Maeva Marae Complex
Maeva
The densest marae archaeological area in French Polynesia. Dozens of stone temples are scattered along the lakeshore and hillsides, making Maeva the cultural heart of Huahine.
Maeva was once the royal center where the chiefly families of Huahine lived together. Along the shore of Lake Fauna Nui and the slopes of Mata'irea, many stone marae (ceremonial platforms), house sites and ancient fish traps have been preserved. The reconstructed stilted long house Fare Pote'e beside the lake serves as a small museum introducing the marae and archaeological finds. The lakeshore sites can be visited freely. It's about a 15-minute drive or bike ride from Fare. Please do not climb the stone platforms, which local people still regard as sacred.
Opening hours
Site open all day; museum about 09:00–16:00 (may close on weekends)
Nearby sights
- Ancient Fish Traps of Maeva
- Matairea Hill Archaeological Trail
- Marae Manunu
- Huahine Pearl Farm
- Sacred Blue-eyed Eels of Faie
- Belvedere Lookout
- Fare
- Maroe Bay Bridge