Manuae

The ring-shaped atoll spans 6 miles in diameter, featuring multiple small islands surrounding a central lagoon with coral reefs and marine ecosystems.

Samuel Wallis first documented the atoll in 1767, discovering a small village whose remains still exist on the northern section of the main island.

Local fishermen maintain traditional Polynesian fishing methods while operating under environmental protection measures established for the lagoon's nature reserve.

The atoll lacks regular transportation services, and visitors must arrange boat access through operators based in larger neighboring islands of French Polynesia.

Green sea turtles return annually to Manuae's beaches each November, utilizing the protected environment established by the 1992 nature reserve designation.

Location: Leeward Islands

Part of: Leeward Islands

GPS coordinates: -16.53333,-154.68333

Latest update: June 23, 2025 09:44