Lying northeast of Tahiti, the island of Hiva Oa is one of the two largest of the Marquesas Islands and Atuona is the most convenient Port of Entry into French Polynesia when arriving from the Galapagos Islands. While this is a busy stopover port for many, it's also a delightful place to explore and you may find it hard to move on.
Baie Tahauku is the main anchorage at Hiva Oa at Atuona Harbour. It is still a small place and with no moorings and boats have been known to drag anchor.
Whenever the Aranui cargo/passenger ship is visiting, sailors are welcome to participate in the local fair with arts and draft demonstrations, food tasting and more. Usually from 09:00 to 14:00 in the town center. The local population, including the mayor and his staff are supportive of cruisers and realize the beneficial impact they can have.
The village of Atuona with its bay of black sand is the last resting place of two world famous artists: the painter Paul Gauguin and the singer Jacques Brel. Visitors can pay their respects at their graves which are on the high ground above the village. The village has a cultural center dedicated to Paul Gauguin and at the Espace Jacques Brel museum the exhibits include the small plane that belonged to Jacques Brel.
09°48.47'S, 139°02.0'W
Last updated: May 2025
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