Nuku Hiva, the second largest island in French Polynesia, is the economic and administrative center of the Marquesas.

It is described as a mystical island of undeniable beauty.

Taiohae, where the island's domestic airport is located, is the seat of most of Nuku Hiva's administrations.

A sublime blend of landscapes and legends
The great Nuku Hiva, dominated by a chain of volcanic mountains, offers a multitude of attractive and extraordinary sites...

To the north of the island lies Hatiheu, writer Louis Stevenson's favorite bay. At a height of 300 meters, a statue of the Virgin Mary dominates the bay. Many shows are held here on different occasions.

Anaho is an hour's walk from Hatiheu Bay. Its white sand, coconut palms and views of cliffs and mountains make it one of Polynesia's most beautiful bays.

Nuku Hiva also boasts some magnificent valleys, the largest and most fertile of which is Taipivai.

Many legends have been written about this extraordinary valley.

It is home to sublime waterfalls and is one of Nuku Hiva's most beautiful archaeological sites.

The Hakaui waterfall is extraordinary! It's the third highest waterfall in the world, at 350 meters.

Surrounded by cliffs where various species of birds nest, the Hakaui waterfall is well worth a visit.

An extraordinary discovery
The vestiges of this island are innumerable, and excursions enable you to discover them: Tohua (place of ancient Marquesan songs and dances), Paepae (incredible platforms), Tiki, Mea'e, etc.

Discovery of these sites is offered by local service providers who are happy to share their ancestral knowledge. Several tours are available by boat, 4×4, on foot or on horseback.

Scuba diving is ideal for exploring caves, cavities and breathtaking drop-offs.

A marvellous marine fauna, including bottlenose dolphins, hammerhead sharks, white-finned sharks, manta rays, leopard rays, stingrays and marbled rays, are simply astonishing.

From Tahiti, you can reach Nuku Hiva by plane or boat on cruises such as those offered by the Aranui.

The magnificent Le Nuku Hiva by Pearl Resorts hotel, perched high above Nuku Hiva, and charming guesthouses offer a warm welcome.