Arahurahu Marae
Arahurahu Marae: A sacred Polynesian temple, fully restored, offering a profound connection to ancient Tahitian culture and spirituality.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant cultural shows
Arahurahu Marae
Best Time
Vibrant cultural shows
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Arahurahu Marae: A sacred Polynesian temple, fully restored, offering a profound connection to ancient Tahitian culture and spirituality.
"An exceptional, powerful place. Quiet, peaceful, and majestic."
🙏 Show Respect
This is a sacred site. Avoid touching statues and be mindful of the spiritual atmosphere.
🚶♀️ Explore at Your Pace
Wander the grounds and take in the history. Many find 30 minutes is enough time to appreciate the site.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Restored Marae
Main temple area
Witness the only fully restored ancient Polynesian temple, a testament to pre-colonial spiritual and social life.
Sacred Stone Platforms
Ceremonial grounds
Marvel at the massive stone platforms and coral slabs, once used for important ceremonies and gatherings.
Cultural Performances
Main ceremonial area
Experience traditional Polynesian dance and music, especially during the Heiva festival, bringing the site to life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respect the Sacred Grounds
Timing Your Visit for Culture
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🙏 Show Respect
This is a sacred site. Avoid touching statues and be mindful of the spiritual atmosphere.
🚶♀️ Explore at Your Pace
Wander the grounds and take in the history. Many find 30 minutes is enough time to appreciate the site.
📚 Learn the History
Research Tahitian culture before visiting to fully appreciate the significance of the marae.
📸 Capture the Spirit
The natural beauty and historical significance make for stunning photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🙏 Show Respect
This is a sacred site. Avoid touching statues and be mindful of the spiritual atmosphere.
🚶♀️ Explore at Your Pace
Wander the grounds and take in the history. Many find 30 minutes is enough time to appreciate the site.
📚 Learn the History
Research Tahitian culture before visiting to fully appreciate the significance of the marae.
📸 Capture the Spirit
The natural beauty and historical significance make for stunning photos.
💰 Free Entry
Enjoy this significant cultural site without any admission fee.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Arahurahu Marae is widely praised as a beautiful, peaceful, and powerful sacred site offering a glimpse into ancient Polynesian culture. Visitors appreciate its well-maintained grounds and historical significance, though many note the lack of informational signage as a drawback. It's a place that inspires respect and reflection.
"An exceptional, powerful place. Quiet, peaceful, and majestic. It's worth visiting, and while you're there, it's a great opportunity to read up on the culture and beliefs of Tahiti before the arrival of the colonists. This is a unique opportunity to learn what the islands were like before French influences."
Aleksandra Sternicka
"Beautiful cultural site, however not a single information sign to be seen anywhere! A real pity because there were a lot of tourists like is that would have loved to know more about this place. Shame there is not some investment or into this lovely marae"
Jarrod Hunt
"This is a beautiful sacred place. It deserves respect. There are some areas to walk around and a few statues to see. We spent about 30 minutes here. Please do not touch the statues! Oil from the hands can ruin them."
Emily
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Arahurahu Marae is located on the west coast of Tahiti, in Paea. You can reach it by car or taxi from Papeete. The drive takes approximately 30-45 minutes. Renting a car offers flexibility to explore other sites along the coast.
Public transport options to reach Arahurahu Marae can be limited and time-consuming. It's generally recommended to arrange private transport, such as a taxi or rental car, for a more convenient visit.
Many visitors combine a trip to Arahurahu Marae with exploring other attractions on Tahiti's west coast, such as waterfalls or scenic viewpoints. A rental car is ideal for this.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the entrance to Arahurahu Marae is free. This allows everyone to experience this significant cultural and historical site without any cost.
Arahurahu Marae is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, it's a sacred site, and specific times for cultural performances may vary. It's best to check local listings for any scheduled events.
You can visit Arahurahu Marae independently. However, having a guide can greatly enhance your understanding of its historical and spiritual significance, as they can share insights not readily available on-site.
As a sacred site, visitors are asked to be respectful. Avoid touching the statues, as oils from hands can damage them. Dress modestly and be mindful of the peaceful atmosphere.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
A marae is a sacred Polynesian temple or meeting place used for social, religious, and political activities. They were central to connecting people with ancestors and gods before colonization.
You can see the restored stone platforms, carefully arranged coral slabs, and the overall layout of this ancient temple. It's a place to reflect on Polynesian history and spirituality.
Many visitors find that 15-30 minutes is sufficient to see the site and appreciate its atmosphere. However, if you're attending a performance or have a guide, you might spend longer.
Unfortunately, there are very few, if any, information signs at Arahurahu Marae. This is a common point of feedback, highlighting a missed opportunity for visitors to learn more about the site's significance.
The stone enclosures at the entrance were historically used to keep animals, such as pigs, before they were sacrificed as offerings to the gods.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed at Arahurahu Marae. However, always be respectful of the sacred nature of the site and avoid intrusive photography, especially during any cultural events.
The main temple area with its stone platforms and the surrounding lush landscape offer beautiful photographic opportunities. Capture the sense of peace and history.
While not explicitly stated, it's advisable to check local regulations regarding drone usage in sacred or historical sites. Respect for the site's tranquility is paramount.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit engaging for kids, consider researching Polynesian myths and legends beforehand. This can help them connect with the stories and significance of the marae. While there are no specific play areas, the historical context and the natural beauty of the surroundings can provide a memorable experience for the whole family. Remember to emphasize the importance of respecting the site.
✨ Spiritual Seekers & Culture Enthusiasts
Visitors are encouraged to research Tahitian culture and beliefs prior to their visit to fully appreciate the historical and spiritual significance. The site provides a rare glimpse into what the islands were like before extensive colonial influence. Embrace the tranquility, reflect on the history, and allow the mana (spiritual power) of the place to resonate with you.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Marae
Before European colonization, marae were central to the cultural and spiritual fabric of islands like Tahiti. They were places of power, where decisions were made, disputes were settled, and offerings were given. The restoration of Arahurahu Marae is particularly significant because it allows modern visitors to visualize and connect with this ancient way of life. Understanding the role of the marae provides a deeper appreciation for the resilience and richness of Polynesian culture.
While many marae sites exist across Polynesia, Arahurahu Marae stands out as one of the most completely restored. This makes it an exceptional example for understanding the architecture and intended use of these sacred spaces. Visitors often express a desire for more information on-site, underscoring the importance of pre-visit research to fully grasp the historical and cultural weight of such a place.
Experiencing Cultural Performances
Witnessing these performances provides a powerful connection to the ancestral traditions that once thrived at the marae. Dancers and musicians bring the site to life, their movements and melodies echoing the spiritual and social activities that took place here centuries ago. It's an opportunity to see how Polynesian culture continues to evolve while honoring its roots.
+1To make the most of this experience, it's advisable to check the local schedule for Heiva or other cultural events. These performances are often highlights for visitors, offering a vibrant and unforgettable glimpse into the soul of Tahiti. The energy and artistry displayed are deeply moving and provide a unique perspective on the marae's enduring legacy.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit