Mataiva, island in France
Mataiva is an atoll in French Polynesia that is part of the Tuamotu Archipelago and features an oval lagoon with varying shades of blue and green water. The lagoon is separated from the ocean by nine channels and contains small island strips called motus, coral reefs, and shallow basins of different depths.
Russian explorer Fabian Gottlieb von Bellingshausen visited the atoll in 1820 and initially named it after a Russian captain. The atoll later retained its local name Mataiva, and in 1999 an airport opened that connected the island to the rest of French Polynesia.
The name Mataiva means "nine eyes" and refers to the nine channels that connect the lagoon to the ocean. Local residents maintain their traditions through fishing, vanilla and coconut cultivation, and by keeping alive stories and legends tied to the land and sea.
Most visitors reach Mataiva by flying from Tahiti with Air Tahiti, with several flights operating each week. Once on the island, you can explore the atoll on foot or by bike, as there are only a few roads and most attractions are easily accessible.
The atoll features a natural pit that was once a phosphate quarry and now serves as a swimming pool with clear water. This spot is perfect for swimming and cooling off while enjoying a quiet, clean environment.
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