Paofai (Neighborhood) - Image 1
1 / 10

Paofai Neighborhood

4.6
·491k reviews·Papeete, French Polynesia

Experience the authentic heart of Papeete at the vibrant Marché de Papeete and its lively street food scene. A true taste of local Tahitian life.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Street food comes alive

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Paofai (Neighborhood) - Image 1

Paofai Neighborhood

Best Time

Evenings

Street food comes alive

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience the authentic heart of Papeete at the vibrant Marché de Papeete and its lively street food scene. A true taste of local Tahitian life.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Embrace the laid-back capital city and appreciate its charm."

Vertical photo
TIP

🛍️ Shop Local Finds

Discover unique clothing and souvenirs at local boutiques like EIMEO.CLOTHING.

🚗 Ride-sharing options

Consider ride-sharing for longer distances within Papeete if public transport isn't convenient.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Marché de Papeete

Marché de Papeete

Central Papeete

A vibrant hub for local produce, crafts, and delicious street food. Experience the heart of Tahitian daily life.

Crêperie Chez le Bro

Crêperie Chez le Bro

Mamao Pharmacy parking

Savor authentic crêpes with a local twist. A must-visit for a casual and tasty evening meal.

Waterfront Stroll

Waterfront Stroll

Papeete waterfront

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the coast, taking in ocean breezes and city views. Perfect for sunset.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Local Pace

Paofai Neighborhood is best explored at a relaxed pace. Don't rush; soak in the local atmosphere, especially around the market. Many shops close mid-afternoon, so plan accordingly.

Street Food Savvy

The neighborhood shines with its street food scene, particularly in the evenings. Look for local favorites like crêpes and traditional Polynesian dishes. Be adventurous and try something new!

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Street food comes alive
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Local market buzz
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Crêperie Chez le Bro🤤Crêpes Dubaï "façon chez le BRO" 😎🤙Ouvert du lundi au vendredi à partir de 18H📍Papeete en face de la pharmacie Mamao sur le parking de l'ancien hôpital #tahiti#streetfood#foodies#fyp#crepes
@tahititastyfood
29.9K likes • 426.6K views

🛍️ Shop Local Finds

Discover unique clothing and souvenirs at local boutiques like EIMEO.CLOTHING. TikTok

🚗 Ride-sharing options

Consider ride-sharing for longer distances within Papeete if public transport isn't convenient. TikTok

Just a normal day in Papeete 💀😭 #tahiti #papeete #frenchpolynesia #funnyvideos
@jeremie.tshimanga
14.1K likes • 117.8K views
Come with me to get my @EIMEO.CLOTHING dress for Friday✨ I’ll post the dress later this week!! #eimeoclothing #papeete #taunoa #tahiti #shopping
@jennifer.lin16
6.5K likes • 78.9K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

Papeete is small and walkable. Appreciate the laid-back capital city by strolling around. TikTok

🍜 Taste the Street Food

Don't miss the 'Ma'a' (food) at the market, especially in the evenings. TikTok

So fun!😆 #papeete #tahiti #thingstodointahiti #market
@the.metcalfes
6.2K likes • 70.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🛍️ Shop Local Finds

Discover unique clothing and souvenirs at local boutiques like EIMEO.CLOTHING. TikTok

🚗 Ride-sharing options

Consider ride-sharing for longer distances within Papeete if public transport isn't convenient. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

Papeete is small and walkable. Appreciate the laid-back capital city by strolling around. TikTok

🍜 Taste the Street Food

Don't miss the 'Ma'a' (food) at the market, especially in the evenings. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors often praise the authentic local experience in Paofai Neighborhood, particularly the vibrant Marché de Papeete and its delicious street food. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals are frequently highlighted. However, some find the area can be quiet outside of market hours and wish for more diverse evening entertainment.

What People Like

Authentic local market
Delicious street food
Relaxed atmosphere

What People Dislike

Quiet evenings
Limited shopping hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Faa'a International Airport (PPT), you can take a taxi or a pre-arranged shuttle to Paofai Neighborhood. The journey is relatively short, typically around 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. Some travelers have found that a 5-hour layover is enough to briefly explore Papeete itself. TikTokReddit

Yes, Papeete is a small capital city that can be easily explored on foot. The Paofai Neighborhood is also quite accessible by walking, allowing you to soak in the local atmosphere. TikTok

Taxis are readily available, and ride-sharing services are becoming more common. For shorter distances within neighborhoods like Paofai, walking is often the best way to experience the local vibe. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Paofai Neighborhood itself is a public area and does not have an entrance fee. However, individual shops, restaurants, and market stalls will have their own pricing for goods and services.

The Marché de Papeete is typically open daily, with the busiest hours and the most vendors present in the mornings. Some stalls and food vendors, like Crêperie Chez le Bro, open in the evenings. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The best way to experience Paofai is to embrace the local pace. Wander through the market, sample street food, and enjoy a stroll along the waterfront. TikTok+1

While not always advertised far in advance, keep an eye out for local events or cultural gatherings, especially around the market area. These can offer a unique glimpse into Tahitian life. TikTok

Expect a laid-back, authentic atmosphere. It's a place where locals shop, eat, and socialize, offering a genuine slice of Tahitian daily life away from the main tourist hubs. TikTok+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You absolutely must try the crêpes from Crêperie Chez le Bro, which are a local favorite. Also, explore the Marché de Papeete for fresh produce and other traditional Polynesian dishes. TikTok+1

The Marché de Papeete is the prime spot for street food during the day and evening. Crêperie Chez le Bro is a standout for evening snacks. TikTok+1

While many dishes feature fresh fish and meat, the market often has stalls with fresh fruits, vegetables, and sometimes vegetarian preparations. Crêpes can also be made with sweet or savory fillings. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Capture vibrant shots at the Marché de Papeete with its colorful produce and bustling activity. The waterfront also offers scenic views, especially during sunset. TikTok

It's always polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially vendors. Many locals are friendly and may be happy to oblige. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting Paofai Neighborhood will find the Marché de Papeete a fun and engaging experience. Kids will love the colorful fruits and the lively atmosphere. It's a great place to introduce them to new tastes and sights. TikTok

For a simple and enjoyable meal, the street food options, especially crêpes, are usually a hit with children. The waterfront also offers a pleasant space for a family stroll, allowing kids to burn off some energy in a safe environment. Keep in mind that some shops might close mid-afternoon, so plan your activities accordingly.

🚶 Budget Travelers

Paofai Neighborhood is excellent for budget-conscious travelers. The Marché de Papeete offers incredibly affordable and delicious meals, making it easy to eat well without breaking the bank. TikTok

Exploring the neighborhood on foot is free and allows you to discover hidden gems. Instead of expensive tours, opt for local transport like taxis or shared rides if needed, and focus on experiencing the authentic local culture through its food and markets. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Marché de Papeete

The Marché de Papeete is the beating heart of the city and a must-visit when in the Paofai Neighborhood. This bustling market is a sensory delight, overflowing with vibrant tropical fruits, fresh vegetables, local flowers, and handcrafted souvenirs. It's the perfect place to immerse yourself in the daily rhythm of Tahitian life and interact with local vendors. TikTok+1

Beyond produce, the market is renowned for its street food stalls. As the day progresses, especially into the evening, the market transforms into a culinary hotspot. Here, you can sample a variety of local delicacies, from fresh seafood to sweet treats. It’s an authentic and affordable way to taste the flavors of French Polynesia. TikTok+1

For a truly local experience, aim to visit during peak hours when the market is most lively. It’s a fantastic opportunity for photography, capturing the colors, faces, and energy of this iconic Tahitian landmark.

Evening Delights: Street Food and Atmosphere

As the sun sets, the Paofai Neighborhood, particularly around the Marché de Papeete, comes alive with a different kind of energy. This is when the street food scene truly shines. Food stalls and small eateries open up, offering a delicious array of local and international flavors. TikTok

A standout is the Crêperie Chez le Bro, a popular spot for both sweet and savory crêpes, offering a taste of home with a Tahitian twist. It’s a casual and friendly atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed dinner or a late-night snack. TikTok Many visitors find these evening food experiences to be a highlight of their trip, offering a more intimate and less crowded way to enjoy local cuisine compared to daytime. TikTok

Strolling through the neighborhood in the evening allows you to experience the laid-back ambiance of Papeete. The air is filled with the aroma of delicious food, and the sounds of local chatter create a welcoming environment. It’s a great time to simply wander, observe, and enjoy the simple pleasures of Tahitian life.

You may also like

1 of 2