Vaima Shopping Centre
Avenue du Général de Gaulle, Papeete, Tahiti, 98714
The Vaima Shopping Centre is the largest and most modern shopping outlet in Papeete, the capital of French Polynesia. You can shop for Tahitian souvenirs, such as black pearls and maps of the French Polynesian Islands, as well as international and French brands. It’s conveniently located on Tahiti near the Notre Dame Cathedral, one of the island’s top draws.
The basics
Facing the seafront in Papeete, the Vaima Shopping Centre has been a favorite shopping destination for both tourists and French Polynesian locals since it opened in 1977. It’s a handy place to stop for souvenirs before flying out or taking a ferry to another island, and an ideal wet-weather destination, too. You can find high-end international brands as well as smaller local shops selling Tahitian and other French Polynesian products.
Things to know before you go
While the Vaima Shopping Centre is the biggest shopping center in French Polynesia, travelers from some parts of the world might consider it quite small by international standards.
As well as shops, you can find cafes, travel agents, salons, banks, and other services in the center.
At the start of your trip in French Polynesia? Pick up some beach reading (in English or French) at the bookstores in the center.
How to get there
The Vaima Shopping Centre is centrally located in Papeete, the capital and largest town in French Polynesia, on Tahiti island. It’s on Avenue du Maréchal Foch in Papeete—it faces the waterfront and is also next to the Papeete Market, so it’s easy to find.
When to get there
The center is open Monday-Saturday, but is closed on Sundays. It’s open from early morning to early evening Monday-Friday, but closes early on Saturdays.
Where to shop for black pearls
A popular souvenir to pick up in French Polynesia is Tahitian pearls, and you can do this at the Vaima Shopping Centre. You can only find the black pearls in French Polynesia, and they come in designs and styles tailored to all ages and genders. Not all of them are black, either, so everyone can look for a hue to suit their tastes.
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