Huahine-Fare Airport

Huahine's laid-back port town where authentic Polynesia comes alive.

Fare is the main village and port of Huahine, one of French Polynesia's most unspoiled islands in the Society Islands group. It sits along a tranquil harbor lined with wooden buildings, small cafes, and a weekly market that draws both locals and visitors. The town serves as the natural base for exploring Huahine's archaeological sites, lagoons, and lush interior.

Unlike Bora Bora or Moorea, Fare retains a genuine, unhurried character that appeals to travelers seeking a quieter, more authentic slice of Polynesian life. Residents are welcoming, French and Tahitian are both spoken, and the pace of daily life moves in sync with the tides. The harbor itself is a social hub where supply ships, sailboats, and outrigger canoes share the same calm waters.

Fare is small enough to walk across in minutes, yet it provides easy access to Huahine's two main islands — Huahine Nui and Huahine Iti — connected by a short bridge. It is a destination that rewards slow travelers who appreciate nature, history, and simplicity over luxury resort amenities.

• •Maeva Marae Complex — ancient Polynesian temple ruins among the most significant in the Pacific.
• •Lake Fauna Nui — serene fish-trap lake perfect for kayaking and birdwatching.
• •Fare Waterfront — charming harbor promenade ideal for evening strolls and people-watching.
• •Huahine Lagoon — crystal-clear waters offering excellent snorkeling and blue-eyed eels.
• •Faie Sacred Blue-Eyed Eels — rare freshwater eels revered in local tradition at a roadside stream.
• •Huahine Pearl Farm — small farm offering tours on cultured pearl cultivation in the lagoon.

Getting around: Fare has no public bus or rail service; the primary ways to get around are by renting a bicycle, scooter, or car from local agencies clustered near the harbor. Le truck, a traditional open-air truck-bus, occasionally operates on the island but is unreliable for tourists. Taxis exist but are limited and expensive; advance booking is recommended. Many visitors simply walk within Fare itself, as the village is compact and most services are within a few minutes on foot.

Best time: The dry season from May through October offers the most comfortable conditions, with lower humidity, less rainfall, and pleasant temperatures ideal for outdoor activities and lagoon exploration.

Local food: Try poisson cru — raw fish marinated in lime juice and coconut milk — alongside fresh grilled mahi-mahi, breadfruit dishes, and tropical fruit from the Sunday morning market near the harbor.

This guide is provided for general information only. Verify details locally before making travel decisions.