Fakarava Travel Guide: Dive & Discover This Pristine Paradise

Fakarava has a tropical climate, making it a year-round destination, but conditions vary:

• May–October (Dry Season): Best for diving, snorkeling, and comfortable weather.
• November–April (Wet Season): Fewer tourists, lower prices, and lush landscapes, but occasional rain showers.
• June–July: Peak diving season with the famous “Wall of Sharks” phenomenon.

• Garuae Pass – The largest pass in French Polynesia, famous for shark diving and strong currents.
• Tumakohua Pass (South Pass) – A renowned dive site with an abundance of reef sharks and marine biodiversity.
• Pink Sand Beach (Les Sables Roses) – A stunning, remote beach with pink-hued sands.
• Topaka Lighthouse – A historic stone lighthouse offering scenic island views.
• Motu Aito Paradise – A peaceful islet with traditional Polynesian-style accommodations.
• Snorkeling Coral Gardens – Vibrant coral reefs filled with colorful fish, rays, and turtles.
• Old Tetamanu Village & Church – A historic site featuring one of the first Catholic churches in the Tuamotus.
• Pearl Farms – Learn about black pearl cultivation, one of French Polynesia’s famous exports.
• Biking Around the Atoll – The best way to explore Fakarava’s scenic coastline and local villages.
• Lagoon Excursions & Motu Picnics – Relax on private islets with pristine waters and fresh seafood.

• Poisson Cru (Tahitian Tuna Ceviche) – Fresh raw tuna marinated in lime juice and coconut milk.
• Grilled Parrotfish & Lagoon Fish – Locally caught seafood grilled with island spices.
• Coconut Bread – A sweet and fluffy bread infused with fresh coconut.
• Uru (Breadfruit) – A starchy fruit served roasted or fried.
• Poe (Tahitian Pudding) – A dessert made from bananas or papaya with coconut cream.
• Hinano Beer – The local beer of French Polynesia.
• Fresh Tropical Fruits – Including pineapple, mango, papaya, and passionfruit.

• Flights: Arrive at Fakarava Airport (FAV) from Tahiti via Air Tahiti.
• Boat Transfers: The main way to reach motus (small islets) and dive sites.
• Bikes & E-Bikes: A great way to explore the atoll at a relaxed pace.
• Walking: Many areas are walkable, with scenic trails along the lagoon.
• Scooter & Car Rentals: Limited availability, but useful for longer distances on the main island.

• No visa required for stays up to 90 days for travelers from the U.S., Canada, U.K., EU, Australia, and many other countries.
• A valid passport with at least six months of validity is required.
• Proof of onward or return travel may be required upon arrival.

• Currency: French Pacific Franc (XPF).
• Credit cards are accepted in resorts and dive shops, but cash is needed for small businesses and local vendors.
• ATMs are very limited—bring enough cash from Tahiti or Rangiroa.
• S. dollars and Euros are sometimes accepted, but exchange rates may not be favorable.

• French and Tahitian are the official languages.
• English is spoken in resorts and dive shops, but not widely in villages.
• Common French & Tahitian phrases to know:
  • Bonjour! – Hello
  • Merci! – Thank you
  • Combien ça coûte? – How much does it cost?
  • Où est la plage? – Where is the beach?

• Polynesians are warm and welcoming—greet with a smile and “Ia Orana” (hello).
• Dress modestly when outside of beach areas, especially in villages.
• Respect marine life—do not touch coral or disturb sea creatures.
• Tipping is not expected but appreciated in luxury accommodations and tours.

• Restaurants: Tipping is not required, but rounding up is appreciated.
• Hotels & Tour Guides: A small tip for excellent service is recommended.
• Boat Tours & Diving Excursions: A small tip for captains and guides is common.

• For peak season (June–October): Book 6–12 months in advance for flights and hotels.
• For off-season (November–April): Book 2–3 months ahead for better deals.
• For popular experiences (diving passes, private lagoon tours, eco-lodges): Book at least a month in advance.

• COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, but always check for updates before traveling.
• Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate coral reefs.
• Limited medical facilities—travel insurance is strongly recommended.

Contact us at 281-229-0862 or admin@pointmetoparadise.com