Curator’s statement
Huahine is one of the places in French Polynesia where daily life, culture, and landscape still feel deeply intertwined and untouched by mass tourism. As an American living in Mo’orea with strong family ties to Huahine, I have spent meaningful time on the island and maintain personal relationships with many of the people who shape its hospitality scene. This allows me to design trips that go far beyond logistics, offering travelers access to the quieter, more authentic Polynesia of yesterday. Huahine is not about spectacle, but about presence, heritage, and connection.
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Where to stay on Huahine, French Polynesia
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Things to do on Huahine, French Polynesia
Exploring Maroe Lookout
Maroe Lookout: One of the most scenic viewpoints on the island, Maroe Lookout offers sweeping views over the lagoon and lush interior valleys. Visiting at golden hour is especially stunning, but don’t understand the value a local guide can bring to your explorations.
Cultural and Marae Tours: Huahine is home to more than 35 marae, many of which are still spiritually significant. Visiting these ancient sites should always be done with a guide who understands their history and ensures they are approached with respect.
Sacred eels of Faie: The freshwater eels of Faie are considered sacred and are deeply tied to local legend. Guides have meaningful connections with the eels, strengthened by their practice of feeding them, and nearly daily visits. Some guides have been visiting the eels daily for nearly their entire lives!
Guided jet ski tour: A guided jet ski tour around Huahine’s lagoon offers an exciting way to explore motu, coral gardens, and beautiful, but at times shallow turquoise waters.
4x4 Island Tour: A 4x4 tour is one of the best ways to understand Huahine’s geography, history, and sacred sites. These tours often include stops at marae and viewpoints that are inaccessible without local guidance knowledge.
Maeva and Fare village exploration: Exploring Maeva and Fare offers insight into everyday island life, from artists’ studios to archaeological sites near Lake Fauna Nui. This is where Huahine’s living culture is most tangible.
Avamoa and Avea Bays: These beaches are known for calm waters and minimal development, making them ideal for swimming and quiet afternoons. To ensure private land is respected, assume most beaches are private, unless clearly indicated otherwise.
Sunset lagoon cruise: A sunset cruise on Huahine’s lagoon is a peaceful way to experience the island’s softer side. These excursions prioritize scenery, calm waters, and a sense of intimacy rather than luxury theatrics.
Places to eat & drink on Huahine, French Polynesia
A romantic sunset dinner at the Le Mahana Huahine hotel.
Huahine Yacht Club: A long-standing local favorite known for relaxed lagoon views and straightforward island cooking. Expect simple preparations, fresh fish, and a lively atmosphere, especially at sunset.
Chez Tara: Located in Parea, this casual spot is as much about community as it is about food. It is a great place to enjoy a leisurely lunch after exploring nearby cultural sites.
Hotel Le Mahana Restaurant: One of the most romantic dinner settings on the island, with tables set over the lagoon. The experience is more about ambiance and freshness than bold flavors.
Métis Restaurant: A local option for fresh seafood and classic Polynesian dishes. Have a backup plan in case they are closed, which can happen on island time.
Izzy’s: A local, unpretentious stop where meals are simple and comforting. Like much of Huahine, it reflects the island’s honest approach to food and hospitality.
Need to know
Huahine is not a destination for gourmet dining, but it offers some of the freshest tuna and baguettes you will ever taste. Cargo boats arrive roughly once a week, and it is a heartwarming sight to watch locals gather as supplies like coffee, rice, and pantry staples finally arrive. Restaurants often serve minimal menus focused on raw fish and rice prepared a few different ways, so setting expectations is key.
One of the most exciting times to visit is during the Hawaiki Nui Va’a race, typically held in October or November, when Huahine becomes the cultural starting point of one of Polynesia’s most important sporting events, rooted in ancient voyaging traditions and months or years of preparation.
Sundays are reserved for family and rest. Plan your travels accordingly—businesses will be closed.
Huahine is a location where working with a travel advisor can truly be game-changing, especially one who is locally based and has local experience. Don’t hesitate to reach out—it would be my pleasure to help guide you for this incredible destination.
Travel Advisor
Elizabeth Gonzalez
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our French Polynesia page.