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 ml2).

Islnad's principal/main port town (Uturoa) is also the administrative center for 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. Uturoa is on island's northern coast and has population around 10,000.

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. 

Raiatea Island cruise terminal