Things to do in  Papeete

Papeete, the capital of French Polynesia, is known as a transit hub where passengers arrive on flights and cruise ships before transferring to other parts of the country. It has volcanic black sand beaches, a bustling produce market, a waterfront night market selling international and Polynesian food, and French colonial buildings.

Many visitors to Papeete enjoy visiting the city’s markets—including a daytime produce market and a waterfront night market selling cooked food—and shopping for French Polynesia’s famed black pearls. Papeete is also a handy base for activities elsewhere on Tahiti island, including visiting beaches, waterfalls, and blowholes.

Yes, you can take a boat from Papeete to Bora Bora. The 160-mile (258-kilometer) journey can be made by ferry. The ferry, which stops at other islands en route, takes about eight hours and operates several times per week. You can also take a cruise between Papeete and Bora Bora.

No, Tahiti and Papeete are not the same, although they overlap. Tahiti is the name of an island in the country of French Polynesia, and Papeete is a city on that island. Papeete is the capital of French Polynesia and its largest town.

Yes, Tahiti is generally cheaper than Bora Bora. That’s because Bora Bora is known for its high-end resorts, while Tahiti offers a wider range. Tahiti is more of a transit hub and population center in French Polynesia so you will find accommodation, food, and activities at various price points.

Yes, Papeete is worth visiting if you need to use the city as a transit point before or after traveling to other parts of French Polynesia. You can eat a wide variety of food at the market, shop for black pearls, and stroll among lush vegetation in the city’s parks.