Two of the most stunning islands in French Polynesia are Raiatea and Huahine, which provide tourists with an exceptional combination of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and natural beauty. These islands provide something for everyone, whether you’re seeking a tranquil tropical getaway or an exciting vacation. This page will go over the various aspects of traveling from Raiatea to Huahine, such as the sights and things to do on each island, how to get from one island to the next, and the various lodging choices.
Raiatea: The Sacred Island
Being the spiritual hub of Polynesia, Raiatea is renowned for its historic temples, verdant landscape, and rich cultural legacy. The island is home to some of the most important historical sites in the Pacific and has a long history. In addition to its pristine beaches, thick tropical woods, and crystal-clear blue lagoons, Raiatea is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty.
The Taputapuatea Marae, which is regarded as the most significant sacred place in Polynesia, is one of the must-see sights in Raiatea. The marae was historically a hub for political and religious activities. Before embarking on their expeditions, explorers and navigators would visit there to get blessings. Visitors can now explore the marae’s remains and discover more about their history and significance.
The only navigable river in French Polynesia, the Faaroa River, is another well-liked attraction in Raiatea. Tourists can explore the river’s lush banks and tropical greenery on a guided trip. The island’s most unusual animals, including fish, turtles, and birds, call the river home.
Water sports including kayaking, scuba diving, and snorkeling are also very popular in Raiatea. An excellent location for exploring the undersea world is the island, which is surrounded by waters that are crystal clear and filled with marine life. A cultural tour of the island is another option for visitors to experience its fascinating history and customs.
Huahine: The Garden Island
Beautiful island Huahine is renowned for its pristine lagoons, white sand beaches, and verdant greenery. Due to its breathtaking natural beauty, it is frequently referred to as the “Garden Isle”. Huahine is renowned for having a rich cultural legacy and for being the location of numerous historic temples and revered locations.
The Maeva Archaeological Site, one of the most important historical sites in French Polynesia, is a must-see destination in Huahine. Visitors can explore the ruins and discover more about the island’s rich history and culture at the location, which is home to a number of historic temples and other buildings.
The Faie Pearl Farm, one of the few pearl farms in French Polynesia that is open to visitors, is another well-liked site in Huahine. Guests can enjoy a guided tour of the farm and discover how pearls are grown there. The farm’s gift shop also sells top-notch pearls as well as other mementos.
Moreover, Huahine is a well-liked location for water sports like diving, snorkeling, and surfing. Colorful fish and sea turtles are among the marine fauna that may be found in the island’s crystal-clear waters. Take a boat tour or go on a snorkeling expedition to see the island’s breathtaking beaches and lagoons.
Getting from Raiatea to Huahine
The short distance separating Raiatea and Huahine makes it simple for tourists to travel between the two islands. The most well-liked mode of transportation between the islands is via boat. There are numerous daily departures from Raiatea to Huahine provided by a number of ferry companies. The 30-minute ferry voyage between the two islands provides breathtaking views of the other islands and lagoons.
Private boat or yacht travel is an additional means of getting between the islands. Visitors can explore the islands at their own speed by renting a yacht or boat from one of the many rental firms. This is a fantastic choice for people who wish to see the Pacific Ocean’s beauty and explore the islands’ more isolated regions.
Accommodation Options
Visitors can stay in a variety of lodging options on both Raiatea and Huahine, from luxurious resorts and villas to hostels and guesthouses that are affordable. The resorts, which provide breathtaking ocean views, opulent amenities, and access to some of the islands’ best beaches and attractions, are the most popular lodging choices on both islands.
Visitors to Raiatea have a variety of luxurious resorts to choose from, including the Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa, the Le Taha’a Island Resort & Spa, and the Sofitel Moorea Ia Ora Beach Resort. These resorts provide access to some of the island’s top beaches and attractions, as well as opulent extras like private pools, spa services, and excellent dining options.
On Raiatea, there are many affordable lodging options, including hostels and guesthouses, for people on a tight budget. These hotels are a wonderful choice for travellers and tourists on a tight budget because they provide basic facilities at a reasonable cost.
Visitors to Huahine have a selection of lodging choices, including resorts, hotels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals. The Royal Huahine Resort, Maitai Lapita Village Huahine, and Te Tiare Beach Resort are some of the well-known resorts in Huahine. These resorts provide access to some of the island’s top beaches and attractions, as well as opulent extras like private pools, spa services, and excellent dining options.
Hostels and guesthouses are only a couple of the affordable lodging choices in Huahine. These hotels are a fantastic choice for tourists on a tight budget because they provide basic facilities at a reasonable cost.
Activities in Raiatea and Huahine
Visitors can engage in a variety of activities on both Raiatea and Huahine, from cultural excursions and historical sites to outdoor pursuits and water sports.
Visitors to Raiatea have the option of taking a guided tour of the Faaroa River or hiking through the lush tropical forests to discover the island’s breathtaking natural beauty. In addition, the island is a well-liked location for water sports like kayaking, scuba diving, and snorkeling. A cultural tour of the island is another option for visitors to experience its fascinating history and customs.
The Raiatea Sacred Island Tour, which takes guests on a trip through the island’s history and traditions, is one of the most well-liked cultural excursions in Raiatea. The tour offers opportunities to learn about traditional Polynesian culture and art as well as visits to a number of historical locations, including the Taputapuatea Marae and the Uturoa Market.
Visitors to Huahine can go on a boat tour or a snorkeling adventure to discover the island’s breathtaking beaches and lagoons. The island also has great surfing conditions, and there are a number of surf schools where tourists can enroll in lessons. Huahine is a fantastic location for cultural trips because it also has a lot of historic attractions and old temples.
The Huahine Sacred Sites Tour, which brings tourists to various ancient temples and other sacred places on the island, is one of the most well-liked cultural tours in Huahine. The tour offers opportunities to learn about traditional Polynesian culture and art as well as visits to the Maeva Archaeological Site and the Fare Ancient Marae.
Our Top FAQ's
The best time of year to visit Raiatea and Huahine is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is typically sunny and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities and water sports.
Some must-see attractions in Raiatea include the Faaroa River, the Taputapuatea Marae, and the Uturoa Market. In Huahine, visitors should check out the Maeva Archaeological Site, the Fare Ancient Marae, and the island’s stunning beaches and lagoons.
The easiest way to get to Raiatea and Huahine is by plane, with several daily flights from Tahiti and other nearby islands. Visitors can also take the ferry between the two islands or rent a private boat or yacht.
For budget-conscious travelers, there are several hostels and guesthouses in both Raiatea and Huahine that offer basic amenities at an affordable price. Additionally, there are several vacation rentals available on both islands, which can be a great option for those looking for a more authentic and local experience.