Tahiti, one of the prominent islands in French Polynesia, is undoubtedly one of the most popular vacation destinations, especially for couples and newlyweds. However, Tahiti also happens to be a surfing and watersport haven, boasting some of the most incredible waves that the world has to offer that are admired by pro surfers from all over the world.
Surfing is one of Tahiti’s most popular outdoor activities enjoyed by locals and traveling surfers from all over the world. Tahiti boasts some of the most famous waves in the world and is known for being one of the best consistent surf spots. Teahupo’o is Tahiti’s most famous world-class wave.
What could be better than the opportunity to surf at a world-class vacation and surfing destination? Indeed, Tahiti is the place where both your wildest holiday and surfing dreams can become a reality. From beginner to a pro-level surfer, you will be spoiled for choice with some of the best surf spots in the world. Find out why Tahiti should be your next surfing destination.
Surfing In Tahiti
Indeed, Tahiti is undoubtedly the place to be if you are looking for a world-class surfing experience. The fact that you will be surrounded by some of the most exquisite island scenery the world has to offer serves as a bonus to the quality of waves that you will have the chance to experience. Overall, Tahiti is an incredible place to visit.
Tahiti has a significantly wide swell window, which undoubtedly makes it one of the most consistent surfing destinations in the world. Indeed, surfers in Tahiti have the luxury and the privilege of enjoying the quality waves here throughout the year. And, with waves ranging from two to nine feet tall, surfers of all skill levels will be able to enjoy the wonders of Tahiti.
The overall surf scene in Tahiti has earned itself a rather impressive reputation. So much so that every year the World Surf League makes use of Tahiti as one of the tour stops where some of the best in the game, like world-class surfer Kelly Slater, get to enjoy the quality surf. The fact that Tahiti is suitable for WSL competitions should tell you everything you need to know about the quality of Tahiti’s waves.
The Tahiti locals are known for being some of the friendliest people around, so it is unlikely that you will be dealing with localism like you would at other top surfing destinations. However, due to Tahiti’s popularity, the waves can get very crowded during prime seasons, so you will likely need to exercise some patience while waiting for your chance at the waves.
When To Surf In Tahiti
Any seasoned surfer will know that there are several factors that can have a significant effect on the type of surfing experience that you can expect to have. The wind, weather, and overall time of year are huge contributors that will determine whether you will have a great or a below-average time in the waves.
As previously mentioned, Tahiti is one of the most consistent surfing destinations in the world. Surfing is available throughout the year here; however, knowing which time of the year will be best to visit based on your skill is an essential part of planning a great trip here. As an example, a highly experienced surfer will not want to visit Tahiti outside of its prime surfing season.
The best time to enjoy surfing in Tahiti is between May and October. This is considered Tahiti’s prime surfing season, offering the biggest and most consistent waves that any advanced surfer will not want to miss out on. These are Tahiti’s Fall and Winter months; however, the weather here is great throughout the year – you will not even need a wetsuit.
Spring is Tahiti’s rain season, and you can expect significant amounts of rain. Surfing is definitely possible during this time; however, it is nowhere near as consistent. Summer is considered by many to be Tahiti’s off-season. However, the waves might not be as great as during Fall and Winter, but you will undoubtedly still have plenty of waves to enjoy.
The Best Surf Spots In Tahiti
Alright, now that you know some more about the surfing experience in Tahiti as well as the best times to pay a visit based on your ability and experience level, you are undoubtedly bursting at the seams, waiting to find out where the best spots are. Let us help you plan your next trip by showing you the best surf spots in Tahiti.
Teahupo’o
We have to start this list with the wave that has undoubtedly put Tahiti on the map as a world-class surfing destination. Teahupo’o is famous for being the best wave not just in Tahiti but in French Polynesia as a whole. This spot is only to be attempted by highly advanced surfers, as the shallow, sharp reef here can be dangerous.
The Billabong Pro surfing competition makes use of Teahupo’o as one of their annual stops, which is a wonderful testimony to the caliber of the waves that can be experienced here. Indeed, if you are looking to put your wave riding skills to the test, Teahupo’o is one of Tahiti’s surf spots that you do not want to pass by.
Taapuna
Taapuna is another one of Tahiti’s popular surf spots. Known for its quality tubes and challenging waves, Taapuna is undoubtedly a surfer’s haven – especially for the highly advanced surfers. The quality of the waves at Taapuna does attract a lot of people, so you can definitely expect big crowds here, especially on weekends during primes surfing season.
Papeno’o
For beginner and intermediate surfers out there, do not worry. Tahiti also has plenty of surfing opportunities for you too. Papeno’o is one of Tahiti’s most diverse surf spots where all surfers from beginner to highly advanced will enjoy the waves. This is made possible by the beach break, and the river mouth found here.
The beach break at Papeno’o is where the beginner to intermediate surfers will have plenty of fun improving their wave riding skills. The river mouth, on the other hand, is by far better suited to the advanced surfers, as the waves here are more powerful and technical.
Conclusion
There are indeed far more surf spots that Tahini has to offer. However, when visiting Tahiti, the spots that we have covered are the ones that you want to make sure not to miss. Tahiti promises to provide an unforgettable surfing experience, backed by some of the most beautiful scenery the world has to offer. Don’t miss out on a surfing adventure in Tahiti!
