Pareos : The fabric of island life
An absolute symbol of the islands, the Tahitian pareu is a
garment, tablecloth, towel or decorative accessory.
Handcrafted or made abroad, their motifs are inspired by
local nature (flowers, shells, vegetation) and perfectly
embody the Polynesian soul. Some workshops even invite
you to create your own!

Tifaifai : The art of Polynesian patchwork
These large, colorful blankets (240 × 260 cm) are handmade
by several women gathered around a table. Made from two
sheets of contrasting colors, the floral or geometric motifs
adorn bed, sofa or wall with elegance and warmth..

Handicrafts & natural objects
Pandanus leaves, coconut palms or coconut fibers are the raw materials for handcrafted everyday objects: bags, hats, baskets, carpets (pe’ue), fans… Each archipelago has its own techniques, handed down from generation to generation. 

Tahitian pearls: the jewel of the lagoons
World-renowned, the Tahitian pearl comes in unique hues:
deep black, olive green, silver, eggplant, bronze… Local
jewelers offer a wide choice of necklaces, bracelets and
earrings, in series or one-off pieces.
Pearls are graded according to 6 criteria (luster,
orientation, surface, size, shape, color), and Polynesian
regulations guarantee authenticity and quality. Looking for
made-to-measure jewelry? It can be made in 24 to 48 hours

Sculptures & Tiki
Sculptures representing Polynesian gods (Tiki), marine animals or traditional objects (oars, spears) are omnipresent. Those from the Marquesas Islands are particularly renowned and sought-after at auctions around the world. 

Polynesian tattooing: a living art
Highly symbolic, Polynesian tattooing tells a personal story,
often linked to the elements, ancestors or life’s exploits.
Tattoo artists, present on all the archipelagos, offer custom
creations, according to your story and your sensibility.

Painting & Art
Polynesian landscapes, light and bodies have inspired many
artists: Gauguin, of course, but also contemporaries such as
Boulaire, Deloffre or Duday. Prints and original works are
available in local galleries.

Musical instruments
To bring back a little rhythm from your trip, consider
ukuleles or to’ere (traditional drums). Simple or high-end,
these handcrafted instruments are available in markets or
from specialist luthiers.

Savates :
The local alternative to flip-flopsForget your Havaianas! In Polynesia, we wear “savates”.Local brand Tahitian Move offers original, comfortable andcolorful models, perfect for adopting island style.

Terroir & local delicacies

Vanille de Tahiti: A rare treasureVanilla Tahitensis, grown only in Polynesia, is anexceptional vanilla with powerful, floral aromas. Grown onthe islands of Taha’a, Raiatea, Bora Bora and Tahiti, itrepresents less than 1% of the world’s production. Aprecious gift to slip into your luggage.

Rangiroa wine: Vines planted on an atoll? A successful bet! Rangiroa wines- dry or sweet white, Blanc de Corail or rosé – areastonishing for their finesse and minerality. To taste… ortake home!

Jams & tropical fruits
Polynesian fruits (mango, papaya, pineapple, banana,lime…) are available in jams, marmalades and homemadechutneys. Perfect for prolonging the flavors of your trip.

Monoï & flowers: the fragrance of the islandsMonoï de Tahiti is a fragrant oil created by maceratingtiare flowers in coconut oil. Labelled Appellation d’Originesince 1992, it is used in cosmetics, massage or daily care.

You can also bring back floral arrangements (hibiscus, birdsof paradise, porcelain roses…), ready to travel by plane, withphytosanitary certificate if required..!

Papeete Market: The lively heart of the capital Open every day from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., this historic market is the ideal place to discover local life. On the first floor: fruit, vegetables, fish and flower necklaces. Upstairs: handicrafts from the five archipelagos – jewelry, sculptures, fabrics, woven objects. 

Practical info
Shop opening hours : Monday to Friday, 8am or 9am to5pm (with a break between 11:30am and 1:30pm). Saturdaymornings in Papeete, until 12 or 3pm depending on store.