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Monument of the Missionaries

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Monument of the Missionaries at Point Venus marks a pivotal moment in the history of French Polynesia, commemorating the arrival of the first Protestant missionaries. On March 5, 1797, the ship 'Duff', commanded by Captain James Wilson, dropped anchor in Matavai Bay, carrying members of the London Missionary Society. This site served as the primary landing point for those who would eventually transform the religious and social landscape of Tahiti. The monument is set within a well-maintained park, which also houses a historic lighthouse and gives memorable views of the black sand coastline. Point Venus itself is historically significant, as it was the location where James Cook observed the transit of Venus in 1769. Today, the monument stands as a quiet place for reflection, highlighting the complex legacy of the early 19th-century missions and their enduring influence on Tahitian culture, language, and communal traditions.

Location: French Polynesia
Top sights: Baie de Matavai · Venus Beach · Phare de la Pointe Vénus
Nearby: Pirae (5 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	27	27	27	27	27	26	25	25	25	26	26	27
Rain mm	190	175	134	116	90	69	52	47	40	84	113	221

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Missionaries' Monument at Point Venus on Tahiti is freely accessible, located right on the beach. The memorial can be viewed at any time during park opening hours.

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Typical hours

The park is usually open daily, exact hours may vary. The monument is generally accessible from morning until evening.

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Photography

Photography is allowed at the monument and throughout the park. The combination of monument, lighthouse, and sea yields great shots.

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Time needed

Visiting the monument typically takes 10 to 15 minutes. If you are interested in missionary history, read the information boards - that takes a bit longer.

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Combine with

The monument is at Point Venus, where the Bounty Memorial and the lighthouse are also located. Combine the visit with a swim on the black sand beach or a coastal walk.

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Getting there

Point Venus is about 10 kilometers north of Papeete, easily reachable by car or bus. Parking is available right at the park entrance.

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Insider tip

Read the inscriptions on the monument's base - they give good insight into early missionary history. Visit the site early morning for the best atmosphere.

Geography

Coordinates

-17.49810, -149.49640

Facts

Erected in 1900.
Height: 6 m.
Material: granite.
Located in Papeete, Tahiti.
Plaque in English and Tahitian.
First missionaries: 1797.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Point Venus Lighthouse<1 km · NWExplore →

Arue2 km · EExplore →

Arue Commercial Zone3 km · SEExplore →

Pirae5 km · SEExplore →

Tomb of King Pomare V6 km · SExplore →

Church of St. Jean Baptiste7 km · NEExplore →

Arahoho Blowhole7 km · NExplore →

Kanti Chinese Temple8 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Monument of the Missionaries (10)

Baie de Matavai

Bay on the north coast of Tahiti, anchorage of HMS Bounty in 1788.

Venus Beach

Sandy beach near Pointe Vénus, suitable for swimming and picnics.

Phare de la Pointe Vénus

Lighthouse in French Polynesia, marking the northern tip of Tahiti.

Temple Getesemane

Christian church in Mahina, serving the local congregation.

Chapelle de Muriavai

Chapel in the Muriavai district, used for worship services.

Salle du Royaume des Témoins de Jéhovah

Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses in Mahina.

Temple mormon

Worship house of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Belvédère du Tahara'a

Viewpoint overlooking the north coast of Tahiti and the bay.

Église St Paul

Church located in French Polynesia, in Mahina.

Ancienne chapelle Fatima

Former chapel, no longer in use.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is the Denkmal der Missionare located?

The monument is located centrally on Tahiti, usually near historical sites.

How much time should I allocate?

A quick stop of 10 to 15 minutes is sufficient.

Is the monument accessible at all times?

Yes, as a public monument, it is accessible 24/7.

Are there explanations at the monument?

There are often small signs, but rarely in many languages.

Is it a good spot for photography?

Yes, it gives a nice photo opportunity with a historical background.

Monument of the Missionaries: where is it located?

Monument of the Missionaries is located in French Polynesia.

Monument of the Missionaries: what is there to see?

Highlights include Baie de Matavai, Venus Beach, Phare de la Pointe Vénus.

Monument of the Missionaries: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.

Monument of the Missionaries: why is it worth visiting?

The Monument of the Missionaries at Point Venus marks a pivotal moment in the history of French Polynesia, commemorating the arrival of the first Protestant missionaries.

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