Papeari

Papeari holds the distinction of being the oldest commune on the island of Tahiti, standing as a cornerstone of Polynesian history and culture. The village achieved global recognition as the home of the Paul Gauguin Museum, situated near the spot where the French artist resided during his first Tahitian sojourn from 1891 to 1893. Beyond its artistic legacy, Papeari is celebrated for the Harrison Smith Botanical Garden and the Vaima spring park, where cool freshwater emerges from volcanic rock to fill natural swimming pools. The community remains a vital center for traditional Tahitian crafts, including intricate wood carving and pandanus weaving. Visitors can explore a landscape rich in tropical flora and historical significance, reflecting the island's pre-colonial heritage and its early administrative roots. The tranquil pace of life in Papeari, combined with its lush gardens and lagoon views, gives a glimpse into the authentic soul of Tahiti, far removed from the more urbanized areas of Papeete.

Nearby cities

Faa'a

Faa'a is the most populous commune in French Polynesia, located directly west of the capital Papeete.

Papeete

Papeete is the capital of French Polynesia and the primary economic hub located on the island of Tahiti.

Puna'auia

Puna'auia is a major residential commune on the west coast of Tahiti, known for its university and beaches.

Pirae

Pirae is an urban commune east of Papeete that hosts major medical and administrative facilities.

Mahina

Mahina is a coastal commune in northern Tahiti, famous for the historical Point Venus and black sand beaches.

Paea

Paea is a commune on the west coast of Tahiti, rich in archaeological sites and coral reefs.

Papara

Papara is an extensive commune on the southern coast of Tahiti, known for its agriculture and wide beaches.

Arue

Arue is a commune in northeastern Tahiti that offers a mix of industrial areas and exclusive residential neighborhoods.

Taravao

Taravao is a strategically important town located on the isthmus connecting the two peninsulas of Tahiti.

Toahotu

Toahotu is a commune at the entrance of the Tahiti Iti peninsula, known for its white sand beaches and coconut groves.

Afaahiti

Afaahiti is a commune on the Tahiti Iti peninsula, bordering the important commercial center of Taravao.

Mataiea

Mataiea is a picturesque coastal commune on the southern shore of Tahiti, renowned for its lush botanical gardens and serene beaches.

Mataiea

Mataiea is a village in southern Tahiti known for its lush vegetation and historical links to Paul Gauguin.

Paopao

Paopao is a village located at the base of the majestic Cook's Bay on the island of Moorea.

Haapiti

Haapiti is a village on the southwest coast of Moorea, known for its cultural traditions and excellent surf spots.

History & landmarks

Taravao Plateau

This high plateau is the center of livestock farming.

Nature

Lake Vaihiria

Lake Vaihiria is the only natural freshwater lake on the island of Tahiti.

More places

Papeete Town Hall

Papeete Town Hall is a magnificent colonial-style building that resembles the former palace of Queen Pomare.

Vaiare

Vaiare is the primary port of Moorea and the main gateway for travelers arriving by ferry from Tahiti.

Harrison Smith Botanical Garden

This botanical garden in Papeari was established in 1919 by an American physicist.

Marae Nonoha

This marae in the Taravao region of Tahiti was a local center for religious customs.

Fort of Taravao

This French fort was built in the 19th century on the isthmus of Tahiti.

Paul Gauguin Museum

A museum dedicated to the famous French painter Paul Gauguin in Papeari.

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Marae Tehoro

Located in Mataiea on Tahiti, this marae was a sacred site for the local clan.