Vaitape Handicraft Market - Handmade bowls and plates are on display.
1 / 10

Vaitape Handicraft Market

5
·1 reviews·Bora-Bora, French Polynesia

Discover authentic Polynesian crafts and fresh island flavors at the vibrant Vaitape Handicraft Market, the heart of Bora Bora's local culture.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Freshest produce & best selection

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Vaitape Handicraft Market - Handmade bowls and plates are on display.

Vaitape Handicraft Market

Best Time

Morning

Freshest produce & best selection

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover authentic Polynesian crafts and fresh island flavors at the vibrant Vaitape Handicraft Market, the heart of Bora Bora's local culture.

5
(1 reviews)

"A charming place to explore, offering fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, and handmade crafts."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Explore Food Carts

Don't miss the delicious local eats from the food carts! A must-try for authentic island flavors.

🛍️ Haggle Respectfully

Prices can be high, but polite bargaining is part of the experience for souvenirs.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Handmade Crafts

Handmade Crafts

Market stalls

Discover unique, handcrafted items like woven bags, jewelry, and intricate carvings. Perfect for authentic souvenirs.

Fresh Local Produce

Fresh Local Produce

Market stalls

Sample and purchase vibrant tropical fruits, vegetables, and fresh fish directly from local growers.

Authentic Island Flavors

Authentic Island Flavors

Food carts

Experience the true taste of Bora Bora with delicious offerings from local food carts.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Local Vibe

Vaitape's market is a hub for authentic crafts and local produce. Arrive early to catch the freshest goods and interact with artisans before the day heats up. Don't be afraid to haggle respectfully for souvenirs.

Budgeting for Souvenirs

While charming, prices at the Vaitape Handicraft Market can be higher due to its remote location. Factor this into your souvenir budget, and remember that handmade items often come with a premium.

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Freshest produce & best selection
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
More relaxed atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Mama African arts and crafts market Idu (on the same road as Bellafoam) #artmarket #artaandcraftsmarket #abuja
@hotperidot
3.4K likes • 81.2K views

🎯 Explore Food Carts

Don't miss the delicious local eats from the food carts! A must-try for authentic island flavors. Reddit

🛍️ Haggle Respectfully

Prices can be high, but polite bargaining is part of the experience for souvenirs. Instagram

I remember visiting Nadi Handicraft Market on our Vacation to Fiji.. When i was a wee little Girl 👧🏽• • So good too actually go back after so long. Lots of Cute, Colourful Items. Home decor, Handmade bags & Jewellery, Souvenirs & More• If your in Nadi town, Check it out. 🤙🏽 • #fiji #handicraft #markets #pacific #travels #island #fijiislands #fijime #findyourhappy #colourful #markets #instatravel...
fiji_i_love_you
544 likes • 0 views
Nadi Handicraft Market. 🌈 • • • #colourful #nadimarket #fiji #shopping #handicrafts #souvenir #travel #explore #wander #fijitravel #destinationfiji #island #fijiislands #colour #market #cutegifts #fijianartisan #followmetoofiji #paradise #
fiji_i_love_you
184 likes • 0 views

☀️ Go Early for Freshness

Arrive in the morning for the best selection of fresh produce and to beat the heat. Instagram

🎨 Admire Unique Designs

Each handmade item, from masks to bags, features unique designs and colors. Instagram

フィジーの伝統工芸品のハンディクラフトにはフェイスマスクもあります🇫🇯 すべてハンドメイドだから一つ一つデザインや色も違います。 インテリアとして壁掛けなどにもおすすめ😊 大阪万博フィジーコーマーシャルブースでも販売しております✨ 是非お立ち寄りくださいね🇫🇯🌈 📍ハンディクラフトマーケット@ナンディタウン #フィジー #フィジータイムジャパン #伝統工芸品
fijitimejapan
20 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Explore Food Carts

Don't miss the delicious local eats from the food carts! A must-try for authentic island flavors. Reddit

🛍️ Haggle Respectfully

Prices can be high, but polite bargaining is part of the experience for souvenirs. Instagram

☀️ Go Early for Freshness

Arrive in the morning for the best selection of fresh produce and to beat the heat. Instagram

🎨 Admire Unique Designs

Each handmade item, from masks to bags, features unique designs and colors. Instagram

What Travellers Say

5
(1 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Vaitape Handicraft Market a charming spot to experience local culture, offering fresh produce and unique handmade crafts. While prices can be high due to the remote location, the authentic atmosphere and opportunity to interact with locals make it a worthwhile visit for souvenirs and a taste of island life.

"The Bora Bora local market is a charming place to explore, offering fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, and handmade crafts. It’s a great spot to meet locals, taste island flavors, and find souvenirs. The atmosphere is relaxed, colorful, and full of the authentic spirit of Bora Bora.

Prices are high I would say for a lot of stuff, but the location is remote and the import everything must be more expensive."

Marta Stashevska

What People Like

Authentic local crafts
Fresh tropical produce
Vibrant island atmosphere

What People Dislike

Higher prices
Persistent vendors

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Vaitape is the main town on Bora Bora. You can typically reach the market by walking if you're staying nearby, or by taking a short taxi ride from your resort. Many visitors explore Vaitape as a day trip from their accommodations. Reddit

Yes, Vaitape is the central hub of Bora Bora, and the market is usually located in the heart of the town, making it quite accessible. Look for stalls selling local goods and produce. Reddit

Within Vaitape itself, walking is the easiest way to get around the market area. For longer distances or to reach the market from resorts, taxis are available, though they can be pricey. Reddit

Car rentals are not common or necessary for exploring Vaitape and its market, as the town is quite small and walkable. Most visitors rely on resort shuttles, taxis, or boat transfers. Reddit

Some boat tours might include a stop in Vaitape, allowing you to explore the town and market. It's best to check with tour operators for specific itineraries. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Vaitape Handicraft Market is generally free. You only pay for the items you choose to purchase. Reddit

The market typically operates during daylight hours, with mornings being the busiest for fresh produce. It's advisable to visit earlier in the day for the best selection. Instagram

There is no admission fee to browse the Vaitape Handicraft Market. It's an open-air market where you can freely explore the stalls. Reddit

For the widest variety of handmade crafts, visiting in the morning or early afternoon is recommended. Some vendors may pack up later in the day. Instagram

While not explicitly mentioned, local markets often have a vibrant atmosphere. It's worth asking locals if any special events coincide with your visit. Reddit

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

You can find a variety of handmade items, including woven bags, jewelry, wood carvings, pareos, and local art. Many items reflect Polynesian culture. Instagram+1

Yes, bargaining is often expected for handicrafts. Approach it respectfully and be prepared to negotiate a fair price. Instagram

The quality varies, but many artisans create beautiful, authentic pieces. Inspect items carefully before purchasing. Instagram+1

You might find local jams, spices, or vanilla products. However, fresh produce is best enjoyed locally due to import restrictions. Reddit

Popular items include traditional pareos, shell jewelry, woven baskets, and carved wooden figures. Look for unique pieces that catch your eye. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The market features local food carts offering a taste of Bora Bora. You can find fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and other local delicacies. Reddit

Vaitape town has several local eateries and restaurants offering a range of cuisines. You can explore these after visiting the market. Reddit

Look for dishes featuring fresh fish, like poisson cru (raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime), and enjoy tropical fruits like mangoes and papayas. Reddit

Prices at the food carts are generally reasonable and offer good value for experiencing local flavors. Reddit

While seafood and meat are common, you can often find fresh fruit salads and vegetable-based snacks at the food carts. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed. However, it's always polite to ask vendors before taking close-up photos of them or their specific crafts. Instagram

The colorful stalls, vibrant produce, and smiling local vendors offer great photo opportunities. Capture the lively atmosphere of the market. Instagram+1

Morning light is often soft and ideal for photography, and the market is less crowded. The vibrant colors really pop in the daylight. Instagram

Drone usage is generally restricted in populated areas and near resorts. It's best to avoid using drones in the market area. Instagram

Focus on capturing the details of the handicrafts, the textures of the fresh produce, and the interactions between vendors and shoppers for authentic shots. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Vaitape Handicraft Market can be an engaging experience for families. Children can marvel at the colorful crafts and exotic fruits. It’s a great opportunity to teach them about different cultures and the importance of handmade goods. Encourage them to pick out a small, affordable souvenir. Instagram

Keep an eye on little ones as the market can get crowded. The food carts offer simple, tasty options that kids might enjoy, like fresh fruit smoothies. Visiting in the morning is ideal to avoid the midday heat and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While Bora Bora is known for luxury, Vaitape offers a more accessible experience. The handicraft market is a good place to find affordable souvenirs if you're willing to browse and negotiate politely. Focus on smaller items like shell necklaces or small carvings. Instagram

Eating at the food carts is significantly cheaper than resort dining and offers a more authentic taste of local cuisine. Look for fresh fruit stands for refreshing and inexpensive snacks. Vaitape itself is a great place to experience the island without the high price tag of overwater bungalows. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heart of Vaitape: More Than Just a Market

Vaitape is the administrative and commercial center of Bora Bora, and its handicraft market is a vibrant reflection of island life. Beyond the stalls brimming with local produce and artisanal goods, the market serves as a crucial meeting point for the community. It’s where locals gather to socialize, trade, and share news, offering visitors a genuine glimpse into the daily rhythm of Bora Bora. The atmosphere is typically lively, filled with the chatter of vendors and the aroma of local delicacies. Reddit

When exploring the market, take your time to appreciate the unique craftsmanship on display. From intricately woven baskets and hats made from pandanus leaves to carved wooden figures and shell jewelry, each item tells a story of tradition and skill. Many of these crafts are handmade, making them perfect, authentic souvenirs that carry the spirit of the island. Remember that prices can reflect the remote location and the effort involved in creating these pieces. Instagram+1

Don't overlook the food carts that often accompany the handicraft stalls. These offer a fantastic opportunity to taste authentic Polynesian flavors. Try local specialties like poisson cru, fresh tropical fruits, and other island treats. Engaging with the vendors, even with a simple smile and a few local greetings, can enrich your experience and lead to more meaningful interactions. Reddit

Navigating Souvenir Shopping in Vaitape

The Vaitape Handicraft Market is a prime spot for finding unique souvenirs that capture the essence of Bora Bora. Visitors often look for traditional pareos, which are colorful sarongs adorned with Polynesian patterns, and handmade jewelry crafted from shells, seeds, and local materials. Wood carvings, depicting local motifs and figures, are also popular and showcase the artistry of the islanders. Instagram+1

It's important to be aware that prices at the market can be on the higher side. This is largely due to the logistical challenges of importing goods to a remote island and the value placed on handmade items. As one traveler noted, 'Prices are high I would say for a lot of stuff, but the location is remote and the import everything must be more expensive.' Therefore, respectful negotiation is often part of the shopping experience. Approach vendors with a friendly demeanor, and try to agree on a price that feels fair to both parties. Instagram

When selecting souvenirs, look for items that resonate with you personally. Consider the story behind the craft and the artisan who made it. While some vendors might be more persistent in their sales pitches, a polite 'no thank you' is usually sufficient if you're not interested. Ultimately, the goal is to find a meaningful memento of your time in paradise. Instagram

You may also like

1 of 2