Called the turquoise gem, Fakarava is the second largest atoll
in Polynesia. The exotic island has two main villages—Rotoava,
with approximately 250 inhabitants, and the very tiny Tetamanu,
formerly the main settlement. Fakarava’s huge lagoon is
home to several black pearl farms. This protected atoll along
with six neighboring islands make up a classified nature reserve,
a tribute to the rich ecosystem of rare flora and fauna. Besides
the gorgeous white sand beaches, the primary allure to this
tropical island is snorkeling and scuba diving, where lagoon
and ocean fish such as loach, meru, barracuda and rays can be
seen.
Tikehau is a much smaller atoll with an incredible beach
and crystal clear lagoon, and is appropriately named the “Isle
of Birds” because it is home to many varieties of bird
colonies. The village of Tuherahera is an important center
for lagoon fishing, with fish parks that supply the markets
of Tahiti.
