what does huahine mean

Full Answer

Where is Huahine located?

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia For the town in Thailand, see Hua Hin. Huahine is an island located among the Society Islands, in French Polynesia, an overseas territory of France in the Pacific Ocean. It is part of the Leeward Islands group (Îles sous le Vent).

Why visit Huahine Island?

Relatively unchanged by the modern world, Huahine Island offers the slower, more tranquil pace of old French Polynesia. With only eight small villages scattered across the island, the few residents welcome visitors with great kindness.

What are the two main islands of Huahine?

Huahine is made up of two main islands that are surrounded by several motu. Huahine Nui (Big Huahine) lies to the north, Huahine Iti (Little Huahine) to the south and Mārō’ē Bay resting between the two islands. A bridge between the islands connects the islands’ eight villages.

How do I get to Huahine?

Most Huahine travel begins with a flight to the Huahine airport. The island’s airport is located on the north shore of Huahine Nui. Air Tahiti services the island with regular flights from nearby islands Bora Bora, Moorea and Raiatea plus Papeete. There’s no shortage of ways to travel around Huahine.

What is Huahine known for?

The village is famous for its fish farming techniques that use V-shaped stone fish traps, an ancestral legacy that is still used today. Maeva is also home to another French Polynesian cultural site: Marae of Maeva and The Fare Pōte'e Maeva Huahine.

How do I get to Huahine?

Huahine is served by Air Tahiti with frequent 40-minute flights from Papeete, daily flights from Moorea, and 25-minute flights from both Raiatea and Bora Bora. Transport from the airport must be arranged by your Preferred Travel Professional or with your resort or hotel.

How old is Huahine island?

Huahine was one of the first islands to be colonized by the ancient Polynesians, with records dating back to the 9th century AD.

Where is Huahine French Polynesia?

Huahine is an island located among the Society Islands, in French Polynesia, an overseas territory of France in the Pacific Ocean. It is part of the Leeward Islands group (Îles sous le Vent)....HuahineCountryFranceOverseas collectivityFrench PolynesiaSubdivisionLeeward IslandsGovernment14 more rows

Is Huahine worth visiting?

It would have beautiful scenery that encompassed beaches, jungles, ruins, lagoons, and volcanoes, along with friendly locals, great food, the ability to visit on a budget, and plenty of options for activities. Well, I'm pleased to say that I found an island just like that. It's called Huahine and it's perfect.

Is there a ferry from Huahine to Bora-Bora?

The ferry journey time between Huahine and Bora-Bora is around 4h and covers a distance of around 85 km. Operated by Apetahi Express, the Huahine to Bora-Bora ferry service departs from Fare and arrives in Vaitape. Typically three ferries run weekly, although weekend and holiday schedules can vary so check in advance.

Is French Polynesia France?

French Polynesia is a French overseas territory with a high level of autonomy under the terms of the 2004 Organic Law (2004-192). It comprises five archipelagos (Society, Tuamotu, Marquesas, Gambier and Australs).

What are the Society Islands?

RaiateaTaha'aSociety Islands/Islands

How long does it take to drive around Huahine?

Driving around Huahine is an absolute dream. We spent roughly 6 hours (from 8am to 2pm) exploring both islands in their entirety, making countless stops to soak in the views and snap photos.

Is Raiatea worth visiting?

Is Raiatea Worth Visiting? Raiatea was one of my big surprises in French Polynesia. I wouldn't come here if you're after that 'classic' beach holiday, but if you like hiking and enjoy a good road trip – you'll find Raiatea very satisfying.

Where is Moorea located?

French PolynesiaA part of the Society Islands, the island of Moorea is located 11 miles Northwest of the island of Tahiti. Moorea is accessible only by ferry or short plane ride from Papeete, the capital of the island of Tahiti, which means this island is one of the more remote places to stay in French Polynesia.

What to do in Huahine?

It’s easy to fill up your trip itinerary with adventure and sightseeing on Huahine. A hike to the summit of Mount Pohue Rahi leads you through a wilderness abundant with wildflowers and pine trees and, of course, stunning views from the summit. (Look closely to see Bora Bora off in the distance.) Take an unforgettable sunset beach horseback ride with your traveling companions. Savor the aromas of a Tahitian vanilla plantation tour. Ride through the lush vegetation on a 4×4 off-road tour.

Where is the enchanted Huahine?

Huahine. Huahine casts a spell over you from the moment you arrive. Only a 40-minute flight from the island of Tahiti, the enchanted Huahine, with its lush forests, untamed landscape and quaint villages can feel like the Garden of Eden.

What is the secret island of Huahine?

Find natural beauty, experience intense encounters with the population, explore the infinite possibilities for adventure and relaxation, alike. Huahine is an island “to live,” an island “to feel.” The famous local singer and painter Bobby Holcomb has chosen this small piece of land where joy and smiles are always around.

Where to surf in Huahine Island?

The beach along Avea Bay near Hotel Le Mahana is a gorgeous stretch of white sand, lined with coconut palms on the southern tip of Huahine Iti. For surfers, the Fitii break on the western shores of Huahine Nui has consistent waves. Jet skis are a great way to explore the lagoon’s vast stretches. Snorkeling is ideal for exploring the underwater world of reef walls, fish caves and coral gardens. Stay above the water and enjoy an outrigger canoe adventure.

What to do in Huahine lagoon?

Stay above the water and enjoy an outrigger canoe adventure. You don’t have to get wet to enjoy the marine life of Huahine.

Where to fly to in Huahine?

The island’s airport is located on the north shore of Huahine Nui. Air Tahiti services the island with regular flights from nearby islands Bora Bora, Moorea and Raiatea plus Papeete. There’s no shortage of ways to travel around Huahine. Choices include taxis, public transit, rental car, bicycle, motorboats and sailboats.

Where to see eels in Huahine?

One of Huahine’s most famous attractions can be seen from a bridge that crosses a stream in the village of Faie. From the bridge, you’ll be able to see the Sacred Blue Eyed Eels, deemed sacred by local mythology. The Polynesian long-finned freshwater eels have incredibly blue eyes that almost glow in the water and range in size from four to six feet in length. The eels are quite accustomed to being hand-fed mackerel from guides and tourists on a daily basis.

How big is Huahine?

Geography. Huahine measures 16 km (10 mi) in length, with a maximum width of 13 km (8 mi). It is made up of two main islands surrounded by a fringing coral reef with several islets, or motu. Huahine Nui (Big Huahine) lies to the north and Huahine Iti (Little Huahine) to the south. The total land area is 75 km 2.

What is the administrative subdivision of Huahine?

Administratively Huahine is a commune (municipality) part of the administrative subdivision of the Leeward Islands. Huahine consists of the following associated communes:

How many km2 is Huahine Nui?

The total land area is 75 km 2. The two islands are separated by a few hundred metres of water and joined by a sandspit at low tide. A small bridge was built to connect Huahine Nui and Huahine Iti. Its highest point is Turi, at 669 m elevation.

What are the eels in Huahine?

One of the famous attractions on Huahine is a bridge that crosses over a stream with 0.9 m - 1.8 m long freshwater eels. These eels are deemed sacred by the locals, by local mythology. While viewing these slithering creatures, tourists can buy a can of mackerel and feed the eels. The Fa'ahia archaeological site in the north of the island has revealed subfossil remains of several species of extinct birds exterminated by the earliest Polynesian colonists of the island.

When did Huahine become independent?

In 1846 the island successfully resisted French rule, the inhabitants never resigned themselves to the idea of being colonized and in 1847 the island proclaimed itself an independent state under the name of the Kingdom of Huahine.

Who could claim the thrones of Huahine and Raiatea?

Teriifa'atau Marama Polynesian prince, could claim the thrones of Huahine and Raiatea at the same time. However, the union of these two thrones under one scepter could not be contemplated, so it was agreed that his younger brother would inherit the throne of Raiatea.

Huahine, The Authentic Island

Less than an hour’s flight from Tahiti, Huahine is a wild paradise where watermelon and coconut plantations emerge from the jungle. It is nicknamed “the authentic”. The island is divided between Huahine Nui in the north and Huahine Iti in the south. The two territories are connected by a bridge of a hundred meters.

Why Visit Huahine

Many beautiful discoveries await the visitor on Huahine. The lagoon is wonderful and its turquoise waters are home to multicolored fish, black tip sharks and even turtles. The views from the island’s many beaches are breathtaking. Huahine is indeed a wild island. Its particular relief and its luxuriant vegetation hold all the attention.

The Essentials of Huahine

Huahine has a stunningly lovely lagoon and its beaches are among the most beautiful in Polynesia, especially in the villages of Fare in the north and Parea in the south. The warm waters are both crystalline and tinted with infinite shades of blue. Beyond, the green mountains and the cliffs participate in a real explosion of colors.

Huahine in a Nutshell

Huahine is a raw gem whose charm will leave no one unmoved. Its wild nature and the beauty of its lagoon are its main assets. On the bangs of mass tourism, the island has a satisfactory and diversified offer of accommodation and activities.

Good to Know

Etymology: The island owes its name to the fantastic silhouette of a pregnant woman lying on her back, drawn by the peaks of Mount Tavaiura. One can see her forehead, her face and the curves of her belly. Huahine literally means ” sex of a woman “.

What is the Huahine ruins?

But in all seriousness, Huahine is covered in ancient Polynesian ruins, and they’re all free to visit and clamber over. And although they do now look like piles of coral and stone, they used to be religious temples; sites where human and animal sacrifices took place; places for villagers to build canoes and braid ropes.

How many islands are there in Huahine?

Huahine is actually comprised of two large islands, which are connected by a narrow strip of land. I saw maybe a quarter of one of the islands, and none of the other.

How long is the flight from Tahiti to Huahine?

But it’s also kind of shocking at the same time, because Huahine is a 30 minute flight from Tahiti and a 30 minute flight from Bora Bora. It’s so easy to get there from the main tourist hubs of the region, but so few people make the journey.

Is Huahine a tourist island?

Huahine is one of the least populated islands in the Society Islands, and it’ s not filled with tourists either . With only eight small villages dotted around the 20-miles-in-circumference island and 5,000 residents, hopping on a bicycle and riding for just a few minutes is all it takes to feel like you’re on your own private island.

Is Huahine in the South Pacific?

Huahine was one of the cheapest islands I visited in French Polynesia and the South Pacific in general. And yes, I. know. it’s. not. Southeast. Asia. cheap. , but this is a paradise island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, in a region that has a reputation for being one of the most expensive in the world. When you take that into account, I found ...

How to Get to Huahine Island

The best way to get to Huahine is to fly.

How Long to Spend on Huahine Island

I spent 3 nights in Huahine and found it to be a good amount of time. I saw and did what I wanted but, I definitely could have stayed a few days longer just to chill and relax. I would say you need at least two full days to see the best of the island; one by land and one by water.

Getting Around Huahine Island

The best way to get around Huahine is by car. Again, there is no public bus system and while taxis are available they are not common and very expensive. Huahine island isn’t huge, but it’s not somewhere you can cycle around easily either so it is definitely in your best interest to rent a car for a day.

Huahine Accommodations: Where to Stay

There are only a total of 50 accommodation options in Huahine including Airbnbs (so book early!). These are spread across both Huahine Nui (the big island) and Huahine Iti (the little island). Both islands are connected by the biggest bridge in French Polynesia (although it’s quite small).

Things to do in Huahine

So, what is there to do in Hauhine? Quite a bit! Here is what I suggest for the best things to do in Huahine.

Where to Eat in Huahine

As mentioned earlier, Fare has the most restaurant choices in Huahine. A favourite among everyone is the Yacht Club. You can watch the sunset here (and enjoy happy hour drinks from 5-6pm). It has a really fun and friendly atmosphere and good food. It’s considered to be the best restaurant in town by tourists and locals alike.

How Much Does Huahine Cost?

Huahine, while quieter and less touristic, still isn’t cheap. After all, this is French Polynesia. That being said, I did find some things cheaper in Huahine than Bora Bora. Our day trip, for example, cost $100 USD for a full day and a meal (including alcohol). We paid more than that for our 4-hour whale excursion in Mo’orea.

What does the name Huahine mean?

Fun fact, the name Huahine actually means “sex of the woman.”. Hua means sex and wahine or vahine means woman! 2. Fare & Fare Beach. Fare is the place to be when you come to Huahine—it has the island’s only supermarket, only happy hour, and only breakfast joint.

How many islands are there in Huahine?

Huahine is actually made up of two separate islands connected by a bridge: Huahine Nui (Big Huahine) to the north, and Huahine Iti (Little Huahine) to the south. The two islands are surrounded by several smaller motus (islets) and coral reefs, which is what keeps the lagoon waters so clear and calm.

What are the other towns on Huahine Nui?

Moving clockwise from Fare, the other towns and villages on Huahine Nui include Maeva, Faie and Fitii. Keep in mind that these are very small, blink-and-you’ll-miss-’em places; you might find a pension or two and a mini-mart, but not much else.

What is the name of the island in French Polynesia?

Huahine isn’t the first island most travelers think of when they imagine visiting French Polynesia; Bora Bora, Tahiti and Moorea usually come to mind long before this oft-forgotten island, which has been nicknamed “Garden of Eden.”

How long is the flight from Pape'ete to Huahine?

How to Get to Huahine. Huahine is a quick and easy 40-minute flight from Pape’ete, the international hub and jumping off point of French Polynesia, located on the island of Tahiti.

When did the Marae come to the island of Huahine?

Maeva Marae Complex: Historians believe that the ancient Polynesians first inhabited Huahine sometime during the 9th century AD. You can see remnants of the island’s rich and storied past in the village of Maeva, which contains the highest concentration of marae (ancient temples) in all of French Polynesia.

Is Huahine a French Polynesia island?

Whether you’re a backpacker, an independent traveler, a pair of honeymooners or a family, if you’re looking to get off the beaten path in French Polynesia, Huahine is your island.

How Many Days Do You Need In Huahine?

If you’re pressed for time and looking to get a taste of the island, 3 days in Huahine is probably the minimum you’ll need. Five days will already give you the freedom to explore and do a bit of R&R.

When Is the Best Time To Visit Huahine?

Like all Society Islands, the ‘best’ time to visit Huahine is during the dry season (May – October). During this time, the temperature is slightly lower, there’s a cool breeze at night and most importantly – there’s less rain and cloud cover.

What To Pack for Huahine?

Huahine is a tropical destination, and as such – I recommend packing clothes that dry quickly and keep moisture (a.k.a sweat) out. Have a look at the X Days In Y Packing List for recommendations on what to pack for Huahine based on my experience.

Where is the Lodge in Huahine?

Lodge: Le Mahana is one of the most popular choices in Huahine. Famous for its pontoon extending into the blue lagoon, this place sits on a beautiful stretch of beach in Avea Bay on the far side of Huahine. It’s got its own restaurant, tour desk, and car rental service.

Is Huahine Worth Visiting?

I simply LOVED Huahine! I spent a week here and could have stayed another. It felt like a mini version of Moorea but with a fraction of locals and tourists. Together with Raiatea, Huahine was a huge and pleasant surprise. I like it so much that I returned for a second visit a year later.

Overview

History

Geography

Administration

Demographics

Economy

Transportation

See also