Surf in Tahiti is a tradition rumoured to go back centuries. First logged reports though came from Captain Cook in the late 1770’s.

Tahiti is a mouthwatering tropical destination in the South Pacific that evokes images of rain-soaked mountains, which slope down to picturesque towns that dot the two circular- shaped coastlines. Black and white sand beaches that are bordered by coral reefs, and a powder-blue ocean with warm water and sweet air surround these. Tahiti is also open to multiple swell windows; attracting quality swells much of the year.

Renowned for it’s luxurious overwater bungalows, Tahiti is the ideal setting for romance and relaxation; or a surfing adventure with friends.

Tahiti comprises about 118 small islands covering a large area. The scope for perfect waves is unlimited. There are dozens of islands in the chain that receive classic waves; many of them still go unridden.

Tahiti is best known for diving, snorkeling and surf.

Tahiti Favourites

Teahupoo is Tahiti’s best-known wave. “Chopes” is not for the faint-hearted, most now rate it the ‘heaviest wave in the world’. Despite this, not all waves in the area are of this magnitude. There is a wide variety of set ups in Tahiti to suit all levels. There are beach breaks scattered along the north coast of Tahiti that are perfect for beginners.

Most of the breaks in the Society Islands (Tahiti, Moorea, Huahine) can be paddled to; however can take between 15-45 mins to get to them.

There are several other excellent breaks off the north coast at Matavai Point and Point Venus and the south coast at Papara and Fisherman’s Point. Surfing is also good on the north coast of Moorea and off Haapiti on the west coast of Moorea. Huahine is the new up-and-coming surf spot with several consistent breaks off Fare Town on the west coast. All breaks are accessible from the coast but are reef or passage breaks, which require experience and nerve.

The Tuamotu Islands can be quite fickle and may only be surfable a few months out of each year. To take advantage of being able to surf almost every day you are better off sticking to Tahiti or Moorea where there is a higher density of surf spots.

Where to stay

If you are looking for a destination off the beaten track and away from the crowds, a place where you can step back in time to a different culture and experience serenity that you might only dream about, then plan a trip to Royal Huahine Resort on the island of Huahine.

Royal Huahine Resort has recently been voted 7th in the TOP 20 resorts in the Oceania region in the 23rd Annual Readers Choice Awards by Conde Nast Traveller Magazine.

On the North West coast of Moorea, sheltered from the prevailing winds, sits the Intercontinental Resort and Spa.Located in a magnificent garden setting, between the mountains and a crystal clear lagoon the resort offers a range of accommodation from Deluxe Lanai Rooms, Free Standing Beach Bungalows right through to Premier Overwater Bungalows.


Besides island excursions and a wide choice of aquatic and sports activities, the hotel offers original entertainment such as the Moorea Dolphin and Sea Turtles Centre. This resort is also famous a unique tropical style spa, nestled in lush vegetation. To top it all off the resort is surrounded by a range of quality left and right reef breaks - one of which is just a paddle off from the resort.

Intercontinental Resort and Spa is a perfect option for the surfer trying to please their non-surfing partner.

Vanira Lodge has an amazing 180° view over the lagoon. Surfers will appreciate waking and being able to check the surf in each of the 3 Teahupoo surf spots from their bungalow.