Huahine
Less touristy. More real island life. Possibly one of the most authentic islands in French Polynesia.
See the sights
Known for its lush landscapes, quiet villages and deep Polynesian heritage, the island offers visitors a glimpse of Tahiti as it once was.
Maeva Archaeological Site
One of the most important cultural sites in French Polynesia, the Maeva complex contains numerous ancient marae (stone temples) that reveal the island’s rich Polynesian history.
Faie’s Sacred Blue-Eyed Eels
One of Huahine’s most unusual and memorable attractions can be found in the small village of Faie, where a freshwater stream is home to the island’s famous sacred blue-eyed eels. These impressive creatures can grow up to two metres long and are instantly recognisable by their striking bright blue eyes.
For generations the eels have been protected by local residents and are considered spiritually significant. According to local traditions, the eels are believed to bring prosperity and good fortune to the community, which is why they are never harmed.
Visitors often stop at the small bridge above the stream where the eels gather near the surface of the water. With the help of a local guide, travellers can feed them pieces of fish and watch as the large eels glide through the clear water. It’s a fascinating encounter and one of the most distinctive cultural experiences on the island.
The sacred eels offer a glimpse into the deep connection between Polynesian culture, local legend and the natural environment, making this quiet village stop a highlight of any Huahine island tour.
Huahine Lagoon Snorkelling and Sand Strolling
Huahine’s tranquil lagoon offers some of the most peaceful snorkelling in the Society Islands. Calm turquoise waters surround the island, revealing coral gardens filled with colourful tropical fish, giant clams and vibrant reef formations just beneath the surface.
Many lagoon excursions stop at small sandy motu scattered across the lagoon, where visitors can step ashore and wander along pristine sandbanks before slipping into the warm water to explore the reefs. With snorkelling gear swinging casually in hand, travellers can drift between shallow coral gardens and quiet stretches of beach while enjoying the relaxed rhythm of island life.
The lagoon here feels wonderfully untouched compared with busier islands in Tahiti. Gentle currents, excellent water clarity and abundant marine life make it an ideal place for both beginner snorkellers and experienced ocean lovers to discover the vibrant underwater world of Huahine.
Scenic Island Drive
One of the most relaxing ways to experience Huahine is simply to drive around the island at your own pace. The road loops around both Huahine Nui and Huahine Iti, the two islands that form Huahine, which are connected by a small bridge across a narrow channel.
As you follow the coastal road, the scenery constantly changes — from peaceful lagoon shores and quiet fishing villages to lush tropical hillsides covered with coconut palms, vanilla vines and fruit plantations. The island is small enough that the full circuit can comfortably be completed in a few hours, although many visitors prefer to take their time and stop along the way to explore beaches, viewpoints and archaeological sites.
The drive also reveals some of Huahine’s most interesting cultural landmarks. Along the route you’ll pass ancient Polynesian marae near the village of Maeva, traditional stone fish traps in the lagoon and small local villages where daily island life unfolds quietly along the roadside.
With very little traffic and breathtaking lagoon views appearing around almost every bend, a scenic drive around Huahine offers a wonderful way to experience the island’s natural beauty and authentic Polynesian atmosphere.
Foodie Hot Spots
From Luxury International Resorts to Local Eateries - the island feeds your soul and nourishes you with local island culinary creations
Foodie Highlights
Huahine’s dining scene reflects the island’s relaxed charm, with small waterfront restaurants serving fresh lagoon fish and classic Polynesian dishes. Huahine Yacht Club is a favourite sunset spot overlooking the lagoon, while Chez Tara is well known for its delicious poisson cru served beside one of the island’s best beaches. For casual dining, Izzy’s offers a friendly atmosphere and hearty island meals, while Métis serves refined French-Polynesian cuisine in an intimate setting
Huahine Travel Secrets
Because the island receives fewer visitors than Bora Bora or Moorea, many experiences remain quietly hidden and culturally rich. Here are three Huahine secrets
The Island’s Ancient Fish Traps
Along the shores near the village of Maeva you can still see traditional Polynesian stone fish traps built centuries ago. These structures were designed to trap fish in shallow lagoon waters as the tide receded. Remarkably, some of these traps are still used by local families today, offering a rare glimpse into traditional island food gathering practices.
For travellers interested in Polynesian heritage, seeing these ancient traps in the lagoon is like stepping back into the island’s living history.
Lake Fauna Nui
Hidden inland from the lagoon lies Lake Fauna Nui, a rare brackish lake surrounded by jungle and coconut palms. The lake is actually the remnant of an ancient lagoon that became separated from the ocean over time.
The peaceful shoreline is one of Huahine’s most beautiful and least visited landscapes, offering a quiet contrast to the island’s beaches and lagoon.
Huahine Hilltop Climb
Just beyond the village of Faie, a quiet road climbs the slopes of Mount Turi, the highest point on Huahine. Along the way you’ll find one of the island’s most spectacular viewpoints – a small belvedere that overlooks Maroe Bay and the lush southern island of Huahine Iti.
The climb itself is short but rewarding. As the road winds higher through dense vegetation, the lagoon slowly reveals itself below in brilliant shades of turquoise. From the lookout you gain a true sense of the island’s wild beauty, with forested hills, quiet bays and scattered motu stretching across the horizon.
Because Huahine remains one of the quieter islands in Tahiti, this viewpoint often feels wonderfully peaceful compared with the busier lookouts found on other islands. It’s the perfect place to pause, take photos and appreciate the untouched charm that makes Huahine such a special destination.
A Selection of our Tahiti Resorts
Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts
Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts combines an authentic spirit with spectacular views of Mt. Otemanu and the lagoon’s shimmering waters. Celebrating Tahiti’s artistic heritage.
InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa
Perfectly placed on a private motu, the resort faces the main island of Bora Bora, framed by crystalline lagoon waters and the volcanic peak of Mount Otemanu. *RESORT CLOSURE 01 JUNE 2026 TO MID 2027.
Four Seasons Bora Bora
Getting to Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is a seamless journey through the heart of French Polynesia. Travellers fly into Faa’a International Airport in Papeete, Tahiti, before a short domestic flight to Bora Bora Airport. From there, a private boat transfer takes guests across Bora Bora’s iconic turquoise lagoon to Motu Tehotu, where the resort sits with uninterrupted views of Mount Otemanu.