Lagon Bleu, Natural lagoon within Rangiroa Atoll, French Polynesia
Lagon Bleu is a shallow, enclosed lagoon within Rangiroa Atoll where the water displays multiple shades of blue depending on depth and light. Small coral islands surround the water and protect it from the open ocean's waves and currents.
The local Paumotu people have called this place Motu Ta'aeo for generations, maintaining their historical connection to the land through traditional practices. This name and the family-based management reflect a long tradition of stewardship in the region.
The site carries the local name Motu Ta'aeo, reflecting how Paumotu families have organized day trips with traditional meals of raw fish and coconut milk. The way visitors are welcomed here shows the deep connection between people and this enclosed body of water.
The lagoon is reached by boat from Avatoru port, with the journey taking roughly an hour and typically organized as part of guided excursions. These outings generally include meals and opportunities to watch marine animals in their natural habitat.
The shallow water serves as a nursery ground for juvenile blacktip reef sharks, which grow safely away from larger ocean predators in this enclosed space. Visitors can watch these young sharks without aggression, providing a rare window into how this shark species develops in the wild.
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