Discovered simultaneously by Maire and Schouten, Takapoto embodies the dream of paradise. Named also
"short chin" this wild and idyllic atoll has no channel which explains its very preserved environment.

The 10 mile long lagoon is the home of the Pinctada Margaritifera, Tahitian cultured pearl. In Okukina you may eat sea urchins or giant clams with lime after a visit to the coral built fish parks. High place for research, this island is frequently thought through by archeologists. So far, about 20 "marae" and over 200 sites have been numbered and are of great interest to travellers.

From the main village of Fakatopatere, laying between the lagoon and the ocean, one can see
those typical polynesian "fare" (houses) built on piles, whose owner’s hopitality is legendary.