Manihi is what you imagine if you'd lived a simpler life as a castaway in your own island paradise. It’s a tropical fantasy where the Mana spirit thrives around the crystal-clear lagoon. Manihi’s waters make an incredible place to explore as they’re blessed with the perfect temperature, brightness, density and salinity to grow one of the South Pacific’s most precious treasures – the black pearl.
DIVE SITES
There’s a lot to take in and admire when you’re swimming in Manihi’s lagoon with its brilliant coral reefs, sealife, and warm crystal-clear waters.
The Turipaoa pass
This is the only pass in the atoll where you’ll witness the grace and beauty of the manta rays. Here experienced divers can drift along with the current as if surfing underwater. The dive takes place at a depth of 25 meters (80 feet). Plus, if you’re lucky enough to be here in June, you can watch thousands of groupers migrate to breed.
The Circus
For those privileged divers with the experience to handle The Circus’ rough waters, there’s the opportunity to witness something quite special. At its entrance where the current is at its strongest, you may just see the incredibly rare and majestic ballet of the manta rays.
Treasures lay in both the shallows and depths of Manihi’s waters – both above and below the surface. Set out and you shall find them.
Boat tours
There are more than enough boat tour operators willing to show you around the mythical blue lagoon of Manihi. As their guest, they’ll do all the heavy lifting as you sit back and take in the sights and beautiful sea breeze. You can even hire them to head out for some guided fishing.
Pearl farms
Manihi’s lagoon is where Tahiti’s mother of pearl originated back in 1965. The first pearl farm began here, along with the islanders’ love for producing them. You can visit these farms for a unique experience that will help you understand the work needed to create something so small and precious.
GETTING HERE
If you’re visiting more than one island in The Islands of Tahiti then fly with Air Tahiti. It offers a multi-flight pass that saves you time and money.
Fly from Papeete
Choose to take a 1 hour and 15 minute, non-stop flight from Papeete or from Rangiroa, which takes just 35 minutes. Manihi’s airport is located close to the primary accommodation.
Getting around by water
There are a number of different ways to get around the island by water. Choose to explore the surrounding motu by motorboat, canoe, or sailboat. There are even charters available.
Boat transfer to accommodation
If you’re looking to transfer via boat to Manihi it’s necessary to book in advance as trips are not as regular as flights. To book, it’s best to arrange it with your travel agent or accommodation.
Scooter or Bike
There is very little need for public transport when there are only a few miles of road across the island. That’s why we recommend renting a scooter or even a bike, when you’d rather not walk.
