Atuona Bay, Natural bay in Hiva Oa, French Polynesia
Atuona Bay is a natural inlet on the northern shore of Hiva Oa, surrounded by dramatic cliffsides that drop to the sea and marked by the small rocky outcrop called Hanakee. The waters form a protected harbor that opens onto the administrative center and main settlement below.
The bay once served as the primary harbor for the entire Marquesas island group before administrative control shifted to Taioha'e. This change marked the end of its role as the main maritime hub for the archipelago.
The name reflects the colonial period and early European encounters in these islands. Today the waters lead to a town deeply connected to artists who made their final home here, their graves now part of the local identity.
The waters provide natural shelter for boats and are regularly used by local vessels transporting visitors between the scattered islands. Getting ashore and exploring the surrounding area is straightforward and accessible.
The waters here support diverse marine life that draws snorkelers and divers into the bay. Many visitors overlook this underwater world even though it sits just beyond the boat, easily visible from the surface.
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