A visit to tiny Fare almost feels like stepping back in time, so perfectly does it capture the image of a sleepy South Seas port. There’s not a lot to do, but that’s part of Fare’s appeal. Check out the colourful waterside market and a few creative boutiques, or hire a bicycle and just pedal around a bit.

You’ll find a good stretch of white-sand beach on the northern outskirts of town (follow the coastline from New Te Marara restaurant). It’s great for sunbathing and swimming, and offers excellent sunset vistas. The wide, super-clear lagoon here drops off quickly, providing some truly great snorkelling amid stunning coral and dense fish populations.

Fare looks out over Haamene Bay, which has two passes to the sea: the northern Avamoa Pass is the main entry point for inter-island shipping, while the Avapeihi (Fitii) Pass to the south is a great diving site.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Motu Tresor

1.38 MILES

On the airport road, what's even more impressive than this collection of more than 500 French Polynesian shells is the fascinating tour (in English or…

2. Lake Fauna Nui

2.17 MILES

About 2km north of Fare, the main sealed road runs along the inland side of Lake Fauna Nui. It’s also possible to turn off to the airport and take the…

4. Matairea Hill Archaeological Sites

2.9 MILES

This walk up Matairea Hill is a high point for anyone interested in archaeology. A signpost on the Fare side of Maeva, about 200m west from the Fare Potee…

5. Maeva

3.06 MILES

Prior to European influence, Maeva village, about 7km east of Fare, was the seat of royal power on the island. It’s mostly famous for its concentration of…

6. Fare Potee

3.09 MILES

This little museum with explications about the Maeva Marae is located in a beautifully reconstructed meeting house complete with woven bamboo floors.

7. Fish Traps

3.3 MILES

Beside the bridge coming off Motu Ovarei are a number of V-shaped fish traps, made from rocks. They have been here for centuries and some are still in use…

8. Gallery Umatatea

3.34 MILES

On an isolated property by the road on Motu Ovarei, you’ll find this art gallery, where the exotic paintings of the highly respected artist Melanie Dupre…