The spectacular Cook’s Bay is something of a misnomer because Cook actually anchored in Opunohu Bay. This lovely bay, also known as Paopao Bay, has the most dramatic setting and is best appreciated by standing at its eastern or western shore, or better still, from a boat out in the lagoon. The much-photographed shark-toothed mountain of Mouaroa rises steeply behind it, and Mt.
Rotui stands at its western side. At the base of Cook’s Bay is the sleepy village of Paopao. The road inland from Paopao and Cook’s Bay is called Route des Ananas (Pineapple Road) and meets the Opunohu Valley road, just before the agricultural college. Note that only the first kilometres are asphalted – a 4WD is recommended. There's no real township, just a smattering of shops, restaurants, and small hotels along the northeast corner. The Catholic church of St. Joseph sits on the western shore and is decorated with an old wall fresco of the Angel Gabriel. For a spiritual experience par excellence, attend the 10 am mass on Sunday morning to hear the hymns and see Tahitians in their Sunday best.
