Official Language:
Tahitian & French
Secondary Language:
English
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Currency:
Pacific French Franc
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Population:
Approximately 190,000 people call Papeete home.
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Weather:
Climate and current weather information for Papeete Tahiti: Tahiti climate is sunny and pleasant, with cool breezes and two seasons. November through May temperatures are warmer with higher levels of humidity and June through October the temperatures are cooler and climate drier. The heaviest in rainfall is in the warmer season.
Temperature is always pleasant and kept fresh by the South Pacific trade winds. The average air temperature is 27°C/81°F. and the water temperature in the lagoons is around 26°C/79°F.
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Cruise ships dock right across the street from Boulevard Pomare in the heart of Papeete. Papeete is surrounded by a turquoise sea, beautiful beaches and palm trees. The scenery is spectacular and the natives are friendly.
Papeete was formed by two volcanoes which joined at the isthmus of Taravao. In the center, Mount Orohena and Mount Aorai are the highest points on the island. There are deep valleys running in all directions from these central peaks. The steep slopes drop abruptly from the high plateaus. Since there is no barrier reef, the northeast coast gets pounded by the surf. The south coast on the other hand is gentle with gardens and coconut groves. This coast does have a barrier reef which shields it from the sea.
Papeete, Tahiti's capital, is French Polynesia's only real city and a major South Pacific port of call for freighters, ocean liners and yachts. With hills rising abruptly behind the town, Papeete ranges along the waterfront for about a mile. Tree-shaded Boulevard Pomare, which runs the entire distance, is lined with new apartments, banks, sidewalk cafes, boutiques and government offices. Leave Papeete behind in a 4X4 to climb a rugged road and explore the mountainous central portion of the island, following a stream through lush valleys punctuated with dozens of waterfalls. The "back side" of the island is a huge contrast to both the city and the island's interior—the less populous coastal areas are prettier and the view across to "little" Tahiti Iti proves its beauty exceeds that of the
larger Tahiti Nui.
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Attractions |
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Papeete is the perfect stop for cruise passengers who would like to stretch their legs and enjoy walking. Papeete is designed for walking, grab a map and check it all out. All the action is centered in the market on Boulevard Pomare. The market is located in a series of old warehouses and here you can find just about anything you need from bread, fish, meat, fruit of all sorts, coconut oil soap, tikis of wood to pareus (a Tahitian sarong).
You must visit the Museum of Tahiti and the Islands. Don't miss the historic and scenic sites; Point Venus, the spot where Captain Cook first landed, the impressive Arahoho Blowhole, black sand beaches, across a narrow isthmus to the smaller Tahiti Iti where Fort Taravao stands guard, the lovely gardens of Vaipahi with its cascading waterfall, and Maraa Grotto, caverns overhung with cool ferns. See the museums that highlight the heritage of Polynesia, including the Paul Gauguin Museum, the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands, and the Marae of Atahurahu.
Feeling more adventurous, then hop into a helicopter and take an air tour. Visit Lagoonarium de Tahiti which consists of four fish parks, exhibits of tropical fish, and a shark pen. The Grands Ballet de Tahiti is an evening show of authentic dances and songs. Shopping Ambling down Boulevard Pomare visitors are enchanted by French-inspired fashions and exotic merchandise displayed alongside more mundane everyday goods. Side streets leading from the main thoroughfare are crowded with shops and vendors selling everything from black pearls to bright pareus.
Cathedral of Notre Dame de Papeete
Consecrated in 1875 and restored in 1987.
Beaches
The nearest beach to Papeete is the Sofitel Maeva Beach where you can rent kayaks and jet skis from the watersports operators. The Sofitel has restaurants and bars.
Mahana Park, Paea, has a gorgeous white sand beach and all manner of watersports operators as well as a restaurant. Lafayette Beach, about three miles northeast of Papeete has black sand and limited facilities. Further along the coastal road is Tahara’s Beach (at the Hyatt Regency Resort), an excellent black sand beach for swimming. Another good beach for swimming is located in Mahina, near Point Venus.
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More Information |
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Web: www.papeete.com
Calender of Events for Tahiti: www.thetahititraveler.com/touristinfo/calendar.asp
Tahiti Tourism North America
300 Continental Blvd. Suite 160
El Segundo, CA 90245 USA
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