Paul Gauguin Museum

The Paul Gauguin Museum in Papeari is a tribute to the life and artistic legacy of the renowned French painter who sought refuge and inspiration in Polynesia during the late 19th century. Set within a lush park adjacent to the Harrison Smith Botanical Garden, the museum features architecture that echoes traditional Polynesian dwellings. While many of Gauguin's original masterpieces are held in major global galleries, this exhibition provides an intimate look at his daily existence in Tahiti and the Marquesas Islands. The collection includes high-quality reproductions, personal letters, photographs, and several woodcarvings that reveal his fascination with local motifs. Visitors can learn about the profound impact the Maohi culture and tropical landscape had on his revolutionary use of color and form. The museum’s serene coastal setting allows travelers to connect with the environment that fueled one of the most influential bodies of work in modern art history.

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.

Toahotu

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

Taravao

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

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.

Papeari

Papeari is a coastal village on Tahiti famous for its natural beauty and the Paul Gauguin Museum.

History & landmarks

Taravao Plateau

This high plateau is the center of livestock farming.

Tahiti Iti Coffee

High-quality Arabica coffee is grown on the peninsula.

Teahupoo Coast

The Teahupoo coast is world-famous for its massive, heavy waves that break over a shallow coral reef.

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.

Fort of Taravao

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

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Marae Ati-Tahito

This secluded marae is located on Tahiti Iti and is known for its spiritual atmosphere.

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Marae of Tahiti Iti

This sacred site on the smaller peninsula of Tahiti Iti is known for its secluded beauty.