Pukarua
Pukarua
Atoll in French Polynesia
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 east-southest of Pukarua.
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.