Îles Maria

Îles Maria is a group of four coral islets in the Pacific Ocean forming a shallow lagoon system bordered by dense atoll forest. The islands sit west of Rimatara and are surrounded by waters used as maritime economic zones.

The islands were subject to a regional boundary settlement in the 1930s that clarified their status as French territory. This decision shaped their present-day legal and geographic position in the Pacific.

The islands carry a name rooted in Polynesian heritage and connected to stories of early voyagers in the region. Visitors can sense the traditional relationship between local communities and the sea through how these waters remain part of daily navigation and life.

The islands are hard to reach and require boat travel across open water from nearby coastal bases. Access is best during drier months when conditions are more stable.

The lagoon serves as a nesting and feeding ground for numerous Pacific seabird species found nowhere else nearby. This role as a breeding hub makes these islands biologically notable in an otherwise open ocean region.

Location: French Polynesia

Part of: Austral Islands

GPS coordinates: -21.80000,-154.70000

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:06