RANGIROA

The largest of the islands in the Tuamotu Archipelago, Rangiroa is located about 200 miles northeast of Tahiti. It’s coral atolls (second largest in the world) are ruled by the rhythms of wind and sea. Rangiroa boasts a huge 42 mile long and16 mile wide turquoise lagoon that is a scuba divers nirvana. The lagoon, which is a huge natural aquarium, has visibility up to 150 feet and harbors an extraordinary array of marine life. Whether you want shallow, ocean or drift dives, the underwater scenery is spectacular. Here you can live amid wild untamed beauty and try an array of excursions from windsurfing above the surface of the water to snorkeling beneath it, in both cases ocean currents and winds will propel you. Visit the motus to see bird sanctuaries or visit one of the island’s two small villages.

MANIHI

Further north from Rangiroa in the Tuamoto Archipelago, you will find Manihi, a smaller atoll made up of palm trees waving in the breeze and dazzling white beaches. It is here in these blue-green waters that the rare black pearl is farmed so be sure to take a tour. Isolated Manihi has only 400 inhabitants, which allows you a true chance to experience wild untamed scenery far away from civilization - almost like being stranded on a deserted island, but with all the modern conveniences. Manihi is located 330 miles from Tahiti. The clear lagoon is 3.5 miles wide and 19 miles long and is full of fish, so it is great for diving, snorkeling and swimming. This is a place to find true tranquility and rejuvenation.