Raiatea Island (Uturoa, French Polynesia)

Raiatea Island is the 2nd largest of Society Islands (after Tahiti) in French Polynesia, with population around 12,000 and total area 168 km2 (65 mi2).

The island's principal/main port town is Uturoa (population around 10,000) which is also the administrative center for the Leeward Islands. It has colleges and secondary schools for children from the islands Tahaa, Huahine, Maupiti, Pora Pora. Tahaa and Raiatea (once a single island) are enclosed by a coral reef.

Port Uturoa (locode PFUTU) is on the island's northern coast..

Raiatea has a small road (running around the entire island) and is served with domestic flights by Raiatea Airport (in Uturoa). The island is divided into 3 municipalities - Uturoa, Taputapuatea and Tumaraa.

Island's economy is mainly agricultural, with exports of pineapple, coconut and vanilla. The plant Nono is largely grown. Faaroa Valley is a large agricultural region with rural economy and research facility. Another major industry is pearl farming. Tourism is less developed in comparison to other Society Islands. Raiatea's local tourist infrastructure comprises two marinas, one 4-star hotel, guest houses, cruise port.

From Uturoa are organized boat tours to Motu Ofetaro Island (to the southeast, in the Raiatea Lagoon) popular as a snorkeling destination.

Raiatea Island cruise terminal