Papeete

Les 3 Brasseurs
Blvd Pomare
US$35 for a 3.5 glass jug
Downtown on the waterfront

The only microbrewery in French Polynesia. The beer is certainly better than Hinano, but you do pay a premium for it, and it pales in comparison to U.S. microbrews.

Mana Rock Cafe
Downtown on the waterfront

This open-air pub is a good place to sit outside in the shade and have a cold beer on a hot afternoon.

That tiki-bar near Les 3 Brasseurs
Downtown on the waterfront

Its name doesn't really matter; it's the only other bar along this stretch. Some sidewalk seating and very limited indoor seating. Watch out for aggressive she-males. There's a sweet little dog that hangs out here. If you pet her, she will bark at anybody who gives you trouble for the rest of the night. Also remember to tip the bouncer extra when you want to get into the bar's "underground" club every night.

Chaplain's
Downtown on the waterfront

The decor is a tribute to silent film star Charles Chaplain. Expect loud French rap. Keep an eye on your tab.

You can expect to pay upwards of US$10 for a pint of beer. A small jug of microbrew will run you US$35. Buy pitchers of Hinano to keep the costs down.