Most visitors flock to The Islands of Tahiti for the white sandy beaches that dot our 118 islands. Yet, many visitors are overlooking one of Tahiti’s best-kept secrets. The Islands of Tahiti might be famous for their miles of white sand, but they also draw travelers to their pink sand beaches. One of nature’s most beautiful accidents, the sand gets its color from broken pieces of coral and foraminifera – a long name for tiny pink crustaceans that leave a pink hue with their shells.
Luckily, there are a few pink sand beaches around The Islands of Tahiti you can visit. Because visiting only one pink sand beach just wouldn’t be enough, would it? Here’s our guide to the top pink sand beaches in The Islands of Tahiti.
Tikehau
What do you do when you can’t choose between white and pink sand beaches? Enjoy both. Located in the Tuamotu Archipelago, the island of Tikehau is a hidden gem and for pink sand beaches, there is nowhere in the world more pristine and beautiful.
Tikehau is also home to a large variety of fish, which means many snorkelers and deep-sea fishermen head here to soak in some of the tropical splendor. If relaxation is more your thing than sea sports, there are plenty of spots to just … be. The word Tikehau itself translates to “peaceful landing.”
You also won’t need to worry about any crowds here. The population of this island only clocks in at around 400 residents, making for the perfect secluded destination.
If you plan on staying in this tropical paradise, you might consider rooming at the Tikehau Pearl Beach Resort and Spa. One of the world’s best-kept secrets, the Tikehau Pearl Beach Resort only offers accommodations for around 100 people per night. Imagine sleeping in your own suite situated right over the water. It’s not uncommon to wake up in the morning to the splash of sea life at your front door or to be bid goodnight by a school of clownfish circling past your patio.
Les Sables Roses on Rangiroa
It may take you an hour to reach Les Sables Roses by boat, but it is well worth the trip. This remote beach is located on the island of Rangiroa, the second largest coral atoll in the world.
Visitors head here not only for the remote, less-traveled beaches; they also flock to Les Sables Roses for the sand that its name refers to. This pink sand beach is unparalleled and is one of nature’s true rarities.
While you might head here for the exclusive vibe and natural beauty, the real wonders are just below the surface. Les Sables Roses is a fantastic place for snorkeling, and when you are done be sure to enjoy a classic Polynesian lunch on the nearby motu. Rangiroa is the epicenter for diving in The Islands of Tahiti, here you can swim with wild dolphins, more than 20 species of sharks and an endless array of colorful fish.
The snorkeling landscape, deep-sea fishing areas and coral reefs here feel like they were created just for you.
While you are visiting Rangiroa, be sure to visit the only coral winery in the world, Domaine Dominique Auroy, to taste several varietals of wine grown on the coral atoll.
Whether your journey is to Tikehau or Rangiroa, you will be heading for your own private tropical paradise. Alternately, you may also choose to visit both. Browse vacation packages or speak with a Certified Tahiti Specialist to plan your next visit to The Islands of Tahiti’s perfect pink sand paradise.