Discover the atoll of Rangiroa

Rangiroa, the largest atoll in French Polynesia

Set in the Tuamotu archipelago, about an hour's flight from Tahiti, Rangiroa is one of the largest atolls in the world. Its name means "immense sky" in the Paumotu language, and the scale of the place lives up to it: a ring of coral nearly 80 kilometres long, dotted with hundreds of motu (small white-sand islets) that enclose a lagoon so vast the whole island of Tahiti could fit inside it. Two villages welcome visitors, Avatoru and Tiputa, each linked to the open ocean by a legendary pass.

It is beneath the surface that Rangiroa reveals its full magic. The Tiputa Pass is famous among divers the world over: as the tides turn, you may cross paths with playful dolphins, manta rays, grey reef sharks, turtles and drifting schools of barracuda. A mask and snorkel are often enough to marvel at it all, yet the lagoon also unfolds through unforgettable excursions, from the celebrated Blue Lagoon to the fossilised coral of Reef Island, all the way to the distant Pink Sand.

On land, the atoll nurtures treasures every bit as rare. Rangiroa is home to pearl farms where the Tahitian pearl is born, as well as the only vineyard in French Polynesia, its vines growing straight out of the coral. Between swims, you can savour the gentle island pace, the warm welcome of its people and sunsets like nowhere else. Reachable on a direct flight from Papeete with Air Tahiti, Rangiroa lends itself just as well to a diving holiday as to a peaceful escape in the heart of the Pacific.

Discover our online magazine on the atoll of Rangiroa

Our webzine invites you to explore the atoll of Rangiroa: its rich history, captivating portraits of ambitious individuals, insightful analyses from ethnographic studies, and the latest news on its unique fauna and flora. A window into the heart of this Pacific gem.

Your map of Rangiroa to download

To plan your stay or find your way once you arrive, download our map of Rangiroa free of charge. From Avatoru to Tiputa, it brings together the villages, the passes, the main diving and excursion sites, the guesthouses and the shops of the atoll. A clear, handy plan to slip into your luggage so you never miss a thing.

Birds of the Blue Lagoon of Rangiroa

At the far end of the atoll, the Blue Lagoon is a haven of golden sand and turquoise water where nature reigns supreme. Its motu shelter a remarkable birdlife: terns, noddies and other seabirds nest here in complete peace, offering a rare sight to passing visitors. In our article, discover the seabirds that make this Polynesian sanctuary so special, and the simple steps that help to protect them.

The must-do excursions in Rangiroa

Rangiroa is best experienced on the water. Set off to meet the dolphins in the Tiputa Pass, explore the turquoise depths of the Blue Lagoon, be surprised by the fossilised coral of Reef Island, or set sail for the day towards the legendary Pink Sand. Scuba diving, snorkelling, boat trips or big-game fishing: whatever your pace, the atoll holds an adventure to suit everyone.