Tahiti Surf Travel Guide
Tahiti is a mouthwatering tropical destination 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, while the mix of French Polynesian heritage adds unique flavor and not just to the food.
Quick Facts
Mix of powerful slabs and more mellow reef passes
Relatively uncrowded
Recognised as one of the most beautiful islands on Earth
Mix of French and Polynesian culture and cuisine
Where to surf
Teahupoo is Tahiti’s best-known wave and rated as one of the heaviest waves in the world. However there is a wide variety of set ups in Tahiti to suit all levels and some beach breaks scattered along the north coast of Tahiti that are perfect for beginners. Most of the breaks in the Society Islands which include Tahiti, Moorea and Huahine can be paddled to, although at 15-45 mins long surf fitness is required.
Best Surf Breaks
Tehaupo’o
Tahiti’s best-known wave and rated as one of the heaviest waves in the world. Perfect from three to 30-foot this is one of the world’s best barrels with one of the most beautiful mountain backdrops. A wave that can change your life, for good and bad.
Papara
A mix of playful black sand beachbreaks where Tahiti’s best all learned to surf.
Temae Beach
A right hand wave that rolls around the north east cape of Moorea near the airport. Can be dangerous and inconsistent. Experienced surfers only. Oh, and it’s a 20 min paddle out from the beach.
Haapiti
Can get busy on weekends. Coral reef bottom. Intermediate + left-hander. Located on the south side of the island. A classic Tahitian reef pass waves without the heavy fear factor. An easy take-off leads to a long wall and the odd barrel section.
Fare Right
One of the most well-known waves in Tahiti.
Atiha
Coral reef bottom break for experienced surfers only. On the south side of the Moorea Island. A 20 minute paddle or short boat trip. Provides both left and right hand waves just to the south of Haápiti. A long fun wave with plenty of sections.
When to go
Tahiti is extremely exposed to the consistent S-SW swells which hammer the south coast year- round, however the most consistent period is from May through October. The summer months receive smaller, more inconsistent, northwest swells, yet there are still plenty of fun days.
Attractions
Try stand up paddle boarding on calm lagoons, get an adrenalin fix on a jet ski tour, experience tandem underwater aquabikes or keep your fitness up with waterskiing. Under the water spot manta rays gliding on the ocean floor, explore vibrant coral gardens, admire reef sharks and search for giant turtles. Or head inland and hike incredible mountains and cool off under magical waterfalls.
The Country
The island of Tahiti-Iti, is the largest of French Polynesia’s 118 islands and atolls. The capital Papeete is a port town and best acts as mere gateway to a tropical paradise. The island was formed from volcanic activity and is lushly forested with high mountains with surrounding coral reefs. Tahiti is the economic, cultural, and political centre of French Polynesia, which is part of the French Republic.
Getting There
Fly to the capital of Papeete and then it is a two-hour taxi transfer to Teahupo’o. The outer islands of Moorea, Bora Bora and Huahine can be reached by boat, public ferry or internal flights.
Travel Information
Time Zone
GMT-10
Currency
CFP franc
Calling code
+689
Electric
220 Volts at 60 Hertz