Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia

THE PEARL OF THE PACIFIC

Tahitian cruises transport you to the beautiful South Pacific, where secluded blue lagoons sit in the shadows of ancient volcanic peaks. One of 118 French Polynesian islands, Tahiti is home to Papeete—where the diverse cultures of the archipelagos meet, and your adventure begins.

The soul of this multicultural town is found on its vibrant waterfront. Here, pay a visit to the Robert Wan Pearl Museum to learn the history of the pearl-cultivating business (and perhaps find a beautiful black pearl to call your own). Then, make your way up Boulevard Pomare to the Papeete Market, a city institution. This vast marketplace is bustling with shopkeepers selling colorful pareus (sarongs) and tropical fabrics, jewelry, Tahitian oils, and more.

Bougainville Park is a perfect public garden to stroll through, while explorers looking for something more challenging will find lush rolling hills and cascading waterfalls on hiking paths leading to Mount Aorai, the second highest peak on the island.

No matter how you choose to spend your day, make a point to visit Les roulottes in Place Vaiete for a meal. These food caravans have been feeding locals and tourists for decades with their incredible mix of flavors and cooking styles. Whether you’re looking for traditional Ma’a Tahiti, fish fresh from the lagoon, or a good old-fashioned slice of pizza, you’ll find something to delight your taste buds here.