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Located in downtown Papeete, Vai'ete Square (Place Vai’ete) is a nice place to take a relaxing waterfront stroll during the day. At night, however, the atmosphere becomes much more lively as colorful food wagons (roulottes) offering local cuisine and decadent desserts open to the masses.
In the evenings, visitors can sample everything from Tahitian pizza to French crepes to grilled calf heart. Live music from a nearby pavilion as well as live performances of all kinds add to the vibrant atmosphere, while tables littering the square allow you to relax and enjoy your meal. After you're done eating, wander the downtown to explore some of the island's nightlife options. Segway tours of Papeete, both by day and at night, pass by the square.
Vai’ete Square is at the heart of Papeete, within easy walking distance of just about everything in town.
The roulottes of Vai’ete Square start to open in the late afternoon, and the square becomes rowdier as the night goes on. On certain nights of the month, you can also find traditional dance performances taking place. A craft market pops up when cruise ships are in town.
While in the square, take note of some of the architectural details. The iron lacework bandstand features replica nineteenth-century French lanterns, and the lampposts scattered throughout the park look right out of Paris.