What to do in Ua Huka? Top 9 Must-Do Activities
At MyLittlePolynesia, we’re passionate about Polynesia and the Marquesas archipelago. And if there’s one island that fascinates with its untouched wilderness and preserved authenticity, it’s Ua Huka, the most discreet of the Marquesas. Here, no turquoise lagoons or large hotel complexes: the island captivates with its arid plateaus populated by wild horses, verdant valleys, and mysterious archaeological sites.
With barely 600 inhabitants, Ua Huka lives to the rhythm of the villages of Vaipae’e, Hane, and Hokatu, where the welcome is simple and warm. It’s also the kingdom of red stone tikis, ancestral petroglyphs, and the famous Cave of Footprints, which immerse visitors in the deep soul of the Marquesas. The 25-hectare arboretum, a true world botanical garden, adds an unexpected touch to this wild island.
In this article, we share our Top 9 must-do activities in Ua Huka. Whether you’re a lover of pristine nature, passionate about Marquesan culture and history, or simply seeking a timeless experience, Ua Huka promises you a unique journey to the heart of the most secret Polynesia. Our advice? Plan at least 3 to 4 days on site, and if you can, combine it with a stopover in Nuku Hiva, Hiva Oa, or Fatu Hiva to fully experience the soul of the Marquesas Islands.
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What to Do in Ua Huka ? Top 9 Activities and Must-See Spots
For Ua Huka, plan at least 3 to 4 days to explore all its facets. The island, nicknamed “the island of horses,” captivates with its peaceful atmosphere, arid landscapes contrasting with the lushness of other islands, and its preserved culture.
People come here to wander through the villages of Vaipaee, Hane, and Hokatu, discover archaeological sites and artisan workshops, or admire the wild fauna on the ridge roads.
And for nature lovers, the arboretum, motus, and secret beaches offer unique moments of escape. A charming stopover, often aboard the Aranui, that will leave you with an unforgettable memory of the most authentic Polynesia.
Check our full article Best time to visit French Polynesia. Let’s start our top 9 !
1. Explore the traditional villages of Ua Huka: Vaipaee, Hane, and Hokatu
The villages of Ua Huka are the living heart of the island and offer a unique glimpse into authentic Marquesan culture. Vaipae’e, the main village, is the ideal starting point for discovering the island. Here you’ll find colorful houses, small local shops, and family guesthouses, perfect for immersing yourself in the daily life of the inhabitants.
Further north, Hane and Hokatu are more remote villages where time seems to have stood still. Here, you’ll discover traditional stilt houses, lush tropical gardens, and small marae, remnants of the island’s religious and cultural history. Each village has its unique charm, between absolute calm and the warm welcome of the inhabitants.
Strolling through these villages means letting yourself be surprised by small alleyways, artisan workshops, and memorable human encounters. The inhabitants willingly share stories, legends, and traditions, offering total immersion in Marquesan life.
These villages are also ideal for photography, thanks to the contrasts between the colorful houses, surrounding hills, and blue Marquesan sky. Every street corner is a living postcard where nature and culture blend.
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By exploring Vaipae’e, Hane, and Hokatu, you better understand the cultural richness of Ua Huka and feel all the authenticity of deep Polynesia, far from classic tourist circuits. It’s an essential stop for all those who wish to soak up Marquesan history and lifestyle.
📖 Read the article ➜ Traveling in French Polynesia: 10 day Itinerary & Tips
2. Discover local crafts in Ua Huka
In Ua Huka, local craftsmanship is at the heart of Marquesan culture, and craft centers are essential stops for curious travelers. Here you’ll discover wood sculptures, handmade by passionate artisans, reflecting traditional motifs and the island’s history. Each piece is unique and tells an authentic Marquesan story.
The centers also offer demonstrations around tapa, the traditional fabric made from tree bark, and monoi, the perfumed oil used for centuries in rituals and body care. These workshops offer complete immersion in Ua Huka’s ancestral know-how.
By visiting these centers, travelers can participate in practical workshops, learn traditional gestures, and even create their own souvenir. It’s a unique way to connect with local culture and understand the role of craftsmanship in the inhabitants’ daily life.
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The craft centers are mainly located in Vaipae’e and Hokatu, but some workshops are hidden in remote villages, offering an intimate and authentic experience. Artisans willingly share their passion, tell legends, and explain techniques passed down from generation to generation.
For culture enthusiasts, photography lovers, and those seeking unique souvenirs, these centers are a must. Discovering sculptures, tapa, and monoi in Ua Huka means diving into the island’s soul and leaving with objects full of history and meaning, precious memories of an immersive stay in the Marquesas.
👉 You can check out our article on 10 days in the Marquesas during your trip to Polynesia, why this archipelago is a must-include during your trip to Polynesia.
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3. Hike and admire nature and horses in Ua Huka
If you love wild nature and spectacular panoramas, Ua Huka is a true little paradise. The island offers unique hiking trails where you cross semi-arid plateaus, lush valleys, and hills overlooking the ocean. Every step is a discovery: wild horses and sheep, endemic birds, and typical landscapes of the authentic Marquesas.
The hikes are accessible to all levels, but some can be a bit steep, so it’s recommended to wear good hiking shoes and bring water. The trails often lead to impressive viewpoints, perfect for observing the island and its deep valleys, or simply to enjoy the surrounding silence and tranquility.
Among the must-sees, the central plateau offers a 360° view of Ua Huka, its villages, and even neighboring islands in clear weather. It’s an ideal spot for photographers and lovers of wild landscapes, where every angle offers a natural postcard.
Along the way, you can also discover ancient cultural sites, such as small marae or traditional remains, which testify to Marquesan history. Hikes in Ua Huka are not just a feast for the eyes: they’re also an immersion in the island’s history and culture.
For a concrete example of a loop combining mountains and atolls over 3 weeks, check out our article 3-Week Itinerary: Tuamotu and Society Islands with all the stages and durations per island.
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4. Enjoy the beaches and swimming in Ua Huka: Hatuana, Haavei, Manihina
Even though Ua Huka isn’t known for its extensive beaches, it contains small coves and isolated bays that delight lovers of turquoise water and tranquility. Vaipae’e bay, near the main village, remains essential for a calm swim or some snorkeling in clear waters.
But other beaches are worth the detour: Hatuana, with its fine sand and calm sea, is ideal for relaxing in the sun, while Haavei offers a wild and preserved setting, perfect for a seaside picnic or a swim far from any agitation. Manihina, meanwhile, is a small secret cove where the view of the ocean and surrounding cliffs is simply breathtaking.
These beaches are often accessible only on foot or by boat, which makes them even more authentic and preserved. Snorkeling at Hatuana, Haavei, or Manihina allows you to observe rich marine fauna, with colorful fish and sometimes sea turtles.
👉 If you’re looking for information on cruising with the Aranui in Polynesia, check out our complete article: Everything you need to know about the Aranui, authentic Polynesian cruise on a mixed cargo ship.
5. Explore the motus Teuaua and Papa
A few cables from Ua Huka, the motus Teuaua and Papa offer a unique experience for lovers of wild nature and adventure. These uninhabited islets are preserved jewels of the Marquesas, where you can observe spectacular coastal landscapes, isolated beaches, and abundant marine fauna.
Boat excursions to Teuaua and Papa allow you to enjoy deserted beaches and secret coves, ideal for snorkeling or simply relaxing away from everything. The clear water reveals rich underwater life, with colorful fish and sometimes sea turtles.
These motus are also perfect for photography enthusiasts, with panoramas that blend steep cliffs, white sand, and turquoise lagoons, typical of wild Polynesia. It’s total immersion in a preserved and authentic environment, far from tourist infrastructure.
For nature lovers, the motus Teuaua and Papa are an ideal playground for observing seabirds, exploring small reefs, and enjoying absolute calm. Excursions are generally done from Vaipae’e or the main port of Ua Huka, with local guides who know every cove and secret corner.
In summary, visiting the motus Teuaua and Papa means extending the adventure in Ua Huka by discovering wild and intact islets, where every moment becomes an unforgettable memory of authentic Polynesia. These getaways perfectly complement a stay on the island for those who want to combine hiking, culture, and sea.
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6. Explore the Cave of Footprints in Ua Huka
The Cave of Footprints, or Cave of the Footprints, is one of the most mysterious and fascinating sites in Ua Huka. Hidden in the island’s hills, this cave owes its name to the footprints engraved in the rock, which tell ancient stories and testify to Marquesan culture.
Access to the cave is generally done with a local guide, which makes the exploration both safe and enriching. Inside, visitors discover ancient engravings and symbols, remnants of a past when Ua Huka’s inhabitants used these places for ceremonies or rituals. Each footprint seems to whisper the island’s history and that of its inhabitants.
The site is also spectacular from a natural standpoint: stalactites, rock formations, and light effects create an almost mystical atmosphere. Photographers will be captivated by the contrasts between dark rocks and rays of light filtering through openings.
Visiting the Cave of Footprints means diving into the history and legends of the Marquesas, while enjoying an immersive and authentic experience. Guides tell local anecdotes and myths that bring this unique place to life, making the visit both cultural and emotional.
👉 If you’re interested in information about the most beautiful Polynesian islands to visit, you can check out our article on our top 7 islands to visit.
7. Discover Meiaute in Ua Huka
Meiaute is one of Ua Huka’s hidden treasures, ideal for travelers seeking authentic nature and tranquility. Located away from the main villages, this place offers a wild setting where lush vegetation meets the semi-arid landscapes characteristic of the authentic Marquesas.
Walking in Meiaute, you discover verdant valleys, small streams, and steep hills, perfect for hiking and photography enthusiasts. Each trail allows you to feel the connection with the island’s preserved nature, far from any tourist infrastructure.
Meiaute is also a privileged place to observe local fauna, particularly endemic birds and herds of wild horses and sheep, emblematic of Ua Huka. Birdwatching and nature enthusiasts will find their happiness here.
The site also offers exceptional panoramas of surrounding bays and cliffs, ideal for admiring the sunset or simply soaking in the serenity of the place. For travelers seeking calm, Meiaute is a true haven of peace.
Polynesia is truly a world of its own: every island has its own personality, and there is always another one to discover. Check out our full article on the Polynesia travel budget for honeymoon.
8. Visit the arboretum of Ua Huka
Ua Huka’s arboretum is a true gem for lovers of nature and biodiversity. Over 25 hectares, it brings together an incredible variety of citrus species and fruit trees, some from Polynesia, others from Asia and South America. It’s the perfect place to discover the botanical richness of the Marquesas and learn more about local cultures.
Walking through the arboretum is like traveling around the world in a few hours. Each tree tells its story: mango trees, papaya trees, orange trees, but also rarer species like breadfruit or tamarind. The scents, colors, and textures of the fruits create a unique sensory experience.
The arboretum is also an ideal place for families and botanical photography enthusiasts, thanks to its shaded paths and observation areas. Visitors can learn about traditional uses of plants and how they’ve been integrated into Marquesan culture.
In addition to botanical discovery, the arboretum offers panoramic views of Ua Huka’s surrounding valleys and mountains, combining culture and spectacular landscapes. A visit here is a true moment of relaxation and connection with nature.
For those who wish to explore Ua Huka differently than through beaches or villages, the arboretum is a must that shows another facet of the island, between biodiversity, local culture, and authentic immersion. It’s an ideal step to enrich a stay already rich in adventures and discoveries.
👉 If you’re looking for information to plan your own travel itinerary in French Polynesia, check out our article: How to Organize Your Own Trip to Polynesia – The Best Tips.
9. Explore the petroglyphs and tikis of Ua Huka
Ua Huka is a true open-air museum, where you can discover petroglyphs and tikis testifying to the history and beliefs of the ancient Marquesas. These rock engravings and traditional statues dot the island, often in remote sites, and offer a fascinating glimpse into Polynesian culture.
The tikis, carved figures representing deities or ancestors, are visible in several villages and archaeological sites. They symbolize protection, spirituality, and traditional values, and each tiki tells a unique story of the island. Observing these sculptures means understanding how art and religion were intimately linked to the inhabitants’ daily life.
The petroglyphs, meanwhile, are often engraved on flat rocks or in caves. They represent geometric motifs, characters, or scenes from daily life and are essential for understanding the historical and spiritual past of Ua Huka. These sites are generally accessible on foot or with a local guide, who explains their significance and associated legends.
For lovers of history, photography, and culture, visiting the petroglyphs and tiki sites is a unique immersive experience. Each engraving or sculpture offers a journey through time, allowing you to feel the richness and depth of Marquesan culture.
In summary, exploring the petroglyphs and tikis of Ua Huka is a must for any curious traveler. It’s a way to connect with the soul of the island, between ancestral art, spirituality, and wild landscapes, far from the classic tourist circuits of the Marquesas.
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Check out all our articles on must-do activities and island-by-island recommendations to help you plan the perfect trip to French Polynesia. People also visit Nuku Hiva and Hiva Oa and sometimes Fatu Hiva during their marquesas trip.
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