Pukarua

Pukarua, sometimes also listed as "Pukaruha" (especially on French maps), is a coral atoll in the eastern Tuamotu Archipelago. The nearest atoll, Reao, is located 48 km to the ESE.

Pukarua
NASA picture of Pukarua Atoll
Pukarua
Geography
LocationPacific Ocean
Coordinates18°19′S 137°01′W
ArchipelagoTuamotus
Area23 km2 (8.9 sq mi) (lagoon)
7 km2 (3 sq mi) (above water)
Length17 km (10.6 mi)
Width4.5 km (2.8 mi)
Administration
France
Overseas collectivityFrench Polynesia
Administrative subdivisionTuamotus
CommuneReao
Largest settlementMarautagaroa
Demographics
Population227 (2012)

Pukarua Atoll is 17 km long and its maximum width is 4.5 km. It has a long island on its northeastern reef, shaped somewhat like a fish hook, as well as a number of small islands. The atoll is surrounded by a coral reef without a proper passage. There is a pier from which small to medium-sized ships can be launched.

The only village is Marautagaroa, populated by about 100 inhabitants.

The atoll's lagoon is interesting for snorkelers because of the presence of giant clams.

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