Exotic and enchanting Papeete is the capital of Tahiti, an island located in the middle of the South Pacific. Its beautiful black-and-white sand beaches, hugged by lush, verdant mountains, create a stunning landscape that is nothing short of magical.

Learn about the pearl cultivation industry at the Robert Wan Musee de la Perle, the only museum in the world devoted entirely to pearls. Towards the outer edge of Papeete, you can tour Mutiny on the Bounty co-author James Norman’s house, carefully maintained and decorated with many of Norman’s original pieces.

Le Marche, the true heart of Papeete, is the perfect place to shop for Tahitian vanilla, fruits, oils, and flowers. Valma Center, where you’ll find everything from pearl shops to book stores, is another popular place to scoop up local treasures. If it’s adventure you crave, hike the waterfalls and walking trails at Faarumai, take an outrigger canoe out on the lagoon, or try surfing at famous sites such as Teahupoo, Papara, or Taapuna.