"Somehow, while Europeans were still afraid of falling off the edge of the earth, the Polynesians explored and settled the Pacific, sailing about in giant double-hulled canoes known as pahi . They also found time to make really cool art. At the Musée de Tahiti et des Îles, you can get a feeling for what Tahiti was like in the centuries before Captain Cook. The excellent collection includes ritual objects and plenty of canoes (though sadly, not one of the great pahi). You’ll also see lots of tattooing equipment: Tahitians were masters of the craft."
"Somehow, while Europeans were still afraid of falling off the edge of the earth, the Polynesians explored and settled the Pacific, sailing about in giant double-hulled canoes known as pahi . They also found time to make really cool art. At the Musée de Tahiti et des Îles, you can get a feeling for what Tahiti was like in the centuries before Captain Cook. The excellent collection includes ritual objects and plenty of canoes (though sadly, not one of the great pahi). You’ll also see lots of tattooing equipment: Tahitians were masters of the craft."
"Somehow, while Europeans were still afraid of falling off the edge of the earth, the Polynesians explored and settled the Pacific, sailing about in giant double-hulled canoes known as pahi . They also found time to make really cool art. At the Musée de Tahiti et des Îles, you can get a feeling for what Tahiti was like in the centuries before Captain Cook. The excellent collection includes ritual objects and plenty of canoes (though sadly, not one of the great pahi). You’ll also see lots of tattooing equipment: Tahitians were masters of the craft."
We went to this lovely museum Sunday afternoon after a morning on the beach. It was easy to nagivate with a wheelchair, the signs were in French and English, and the staff was welcoming and understanding with our limited French. Well thought out and informative displays introduced us to the history and culture of the islands of Polynesia. We visited on a Sunday and there were local craftsman. We did not budget enough time. If you like history and readying plaques I would recommend 1.5-2 hours at least.
Graeme Richardson
Google
Fabulous Polynesian experience in this quality museum. Multi language information on cultural pieces from the region. You can get around most of it in an hour. Beautiful tropics garden in the central courtyard.
Grab yourself a picnic lunch (from Le Fournil Hautbois on the main road) to enjoy in the spacious main grounds and waterfront.
Mark W
Google
This is a small but well presented museum that is well worth a visit if you have the time.
All the signage is in Tahitian, French and English. We also got the audio guides, but I don’t believe they are necessary.
There were many topics where I wished they showed greater detail, but given the size of the museum, I think they did a super job.
We went mid week and there was plenty of parking. There are restrooms inside, and the museum itself was air-conditioned.
Paul O'Dell
Google
This is a lovely collection and a must see to help you contextualize your visit to French Polynesia. The collection is well laid out and the grounds are amazing. Also they have one of Captain Cook’s anchors from the Resolute!
Marco Minari
Google
The newly renovated Museum, reopened in 2023, within a contemporary new building, unveiling the cultural heritage of French Polynesia. Interactive displays—touchscreens, videos, and models—offer immersive storytelling, and a beautifully landscaped garden inside.
Carrie King
Google
We had a few hours before our flight left and decided to take a cab to this museum and we are so glad that we did. It was absolutely incredible the way they have displayed the history of the Polynesian Islands. The exhibits were beautiful, well laid out, and very informative. Both English and French were available so that everyone could understand what was being shared. Once we were ready to leave the kind woman that sold us our tickets was also able to call us a cab and it arrived in less than 10 minutes to take us back to the airport. I highly recommend this museum for all who visit the islands.
Marcia Oliveira
Google
it was extremely interesting! We happened to go on Culture Day so the admission was free, but we would have gladly paid to visit. It shows the creative of the islands, along with historical artifacts. Their gardens are beautiful.
Jason Z
Google
The location is awkward to get to, but it does have a nice big property with water view and plenty of free parking. Very pretty exterior. Was excited to give it a try and support a local museum.... So was shocked when I tried to buy our 2 tickets (1,000xpf each / $20USD total).... that this tourist attraction could only accept exact change in their local currency or credit card. So having brought 5,000xpf (equivalent $50USD) for our admission, they refused to admit us because we didn't have exact change. The lady manning entry didn't seem to care and couldn't be bothered much as she seemed more focused on eating her lunch. Luckily for us, the main thing we wanted to see (Captain Cook's anchor) is viewable for FREE in the parking lot. Tourists be warned if you plan to pay in local currency.