Atuona Bay, Natural bay in Hiva Oa, French Polynesia
The inlet extends along the northern shore of Ta'a Oa, bordered by steep cliffs and flanked by the small rock formation of Hanakee.
The bay previously served as a central maritime hub when Atuona held the position of capital for all Marquesas Islands before Taioha'e.
The waters of Atuona Bay lead to the town where Paul Gauguin and Jacques Brel spent their final years, now resting in Calvary Cemetery.
The bay provides natural shelter for vessels and serves as an access point to Atuona, the administrative center of Hiva Oa commune.
Marine enthusiasts can observe diverse underwater ecosystems while local boats transport visitors between the scattered islands of the Marquesas archipelago.
Address: Atuona Bay, French Polynesia
GPS coordinates: -9.80921,-139.03753
Latest update: March 3, 2025 13:46
The Marquesas Islands are characterized by volcanic formations that shape landscapes marked by rocky peaks, ancient calderas, and basalt cliffs. Deep bays like those of Taiohae or the Virgins cut through the coasts, while black sand beaches reflect the archipelago's geological origins. The island interior reveals valleys, waterfalls, and reliefs reaching up to 1200 meters in altitude. Marquesian cultural heritage is evident through preserved archaeological sites in the Taipivai valley, where ceremonial platforms and petroglyphs carved into rock still exist. The Puamau tiki statues, carved from volcanic stone, are among the largest Polynesian sculptures. Museums in Atuona and Ua Huka hold collections that document traditional life, while the Gauguin Cultural Center and the Jacques Brel Space trace the careers of these two artists who spent their final days in the archipelago. The Taiohae Cathedral blends European architecture with local sculpted motifs, illustrating the cultural exchanges that have shaped the islands' history.
Puka-Puka
558.3 km
Tatakoto
840.4 km
Fakahina
697.5 km
Paul Gauguin Cultural Center
705 m
Tikei
828.5 km
Mont Oave
122.8 km
Vaipo Waterfall
159.5 km
Notre Dame Cathedral
154 km
Temetiu
3.5 km
Motane Nature Reserve
30.2 km
Eiao Island Nature Reserve
272.1 km
Arboretum de Papuakeikaa
114.9 km
Makemo lighthouse
903.2 km
Église Notre-Dame-de-la-Paix d'Omoa
87.3 km
Église de la Sainte-Mère-de-Dieu, Vaitahu
16.3 km
Église du Saint-Cœur-de-Marie de Hapatoni
20.2 km
Église Saint-Michel de Hanavave
83.5 km
Église Saint-Joseph de Makemo
903.3 km
"Tikis sonrientes" siguiendo las indicaciones.
3.6 km
Atuona Cemetery
971 m
Hanatekuua
12.7 km
Centre Jacques Brel
611 m
Upeke
4.5 km
Observation point Grand Canyon
164.5 km
Ensemble Tahakia Kamuihei Teiipoka
157.9 km
Musée communal de Ua Huka
113 km
Site archeologique de Puamau
17.1 km
Teakatau
4.9 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes