Is Huahine Worth Visiting? Top Things To Do To Make Your Trip Worthwhile In 2025

Is Huahine worth visiting? 100% YES! Huahine, also called the “Garden of Eden”, is one of the best islands to visit in French Polynesia if you’re looking to get out of the major tourist zones, to really soak up authentic island life, and to see some of the best archaeology in the islands.

I loved my time on Huahine, possibly my favorite island in French Polynesia for its authenticity and things to do. I spent 5 days on Huahine, rented an EMOKE to explore solo one day, did an amazing snorkeling tour another, loved hanging out at happy hour at Huahine Yacht Club and more.

Huahine (pronounced Huahini) is in the Society Islands in French Polynesia near Bora Bora, Moorea, Raiatea and Tahiti. It’s actually two islands, Huahine Iti and Huahine Nui, that are connected by a small strip of land.

Huahine is a hidden gem in the heart of the islands, with some of the best archaeological Maraes that are worth checking out and more authentic French Polynesia experiences.

Read on to be inspired to visit this island’s rare blend of history, culture, adventure and natural splendor!

Is Huahine Worth Visiting? My experience + honest thoughts

Going to French Polynesia, you’ll need to be prepared for:

• Less infrastructure than you’re used to
• French speakers everywhere (I used my Google Translate app a lot)
• Humidity
• Small island vibes

I’m more of a city person than a small town person, so it’s always an adjustment for me to realize I’m not in a city, even if I’m in paradise (aka, Huahine/French Polynesia)! Once I accepted that I have to go with the flow here, I was able to enjoy my time.

There are plenty of places to stay and things to do on Huahine, but it is a very small island so you might not want too many days here. Part of my 5 days was spent working and relaxing, because I didn’t want an action-packed trip (I spent over a month in FP).

Things that made Huahine worth it were the snorkeling tour, the place I stayed, the small town (Fare) and restaurants, the Maraes, and some other things I saw and did while exploring. I loved that this island is so small, the children have to go by boat to another island for school! There are only 6,000 people who live on Huahine, and I’m so glad I got to experience the island life here.

Is Huahine Worth Visiting? Pros + Cons

As you can see from my experience, Huahine has pros and cons – as every place does! Here are the main ones I recommend considering when planning your trip:

Pros

✔️ Huahine has must-see archaeology with a museum to learn more about the fascinating history of French Polynesia, plus authenticity you won’t find to this degree on other islands.

✔️ Not crowded and way less touristy/less expensive than Bora Bora, with resorts you can stay in

✔️ The island with the best “Moana” vibes, especially because the island features an outline of a pregnant woman (Huahine means “pregnant woman” in Tahitian)

✔️ Green/eco-friendly (one of my favorite things about French Polynesia!)

✔️ One of the most affordable islands

✔️ Picturesque with amazing outdoor and water-based activities, including hiking and boat tours

✔️ The food in all of FP is amazing, a mix of French and Polynesian cuisine, and you can save money at the food trucks and with buying groceries

✔️ The people are amazing and hospitality is top-tier

✔️ Fare is the best – you can walk around and get groceries and meals, and something is always open. You can sit at Huahine Yacht Club and get amazing happy hour views!

Cons

✔️ French Polynesia is a more expensive destination than some, but affordable compared to more visited islands.

I switched my original hostel bookings to Pensions and other places, and then there are luxury hotels as well. You’ll also need to rent a car/EMOKE (or ride a bike), and the tours add to the cost but are definitely worth it. It’s a matter of choosing what you really want to do and budgeting.

✔️ Public transportation is limited and if you rent a car, it’s important to rent in advance because they don’t have many automatic cars (common to FP islands). In Huahine, you’ll need to get a scooter or an EMOKE to get to all the sites because they don’t have automatic cars!

👉 It’s worth noting that the cons mentioned above are relatively minor and should not overshadow the overall positive experience of visiting Huahine, in my opinion. Keep reading for more details on all the things that make this city worth visiting!

Huahine Map of Things To Do

1. Is Huahine Worth Visiting? Yes, if you go on a Lagoon Tour (I recommend Huahine Nautique)

The host of the place where I stayed recommended Huahine Nautique, which was just a couple minutes’ walk (around 15-20 minutes’ walk from Fare). Here’s the sign to look for to find it:

With this tour, we snorkeled in multiple spots, ate lunch on a motu, and had really cool presentations like how to make crafts with palm leaves, how to dance and Pareau tying lessons (plus one of the guides sold hand-dyed ones)! The hosts were also really amazing. I would definitely go on this tour again!

2. Is Huahine Worth Visiting? Yes, if you love amazing water experiences

Here are some of the amazing water experiences to put on your list to make Huahine worth visiting:

• Snorkeling
• Diving
• White sandy beaches
• SUP
• Kayaking and canoeing
• Sailing
• Fishing
• Surfing

You can go on a tour like I did, plus some hotels provide snorkeling gear and more!

3. Is Huahine Worth Visiting? Yes, if you visit the Maraes (Archaeological Sites)

I’m an archaeology nerd (I have a Masters degree in it), so part of the reason I chose to visit Huahine was for the Maraes, and to learn about Polynesian culture. Huahine did not disappoint. There is one major site, then two others – the major one, Maeva Marae, is a must-see!

The Marae are believed to have been built between the 13th and 15th centuries, and were used for religious practices.

👉 Maeva Marae Complex & Fare Pote’e Maeva (Archaeological Museum)

Maeva Marae, or Maeva Village, is the biggest archaeological complex in Huahine, and one of the best to see in French Polynesia! It’s located on Huahine Nui’s east coast, and used to be a town for royal families.

There’s a museum right on the water with a very small entrance fee, and there are exhibits with artifacts and information about the history of the islands and archaeological excavations that I highly recommend reading!

👉 Marae Manunu

Marae Manunu is a common type of structure in the islands, with standing stones creating a long, narrow structure that is 2 meters tall, 40 meters long and around 7 meters wide. It was used for religious ceremonies.

This Marae has a platform and is dedicated to the god of war and fishing, called Tane. It also contains the tomb of the last high priest of Maeva, Raiti, who died in 1915.

You’ll see a sign and drive down some dirt roads in a residential area to reach the site, which is also near a rocky beach that’s great for photography!

👉 Anini Marae

Anini Marae looks similar to Marae Manunu, with standing stones and platforms. It was built in the 18th century, and is said by locals to have been a site of human sacrifice. Ta’aroari’l, the son of the king at the time (Mahine), decided against the king’s will to dedicate this Marae to Hiro, the god of seamen and bandits, and Oro, the god of war.

The Marae is made of coral stones and is on a beautiful beach, where we also passed by on the Huahine Nautique lagoon tour.

👉 Marae Tefano

I didn’t visit Marae Tefano because I didn’t want to budget for a hiking guide, since this is a necessity for the hike up up Matairea Hill to this area in Maeva village.

Marae Tefano looks similar to the previous two, an altar with standing stones, near a banyan tree. It’s believed to have been a royal settlement with a residential area, fish traps and walls.

👉 V-Shaped Fish Traps (Pieges a poissons de Maeva)

These ancient fish traps are right off the road at Mairie Annexe Maeva, and are worth seeing because they’re bigger and take up more area than I expected – plus, they’re still in use today!

The traps are a traditional fishing technique and use coconut fibers, bamboo and rocks to make structures to capture the fish in.

4. Is Huahine Worth Visiting? Yes, if you visit the Blue-Eyed Eels (Anguilles Sacrees)

These HUGE, 6-foot-long eels are really cool to find (and there’s a crepe stand nearby)!

Just pull off the road in Faie village, ask the locals and they’ll direct you to this spot where you can look at the eels. A photo doesn’t do it justice, so you just have to see them!

5. Is Huahine Worth Visiting? Yes, if you love hiking and nature

While I didn’t end up hiking in Huahine, there are multiple hiking areas I was told about and there are tons of amazing views you can walk, bike and drive to – plus, of course, being on and in the water!

⚠️ Note: Most hikes require a certified guide.

👉 Hikes include:

• Matairea Hill (a short hike that doesn’t require a guide)
• Mount Tapu (6-miles with views of Huahine Iti)
• Mount Turi (the tallest mountain on Huahine with amazing views at 2200 ft above sea level
• Mount Pohue Rahi
• Faie waterfall hike
• Te Ana Mahafatu Cave
• Tupu’ana waterfall hike
• Beach hiking trails including Avea Bay

👉 Belvederes and Road-side Sites

You can bike and drive around Huahine, and see some amazing viewpoints, archaeological sites, beaches and nature that don’t require hiking! The view from Huahine Yacht Club is amazing, and I recommend going there for sunset. Get there early for Happy Hour to get a table outside – it fills up fast!

👉 Snorkeling (& Diving)

While I don’t dive due to asthma, the snorkeling in Huahine was my favorite of the trip. Maybe it’s because it’s not so touristy, or maybe because Huahine Nautique took us to multiple areas, but there was a lot to take in!

Huahine also has multiple dive sites near Fare.

6. Is Huahine Worth Visiting? Yes, if you rent an EMOKE & explore the major sites unique to Huahine

I only rented an EMOKE for a day, and I recommend just a day or two for Huahine. The island is small enough, and if you stay near Fare (or in a resort with a restaurant), you won’t need a car. You can always rent a bike some days, too!

Huahine doesn’t have automatic cars, so you’ll need to be able to use a manual car or rent an EMOKE or motorbike. Here’s my EMOKE, which I rented from Europcar:

Definitely be sure to email them in advance to secure your rental! I returned the EMOKE after closing and I was able to just drop my key off.

Here are the sites (not already mentioned, like the Maraes and Fish Traps) that I saw driving around the island, which I followed on Google Maps (see my map above, and be sure to download the island’s map on Google in case you can’t get data in some places):

👉 Motu Tresor (Shell Museum)

This museum is owned by a local who is passionate about shells! He gives the tours and there’s even a little gift shop. I learned a lot about these shells, and I highly recommend visiting this place! It’s not far from the airport.

👉 Galerie Umatatea

Galerie Umatatea is an art gallery owned by a local who moved to Huahine from the US. The art is amazing. You’re supposed to ring a bell if the owner isn’t inside, which I did, but she never came. I did like seeing the art, though!

👉 More Things To Do In Huahine

Distillerie Huahine Passion: I planned to go to this, but it was closed a lot and I was busy other times – it was recommended by my host and near where I stayed near Fare. They have various spirits made with local fruits!

Vanilla Plantation and Pearl Farm: I had already been to some of these in Raiatea, so I didn’t go to them in Huahine.

7. Is Huahine Worth Visiting? Yes, if you love amazing food

Huahine has amazing food that was one of my favorite parts of visiting French Polynesia! I especially loved going to Huahine Yacht Club, which had Happy Hour and dinner and offers rides back to Fare Ara (and others – just ask when you arrive)!

I also loved that something was pretty much always open, so I didn’t have to rely on groceries (I also didn’t have a kitchen in Huahine, just a microwave and fridge).

Here are some of the dishes and places to check out in Huahine:

• Huahine Yacht Club: As I’ve mentioned – I think I went here for dinner every night because of the Happy Hour/sunset view, the amazing food and rides back to my accommodation:

• Food Trucks in Fare: The food trucks are open at different times, but something is always open! Here’s breakfast I had one day:

• Fresh Seafood: Here’s some fabulous fish I got at – you guessed it – Huahine Yacht Club:

• Poisson Cru, the national dish of FP, is raw tuna (they “cook” it with salt but still be careful – I was fine on the tours but had issues after eating this at a place I stayed that was made by the locals). Even with some issues, this dish was addicting – it’s so good! It’s marinated in coconut milk and lime juice.

• Breadfruit: I thought I knew Breadfruit from my visit to Dominica years ago (in the Caribbean). This was different. The fruit is much bigger. Locals eat it with their hands and they scoop up coconut cream or other stews with it, because it’s mostly flavorless, but it’s still really good!

8. Is Huahine Worth Visiting? Yes, if you want to chill at the beach

I stayed busy enough most days in Huahine that my beach time was mostly on my boat tour, Happy Hours and walks near archaeological sites.

But, if you’re looking to be a beach bum, Huahine has amazing, white-sand beaches! The best beaches in Huahine include:

• Fare Beach
• Avea Bay
• Motu Murimaora
• Hana Iti
• Motu Mahare

9. Is Huahine Worth Visiting? Yes, if you want stress-free sightseeing

As I mentioned already, there were no crowds in Huahine! I visited in early October, and this island is not one of the well-known touristy islands like Bora Bora, Tahiti and, increasingly, Moorea.

You’ll really get a feel for the islands, nature, the history and culture of the area, and you’ll feel more and more relaxed as you do so!

I loved being able to take photos of myself with my tripod, which I’m too afraid to do as a solo traveler in more crowded and popular tourist destinations!

10. Is Huahine Worth Visiting? Yes, if you visit the amazing bungalow resorts

I didn’t stay at a resort, and I recommend a Pension if you’re on a budget or looking for a more local experience.

However, many people splurge when visiting French Polynesia, and while Huahine doesn’t have the same level of resorts as the more touristy islands, it does have luxury resorts with bungalows (not overwater… there actually is one, but it’s closed and needs a new owner!).

I actually almost stayed at Hotel Le Mahana after cancelling my hostel when I realized it didn’t have air conditioning (which I have to have because of my asthma), and because I realized I didn’t want to stay in hostels after my first night at one in Tahiti (another story)…

Hotel Le Mahana only had one night available, and even the tourism office at the airport told me Huahine doesn’t have any other options, even Pensions, with AC. I don’t know why they told me that. Luckily, I had been emailing places from booking.com and one got back to me, and it was great (see the info on these more affordable places further down in this post)!

Here are a few noteworthy resorts that make Huahine worth visiting:

🏝️ Hotel Le Mahana

While I didn’t end up staying at Hotel Le Mahana, I did stop there and sat at the restaurant, and some of the people on my boat tour were staying there and seemed to enjoy it.

I ordered a bottle of water at the restaurant, and I had the menu, but I guess they forgot I needed to order. I kept waiting and eventually I just left, because I decided to eat back in Fare.

However, the hotel itself looks really nice and has its own beachfront area, with people snorkeling in the coral garden and sunbathing. The restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating with beachfront views, and there’s a Europcar rental place right across the street!

Amenities include:

• Private pontoon
• Coral garden
• Private bungalows with terraces and flat-screen TVs
• Outdoor swimming pool
• Airport Shuttle (additional charge)
• AC and ceiling fans
• Views of the garden or ocean
• Fridge and coffee/tea makers
• Free equipment for kayaking, SUP and snorkeling
• Tours and car rentals can be booked in the lobby
• Restaurant with Tahitian and European cuisine
• Bar
• Breakfast (additional charge)
• Free parking area
• Free WiFi

🌟 Check out this 5-star review from Darryl:
“If you look to stay at a hotel on Huahine, your choices are limited to about 2 properties. The beach and snorkeling at the hotel are exceptional. Beautiful location, and nice accomodations for this remote of a place. Very gracious staff. Available paddle boards, kayaks and snorkel equipment. The snorkeling at this location rivals the best in the world.”

🛏️ Check Current Prices at Hotel Le Mahana Here

🏝️ Maitai Lapita Village

Maitai Lapita Village is the other main luxury hotel on Huahine, and I looked into it for my stay but it was booked.

Amenities include:

• White sand beach
• Outdoor swimming pool
• Omai Restaurant, which has French and local cuisine with lagoon views over the swimming pool
• Oaoa Bar, located between the gardens and the beach
• Free use of snorkeling gear and kayaks
• Private bungalows with flat-screen TV, AC and tea/coffee makers
• Safety deposit box
• Mini bar in room
• WiFi
• Airport transfers
• Fare village is only 328 feet away!
• Free parking
• Accessibility
• Breakfast

🌟 Check out this 5-star review from Tim:
“this resort is a step back in time- when the pace was leisurely and people cared about each other! There is something magical about the stay. don’t expect 5 star polish and ameneties, but do expect a generous ecclectic resort.”

🛏️ Check Current Prices at Maitai Lapita Village Here

11. Is Huahine Worth Visiting? Yes, if you want to connect with the locals and learn about the culture of the area

One of my favorite things about visiting French Polynesia was talking to local people and learning about the culture of the islands! From the slower pace of life, to the chill vibes, I learned a lot.

When you stay in Pensions and smaller places, when you go on lagoon tours, and when you eat at restaurants, these are all great ways to talk to people and connect!

With the lagoon tour, they did presentations for the whole group so we got to learn really fun things, too!

12. Is Huahine Worth Visiting? Yes, if you love Travel Photography

I’m all about travel photography (hence this travel blog), and Huahine is a photographer’s dream, between the lack of tourists/crowds, the amazing views, underwater photography opportunities, and the lack of much infrastructure, meaning unobstructed views!

I loved practicing my landscape photography, taking photos of myself and using my GoPro underwater!

13. Is Huahine Worth Visiting? Yes, if you want chill island living

I already mentioned the lack of crowds and infrastructure, which means you get to feel like you really live on Huahine during your visit. Besides that, there are amazing beaches and water activities, and you can hang out and watch the sunset and more – the perfect island vacation, in my opinion!

The pace of life on the island is slow, and everyone is friendly. I felt right at home, besides the language barrier, but I was able to use Google Translate and it never felt like an issue!

14. Is Huahine Worth Visiting? Yes, if you want to be close to other French Polynesia Society & Leeward Island hotspots

Huahine is in the Society Islands, close to many other amazing places to visit by ferry or a short flight! They include:

• Raiatea & Taha’a
• Tahiti
• Moorea
• Bora Bora

On my trip, I visited Tahiti, Raiatea, Taha’a, Huahine, Tahiti again, and Moorea, and it’s really easy to island hop with short flights!

You can get flights separately or do the Air Tahiti Pass.

My Expert Tips For Visiting Huahine

👉 Sunscreen and a shirt for snorkeling: I traveled to French Polynesia as a solo traveler, and on the boat tours most people were with their family and they mostly spoke French, as most tourists are from France (naturally). In Raiatea, I was hesitant to awkwardly ask someone to put sunscreen on the top part of my back where I couldn’t reach, and I ended up with sunburn, so I wore a t-shirt on my boat tour in Huahine.

👉 Download Google Maps before your trip: In Raiatea, I didn’t do this right away and ended up without service, driving the long way around the island without realizing it! From then on, I downloaded the maps.

Getting to & Around Huahine

👉 Flying is the best way to get to Huahine from Tahiti, Raiatea, Bora Bora and Moorea. You can get the Air Tahiti Pass or get flights separately. For flights, WayAway is a flight aggregator that helps you find the cheapest flights. Use the code MUKI-TRAVELS for 10% off WayAway Plus.

👉 On my trip, I flew from Tahiti to Raiatea, then to Huahine, then to Tahiti again, before taking the ferry to and from Moorea back to Tahiti.

👉 You can also get to Huahine from Tahiti with the Apetahi Express Ferry, which goes from Huahine to Raiatea, Taha’a and Bora Bora.

👉 To rent a car in Huahine (the best way to get around), there are local places you can rent from. They don’t have a lot of automatic cars, so be sure to specify that you need one!

👉 I rented my car with Europcar in Fare (they also have a Le Mahana location). You can email in advance at resa.europcar.huahine@gmail.com.

Aside from renting a car, you can rent a bike or motorbike to get around. Fare Ara, where I stayed also had regular bike rentals.

Where to Stay in Huahine On Any Budget

Here are my top choices for every budget (I stayed in one of these, and almost stayed at the other two):

✅ Budget Option: Alaroots Hostel

I originally booked Alaroots Hostel, and later realized they don’t have air conditioning, so I switched – but, I had been really excited about this place because of the amazing reviews! It’s also located on the beachfront.

Amenities include:

• Beachfront location in Haapu
• Shared lounge
• Free WiFi
• Private Parking
• Airport Shuttle
• Grill
• Bike and car rental
• Hiking in the area

🌟 Check out this 5-star review from Erica:
“The experience at the alaroots hostel is unique and unlike any other in the best way possible! The owners take you in like family, cooked us dinner where we all sat together & learned about Tahitian culture & one another’s lives, was absolutely beautiful! They go above & beyond to connect the community of people staying here, it’s a true home away from home. Always clean too which can sometimes be hard to come by at hostels! as well as friendly:)”

🛏️ Check Current Prices at Alaroots Hostel Here

✅ Mid-Tier Option: Pension Fare Ara

I stayed at Pension Fare Ara and it was perfect for my stay! It’s not super fancy, but there was a private room with a terrace (mine wasn’t facing anything but a wall, but there are some garden-facing ones), a microwave and fridge and, most importantly for me, air conditioning!

It’s a 15-minute walk from Fare, and basically across the street from Huahine Nautique. They also offer bike rentals and airport transfers, and the manager had a lot of helpful info about things to do!

They also have free WiFi, and offer baguettes for breakfast (I’m gluten-free so I didn’t take this part). All the rooms look a bit different, and I think some have kitchens and are nicer than mine – I did book last minute, and was so happy to find a good place!

🌟 Check out this 5-star review from Kassandra:
“The room was nice, and spacious with air conditioning. There was a great patio to sit and relax on. The kitchen was easy to cook in. The bathroom was nice. Overall I would definitely stay here in Huahine. It is a great value for your money.”

🛏️ Check Current Prices at Pension Fare Ara Here

✅ Luxury Option: Hotel Le Mahana

While I didn’t end up staying at Hotel Le Mahana, I did stop there and sat at the restaurant, and some of the people on my boat tour were staying there and seemed to enjoy it.

The hotel itself looks really nice and has its own beachfront area, with people snorkeling in the coral garden and sunbathing. The restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating with beachfront views, and there’s a Europcar rental place right across the street!

Amenities include:

• Private pontoon
• Coral garden
• Private bungalows with terraces and flat-screen TVs
• Outdoor swimming pool
• Airport Shuttle (additional charge)
• AC and ceiling fans
• Views of the garden or ocean
• Fridge and coffee/tea makers
• Free equipment for kayaking, SUP and snorkeling
• Tours and car rentals can be booked in the lobby
• Restaurant with Tahitian and European cuisine
• Bar
• Breakfast (additional charge)
• Free parking area
• Free WiFi

🌟 Check out this 5-star review from Darryl:
“If you look to stay at a hotel on Huahine, your choices are limited to about 2 properties. The beach and snorkeling at the hotel are exceptional. Beautiful location, and nice accomodations for this remote of a place. Very gracious staff. Available paddle boards, kayaks and snorkel equipment. The snorkeling at this location rivals the best in the world.”

🛏️ Check Current Prices at Hotel Le Mahana Here

What You’ll Need For A Trip To Huahine

Here are my recommended things to pack for Huahine and French Polynesia, with things I use:

Travel Insurance

For travel insurance, I always use Allianz and highly recommend them!

E-SIM for Data

Airalo eSIM is the world’s first eSIM store, already used by over 1 million travelers. With Airalo, you can download and install a digital data pack for over 200 countries/regions and get connected anywhere in the world as soon as they land. I used this on my French Polynesia Trip, and as of the time I used it, you use the app to top up every week or when you use up the allotted data – whichever comes first.

Reef-Safe, Allergen-Free Sunscreen

Badger sunscreen is my newest discovery and I’m obsessed – I have eczema and a lot of allergies, and this sunscreen has only FOUR ingredients! I used it throughout my entire French Polynesia trip and highly recommend it, as I plan on continuing to use it. Just make sure to reapply as needed!

Snorkeling Mask

This is optional – I used the provided gear on my boat tours. However, you may want your own for any extra snorkeling. Plus, I noticed everyone wearing these all-in-one masks (this one includes a camera mount) that looked so much easier to take on and off, and I wished I had one!

Swim shirt

After I got sunburn on my back during my first boat tour, I wore my own shirt in Huahine because I hadn’t bought one of these yet. Later in Huahine, I bought one in a local store, but I wished I’d brought one along! They’re SPF and good for guarding from reef rash, and they’re water-friendly!

Hiking Shoes

Hiking shoes like these or Chacos (sandals) are my go-tos for trips that involve hiking. In French Polynesia, I had my Chacos, which I wore most of the time (they can go in water, so I even wore them while snorkeling) and my Brooks running shoes.

Electrolyte Packets

Electrolyte packets like these are necessary because water isn’t enough to replace those minerals that you lose from sweating when you’re out in the sun a lot. This is perfect for hiking days as well as beach and water days. On boat tours, they offer water and other drinks including rum, and it’s important to replenish those electrolytes!

Hat

The sun in Huahine (especially in the summer) is really harsh, and the heat can give some people issues. When you’re outside most of the time, I highly recommend bringing a hat that goes all the way around, like this one!

Daypack

I use this packable daypack because it folds easily into a pouch that you can pack into a suitcase, it’s lightweight and waterproof, and it has pockets for water bottles and more things! It was perfect for taking on boat tours and hiking.

More items:

• This Universal Power Adapter
• Anker Portable Charger to make sure your phone, camera battery etc. doesn’t die so you can take all the photos!
• Shorts and t-shirts
• Sandals
• Swimsuit
• Credit card, ATM card & cash
• Camera and relevant equipment
• GoPro and/or other waterproof camera
• Sleep Mask – I recommend this since the roosters will probably wake you up early, to maximize sleep time!
• Microfiber Towel – so you have a towel that’s easy to pack
• Earthbreeze Fragrance-Free Laundry Detergent Sheets – there’s usually detergent at the places with laundry machines, but these are easy to use if you have to hand-wash anything. I buy the hypoallergenic ones so I always bring and use these!

I also brought protein powder, collagen powder and protein bars, which all came in handy during my trip, especially for snacks while driving and on the boat tour in Huahine! Check out my go-to, allergen-free travel snacks and more packing recommendations on my Travel Resources page here.

FAQs about visiting Huahine, French Polynesia

👉 When is the best time to visit Huahine?

The optimal time to visit Huahine is during the dry season (June – October) when the weather is comfortable, humidity is lower, and there’s minimal rain.

The shoulder seasons (April-May and October-November) also offer pleasant weather, with a higher chance of finding accommodation. It starts raining more throughout October. I visited in early-mid October, and I recommend earlier in October rather than later.

The annual Heiva Festival takes place on the island in June.

👉 How long does it take to drive around Huahine?

Huahine’s circumference is approximately 44 kilometers, and a leisurely drive around the island typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours.

👉 How do you get around Huahine?

Renting a bicycle or scooter is a popular choice, while cars and EMOKES (there are no automatic cars, but you can rent an EMOKE or bike) are also available for hire. Guided tours is an additional option for exploring the island.

👉 How many nights in Huahine?

A stay of 3 to 5 nights is recommended to fully experience Huahine’s beauty, culture, and tranquility.

👉 What is the difference between Raiatea and Huahine?

Raiatea is larger and has the only UNESCO site, the Taputapuatea Marae, the only wreck dive in French Polynesia, and a rare flower trek. While Raiatea is laid back and slow-paced, Huahine is even more so, and it’s smaller with amazing views and Maraes.

In addition, Fare in Huahine is one street with most of the dining options and the only grocery store, and something is always open; in Raiatea, there are places to eat throughout the island and in the town, but finding what’s open can be a bit trickier as you’ll have to drive places more often than not.

👉 Do you need a car in Huahine?

While not essential, having a car provides flexibility for exploring Huahine at your own pace. Scooters and bicycles are also popular alternatives. I recommend a car or scooter for at least one day to explore more of the island.

👉 Is there a ferry from Tahiti to Huahine?

Yes, regular ferries operate between Tahiti and Huahine, providing a scenic and convenient mode of transportation.

👉 Is there a ferry from Huahine to Moorea?

No, there isn’t a direct ferry route between Huahine and Moorea. Air travel or returning to Tahiti and then heading to Moorea is a common option (which is what I did).

👉 How long is the ferry from Papeete to Huahine?

The ferry ride from Papeete to Huahine typically takes around 4 to 5 hours, offering picturesque views of the surrounding islands.

👉 How do you pronounce Huahine?

Huahine is pronounced “Hoo-a-hee-nee.”

👉 How big is Huahine?

Huahine covers an area of approximately 75 square kilometers.

👉 How do I get from Tahiti to Huahine?

Flights from Tahiti to Huahine are available, providing a quick and convenient option. Ferries also operate between the two islands.

👉 How many people live on Huahine?

Around 6,000 people inhabit the picturesque island of Huahine.

👉 How to get from Huahine to Raiatea?

Travel options between Huahine and Raiatea include flights and ferries, with schedules varying, so it’s advisable to check in advance.

👉 What is the capital of Huahine?

Huahine is divided into two main communes, Fare and Fitii, but it does not have a designated capital.

So, Is Huahine Worth Visiting? Yes 🙂

So, if you couldn’t tell, I loved my time visiting Huahine and highly recommend it! If you love nature, the ocean, snorkeling, or just have a dream of that perfect island getaway with a slow pace and not full of tourists, this place is for you! And, of course, the archaeology and eccentric things like the sacred blue-eyed eels make Huahine really unique, educational and memorable!

Continue Reading:

👉 Is Raiatea Worth Visiting? 14 Things To Do To Make Your Trip Worthwhile
👉 Is Tahiti Worth Visiting? 11 Things To Do To Make Your Trip Worthwhile
👉 Where To Stay In Tahiti For Every Budget (Areas, Hotels + More)
👉 Gorgeous Ārahurahu Marae: A Photographic Expedition
👉 Captivating Marae Ta’ata: Tahiti’s Hidden History
👉 For more International travel guides, check out this page.
👉 For what to pack and travel resources, check out my resources page.