Pao Pao


Pao Pao is an associated commune on the island of Mo'orea, in French Polynesia. It is part of the commune Moorea-Maiao. According to a census in 2007, it had a population of 4,244 people. According to the 2012 census, it had grown to a population 4,580 people. In the 2017 census, it had grown to a population of 4,639. It is the largest village in Mo'orea.

History

The Pao Pao area was first settled by travelers from Asia. They built houses out of branches and hunted fish. When James Cook came to Moorea, he made contact with them and continued his journey. That is how Cook's bay got its name.

Transport

Residents of Pao Pao often take the Moorea Airport to travel to other islands in French Polynesia. The nearby island of Tahiti is a 45-minute ferry ride from Moorea, which draws a fair amount of tourism to the area.

Geography

Pao Pao is located at the bottom of Cook's Bay on Moorea. It is surrounded by many mountains and flat land is limited.

Economy

Pao Pao is known for being the home to the Moorea Juice Factory, which offers tours on how the juice is made and sells juice in a nearby store. The Supermarche of Pao Pao is a major store in the village.