French Polynesia
/ Island ou Atoll / Raiatea

Raiatea is the second largest of the Society Islands, after Tahiti, and its main township is Uturoa. Raiatea is both the largest and most populous of the Leeward Islands, with a land area of 168km² and a total population of 12200. Raiatea is considered one of the region's most sacred islands: the remains of the sacred marae of Taputapuatea can be seen here. Raiatea is also appreciated for its mountainous landscapes, which are sure to please hikers. Underwater, the dives are not too strenuous, with magnificent coral gardens and caves inhabited by sharks, barracudas and jacks.