Tropical Island Resort Near Pink-Sand Beaches and Shallow Lagoons

Dotted with pink-sand beaches and wild coconut groves, the small islet of Motu Tiano sits in the heart of the Tikehau atoll, a ring-shaped coral reef enclosing a shallow lagoon. Thatched-roof bungalows hover above the tropical blue-green waters, each building connected by a network of wooden walkways. Here, surrounded by bushels of exotic flowers and colonies of colorful birds, the Tikehau Pearl Beach Resort stands alone, a bastion of romance and relaxation in a tropical paradise.

Located directly over the lagoon, the resort's overwater suites are outfitted with private sun decks and ladders that descend into the water. Chic timber furniture graces the suites' spacious, air-conditioned interiors, which also house luxurious bathrooms equipped with deep oval tubs. Stationed along the resort's first pontoon, premium overwater bungalows feature glass-bottom floor portholes for underwater views. And nestled among coconut trees and cloth hammocks, charming beach bungalows showcase traditional Polynesian bamboo trimmings.

Situated on Motu Tiano, the Poreho Restaurant and terrace looks out over the sparkling blue lagoon. Resident chefs pay tribute to the waterside location by serving delectable seafood feasts and wearing toques with built-in blowholes. A three-course dinner showcases authentic Polynesian cuisine such as red-tuna loin, passionfruit duck breast, and potted mince of mahi-mahi. Come morning, Tikehau hosts a full American breakfast. Throughout the day, snorkeling gear and kayaks are available to explore the bountiful marine life that helps make the island one of Polynesia's most popular fishing and diving destinations.

Tikehau, French Polynesia: Remote Islet Surrounded by Coral Reef and Bountiful Marine Life

Located in the Tuamoto Archipelago 180 miles northwest of Tahiti, Tikehau is one of 78 small islands comprising the largest chain of atolls in the world. Given the spectacular assortment of marine life in the vicinity, fishing is the primary industry, and local families trap parrotfish, eagle rays, and jackfish in fenced underwater parks, where the creatures enjoy picnics and foursquare tournaments before they're sold in the markets of Tahiti and Maiai. North of the resort, diving sites dot the Tuheiava Pass, an area inhabited by manta rays and reef sharks.

The island is also home to a colorful concentration of exotic birds. Red-footed boobies and brown noddies can be seen flitting across the shore or roosting in tropical foliage, and an excursion to nearby bird island brings glimpses of bristle-thighed curlews and white terns.