Shopping

Tahiti has a plethora of shops and markets that are compatible with all needs and tastes. Elegantly carved Marquesan bowls, drums, ukuleles and tiki, dancing costumes, handicrafts and world famous black pearls are some interesting buys at Tahiti.

Hand made basketry and woven hats are available at most shops in Tahiti. Polynesian fashions including bikinis and ball gowns in various cloths materials.

Tahiti's national garment, the pareu can be purchased at numerous stores along the waterfront, at sidewalk stands, in artisan centers around the island, hotel boutiques, and from permanent kiosks set up at the new municipal market in Papeete. Tahiti hosts several shops and stores that sell shell jewelry and mother-of-pearl creations beautifully set in exquisite 18-karat gold designs.

A large number of shops sell sophisticated French perfumes and fragrances at prices even lower than Paris or New York. The monoi is a local perfume made from coconut oil and flowers and is sold at several stores in Tahiti. French crystal ware and a wide variety of cheese are popular buys on the island. Another must buy at the island are vanilla beans.

Markets and Shops

The heart of the city, the Papeete Public Market has attractive new buildings located close to the waterfront. Open daily from 5am to 6pm the municipal market of Le Marche is housed in these buildings. The market is bustling with activity throughout the day, but particularly reaches its peak of activity early on Sunday mornings. The market has a lovely display of floral arrangements including flowers such as marigold, daisy and jasmine, a perfect spot of photographing enthusiasts. The market is renowned for intricately made handicrafts including woven hand baskets. Tifaifai quilts and cushion covers are available at affordable rates at the market. The market also sells luscious ripe fruits, Chinese vegetables, a variety of fresh fish and farm-fresh meat. One of Vaima's most renowned jewelry stores, the Sibani Perles Joallier sells elegant European style ornaments including beautiful pearls set in gold and silver. A fine establishment, Sibani Perles Joallier offers a variety of jewelry items from earrings to bracelets and pendants.

Another store at Vaima, the Pai Moana Perles is a pearl emporium, which features exquisite piece of jewelry designed by the owners themselves. The American and Canadian owners of the store have their own pearl farm on the island of Moorea where they harvest their pearls.

Centre Moana Nui in Papeete lies on the main road in Punaauia. The Carrefour supermarket at the center features several boutiques and stores that offer some of the most fashionable clothing and accessories available in Tahiti.