huahine enjoys a warm, tropical climate year-round. The main cruise season generally falls within the dry season, which lasts from May to October. During this period, you can expect pleasant temperatures averaging 79-84°F (26-29°C), lower humidity, and plenty of sunshine.

The wet season runs from November to April, characterized by higher humidity and more frequent, though often brief, tropical showers. This period is also the official cyclone season for the region, although direct hits are historically rare. Regardless of the season, you should pack light clothing, swimwear, a hat, sunglasses, and strong, reef-safe sunscreen. A light rain jacket is also a wise addition for unexpected showers.

Getting around Huahine to explore its sights requires some form of transportation, as most attractions are outside the main village of Fare. There is no formal public bus system on the island. The most popular option for independent travelers is renting a car, scooter, or e-bike from agencies located in Fare.

Taxis are available but are limited in number and can be expensive; it's best to agree on a fare before starting your journey. For a comprehensive experience, many visitors opt for guided 4x4 safari tours which cover the island's key cultural and natural sites. Booking a lagoon tour by boat is also a fantastic way to explore the coastline and visit a Huahine Nui Pearl Farm & Pottery.

Shopping in Huahine is focused on local crafts and specialties rather than duty-free luxury goods. The main village of Fare is the primary shopping hub, with a central market and several small boutiques and artisan galleries. Here you can find hand-painted pareos (sarongs), monoi oil infused with local flowers, and woven hats and bags.

For one of the island's most famous products, visit the Huahine Nui Pearl Farm & Pottery to purchase authentic Tahitian black pearls. The island is also known for its high-quality vanilla, which is sold in braids at the local market. While prices in shops are typically fixed, you may find some room for friendly negotiation with vendors at the market.