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 and is situated 175 km’s northwest of Tahiti. It is made up of two main islands surrounded by a coral reef with several motu. Huahine Nui (Big Huahine) lies to the north and Huahine Iti (Little Huahine) to the south. The two islands are separated by a few hundred yards of water and joined by a sandspit at low tide. A small bridge was built to connect Huahine Nui and Huahine Iti.

Huahine has deep water bays and lagoons, lush mountains and beautiful white sand beaches. The lagoon, bordered by white sand beaches, is rich with sea life, and Maeva Village is a wealth of archeological sites. The principal village of Fare has attractive shady almond and acacia trees. You can go horse riding to the beaches or into the mountains along established trails. There are also 4x4s, cars, bicycles and scooters to rent to venture around the island. Lagoon excursions, motor boat sailing, scuba diving, and deep-sea fishing are also enjoyed here.

Things to See and Do

* Archeological sites at Maeva
* Fare waterfront
* Water sports
* Snorkeling & diving in the lagoon
* Island exploration

Cruise Season – Jan - Dec
Currency – CFP franc (XPF)
Language – French, Tahitian
Land Area – 74.8 km²
Population – 6,000 approx
Electricity – 2 angled flat pins and 1 round pin centred below Australian style
Time – GMT minus ten hours
International Country Telephone Code – + 689

Port Location – The port is located at the village of Fare.

Transport Links – Regular ferries are available from Papette to Fare.

Two cruise ships/luxury liners currently ply the islands: the Paul Gauguin, which does a regular 7-day trip around the Societies, with occasional trips out to the Tuamotus, Marquesas and Cook Islands; and the Tahitian Princess which does similar itineraries.