Choose from 6 Fun Things to Do in Papeete
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Vaima Shopping Centre
The Vaima Shopping Centre is the largest shopping mall in Tahiti, French Polynesia's main island. This multilevel mall opened in 1977 and is located in the capital city of Papeete. At the Vaima Shopping Centre, visitors can shop at high end stores for clothing, jewelry, shoes, electronics, art, and much more. Some worldwide brands include Nike, Billabong, and Bose, but there are also many other local stores at the mall. It's a great place to buy souvenirs and island themed clothing. The mall is well known for its French bookstores that sell books in both English and French in many different genres and maps of the French Polynesian islands. A popular item to shop for in Tahiti is the Tahitian black pearl, and there are several shops in the Vaima Shopping Centre that specialize in black pearls.
The mall has restaurants and cafes, so you can take a break from shopping to get something to eat. There are also a few travel agents, airline offices, a locksmith and shoe repair shop, salons and a bank.
Practical Info
The Vaima Shopping Centre is located on Avenue du Maréchal Foch in Papeete near the Notre Dame Cathedral and the main port. It is approximately 10 minutes from the international airport.
Address: Avenue du Maréchal Foch, Papeete, French Polynesia
From $ 50
Black Pearl Museum
One of Papeete’s few museums, the Musée de la Perle (or Black Pearl Museum) celebrates all aspects of pearl culture. In the days before large-scale cultivation, these ocean jewels were charged with mystical significance, associated with religious rites and coveted as status symbols. The museum, established by local entrepreneur Robert Wan, looks at the pearl in art, history and literature, and shows how they get from the sea to the display case.
The real star here is the black pearl. While a little more abundant than in the days when Mary, Queen of Scots adorned herself with a priceless necklace of the dark sea bounty, this Tahitian specialty is still a sought-after rarity.
Practical Info
The Musée de la Perle is a stone’s throw from Papeete’s waterfront, close to the Marché de Papeete and the cathedral. There are numerous stores in the area where you can buy your own black pearls.
Address: Boulevard Pomare, Papeete, French Polynesia
Hours: Mon - Sat 9am - 5pm (Last entry at 4:45pm). Closed Sundays
Admission: BP 850
From $ 50
Cascades de Faarumai
There are numerous waterfalls all over Tahiti, but the most popular and accessible are the three waterfalls at Faarumai, known as the Cascades of Faarumai. Turning off the main coastal road, a dirt track cuts through the teeming jungle to a parking spot. From there a 5 minute walk brings you to the first cascade, Vaima Hutu. This is a truly impressive sight, with crystal clear water rushing down a sheer rock face into a cool, inviting pool.
The other two waterfalls – Haamaremare and Haamaremare Iti – are close by each other about 30 minutes’ walk away, and are well worth seeking out.
Practical Info
Faarumai is close to Tahiti’s north coast, not far from the Arahoho blowhole. It’s about half an hour’s drive from Papeete via the island’s main ring road, and is usually included as a stop on a circuit tour.
Address: French Polynesia
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 145
Vai'ete Square (Place Vai'ete)
Located in downtown Papeete, Vai'ete Square is a nice place to take a relaxing waterfront stroll during the day. At night, however, the atmosphere becomes much more lively at colorful food wagons (roulottes) offering local cuisine and decadent desserts open to the masses. From 6pm to around 3am, visitors can sample everything from Tahitian pizza to French crepes to grilled calf heart. Live music from a nearby pavilion as well as live performances of all kinds add to the vibrant atmosphere, while tables littering the square allow you to relax and enjoy your meal.
After you're done eating, you'll be able to wander the downtown to explore some of the island's nightlife options. Not surprisingly, the square becomes rowdier as the night goes on. On certain nights of the month, you can also find traditional dance performances taking place.
After you're done eating, you'll be able to wander the downtown to explore some of the island's nightlife options. Not surprisingly, the square becomes rowdier as the night goes on. On certain nights of the month, you can also find traditional dance performances taking place.
Address: Vai'ete Square, Papeete, French Polynesia
From $ 67
Arahoho Blowhole (Trou de Souffleur de Arahoho)
Perched along the rocky coast of Tahiti and bordered by a scenic black sand beach, Arahoho Blowhole is one of the island’s most visited natural wonders. As waves crash against the shore, a powerful geyser-like eruption sends spectacular plumes of water into the air, wowing visitors and creating the opportunity for some impressive photos.
The Basics
Most sightseeing tours of Tahiti island, by coach or 4WD vehicle, include a stop at the Arahoho Blowhole, as well as the neighboring beach, which is a popular spot for surfers. Tours typically set out from Papeete and often include a visit to nearby sights such as Venus Point and Matavai Bay, the Taharaa View Point, the beautiful Vaipahi Gardens, or the Cascades of Faarumai.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is a designated viewing area with a barrier preventing visitors from getting too close to the blowhole, but it’s still possible to get wet when the blowhole is at its most powerful.
- Visitor facilities at the blowhole include parking, a gift shop, and restrooms.
- The viewing area for the Arahoho Blowhole is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Arahoho Blowhole is located on the north coast of the island of Tahiti, around 15 miles (24 kilometers) east of Papeete, or an approximately 40-minute drive. Tour buses regularly travel along the coastal road and then stop at the blowhole.
When to Get There
The blowhole is at its most impressive when the sea is rough and waves crash high against the rocks. If possible, time your visit for high tide for the most explosive views.
What is the Arahoho Blowhole?
The Arahoho Blowhole is created by an ancient lava tube—formed by liquid lava flowing under cold and hard lava—that opens out into the sea. When waves crash into the tunnel, filling it up with seawater, the air inside gets compressed, causing a powerful sea geyser effect where water shoots out through a hole in the rocks.
Address: PK 22, Coastal road, Tiarei, French Polynesia
From $ 65
March e de Pape'ete (Municipal Market)
The sights, sounds and smells of authentic Polynesian life are on offer at Papeete’s main market, the Marché de Papeete (Municipal Market). The indoor market hall is the commercial and social hub of Tahiti’s laid-back capital and the oldest surviving institution on the island.
The Basics
The Marché de Papeete is spread over two floors, with the first floor devoted to fruits, vegetables, and fresh foods, and the upper level selling arts and handicrafts. The 19th-century market hall is also a landmark in its own right.
The market makes a popular inclusion on Papeete sightseeing tours, and visiting with a guide is a great way to gain insight into local life, culture, and cuisine. Walking or Segway tours often stop to take a peek en route to nearby attractions such as the Robert Wan Pearl Museum (Musée de la Perle) and Notre Dame Cathedral.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Some market vendors will accept cards, but it’s best to bring cash in local currency (French Polynesian francs).
- Plan at least an hour to explore the large market.
- The Marché de Papeete is accessible to wheelchair users, and an elevator takes shoppers between the two floors.
- The market’s small restaurants and cafés are popular spots for lunch.
How to Get There
Papeete is located on Tahiti’s northwest coast, and the market is right in the heart of the capital. It’s an easy 5-minute walk from the port and close to most of the town’s attractions, including the cathedral and the pearl museum.
When to Get There
The market is held daily from early morning to late afternoon. For fresh food, get there early for the best selection, or arrive at lunchtime to dine at one of the restaurants. The Sunday market is held in the early morning, from 3am to 9am, and only the food stalls are open then.
Shopping at Marché de Papeete
Artisans come from all over the island to sell traditional handicrafts at the market, and there are plenty of options for well-priced souvenirs. Top buys include baskets, hats, and other woven goods; Tifaifai art and quilts; Marquesan wood carvings; pareos (brightly colored sarongs); and black pearl jewelry. Look out for cosmetics containing Monai oil too, a local blend of coconut and tiare flowers. Downstairs, the huge range of produce includes meats, fish, tropical fruits, vegetables, exotic herbs, and fresh flowers.
Address: Papeete, French Polynesia
Admission: Free
From $ 50