Ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving. There are about 50 sites for beginners and experienced divers. Magnificent coral, underwater plants and fish, there are several wrecks to visit, including Nordby, a 57 ton schooner (50m long) which sank in 1900 in front of the hotel. MP0308

Raiatea is the capital of the Leeward Islands and the second largest island in French Polynesia, situated 193 km (120 miles) northwest of Tahiti, about a 40 min flight from Tahiti. Raiatea was known as the 'sacred island' and was considered to be the heart of Polynesian culture. It is a tropical volcanic island with a road which circles the island through the valleys with past farms and orchards. There are several passes from the ocean to the lagoon, which the neighboring island of Tahaa also shares.