Surfing in Tahiti
The islands of Tahiti are a surfing mecca and a key centre for international surfing competitions. Tahiti, Moorea and Huahine have the best surf spots, although Rangiroa and Tikehau (in the Tuamotus group) have good sites as well.
Tahiti –French Polynesia's main island – has the best surfing scene, with a variety of surf shops and board shapers. The best spots are at Tahiti Ihi (Little Tahiti), including the Big & Small Vairao Passes (year-round reef breaks suitable for experienced surfers) and the Teahupoo reef break (April to October), which hosts the annual Tahiti Billabong Pro in May. On Tahiti's west coast, there is good surfing from May to October, with breaks at Papara, Pointe des Pecheurs (Fisherman's Point) and at Taapuna Pass – a classic reef break with a beautiful left.
On the east coast, surf conditions are ideal from November to April. Shore breaks include Lafayette Beach, the Right Line at Papenoo, renowned for its hollow and powerful waves, and Matavai Bay and Point Venus. The right-hand reef break at Point Venus is also one of the island's most spectacular. Beginners can ride The Bay at Papenoo, while L'embouchure (The Mouth) offers a challenge for the more experienced surfers.
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