Nukunonu Atoll

Nukunonu, the central and largest of Tokelau's three atolls, encircles the biggest lagoon in the territory, an immense, dazzling expanse of turquoise water so clear it seems to glow. A scattering of low, palm-clad coral islets forms the ring of the atoll, with the main village set on two islets joined by a causeway. Life here follows the gentle, traditional rhythms of Tokelauan culture, centred on the community, the church and the sea, with families fishing the reef and lagoon and gathering coconuts. The pristine lagoon and reefs teem with marine life, offering wonderful, unspoiled snorkelling and fishing. Serene, remote and beautiful, Nukunonu offers a rare immersion in the tranquil beauty and authentic island life of one of the world's most isolated communities.

The landscape

• The immense lagoon - the largest, dazzling turquoise lagoon.
• The coral islets - the low palm-clad ring of islands.
• The village - the traditional community on joined islets.
• The reefs - the pristine marine life for snorkelling and fishing.

When to go

May to October, the drier and cooler season, brings the most settled weather and calmest seas, best for the voyage and for the lagoon and reefs; the equatorial climate is warm year-round. Calm conditions are ideal for snorkelling the clear lagoon.

Practical notes

Like all of Tokelau, Nukunonu is reached only by a long, infrequent boat voyage from Samoa, with minimal facilities and a traditional community, so a visit takes real commitment, permission and respect for local ways. As the largest and most dazzling lagoon of Tokelau, a serene and pristine haven of traditional island life and marine beauty, though, Nukunonu is a genuinely rewarding and rare destination.

Nearby

The atolls of Fakaofo and Atafu lie to the south and north.

Key facts