Tauini, Tauroa and Hiraanae, located on the northern side of the lagoon, are separated by a small break in the coral reef, referred to as a “hoa”. This break is home to a vast array of ocean life, and very often visitors are lucky enough to discover the lemon shark nursery in the area. Once a coconut plantation, with its very own dock and village, Rimatuu was the very first one of these islands to be inhabited by Europeans. Reiono, home to a large population of coconut crabs, is the only islet that has preserved its primitive rain forest. 

If you are a lover of tropical birds, Tahuna Iti and Tahuna Rahi provide sanctuaries for these incredible creatures. Last, not least, but certainly the smallest, is the island of Aie.