PAPEETE TAHITI: GATEWAY TO FRENCH POLYNESIA

Tucked away in the South Pacific, Papeete is the capital of French Polynesia. It’s the perfect gateway to the islands, offering a little slice of paradise and a chance to dive into the local culture.

 

Arriving in Papeete

I arrived in Papeete on Friday, November 22, 2024, at 9:00 AM aboard the Grand Princess, which docked at Port Autonome located right in the heart of town. 

 

As the ship pulled into port, the ship was greeted by a very lively Tahitian drum band.  

 

Grand Princess docked in Papeete Tahiti

The port’s prime location offers convenient access to Papeete’s highlights, such as the Farmers and Craft Market - and a visitor center located just a block away. 

 

 

You can find an internet café located at Vaima Shopping Center, directly opposite the cruise ship pier. 

 

Facilities and Transportation

The cruise terminal is well-equipped with restrooms, Wi-Fi hotspots, currency exchange booths, and ATM machines. You can also find tourism information centers for booking last-minute excursions, shuttle services to nearby beaches, and plenty of taxis offering customized tours. A 4-5 hour taxi tour for four people costs approximately $20 USD per person, while renting a car for the day costs around $120 USD.

The original "Le Truck" bus system in Papeete has been largely phased out and replaced by more modern public transportation services, TereTahiti. 

 

The newer bus system operates primarily along the coastal routes of Tahiti and provides service from Monday to Saturday, with limited or no service on Sundays and public holidays.   

 

 

Buses heading west are typically red and white, while those going east are green and white. It's important to note that buses only accept CFP francs, so ensure you have sufficient cash on hand.

• Schedule: Buses typically run during the day and early evening, with some variation based on the route.
• Frequency: Buses run at intervals of approximately 15-30 minutes during peak times but may be less frequent during off-peak hours.
• Routes: Most buses travel along the main roads, including stops near the Municipal Market and along Boulevard Pomare, close to the cruise port.

Fares within Papeete are approximately 130CFP (around $1.60USD) until 6 PM and increase to 200CFP (about $2.50USD) thereafter. Traveling to the end of the line in either direction costs about 750CFP (approximately $9.40USD).  If you're looking for current schedules or route-specific details, it's best to inquire at the visitor center in Papeete.

Things to Do Near the Port

DOWNTOWN

·       Papeete Market  An indoor marketplace offering fresh produce, local crafts, and souvenirs.

·       Cathedral of Notre Dame of Papeete A serene and historic site in the city center.

·       Bougainville Park  A lush green space perfect for relaxation.

WATERFRONT

·       Pā’ōfa’i Gardens  A well-maintained park along the waterfront, ideal for a leisurely stroll or picnic.

·       Le Petit Village  A charming area with boutique shops and cafés serving local cuisine.

MUSEUMS

·       Musée de la Perle (Pearl Museum) Discover the history and significance of Tahitian black pearls.

·       Musée de Tahiti et des ÎlesExplore Tahiti’s history, culture, and natural heritage.

 

Beaches Around Papeete

While Papeete lacks the iconic beaches Tahiti is known for, some stunning options are just a short drive away:

·       Plage de la Pointe Venus  A black-sand beach about 10 miles from Papeete, perfect for swimming and photography.

·       Punaauia Beach  A local favorite for snorkeling and relaxation, located 20 minutes from the cruise port.

 

Cultural Experiences

Papeete offers a wealth of cultural landmarks that showcase its rich history and traditions.

POLYNESIAN ART AND TEMPLES

·       Arahurahu Marae  An ancient sacred site providing insight into Tahiti’s pre-colonial past.

·       Tahiti Iti Scenic Drive  A coastal route featuring traditional Polynesian villages and breathtaking views.

HISTORICAL MONUMENTS

·       Place To’ata  The venue for the annual Heiva I Tahiti festival, featuring traditional dance and music.

·       Colonial-era Monuments: Scattered throughout the city, these landmarks highlight Tahiti’s European influences.

 

Shopping in Papeete

Papeete is a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from handcrafted souvenirs to high-end boutiques:

·       Tahitian Pearls: World-renowned black pearls, with a good quality 10mm pearl costing about $320 USD.

·       Local Crafts: Handwoven baskets, jewelry, and pareos (traditional garments).

·       Papeete Market: A treasure trove of fresh produce, seafood, and artisanal goods.

·       Vaima Shopping Center: A modern mall featuring duty-free shops and local boutiques.

 

For my day in Tahiti, I booked a private half-day tour with Tiurai Tours.  With a group of four, the cost was $500 USD—well worth it for the personalized experience.

Our itinerary was packed with highlights:

• Taharaa Viewpoint: A stunning lookout offering panoramic views of the coastline.
• Venus Point: Home to a black sand beach and historic lighthouse.
• Tiarei Waterfall: A tranquil cascade tucked into lush surroundings.
• Vaipahi Gardens: Beautifully landscaped with vibrant flowers and serene water features.
• Maraa Grotto: Mysterious caves with water-filled pools.
• Arahurahu Marae: A reconstructed Polynesian temple steeped in history.
• Faarumai Waterfalls: A spectacular natural attraction surrounded by rainforest.

The price included:

• An air-conditioned vehicle (a blessing in Tahiti’s tropical heat)
• Bottled fresh water for everyone
• Live commentary from our knowledgeable guide, who shared cultural and historical insights
• Restroom facilities at every stop

We explored both the east and west coasts of Tahiti Nui, with entry to key sites like Arahurahu Marae and the Water Gardens of Vaipahi included in the price. 

 

Some of my favorite photos and videos from my day in Papeete. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

L-R: Sharon Sparlin, Marci Inman

Nearby Excursions

If Moorea isn’t included as a port on your cruise itinerary, don't miss the chance to visit this stunning island. It's just a quick 30-minute ferry ride away, with the ferry terminal conveniently located right next to the cruise pier - perfect for planning an easy day trip. 

 

 

Final Thoughts

Papeete is a destination brimming with culture, history, and natural beauty. From bustling markets to serene beaches and vibrant dining scenes, Papeete captures the essence of French Polynesia. 

 

 

 #TAHITI 2024 #Grand Princess #Moorea #Papeete