Nuku Hiva: The Untamed Jewel of French Polynesia
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Nuku Hiva, the largest island in the Marquesas archipelago, French Polynesia.
Nuku Hiva, the largest island in the Marquesas archipelago, captivates visitors with its dramatic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and untouched natural beauty. A paradise for adventure seekers and tranquility lovers alike, it offers everything from hiking rugged volcanic peaks to relaxing on secluded beaches.
A brief summary to Nuku Hiva
- Nuku Hiva, PF
Local tips
- Visit during the dry season (May to October) for the best weather and outdoor activities.
- Rent a car or hire a local guide to explore remote areas of the island.
- Try local dishes such as poisson cru (raw fish salad) to experience authentic Marquesan cuisine.
- Bring sturdy hiking shoes for the island's rugged trails, and don't forget your camera!
- Engage with local artists and craftsmen to learn about traditional Marquesan arts.
Getting There
-
Ferry
From Ua Pou, take the ferry to Nuku Hiva. The ferry typically departs from the main harbor in Ua Pou. Make sure to check the schedule in advance, as it may vary. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Enjoy the scenic views of the Marquesas Islands during the ride.
-
Inter-Island Flight
If you are on another island in the Marquesas, such as Hiva Oa, you can take a short inter-island flight to Nuku Hiva. Air Tahiti operates several flights daily, so check the flight schedule online or at the local travel office. The flight duration is about 30 minutes, and once you arrive at Nuku Hiva Airport, you can take a taxi or arrange for pickup to get to your accommodation.
-
Boat Charter
If you prefer a more personalized experience, consider chartering a boat from another island in the Marquesas. You can arrange this through local tour operators. This option allows you to enjoy a more leisurely journey and explore the waters around the islands. Be sure to negotiate the cost and confirm the details with the captain in advance.
Discover more about Nuku Hiva
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Nuku Hiva
0.0 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Nuku Hiva, the largest island in the Marquesas archipelago, French Polynesia.
PENSION KOKU'U
6.9 km
Explore the serene beauty of Nuku Hiva at Pension Koku'u, your cozy guest house for an unforgettable Polynesian experience.
Nuku Hiva Pitake Lodge
7.2 km
Discover the enchanting Nuku Hiva Pitake Lodge, where stunning landscapes meet warm hospitality in French Polynesia's serene paradise.
Hee Tai Inn
7.2 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Nuku Hiva at Hee Tai Inn, a charming hotel offering stunning ocean views and warm Polynesian hospitality.
Nuku Hiva Keikahanui Pearl Lodge
7.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Nuku Hiva Keikahanui Pearl Lodge, an idyllic retreat in French Polynesia offering stunning views and exceptional accommodations.
Mate Excursions
7.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Nuku Hiva with personalized tours from Mate Excursions, your gateway to unforgettable island adventures.
Comité Du Tourisme De Nuku Hiva
7.9 km
Explore Nuku Hiva's stunning landscapes and vibrant culture with valuable insights from the Tourist Information Center, your travel companion in paradise.
Snack Vaeaki
7.9 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Polynesia at Snack Vaeaki, a beloved restaurant in Nuku Hiva, where every meal is a taste of paradise.
Sentinelle de l'Ouest
11.0 km
Explore Sentinelle de l'Ouest, a tropical paradise in French Polynesia with stunning beaches, rich culture, and unforgettable adventures.
Nuku Hiva Airport
11.4 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Nuku Hiva Airport, your gateway to the enchanting Marquesas Islands in French Polynesia.
Iles Marquises
72.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Iles Marquises in French Polynesia, where stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage await every adventurous traveler.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ensemble Tahakia Kamuihei Teiipoka
7.1 km
Discover the serene beauty of Ensemble Tahakia Kamuihei Teiipoka, a tranquil park in Nuku Hiva, French Polynesia, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
E-MARQUISES
7.5 km
Discover the breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of E-MARQUISES, a must-visit tourist attraction in Nuku Hiva, French Polynesia.
Nuku-Hiva à cheval
7.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Nuku Hiva on horseback at Nuku-Hiva à cheval, a unique adventure in French Polynesia's stunning landscapes.
Quai des pecheurs
7.9 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and vibrant marine life of Quai des Pecheurs in French Polynesia, a perfect escape for every traveler.
TIKI TUHIVA
8.0 km
Experience the vibrant culture and rich traditions of the Marquesas Islands at Tiki Tuhiva, a cultural center in Nuku Hiva, French Polynesia.
Hakaui Adventure Tours & Camping
8.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Nuku Hiva with Hakaui Adventure Tours & Camping, where adventure meets Polynesian culture in stunning landscapes.
Anaho Bay
10.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of Anaho Bay in French Polynesia, a hidden paradise for relaxation, snorkeling, and unforgettable sunsets.
Essential places to dine
Chez Jaqueline
6.5 km
Discover authentic French Polynesian cuisine at Chez Jaqueline, a family-friendly restaurant in stunning Nuku Hiva.
Snack Pa-kakiu
6.8 km
Experience the taste of Nuku Hiva at Snack Pa-kakiu - where fast food meets Polynesian flavor in an inviting atmosphere.
ROULOTTE OUMATI
7.0 km
Experience the best fast food in Nuku Hiva at Roulotte Oumati - where local flavors meet international favorites.
Boulangerie-snack joseph
7.2 km
Experience authentic French Polynesian flavors at Boulangerie-Snack Joseph in Nuku Hiva, where fresh baked goods meet local culinary traditions.
EURL HINAKO-NUI (Chez Yvonne KATUPA)
7.4 km
Discover authentic Polynesian flavors at EURL HINAKO-NUI (Chez Yvonne KATUPA) in Nuku Hiva – a must-visit culinary destination.
Restaurant/Bar KOVIVI
7.6 km
Experience exquisite local flavors with breathtaking ocean views at KOVIVI in Nuku Hiva - a true gem in French Polynesia.
Snack du Marché
7.9 km
Experience authentic French Polynesian cuisine at Snack du Marché, where fresh ingredients meet island hospitality.
Restaurant Kaniho ( David )
9.4 km
Experience authentic French Polynesian cuisine at Restaurant Kaniho in Nuku Hiva - where fresh ingredients meet stunning ocean views.
Roulotte Belle Vue
10.0 km
Discover authentic Polynesian flavors at Roulotte Belle Vue in Nuku Hiva – where fast food meets breathtaking views.
Snack bar
11.4 km
Experience delightful family-friendly dining at this charming snack bar in Nuku Hiva, where tasty treats meet breathtaking island views.
Tipiero
56.1 km
Discover authentic Polynesian flavors at Tipiero in Ua-Pou - a must-visit culinary destination for every traveler.
Roulotte Doudou
56.5 km
Discover authentic French Polynesian cuisine at Roulotte Doudou in Ua-Pou—an unmissable culinary experience amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Snack Coco (chez Corine)
56.7 km
Experience authentic French Polynesian cuisine at Snack Coco in Ua-Pou – a hidden gem offering fresh flavors and warm hospitality.
Restaurant Rosalie
56.8 km
Experience authentic French Polynesian cuisine at Restaurant Rosalie in Ua-Pou - where local flavors meet stunning views.
Snack Vehine (chez Claire)
56.9 km
Experience authentic French Polynesian cuisine at Snack Vehine (chez Claire) in beautiful Ua-Pou, where every dish tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Magasin Hoata
6.4 km
Explore the vibrant local flavors and essential goods at Magasin Hoata, your ultimate supermarket destination in Nuku Hiva.
Maukanahau Boutique
6.5 km
Explore the charm of Maukanahau Boutique in Nuku Hiva, where handcrafted Polynesian jewelry meets artistic elegance.
Pharmacie de Nuku Hiva
6.6 km
Discover the essential health services at Pharmacie de Nuku Hiva, your trusted pharmacy in the heart of French Polynesia.
Magasin BIGOT
6.8 km
Explore Magasin BIGOT in Nuku Hiva, where local craftsmanship meets essential hardware in a charming island setting.
Kiitea Créations
6.9 km
Explore the vibrant artistry of Kiitea Créations, a print shop in Nuku Hiva offering unique Polynesian-inspired prints and souvenirs.
Magasin Céline
7.0 km
Explore the charm of Nuku Hiva at Magasin Céline, where local crafts and fresh baked goods await every curious traveler.
Taioa Art Tattoo
7.1 km
Discover the art of Polynesian tattooing at Taioa Art Tattoo, where tradition meets creativity in stunning Nuku Hiva.
Magasin Putoka
7.3 km
Experience the flavors of Nuku Hiva at Magasin Putoka, your local grocery store for fresh produce and traditional Marquesan delicacies.
Tanaoa Shopping
7.3 km
Experience the vibrant shopping scene at Tanaoa Shopping in Nuku Hiva, where local culture meets contemporary fashion in a stunning island setting.
MAGASIN LARSON
7.4 km
Explore the rich flavors of Nuku Hiva at Magasin Larson, your gateway to local groceries and culinary treasures in French Polynesia.
Anaho Jewels
7.5 km
Explore the exquisite craftsmanship at Anaho Jewels, your destination for unique costume jewelry in the heart of Nuku Hiva, French Polynesia.
Nukuhiva
7.5 km
Discover the stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history of Nukuhiva, the hidden gem of French Polynesia, waiting for your exploration.
Magasin Kamake
7.5 km
Discover the flavors of French Polynesia at Magasin Kamake, Nuku Hiva's local grocery store offering fresh produce and unique island delicacies.
Patutiki Nuku Hiva
7.5 km
Discover the essence of Polynesian culture through tattoos at Patutiki Nuku Hiva, where art meets tradition in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Nuku Tai Nui Marine (MMS)
7.6 km
Explore the vibrant marine life of Nuku Hiva with Nuku Tai Nui Marine, your go-to store for supplies and local crafts in French Polynesia.
