Marae Vaiahu

Marae Vaiahu is one of the most spiritually significant and visually arresting archaeological sites on the island of Huahine. Located in the historic village of Maeva, this sacred complex dates back to the 17th century and was dedicated to the island's high chiefs and ancestors. What makes Vaiahu particularly unique is its coastal setting; unlike many inland marae, its massive basalt platforms extend right to the edge of the lagoon, with stone walls that seem to merge with the turquoise waters. This site was part of an extensive system of marae that once lined the shores of Lake Fauna Nui, serving as the religious and political heart of the ancient Huahine kingdom. Visitors today can walk among the ancient stones and feel the profound mana (spiritual power) that still permeates the area. The contrast between the dark volcanic stone and the spirited sea creates a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere. It remains a place of great reverence for the local community, preserving the complex social hierarchy and religious traditions of pre-colonial Polynesian society.

Nearby cities

Faa'a

Faa'a is the most populous commune in French Polynesia, located directly west of the capital Papeete.

Papeete

Papeete is the capital of French Polynesia and the primary economic hub located on the island of Tahiti.

Puna'auia

Puna'auia is a major residential commune on the west coast of Tahiti, known for its university and beaches.

Pirae

Pirae is an urban commune east of Papeete that hosts major medical and administrative facilities.

Vaitape

Vaitape is the largest town on Bora Bora and serves as the island's main commercial and administrative hub.

Paopao

Paopao is a village located at the base of the majestic Cook's Bay on the island of Moorea.

Haapiti

Haapiti is a village on the southwest coast of Moorea, known for its cultural traditions and excellent surf spots.

Uturoa

Uturoa is the administrative center of Raiatea island and the second most important town in French Polynesia after Papeete.

Afareaitu

Afareaitu is the administrative center of Moorea island, located on the island's picturesque eastern coast.

Teavaro

Teavaro is a village in eastern Moorea, famous for its long white sand Temae beach and views of Tahiti.

Faanui

Faanui is a picturesque village on Bora Bora, located on a deep bay and possessing a rich history.

Papetoai

Papetoai is a historic village on Moorea, located in Opunohu Bay and known for its octagonal church.

Tevaitoa

Tevaitoa is the main village of the Tumaraa commune in southwest Raiatea, known for its tranquility.

Faie

Faie is a small village on Huahine Nui, famous for its sacred blue-eyed eels.

Fitii

Fitii is a fishing village on the west coast of Huahine, known for its large taro fields and local culture.

History & landmarks

Uturoa Town Hall

The administrative building of Uturoa on Raiatea, the second-largest settlement in French Polynesia.

Huahine Vanilla Farms

Huahine is famous for its high-quality vanilla production.

More places

Papeete Town Hall

Papeete Town Hall is a magnificent colonial-style building that resembles the former palace of Queen Pomare.

Vaitoare

Vaitoare is the main port in southern Taha'a and the gateway to the island of Raiatea.

Vaiare

Vaiare is the primary port of Moorea and the main gateway for travelers arriving by ferry from Tahiti.

Marae Fare Pote'e

A ceremonial site in Maeva, part of the archaeological tour on Huahine.

Fare Potee Maeva

A beautifully reconstructed building in Huahine presenting Polynesian traditions.

Fare Potee Huahine

A reconstructed traditional community house in Maeva that serves as a museum.

Marae Rahuru

This marae in Maeva on Huahine is part of an archaeological path.

Fa'ahia Archaeological Site

This site on Huahine provided crucial evidence about early Polynesian settlement.