Home » Tahiti Islands » Nuku Hiva

Nuku Hiva ~ The Mystical Island
(Marquesas)

“A country that no description could fit the beauty.”
This is what novelist Herman Melville had to say about Nuku Hiva....

It is indeed difficult to find the proper words to adequately describe the awe inspiring beauty of this magnificent island. As you view the imposing cliffs and gaze upon the jagged walls that plunge suddenly into the immense ocean below, you get a sense the secrets of this land are impenatrable. Tell a local Tahitian you are visiting the Marquesas and you will see that they respond with admiration. Even for Tahitians, the Marquesas Islands are something very special. Nuku Hiva is a three-hour flight from Tahiti and an hour ahead of Tahiti. The rugged terrain of Nuku Hiva makes land activities a must. Spectacular vistas, rushing waterfalls (including one of the largest in the world) and fascinating archeological sites are just some of the rewards to be reaped as you explore this beautiful island.

No matter what your preference, hiking, horseback riding or 4-wheel drive, we highly recommend you hire a local guide to show you the many wonderful sites waiting to be explored. Grab a mask and snorkel and you simply won't believe the huge ocean fish you will see within the Bay of Taiohae. It will not be unusual for you to get up close and personal with hammerheads and manta rays. In Nuku Hiva huge fish swim very close to the surface. Caution must be advised however, unlike the other islands and atolls of French Polynesia, currents in the Marquesas can be quite strong and it is best to consult your hotel management for details. For those of you who are scuba divers, diving in Nuku Hiva should not be missed. Home to the pygmy headed whale, there is an abundance of big fish and small creatures you simply will not find in other parts of French Polynesia. Of course, these abundant waters also make for great deep sea fishing. Sailing is another great way to truly see the Marquesas Islands. Charter a boat and see vistas of the island from sites only accessible by boat.