2024

Rangiroa, in the Tuamotu Archipelago, is the largest atoll in French Polynesia and the second-largest atoll in the world.  This was evident when our excursion boat took almost an hour to reach our destination for snorkeling, lunch, and hiking between motus! (A “motu” is a small islet or reef island formed by broken coral and sand surrounding an atoll.)

The lagoon is often called the “Blue Lagoon” due to its stunning shades of blue and turquoise. … it seemed like being in a grandiose and natural swimming pool!

The water was shallow enough to walk between motus….

One of our shark encounters…and we were not even afraid!  These were black-tipped reef sharks…as we walked among them….they were gentle and curious!

The diverse marine ecosystem here is teeming with marine life, including sharks, dolphins, colorful fish, and various coral species. One of our snorkeling spots found us completely surrounded with colorful fish, as if we had been dropped into the middle of an aquarium! 

The private motu was completely set up for feeding our group

Then, some after-lunch walks……There is a beautiful silence among these blue water and pink sands.

We also enjoyed demonstrations on how palm fronds turn into hats and headbands! 

We each walked away with one of the samples. I don’t know if they will make it home, though!

We spent the day on the boat, so we did not get to visit other features of this quiet and remote island, like the small villages and pearl farming. We did get the official welcome by the dancers though!!

Rangiroa is home to about 2,500 people, and it seems to have a laid-back ambiance … an appealing escape for a tranquil and private getaway…..very different from our fast-paced U.S. retirement!!

So….we definitely relaxed and enjoyed ourselves!!