Nawiliwili Harbor | Lihue

Information

Landmark: Nawiliwili Harbor
City: Lihue
Country: USA Hawaii
Continent: North America

Nawiliwili Harbor, Lihue, USA Hawaii, North America

Tikehau Atoll is a coral atoll located in the Tuamotu Archipelago of French Polynesia. It is known for its pink sand beaches and abundant marine life.

Visual Characteristics

The atoll consists of a ring of coral islets encircling a lagoon. The islets are characterized by white and pink sand beaches, with vegetation primarily composed of coconut palms and low-lying shrubs. The lagoon water exhibits varying shades of blue and turquoise, with coral formations visible beneath the surface. The average elevation of the islets is minimal, rarely exceeding a few meters above sea level.

Location & Access Logistics

Tikehau Atoll is situated approximately 300 kilometers northeast of Tahiti. Access is primarily via Tikehau Airport (TIH), which receives scheduled flights from Papeete (PPT) on Air Tahiti. From the airport, transportation to accommodations typically involves pre-arranged transfers by hotel shuttles or local taxis, often by boat across the lagoon. There are no public bus services on the atoll.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Tikehau is a classic example of an atoll, formed by the gradual subsidence of a volcanic island, with coral reefs growing upwards around it. The atoll's current structure is the result of geological processes spanning millennia. It is classified as a coral atoll ecosystem.

Key Highlights & Activities

Snorkeling and diving are primary activities, with notable sites including the Tuamotu Passage (a drift dive) and the Pink Sand Beach. Birdwatching is also popular, with Tikehau being a significant nesting ground for various seabird species. Kayaking and paddleboarding are possible within the lagoon. Fishing excursions can be arranged.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Basic infrastructure includes a small airport, a few guesthouses and a resort. Restrooms are available at accommodations and some public areas. Shade is provided by palm trees and structures at resorts. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally available in populated areas. Limited food options are available at accommodations and small local eateries.

Best Time to Visit

The dry season, from May to October, offers the most favorable weather conditions with lower humidity and less rainfall. The best time of day for underwater photography is generally between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM when sunlight penetration is optimal. High tide is preferable for accessing certain shallow reef areas.

Facts & Legends

Tikehau is renowned for its exceptionally high concentration of fish, earning it the nickname "the aquarium." The atoll's pink sand is a result of the accumulation of crushed coral fragments from a specific type of marine organism called foraminifera. A local legend speaks of a giant manta ray that guards the lagoon's deepest point.