UPOLU

most populous island of Western Samoa, South Pacific Ocean. It lies across the Apolima Strait from the island of Savai'i. Of volcanic origin, Upolu is about 46 miles (74 km) long and 16 miles (26 km) across at its widest point, with an area of 432 square miles (1,119 square km). It has a mountain range culminating in Mount Vaaifetu (3,600 feet ), a forested interior, fertile coastal soils, and a wet tropical climate. The port of Apia (q.v.), the commercial and political centre and focal point of Upolu's history, is on the northern shore. The island's products include copra, cocoa, coffee, bananas, taro, and rubber. Cattle are raised and pigs are plentiful. Faleolo Airport is 23 miles (37 km) west of Apia by coastal road. Pop. (1986), including adjacent islands, 112,228.