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Home » Tahiti
Islands » Huahine
Huahine ~ The Garden of Eden
(Society Islands)
The word "Huahine" means pregnant woman in Tahitian and
the island gets its name from the shape of the island which when
viewed from a distance, looks like a pregnant woman lying on her
back. Just 35 minutes by plane from Tahiti, Huahine is actually
two islands joined by a small bridge. There are watermelon and cantaloupe
plantations on the motus (islets), and bustling shops along its
waterfront yet the overall feeling of Huahine is very relaxed. In
Huahine one gets the feeling that time has somehow stood still.
 Because
of the many archaeological sites, some have compared Huahine to
an outdoor museum. Visit the historic former royal village of Maeva
where restored marae (sacrificial temples) and other ancient sites
tell of a civilization the existed over 1,000 years ago. Guides
can even take you to lakes where 300-year-old fishing traps are
still being used. Add to that the beauty of Huahine's vegetation
and you will find the perfect way to explore the island is by foot,
bike, scooter or 4x4. The island is just 20 miles in circumference
so it can be easily covered in one day. If you'd like to embark
on an excursion deep within Huahine's interior, the local stable
will coordinate 1-3 day tours on horseback. Their Marquesan horses
accommodate both beginning and advanced riders. Of course, you will
find all the usual aquatic activities available.
Huahine's waters are home to a bevy of fish, including mahi mahi,
marlin and tuna. You can check them out while scuba diving or you
can arrange a "deep-sea safari" in which skipper and picnic
are included. The sailing cruises offered on Huahine are for visitors
who stay in hotels but who wish to treat themselves to a real yachting
day. During your tour of Huahine's waterways, you will have the
unique opportunity to view this beautiful island from vantage points
only accessible by sea. Huahine also happens to have some of the
best waves and most consistent breaks in all of French Polynesia
- making it especially popular with surfers.
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