Manihi

Located in the north Tuamotu Archipelago a 1.5 hour flight from Papeete, remote Manihi sits like 'an atoll at the end of the world'. Best described as a string of islets with a magnificent lagoon fringed by coconut palms, Manihi was actually the site of the first pearl farm which paved the way for the other Tuamotu Islands. Today, Manihi has an international reputation for pearl production and it has steadily established itself as a principal centre for black pearls in the South Pacific. The lagoon's amazing density of fish also attracts divers from around the world and thanks to the clarity of the water, the atoll's 'off the beaten track' location and its modest size, Manihi offers excellent diving conditions for both experienced and beginner divers.