Best things to do in Huahine

Explore the simplicity of Polynesian life in Fare, in Huahine, FP, a small, authentic town. Take a walk through the open-air fruit and vegetable market and sample the fresh, colorful local delicacies sold by enthusiastic and welcoming vendors. Have a swim at the secluded sandy beach before relaxing with the locals at a restaurant or bar in the main town. As you walk around, look for the distinctive parish churches. A supermarket offers a range of necessities and supplies, along with interesting examples of local cuisine. Different accommodations are available if you want to extend your visit.

Take a trip out to Huahine Pearl Farm, deeply committed to marine conservation and the protection of French Polynesia's Tahitian black pearl heritage. The main hut juts out above the water and is accessible only by boat; you can get there on a tour run by external companies or by the pearl farm itself. The expert staff will tell you about the process of pearl farming, then take you out into the lagoon on their canoe for the chance to spot turtles and tropical fish in the clear waters. Treat yourself to pieces of handmade pottery inspired by the abundant marine life, made and sold on site.

Discover the rich history and culture of the island's ancient capital at Fare Potee maeva huahine, where you can take a guided tour around the "fare pote'e" (traditional Polynesian house) to gain an understanding of how people once lived here.

Discover the rich cultural history of Polynesian islanders at Sito Archeologico Di Maeva, featuring a dense concentration of ruins from over a millennium ago. Set just back from the island's coast, the historical site includes some 200 stone structures, including the remains of a marae (open-air sacred temple), dwellings, horticultural developments, and religious monuments. Have a picnic by the sea, or sheltered under the palms that line the grassy areas. Then follow the path to an ancient fishing village that sits just beyond the ruins, learning about the ancient technique of fish trapping from the artifacts on display here.

Find a souvenir of your time in French Polynesia at Motu Tresor, a family-run shell and pearl museum and shop. Let the owner introduce you to the different varieties of shells and the species that make them their home, and elucidate the processes used in the cultivation of Tahitian black pearls. Pick out your favorite natural designs, or find a piece of jewelry that incorporates them into a traditional or contemporary setting. The shop's attractive displays also offer a diverse selection of gift ideas, postcards, and ornaments.

Galerie 'Umatatea exhibits works by American-born Melanie Shook Dupre, who finds inspiration in Polynesian landscapes and people. The gallery is also the artist's studio, so there's a good chance you'll be able to see Melanie working on her vibrant watercolors, oil pastels, and graphics. Choose from from a variety of artworks in a broad price range -- if the oil paintings are over your budget, you can pick up a paper piece or a limited edition print.