Manihi "Island of Pearls"

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Manihi is an atoll northeast of Tahiti in the Tuamotu Archipelago, the world’s largest collection of coral atolls. Located 520 km from Tahiti, a 1 hour 40 minute flight from Papeete, Manihi offers the experiences of a tropical island, in a heavenly setting where palm trees line the white sand beaches.

This string of islets, bathed in emerald water, hosts about 700 inhabitants. The premier activity is black pearl farming, with more than 60 farms which produce the most perfect pearls on earth, because of the exceptional climate and environment of Manihi.

The clear lagoon has a deep navigable pass through the reef, the Taiarapa pass. Swimming into the lagoon, following the current, you can observe the exceptionally high quality of sealife. Inside the lagoon, you can see coral fish and eagle rays. On the ocean side of Taiarapa, you can see grey sharks, napoleons and jackfish.

The atoll also offers opportunities to discover a typical environments, such as the ancient marae sites, located at the north and south ends. Walking in the villages, you will discover the local way of life, far away from modern life. The colourful homes are surrounded by local flowers, shrubs and trees.