Things To Do
in Papeete
Papeete is the capital and beating heart of French Polynesia, perched on Tahiti's lagoon with a lively waterfront and a busy market scene. It blends French colonial charm with Polynesian warmth, offering markets, cafés, and cultural sights within a compact city center. The town serves as the main gateway to the archipelago, with ferries and flights connecting to Moorea, Bora Bora, and beyond.
A visit reveals a vibrant mix of markets, yachts, music, and easy access to stunning island landscapes just beyond the shoreline.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Papeete Market, where vibrant colors and the scent of fresh produce fill the air. Stroll through the stalls, sampling local fruits and artisan goods while soaking in the lively atmosphere. Don't forget to pick up a handmade souvenir to remember your trip.
After lunch at a nearby café, explore the nearby Cathedral of Notre Dame, an architectural gem with stunning stained glass windows. Wander through the charming streets lined with colonial buildings and local shops, immersing yourself in the rich history of the area. Take a moment to relax at the Place Vai'ete, where you can enjoy the ocean view and watch locals go about their day.
As evening falls, indulge in a traditional Polynesian dinner at a local restaurant, savoring fresh seafood dishes infused with local flavors. Enjoy live music and dance performances that celebrate the culture of the islands, creating a festive atmosphere. Wrap up your day with a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, taking in the beautiful sunset over the harbor.
Begin your day at the stunning black sand beaches of Lafayette Beach, where the sound of waves invites you to relax. Spend the morning swimming and sunbathing, or try out stand-up paddleboarding for a fun way to explore the coastline. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for spotting colorful fish and marine life.
After a morning of fun in the sun, enjoy a beachside lunch at a local food truck, treating yourself to traditional dishes like poisson cru. Post-lunch, join a snorkeling tour to discover the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine biodiversity. The warm waters and stunning underwater scenery will leave you in awe.
As the sun sets, head to a nearby beach bar for a refreshing cocktail and enjoy the evening breeze. Participate in a beach bonfire if available, sharing stories with fellow travelers while gazing up at the stars. Conclude your day with the soothing sound of the ocean waves as you drift off to sleep.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🛏️Hotel room per night (mid-range) | $120-220 |
| 🚕Taxi starting fare | $3-5 |
| 🎟️Movie ticket / local event | $10-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning lagoon scenery and easy access to Moorea and other islands
- Rich market culture and approachable, friendly locals
- Costs can be higher than in some other Pacific destinations
- Limited nightlife compared with major cities; more laid-back scene
- "Ia ora na" - Hello
- "Mauruuru" - Thank you
- "Bonjour" - Hello (French)
- "Merci" - Thank you (French)
Places to Visit in Papeete
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful market stalls filled with tropical fruits, flowers, and local crafts—great for candid people and product photography.
Historic façade and interior details with colonial-era architecture framed against daily life on the streets nearby.
Docks, yachts, and the lagoon provide dramatic sunset silhouettes and reflections over the turquoise water.
Coastal cliffs and a lighthouse offering sweeping views of the sea and Moorea on clear days, ideal for wide-angle sunset shots.
Exhibits and outdoor spaces with cultural backdrops suitable for documentary-style travel photography.
Food in Papeete
Papeete Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tuna cured in lime juice and coconut milk with grated vegetables; a Tahitian staple found in nearly every eatery.
Must-Try!
Chicken cooked with taro leaves and coconut milk; a hearty dish pairing local greens with creamy coconut.
A traditional Tahitian dessert made with fruit puree (often banana or taro) and coconut milk, steamed into a soft custard.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The central market offering fresh tropical fruit, seafood, spices, and local handicrafts—best early for the widest selection.
Casual stalls near the harbor offering grilled fish, fritters, and tropical fruit cups—great for a quick, flavorful bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly near marae or sacred sites; ask permission before photographing people, especially elders or performers.
A warm greeting, such as Ia ora na (Hello) or Bonjour, goes a long way; politeness and patience are valued in daily interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Papeete
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included in larger restaurants; additional tips of 5-10% are appreciated for good service, especially in smaller establishments or cab rides.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; many places also take cash in XPF. ATMs are readily available, and contactless payments are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with abundant tropical showers; afternoons can be stormy, so plan outdoor activities for morning hours and carry reef-safe sunscreen and rain protection.
Milder temperatures and drier conditions, making it the best time for outdoor activities and photography with clearer skies.
Papeete at Night
Hiking in Papeete
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Lush rainforest trail leading to spectacular waterfalls; a rewarding but moderately demanding hike.
Coastal paths featuring sea views and rugged shorelines ideal for daylight hikes near the southern point of Tahiti Nui.
Scenic viewpoints offering panoramas of Tahiti Nui and the interior, suitable for a short hike with photographic payoff.
Airports
How to reach Papeete by plane.
Main international gateway to French Polynesia, located about 5-10 km from central Papeete; flights connect to Tahiti and other islands, with onward connections to the Pacific and beyond.
Small regional airport on Moorea, connected by short flights or ferries for day trips from Papeete.
Hub for western islands with frequent inter-island flights; popular for onward trips from Papeete.
Regional gateway to Raiatea and surrounding islands, accessible via short inter-island flights from Papeete.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population with rich cultural traditions and a warm, community-oriented lifestyle.
A visible community that contributes to the culinary and cultural blend of the city.
Visitors from around the world drawn to lagoons, markets, and island adventures.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport across the islands with local clubs and community leagues.
Well-loved sport, especially among youth and in schools, with rugby clubs nearby.
Snorkeling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and surfing are common activities in lagoon and reef areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Papeete.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most spots offer vegetable-heavy options, coconut-based curries, taro and breadfruit dishes; ask for taro leaves and legumes; many places can adapt poisson cru to a vegetarian version or offer fruit bowls and salads.