Takapoto, Anaa

The other islands in the Tuamotu

Takapoto

Atoll of rare pearls

Discovered simultaneously by Maire and Schouten, Takapoto embodies the dream of paradise. Named also "short chin", this wild and idyllic atoll has no channel which explains its very preserved environment. The 10 miles long lagoon is the home of the Pinctada Margaritifera, Tahitian cultured pearl. In Okukina, you may eat sea urchins or giant clams with lime after a visit to the fish parks. Highly visited for research purposes, archaeologists are often combing her shores. So far, about 20 "maraes" and over 200 sites have been numbered and are of great interest to travellers.

From the main village of Fakatopatere, laying between the lagoon and the ocean, one can see those typical Polynesian "fare" (houses) built on stilts, whose owner's hospitality is legendary.

Anaa

In the jade lagoon
Between sea and sky, the coral ring of Anaa is seen from far away by Polynesian seamen due to the green reflection of its lagoon in the clouds above the island.

This oval-shaped atoll is made of 11 "motus" (islets) around the turquoise lagoon with no pass and some emerging coral (feo) up to 9 feet high. Peace and quietness are the main features of Anaa where everyone may snorkel or go spearfishing or even have a picnic under frangipani trees. Home of the Pomare Royal Family in the 19th century, Anaa has acquired a solid reputation for the courage of its warriors who invaded other atolls as far away as Rangiroa.

Nowadays, the 639 inhabitants of Anaa live a traditional way of life in the small village of Tukuhora, mainly fishing and coprah producing.