Tahiti Ecotourism
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Manihi Ecotourism

Manihi was the beginning of the pearl revolution for the Tuamotu islands. This was the first site for pearl farming and is still to this day affectionately named the "pearl island." Manihi is the home and originator of the highly valued "Polynesian Black Perl." Pearl farming has now become a multi-million dollar industry, which, thanks to the Manihi Island, has generated much profit for the Tuamotu islands.

Manihi and its surrounding waters are well known for the amazing volume and diversity of the fish there. The seabed has an exceptionally high quality of fauna and flora, which attracts all kinds of fish from neighboring waters.

For divers, it's like heaven underwater.

Once out of the water, travelers can visit one of the numerous pearl farms scattered over the island. You can also dine at various different restaurants, from extravagant to simple family restaurants.

 

Manihi, The Island of Pearls.

The island of Manihi also offers many other enjoyable activities for travelers and tourists. Light tackle fishing, windsurfing, and sailing for example. Flightseeing and sunset cruises are also available.

Manihi also features several high-end, luxurious hotels, as well as simple, single family rooms.

Manihi has two main cities, Paeua and Turipaoa. Paeua is the chief village, while Turipaoa is another important destination. Even with these two cities combined, the island has less than 800 inhabitants. There are very few cars on the island, so walking around the island, the city, and the waters is as romantic and beautiful as the lagoon itself.

Come visit Manihi for a taste of real Polynesian culture and history, see how pearl farming works firsthand, and enjoy a pleasurable, relaxing stay.

 

Photo Courtesy Tahiti Tourisme
(Copyright Philippe Bacchet) Photo: Motu in Manihi
(Copyright Raymond Sahuquet) Photo: Manihi pearl farms

MANIHI ECOTOURS

Manihi is located about 300 miles north east of Tahiti and is made up of a string of islets. The first Tahitian black pearl farm was founded here and they are now found on many of the other islands and are a popular tourist attraction. The black pearls are taken from pearl farms under the sea and the farms are built on stilts around the lagoon. There are around 700 permanent residents on Manihi with most of these living in the village of Turipaoa.

There are some excellent dive sites in Manihi so keen divers will not be disappointed. It is not crowded and therefore is an ideal diving destination if you are not keen on crowds and the usual tourist vibes. Beginners and experienced divers are catered for in Manihi and the array of tropical fish is a feast for the eyes. The Drop Off is a very highly recommended dive spot. It is a very steep well that dips to nearly 6000 feet and here you will find a stunning array of creatures like marlin, snappers, jack fish and colorful fish of many species.

Manihi looks is your picture perfect tropical island with its white and pink sanded beaches, spectacularly clear waters and friendly hospitality from the locals.

Fishing is another activity often taken part in here. Visitors aim to catch mahi mahi, tuna or jack fish of which there is an abundance of. Snorkeling, bicycling and shopping are other popular past times at Manihi. Enjoy riding a push bike under shady coconut trees on quiet lonely roads where you can even see land crab burrows! Or go snorkeling in one of the most renowned snorkeling locations in the world. The colorful marine life will leave you in awe and even if you don't have snorkeling gear you can rent some from many snorkeling centers or hotels. They also hire bikes and other recreational equipment.

A trip to Manihi is not complete without going shopping for black pearls. They are generally more affordable here since there are so many farms open. Black pearls are a great souvenir!

Two of the main villages in Manihi are Manihi Village and Turipaoa Village. See the colorful homes, beautiful gardens and chat to the friendly locals who are more than happy to speak about their lives and culture.

 

 

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