Takapoto

This charming little atoll, 12 miles by 4 miles, with no reef pass, is almost totally given over to pearl farming. It is here that the South Seas "gem", the rare black pearl, was first farmed. Tuamaotus' sheltered lagoon is the perfect environment for growing and collecting the baby mother of pearl.

Attractions

The village of Fakatopatere stretches out in a narrow tongue of land between the lagoon and the ocean. Nearby, very beautiful white sand beaches and the remains of Takai marae (traditional Polynesian temple), built of raised coral blocks are main points of interest. The feathered residents of the atoll, including the endemic atoll fruitdove, will captivate bird watchers. Still the center of black pearl farming, you'll learn more about this fascinating industry as you tour a black pearl farm and visit the small village of Fakatopatere.

Currency

Comptoirs Francais du Pacifique franc (XPF)

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