Tikehau

Tikehau is an atoll in the Tuamotu Archipelago of French Polynesia. Located in the eastern part of the Tuamotus, it forms a circular ring of low coral islets surrounding a long, shallow lagoon. The atoll’s motus create numerous channels and sandbanks, and the main village, Tuherahera, sits on the eastern rim. Tikehau is known for its pink-sand beaches on several motus and its clear turquoise waters.

The lagoon supports diverse marine life, including reef fish, manta rays, and sharks, and it hosts several passes that entrance the lagoon, making the area popular for snorkeling and diving. Seabird colonies also inhabit the motus, contributing to the atoll’s distinctive natural environment.

Population and economy: The resident population is small, centered in Tuherahera and a few nearby settlements. The local economy relies on tourism and black pearl farming, with fishing continuing as a traditional activity. Visitors are drawn to snorkeling, diving with pelagic species, and the lagoon’s scenic Beauty.

Access and administration: Tikehau is part of French Polynesia, an overseas collectivity of France, and belongs to the Îles Tuamotu-Gambier administrative subdivision. The atoll is served by Tikehau Airport, which offers connections with Tahiti and other islands; inter-island travel is also possible by boat.

History: European contact with the atoll occurred in the 18th century, and it has been administratively integrated into French Polynesia since the late 19th century.