From the RFP's airport
- Taxis are available to reach the town center, located about a 5-minute drive away.
- Several taxis also provide regular service to and from the airport.
Dining (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Small vendors: snacks, takeaway meals, quick dishes
Bakeries / Pastry shops: ideal for breakfast
Restaurants and snack bars: local cuisine or fast food
Local crafts
Uturoa Market:
Ground floor: stalls with local produce (fruits, vegetables, honey, etc.)
First floor: artisans offering clothing, jewelry, sculptures, accessories
Fridays and weekends: lively atmosphere with musical entertainment
Small artisan stalls at the ferry terminal: local shops offering clothing, jewelry, sculptures, accessories, and other handmade items
Accommodation
- There is a hotel located right in the center of Uturoa.
- Several other accommodation options are available in the town and surrounding areas, including guesthouses, small hotels, Airbnb rentals, and more.
How to get to Taha’a or the other islands
Bora Bora, Huahine, Maupiti: These islands can be reached by plane or by boat.
Taha’a: To get to Taha’a, several taxi boats are available from the center of Uturoa. Most do not require reservations; you simply show up and board.
For Bora Bora and Maupiti, you can take the Apetahi Express or Maupiti Express ferries.
Key Events of the Year in Raiatea
Throughout the year, Raiatea comes alive with various cultural events, both big and small. Here are the main ones not to be missed:
Heiva i Uturoa (June/July)
This is the major cultural event of the year. For several weeks, the town bustles with traditional activities, dance performances, competitions, and craft demonstrations. A festive and friendly atmosphere that immerses visitors in Polynesian culture.Tiurai – The Fair
Held during the Heiva period, the fair brings together young and old with stalls, rides, and games. It’s also a key meeting place for locals, full of joy and lively energy.National Day – July 14th
In Uturoa, the national holiday is celebrated with a colorful parade of flower-adorned floats, accompanied by dances and various activities. Locals come together in a spirit of celebration and sharing.Hawaiki Nui Va’a (late October – early November)
A legendary event, the Hawaiki Nui Va’a is Polynesia’s most iconic outrigger canoe race. For over 30 years, paddlers from across Polynesia and even abroad compete in a three-stage race:Departure from Huahine
Stage in Raiatea, then Taha’a
Spectacular finish in Bora Bora
A few days before the start, Huahine comes alive with local artisan stalls, traditional performances, and a vibrant atmosphere. Each participating island becomes a festive space, with dances, tastings of local dishes, and a friendly, celebratory mood.
For the occasion, we make our boat available so you can follow the race up close, right in the heart of the action. It’s a unique opportunity to see our ‘aito’ (champion paddlers) in action, feel the intensity of the competition, and experience the atmosphere from the sea, in the front row.
Attending the Hawaiki Nui at least once is a magical experience that we highly recommend: it’s an authentic celebration of Polynesian culture.
