Tikehau

Tikehau, which means "Peaceful Landing," is an impressive circular atoll famous for its extraordinary fish population. Jacques Cousteau's research team once declared this lagoon to have the highest concentration of fish in all of French Polynesia. For snorkelers and divers, it feels like swimming in a giant, open-air aquarium filled with eagle rays, barracudas, and colorful reef fish. The atoll is equally famous for its photogenic pink sand beaches, which give the shoreline a magical glow, especially at sunrise and sunset. Nature lovers should not miss a trip to the "Bird Island" (Motu Oeoe), a haven for colonies of red-footed boobies and frigatebirds. Life in the main village of Tuherahera is slow and characterful, with locals often seen cycling along the flower-lined paths that crisscross the islet. A 55-minute flight from Tahiti brings you to this secluded paradise. The dry season from May to October is the well-suited time to visit for sunny days and clear waters. Accommodations range from high-end eco-resorts on private motus to authentic family pensions. Tikehau is the ultimate destination for those seeking romance, world-class snorkeling, and the serene beauty of a pristine coral atoll.

Nearby cities

Faa'a

Faa'a is the most populous commune in French Polynesia, located directly west of the capital Papeete.

Papeete

Papeete is the capital of French Polynesia and the primary economic hub located on the island of Tahiti.

Puna'auia

Puna'auia is a major residential commune on the west coast of Tahiti, known for its university and beaches.

Pirae

Pirae is an urban commune east of Papeete that hosts major medical and administrative facilities.

Mahina

Mahina is a coastal commune in northern Tahiti, famous for the historical Point Venus and black sand beaches.

Paea

Paea is a commune on the west coast of Tahiti, rich in archaeological sites and coral reefs.

Papara

Papara is an extensive commune on the southern coast of Tahiti, known for its agriculture and wide beaches.

Arue

Arue is a commune in northeastern Tahiti that offers a mix of industrial areas and exclusive residential neighborhoods.

Taravao

Taravao is a strategically important town located on the isthmus connecting the two peninsulas of Tahiti.

Toahotu

Toahotu is a commune at the entrance of the Tahiti Iti peninsula, known for its white sand beaches and coconut groves.

Afaahiti

Afaahiti is a commune on the Tahiti Iti peninsula, bordering the important commercial center of Taravao.

Mataiea

Mataiea is a picturesque coastal commune on the southern shore of Tahiti, renowned for its lush botanical gardens and serene beaches.

Mataiea

Mataiea is a village in southern Tahiti known for its lush vegetation and historical links to Paul Gauguin.

Paopao

Paopao is a village located at the base of the majestic Cook's Bay on the island of Moorea.

Papeari

Papeari is a coastal village on Tahiti famous for its natural beauty and the Paul Gauguin Museum.

History & landmarks

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Pink Sand Beaches (Tikehau)

The pink sand beaches of Tikehau get their color from crushed red coral and shells.

Blue Lagoon (Rangiroa)

The Blue Lagoon is a smaller atoll located within the vast Rangiroa atoll.

Rangiroa Vineyard

This is one of the world's few coral atoll vineyards.

Tiputa Pass

Tiputa Pass is a natural opening in the Rangiroa atoll connecting the ocean with the lagoon.

Nature

Rangiroa Lagoon Sanctuary

Rangiroa has one of the largest lagoons in the world and is a hotspot for marine biodiversity.

More places

Papeete Town Hall

Papeete Town Hall is a magnificent colonial-style building that resembles the former palace of Queen Pomare.

Vaiare

Vaiare is the primary port of Moorea and the main gateway for travelers arriving by ferry from Tahiti.