5 Days In Fakarava Itinerary

Day 3: Rotoava & PK9 Beach

The third day on our Fakarava itinerary takes us to one of the best beaches in French Polynesia. You’ll need to get your hands on a bicycle or a scooter of some sort. Also, aim to leave right after breakfast. You’ll likely want to spend a few hours at the beach and return to the village before kitchens close after lunch in one of the local restaurants. Lastly, buy some groceries for a picnic lunch in Rotoava before hitting the road.

Exploring Rotoava Village

Rotoava is the largest settlement in Fakarava, but it’s just a tiny village. There isn’t much happening in the village, but it’s got everything you need, including a couple of grocery shops and a bakery. Check out the local Catholic church and inspect its interior decoration made from local coral and shells!

Topaka Lighthouse

Turn towards the ocean side at PK2 to have a look at the Topaka Lighthouse. Also known as Phare de Topaka, this former lighthouse dates back to 1957 and was used to signal neighboring atolls in times of emergency.

PK9 Beach

As its name suggests, PK9 Beach is nine kilometers from Rotoava, but I promise it’s worth it. Head west on the paved road, passing coconut groves and homes until it turns to a dirt road beyond the airport. About five kilometers later, look for the PK9 marker and turn left towards the lagoon. Voila! You’ve made it to paradise.

Marae Tahiti Vairau

If you’re up for more adventure, head slightly west of PK9 Beach before heading back to town and see if you can track this ancient ceremonial site.

Garuae Pass Lookout

The dirt road ends at Garuae Pass, where you scuba-dived yesterday. If you visit during low tide, you might bump into local harpoon fishermen. On your way back to your pension, see if the Rotoava Grill in “downtown” Rotoava is still serving lunch.

Day 4: Scuba Diving & Relaxing

Today will be our final day of diving in Fakarava. Book a two-tank morning dive in the north pass or check if any dive center is heading south for a dive safari in the Tetatmanu Pass. Fakarava’s south pass is a legendary dive site. Many documentary films were shot here, especially during the grouper spawning. But even if you’re not visiting during this special event, the south pass offers optimal drift dives thanks to its narrow body.

Day 5: Excursion To the Blue Lagoon or Relax

The final day of your Fakarava itinerary can be a relaxing day hanging around the lagoon in or around where you’re staying. Rent a kayak or a standup paddleboard and cruise the lagoon at your own pace. Alternatively, see if suppliers are heading on a full-day excursion to Fakarava’s Blue Lagoon. Similar to the Blue Lagoon tour in Rangiroa, we’re talking about a small and dreamy-looking lagoon “trapped” inside the atoll’s immense lagoon. Enjoy a day of snorkeling, beachcombing, chasing birds, and a BBQ lunch.

What’s Next?

This sample Fakarava itinerary can be extended or shortened, depending on the number of dives you wish to do and how much time, if any, you wish to spend in Fakarava South. Check out these recommended guides for more information about Fakarava and French Polynesia.