To'ata Square (Tahua To'ata)
To'ata Square (Place To'ata) is the main hub for cultural events, performances, rock concerts, and festivals in Papeete, including the annual Heiva Festival, the largest annual cultural festival in Tahiti. Anchoring the square is a 5,000-seat pavilion with an outdoor stage. Onsite snack bars sell light bites and drinks in the evenings.
The Basics
Even when no events are scheduled at the square, it makes for a pleasant stroll along the waterfront, where visitors can watch boats passing by and outrigger canoe teams training for races. To’ota Square is also dotted with an interesting cultural detail—Tikis, religious statues used in the ancient Polynesian society to guard sacred sites and as a link between man and the spiritual world.
Things to Know Before You Go
- To’ota Square is a must-visit for those with an interest in music and local culture.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
How to Get There
To’ota Square is on the Papeete waterfront about a half mile south of Place Vaiete. It’s easy to get to on foot.
Trip ideas
When to Get There
To experience the square in full swing, plan to visit during a festival or concert. If you’d prefer to enjoy the grounds in peace and quiet, come on a weekday morning or afternoon when nothing’s scheduled.
Heiva Festival
The 17-day event takes place every July, and brings a Carnival-like atmosphere to the area with Tahitian dance schools competitions and celebrations of music and dance. Locals from neighboring islands as well as international visitors come to take part in the festivities.
- Marché de Pape'ete (Pape'ete Market)
- Papeete Town Hall (Mairie de Papeete)
- Territorial Assembly (Place Tarahoi)
- Vaima Shopping Centre
- Bougainville Park (Parc Bougainville)
- Robert Wan Pearl Museum (Musee de la Perle Robert Wan)
- Notre Dame Cathedral (Cathedrale de Notre Dame)
- Arahoho Blowhole (Trou de Souffleur de Arahoho)