
Rangiora
Explore Rangiora
Rangiora
Rangiroa: A Diver’s Paradise & The Largest Atoll in French Polynesia
Rangiroa, meaning "Vast Sky", is one of the world’s largest atolls, known for its crystal-clear lagoons, incredible marine biodiversity, and world-class scuba diving. Located in the Tuamotu Archipelago, this breathtaking destination offers thrilling drift dives, serene motus (islets), and untouched natural beauty, making it a must-visit for adventure seekers and ocean lovers.
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Frequently Asked Questions: Rangiroa
Rangiroa has a tropical climate, making it a year-round destination, but conditions vary:
- May–October (Dry Season): Best for diving, snorkeling, and outdoor exploration.
- November–April (Wet Season): Fewer tourists, lush landscapes, and lower prices, but occasional rain showers.
- June–August: Peak season with ideal weather but higher accommodation prices.
- Tiputa Pass & Avatoru Pass – Two of the world’s most famous drift dive sites, home to sharks, manta rays, and dolphins.
- The Blue Lagoon – A stunning natural lagoon within the atoll, perfect for snorkeling and boat excursions.
- The Pink Sands Beach (Les Sables Roses) – A remote beach with soft pink-hued sand, accessible by boat.
- Reef Island (Ile Aux Récifs) – A unique coral island with fossilized rock formations and tidal pools.
- Bird Island (Île aux Oiseaux) – A secluded islet, home to rare seabirds and stunning scenery.
- Rangiroa Wine & Pearl Farm – The only vineyard in French Polynesia, producing coral-grown wine and black pearls.
- Lagon Vert (Green Lagoon) – A serene, shallow lagoon surrounded by coconut palms.
- Dolphin Watching at Tiputa Pass – A daily spectacle as wild dolphins leap in the strong currents.
- Snorkeling at L’Épave (The Wreck) – Explore a sunken ship that has become a thriving marine ecosystem.
- Scuba Diving in the Lagoon – Experience vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and occasional hammerhead sharks.
- Poisson Cru (Tahitian Tuna Ceviche) – Fresh raw tuna marinated in lime juice and coconut milk.
- Grilled Parrotfish & Lagoon Fish – Locally caught fish prepared with Polynesian spices.
- Coconut Crab – A delicacy often grilled and served with coconut sauce.
- Mahi Mahi in Vanilla Sauce – A local favorite featuring freshly caught fish in a rich vanilla-infused sauce.
- Hinano Beer – The local beer of French Polynesia.
- Fresh Tropical Fruits – Including pineapple, coconut, passionfruit, and guava.
- Rangiroa Coral Wine – The only wine in the world grown on coral soil, produced locally.
- Flights: Arrive at Rangiroa Airport (RGI) from Tahiti via Air Tahiti.
- Boat Transfers: The best way to visit nearby motus, dive sites, and remote beaches.
- Bikes & E-Bikes: A great way to explore Avatoru and Tiputa villages.
- Car & Scooter Rentals: Available but not necessary for most visitors.
- Walking: Many areas are easily walkable along the lagoon and village roads.
- 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 local vendors and small businesses.
- There are limited ATMs in Rangiroa, so bring enough cash from Tahiti.
- 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 centers but is not widely spoken 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 sacred sites and traditional customs.
- Tipping is not expected but appreciated in guided tours and luxury accommodations.
- Restaurants: Tipping is not required, but rounding up is appreciated.
- Hotels & Tour Guides: A small tip for excellent service is welcomed.
- Boat Tours & Diving Excursions: A small tip for captains and dive guides is common.
- For peak season (June–October): Book 6–12 months in advance for flights and accommodations.
- For off-season (November–April): Book 2–3 months ahead for better deals.
- For popular experiences (shark dives, Blue Lagoon tours, pearl farm visits): 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