Robert Wan Pearl Museum

The Robert Wan Pearl Museum in Papeete is the only museum in the world dedicated entirely to pearls, offering a unique journey through the history and science of these gems. Established by Robert Wan, the legendary pioneer of Tahitian pearl farming, the museum highlights the cultivation of the famous 'Pinctada margaritifera' oysters. Visitors can explore detailed exhibits on the grafting process used in the remote lagoons of French Polynesia and learn about the pearl's cultural significance as a symbol of prestige throughout history. The collection features wide-open pieces, including the world's largest black pearl and rare items from Robert Wan's private collection. As admission is free, it serves as an educational and cultural landmark, teaching tourists about the artisanal heritage and economic importance of the pearl industry in the Pacific. The museum beautifully captures the transition of a natural wonder into a global luxury icon, making it in Tahiti.

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

Mataiea

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

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

Papeete Market

The Marche de Papeete is the heart of local commerce.

Vaima Center

The best-known shopping and business center in Papeete.

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.

Port of Papeete

The Port of Papeete is the main economic hub of the area.

Papeete Cathedral

This Roman Catholic cathedral is the oldest church in Tahiti.

War Memorial Papeete

A monument honoring the fallen Polynesian soldiers of the two World Wars.

Notre Dame Cathedral Papeete

This central cathedral in Papeete was built in the 19th century and is the religious heart of Tahiti.