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Maeva

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village
—°10
Maeva (French Polynesia)
ℹ️

Practical info — Maeva

🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

💡 Tips

  • Rent a bicycle to explore the archaeological sites and Lake Fauna Nui at your own pace.
  • Out of respect for the local culture, never touch or move the stones at the sacred Marae complexes.
  • Watch the ancient stone fish traps when the tide shifts; they are still used by locals today.
  • Bring plenty of water, as the historic trails are exposed to the sun and offer little shade.

🍽 Food

🍽
Fresh lagoon fish

Often caught in the ancient traps and served at nearby snack bars.

🍽
Taro root dishes

Traditionally prepared in earth ovens; an authentic taste of Polynesia.

🍽
Fresh drinking coconuts

The excellent refreshment from roadside stands near the lake.

🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots

🛍
Locally grown melons

Sold by locals at small tables set up along the road.

🛍
Woven pandanus hats

Traditional headwear crafted by artisans in the village.

🧘
The shores of Lake Fauna Nui

Peaceful for bird watching and enjoying serene water views.

🧘
Matairea Hill trail

A quiet hike passing ancient ruins shaded by giant banyan trees.

Maeva is a village on the island of Huahine in French Polynesia, located on the south coast. The settlement lies on a sheltered bay and is known for its traditional Polynesian architecture and well-preserved marae. Maeva is a center of Polynesian culture, with regular dance performances and craft markets. The economy relies on tourism, agriculture, and fishing. The population is about 600. Historically, Maeva was an important place for the chiefs of Huahine, and the nearby marae of Maeva served as a religious center. The village has a 19th-century coral stone church, a school, and a museum. The lagoon is rich in fish and corals. Hiking trails lead to archaeological sites and viewpoints. Local cuisine provides coconut dishes and grilled fish. An annual Huahine Festival celebrates the island's culture and traditions.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C282828282727262626262727
Rain mm198174142118936042423472111216

Geography

Coordinates
-16.70000, -150.98000

Facts

  • Huahine has an area of 75 km².
  • The marae of Maeva dates from the 16th century.
  • Maeva has 612 inhabitants (2017 census).
  • The church was built in 1845.
  • The lagoon is up to 10 meters deep.
  • The Huahine Festival takes place in October.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Maeva (10)

Marae Manunu

Ancient Polynesian ceremonial platform (marae) in Maeva, Tahaa. Archaeological relic.

Monuments aux morts de l'Uranie

War memorial in Maeva, Tahaa. Commemorates the fallen of the Uranie.

Pièges à poissons

Traditional fish traps on the coast of Maeva, Tahaa. Traces of old fishing methods.

Pae pae Ofata

Stone platform (pae pae) in Maeva, Tahaa. Archaeological remains of a settlement.

Snorkeling

Snorkeling spot in Maeva, Tahaa. Observation of corals and fish.

Marae

Polynesian ceremonial site (marae) in Maeva, Tahaa. Culturally significant area.

Marae Avaroa

Marae Avaroa in Maeva, Tahaa. Historical ceremonial platform of the island.

Ecomusee du Fare Pote'e🏛 museum

Open-air museum in Maeva, Tahaa. Showcases traditional Polynesian life.

Coral garden

Coral garden off Maeva, Tahaa. Underwater world with coral formations.

Temple adventiste

Adventist temple in Maeva, Tahaa. Place of worship for the Adventist community.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Maeva famous?
Because of the historical sites and fish traps.
Are there many things to see?
Yes, a very historic area.
Is it far away?
Easily accessible on the island.
Do you have to walk much?
A bit, comfortable shoes are advisable.
When to visit?
Best during the day.
Maeva: where is it located?
Maeva is located in French Polynesia.
Maeva: what is there to see?
Highlights include Marae Manunu, Monuments aux morts de l'Uranie, Pièges à poissons.
Maeva: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Maeva: why is it worth visiting?
Maeva is a village on the island of Huahine in French Polynesia, located on the south coast.
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