Papeete

Immortalized by Gauguin's paintings, Tahiti is much more than an island, it's a state of mind. Papeete, capital of Tahiti, is the chief port and trading center. It's also a provocateur luring people to her shores. Today the island is a charming blend of Polynesian "joie de vivre" and Gallic sophistication. But venture out from Papeete, and you'll find a landscape of rugged mountains, lush rain forests, cascading waterfalls and deserted beaches.

Tahara Hill and Matavai Bay
The perfect viewpoint of the bay where Lt. William Bligh's HMS Bounty anchored in the novel, "Mutiny on the Bounty."

Point Venus
This lighthouse now stands where James Cook and the scientists of his expedition observed the Transit of Venus in 1769.

Gauguin Museum
This museum chronicles the French artist's life in Polynesia and includes two sketches and a sculpture.