Overview
Papeete is the capital of French Polynesia (a French overseas territory), located on the exotic island of Tahiti. Tahiti is the largest of the Windward Islands, which are a part of the Society Islands. Tahiti is also the most populated island in all of French Polynesia.
Most of French Polynesia's major government, commercial and financial buildings are located in Papeete. Tahiti is famous for its exotic settings, black-sand beaches and overwater bungalows.
Tahiti is a main port of call featured on all South Pacific cruises, often used as a cruise embarkation and/or debarkation port. As such, many cruise lines utilize Papeete in their itineraries.
Tahiti, like the rest of French Polynesia, is a tropical and humid place. The hottest months of the year in Tahiti are December and January, with average temperatures around 27ºC. The coolest (but still warm) months are June through September, with average temperatures around 24-25ºC. The humid, rainy season is from November through March, while the dry season is considered to be from April through October.
Destinations The following destinations can be visited on a cruise leaving from Papeete, Tahiti:
South Pacific
Currency The official currency of French Polynesia is the CFP franc (XPF), commonly called the franc. Using a credit card whenever possible is a great way to avoid having to exchange currency. ATM machines are available, but make sure you use one that works with the card you're using.
Language The official languages of French Polynesia are French and Tahitian. English is spoken by some locals that are involved with tourist-related places (such as major tourist attractions, restaurants, stores and hotels) and activities (such as tours).
Tourist Attractions There's a lot more to do in Tahiti than on the other, less developed islands in French Polynesia.
There are a bunch of beautiful white-sand beaches throughout Tahiti. The beaches at the main resorts are some of the best in the island, such as Lafayette Beach (by the Radisson). Other beaches are the beach in Mahana Park, which is popular for snorkeling. The black-sand beaches of Venus Point are a nice place to check out as well. Venus Point is a popular area for picnics, and has a snack bar and souvenir shop. The beaches in Tahiti can get quite crowded, on weekends in particular.
Marché Papeete is Papeete's main public marketplace, and is one of Tahiti's most famous landmarks. At this market you can buy various souvenirs, as well as oils, hats and handbags.
Seeing a traditional Tahitian dance show is a popular thing to do while in Tahiti. Many of the major resorts in Tahiti usually have such a show at least once a week.
If you'd like to learn about the history of Tahiti and the rest of Polynesia be sure to visit the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands. It's fairly small for a museum, but it's packed with very interesting exhibits.
The Lagoonarium de Tahiti is an aquarium that has a wonderful underwater viewing room. While there you can see a wide range of species, including sharks, tropical fish and sea turtles. Admission is $5 per adult and $3 per child under 12 (rates are subject to change).
The Musée Gauguin (Gauguin Museum) is a museum focusing on Paul Gauguin, a famous French artist that lived in French Polynesia for a couple of years. Quite a few of his works of art are displayed in this museum. This museum is open daily, from 9 am to 5 pm, and has an admission charge.
The island of Moorea is only about a half hour of a ferry ride away from Papeete. It's a less developed, but quite beautiful island. Those looking for a more laid back, less crowded area might be interested in visiting Moorea.
Port Location Cruise ships dock at Papeete Harbor, located right in the heart of Papeete.
