James Norman Hall Museum: A Literary Journey

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Discover the life and legacy of 'Mutiny on the Bounty' author James Norman Hall at his preserved Tahitian home and museum in Arue.

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James Norman Hall Museum

Step back in time at the James Norman Hall Museum, the preserved home of the celebrated author of 'Mutiny on the Bounty'. Explore his life in 1930s Tahiti, surrounded by original furnishings, a vast library, and personal artifacts in a serene setting.

A brief summary to James Norman Hall Museum

PK 5 côté montagne, Arue, 98701, PF
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Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
Thursday 8 am-4 pm
Friday 8 am-4 pm
Saturday 8 am-4 pm

Local tips

Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds and fully enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the museum and gardens.
Take a guided tour to gain deeper insights into James Norman Hall's life, his writings, and the history of the house.
Purchase books by or about James Norman Hall at the museum to further explore his literary works.

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Getting There

Taxi

From Faa'a International Airport, a taxi ride to the James Norman Hall Museum in Arue typically costs around 2,500-3,500 XPF (approximately $22-$31 USD) and takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxis are readily available at the airport.
Public Transport

From Papeete, you can take the bus towards the East Coast. Buses are available every 3 hours. Ask the driver to drop you off near PK 5 in Arue. From there, walk 'côté montagne' (mountain side) to reach the museum. The bus fare is approximately 750 XPF.

Discover more about James Norman Hall Museum

The James Norman Hall Museum, or Maison James Norman Hall, is a historic house museum in Arue, French Polynesia, dedicated to the life and works of James Norman Hall, co-author of the renowned 'Mutiny on the Bounty' trilogy. Hall, an American writer, World War I veteran, and adventurer, settled in Tahiti in the 1920s and built his home in 1926, residing there until his death in 1951. The museum offers an intimate glimpse into Hall's life in Tahiti, showcasing his home as it was in 1951. Visitors can explore the various rooms, including his study with a 3,000-volume library and his typewriter, offering a sense of his creative process. The museum also displays personal effects, photographs, and memorabilia, providing insights into his pre-literary life and his family life with his Tahitian wife, Sarah Teraureia Winchester, and their children. The house itself, described as comfortable and practical, is set amidst an enchanting garden filled with plants and flowers, creating a magical and calming atmosphere. The museum provides guided tours, offering insightful information about Hall's life, literary contributions, and the historical context of his time in Tahiti. It's a tribute to a modest man whose work significantly promoted Tahiti's reputation.