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Manihi
is an atoll 312 miles northeast of Tahiti in the Tuamotu Archipelago.
The clear lagoon, which measures 3 1/2 miles wide by l9 miles long,
has a deep navigable pass through the reef and it is here, in the purest,
blue-green waters of this remote atoll, that the South Seas "gem,"
the rare black pearl, was first farmed. Manihi continues to be the center
of black pearl farming and a visit to one of the many black pearl farms
surrounding the lagoon is a must. 
Most of the population of 400 live in Turipaoa village, alongside the
pass. Activities are naturally centered on the lagoon, and no matter
where you stay, your hosts will take you on boat trips that explore
the lagoon, visiting the fish parks and the pearl farms, taking time
out for a picnic on a motu, line or spear fishing.
The only hotel on the island is the lovely 5 Star
Manihi Pearl Resort. The Pearl offers deluxe overwater bungalows
as well as beach bungalows and the snorkeling is outstanding right under
the bungalows. Manihi offers an excellent opportunity for diving. A
professionnal dive operator organizes fascinating diving or snorkeling
excursions among sharks and manta rays in the pass or near the outer
reef.
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