Framed by basaltic cliffs, this wide curve of black sand is very scenic – it inspired painter Paul Gauguin, which is saying a lot – but it’s not appropriate for swimming because of strong currents. The road and area around have recently been upgraded making this a lovely short walk from town.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

2. Centre Jacques Brel

0.16 MILES

Behind the Espace Culturel Paul Gauguin you’ll find a big aircraft hangar. In the centre is Jacques Brel’s plane, Jojo; faded posters tracing the musician…

3. Mairie

0.19 MILES

The Atuona mayor's office.

4. Espace Culturel Paul Gauguin

0.19 MILES

A homage to Gauguin that traces the artist's life through locally painted reproductions of his art. The main signs are translated into English but the…

5. Tohua Pepeu

0.25 MILES

Restored for the 1991 Marquesas Arts Festival, the Tohua Pepeu faces Banque Socredo in the centre of town. It’s used today as a festivities centre, where…

6. Catholic Church

0.3 MILES

The Catholic church, right in the centre of Atuona, is worth a peek for its elegant architecture that combines wood and stone.

7. Calvaire Cemetery

0.37 MILES

A must-see for Gauguin and Brel devotees is the Calvaire Cemetery, perched on a hill overlooking Atuona. You will find this frangipani-filled graveyard an…

8. Tevitete Ancient Cemetery

1.08 MILES

This isolated, poignant site about 2km up in a valley (ask for directions) features a series of tombs made of stones; note the small tiki that are carved…