population: 29,851 million

extension: 75.8 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Punaauia, French Polynesia and interested in visiting museums, a great place to start would be the Museum of Tahiti and the Islands. It's located just a few kilometers away in Punaauia and offers exhibits on the natural history, cultural heritage, and contemporary life of French Polynesia. For other museum options in the area, you might also want to check out the Robert Wan Pearl Museum or the Gauguin Museum, both located in nearby Papeete.

Food

In Punaauia, as well as throughout French Polynesia, some of the most recommended and popular local dishes include:

1. Poisson cru - a raw fish salad made with fresh coconut milk, lime juice, and vegetables such as tomato, cucumber, and onion.
2. Grilled or roasted fish - commonly prepared with mahi-mahi, tuna, or swordfish, and served with sauces made from citrus fruits or soy sauce.
3. Poulet fafa - chicken cooked in taro leaves and coconut milk, often served with steamed rice.
4. Po'e - a dessert made with mashed fruit (such as banana, mango, or pumpkin), thickened with cornstarch and sweetened with sugar, then baked or steamed.
5. Breadfruit - a starchy fruit that can be boiled, roasted, fried, or mashed like potatoes and served as a side dish or snack.

These dishes offer a taste of traditional Polynesian cuisine and are beloved by locals and visitors alike.

Activities

Sure, here are some fun activities that local people enjoy in Punaauia, French Polynesia:

1. Surfing: The waves in Tahiti attract surfers from all over the world, and locals love to hit the beach and catch some waves.

2. Snorkeling and Diving: Punaauia is home to some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world, and locals love exploring them through snorkeling or diving.

3. Hiking: There are many scenic hiking trails around Punaauia and the surrounding areas, such as the Fautaua Valley Trail or the Three Waterfalls Hike.

4. Polynesian Cultural Shows: Many hotels and resorts in Punaauia offer traditional Polynesian cultural shows featuring dance performances, music, and food.

5. Shopping at Local Markets: Locals love shopping at the vibrant markets in Papeete and other nearby towns, where they can buy fresh produce, crafts, and souvenirs.