Papeete Market, Central market in Papeete, Tahiti.

Papeete Market is a covered market hall in Papeete, French Polynesia, its high roof carried on red metal columns and beams. Rows of stalls and tables fill the tiled floor, which has a diamond-shaped dark inset; garlands of flowers and ribbons arc overhead and along the stalls. A low counter with a red and white skirt holds produce and boxes on the left, while bags, hats and goods hang on the right. Vendors sell fruit, vegetables, fish, oils, handicrafts such as hats and handbags, local textiles and shell necklaces.

The market was founded in 1869 and quickly became the main trading point in the city, drawing merchants from across the Polynesian islands. Over time the city grew around it, and it still anchors the commercial life of Papeete today.

The market is a meeting place where locals shop and chat every day, especially in the early morning when fishmongers lay out their fresh catch. Walking through the aisles, visitors naturally observe the easy familiarity between vendors and regulars who have known each other for years.

The market sits just a short walk from the waterfront and is easy to reach on foot from most of the city center. Going early in the morning gives you the widest choice of fresh goods and the most activity at the stalls.

The market sells handicrafts including hats and handbags, along with local textiles and shell necklaces. Visitors walking the central aisle between the stalls can look up at the garlands of flowers and ribbons strung in arcs overhead, and find hanging bags and hats displayed on the right-hand side.