Wildlife· Tubuai· French Polynesia: Tuamotus, Marquesas, Gambier & Australs
Motu Tapapa Tavae Clam Gardens (Motu Roa, Tubuai)
23° 20.8′ S · 149° 24.6′ W
The motu on Tubuai's eastern reef where dozens of giant clams sit just below the surface in clear water; guides gather a few for visitors to taste, and it is one of Tahiti Tourisme's 10 best spots in the Australs.
Practical
Coordinate is the islet (OSM 'Motu Roa', Tahitian name Motu Tāpapatava'e). Just south-east of Motu Toena (see 'Tubuai Lagoon Snorkel (Motu Toena)'). About 7 km from the Mataura anchorage across a poorly charted, bommie-strewn lagoon: go by dinghy in good light or with a pension's boat. Look but do not harvest clams yourself; local rules (rahui) may apply.
Best for
Giant clams and motu picnic
Nearby
- Tubuai Lagoon Snorkel (Motu Toena)0.3 NM away
- Tubuai Kitesurf Lagoon0.8 NM away
- Raroata Electric Bike Rental (Tubuai)1.8 NM away
- Fort George Bounty Site (Tubuai)2.4 NM away
- Magasin Chung Tien (Taahuaia)2.5 NM away
- Fish'n Eat (Taahuaia, Tubuai)2.9 NM away
- Mara'ai Le Spot (Tubuai)3 NM away
- Restaurant Nani (Tubuai)3.3 NM away