Tahiti Surfing Spots: 7 Spots Revealed!

Curious about the best surfing spots in Tahiti? Look no further- this article has everything you need to know.

Tahiti is a stunningly beautiful and exotic place, perfect for those looking for longboard waves and pristine beaches.

In fact, many popular surf movies have been filmed due to the highly exotic Tahitian surf resorts and landscape.

If you’re interested in booking a trip, there’s definitely something for everyone with 118 islands spread across five archipelagos.

(The Ultimate Guide to Surfing in French Polynesia)

7 Tahiti surfing spots worth checking out

1. Taapuna

This is one of the most crowded surf spots.

Due to it’s close proximity to Papeete.

2. Papara

Which is also known for being crowded.

Then there’s Teahupo’o, which becomes overcrowded only during WCT.

While Teahupoo is Tahiti’s most famous surf spot, it’s for the professionals.

Don’t worry; you’ll be able to find plenty of excellent surfing in Tahiti. It’s all around the island and on Moorea, too.

If you’re looking for beach breaks, head north along Tahiti’s northern coastline.

The black sand beaches of Papenoo are ideal for relaxing seaside strolls.

In Papenoo, the surf ranges from 2 to 3 feet tall.

3. Passe de Maraa

Here you’ll discover waves that are fast, hollow, shallow at generally 4-7 feet high.

4. Moorea

You can get there by taking a quick ferry ride from Tahiti.

In Moorea you can find more additional surf spots.

5. Haapiti Beach

Here you can enjoy gentle waves no higher than head high.

The water is incredibly clear.

Most surfer hire a boat to reach this spot.

Otherwise its a 40-minute paddle.

6. Temae

Also on Moorea is Temae.

Temae is a local surf spot known for punchy waves.

7. Hauru

Another location, Hauru, is near the InterContinental Moorea Resort & Spa on the island of Moorea.

A narrow gap in the northern coast of the island.

There are often shark sightings here, so be careful.

Best seasons for checking out all the Tahiti surfing spots

surf in tahiti

May to August

The best time to surf and travel to Tahiti is between May and August.

Reef breaks line the south and southwest coasts.

The waves are similar to those found on Hawaii’s hollow waves.

October to March

The waves in Tahiti are strongest from October to March, so this time period is better for less experienced surfers.

Also, please be aware that the tropical water temperature stays between 80 degrees throughout the year.

Tahiti Surf Teahuapoo: Surf Festivals and competitions

surf in tahiti

The Tahiti Pro Teahupoo surfing event is organized by the World Surf League in Tahiti Iti each year.

This is when the most skilled surfers in Tahiti come out to play.

Teahupoo, on the southeastern coast of Tahiti, is known for being a difficult wave that only professional surfers can ride.

There is a vibrant water sports culture on all islands in this region, with many people practicing various types of water activities.

Tahiti surfing spots forecast by seasons

Fall

The southern hemisphere comes alive from March to June, providing numerous south swells to Tahiti’s surf.

The WCT’s massive Teahupo’o event takes place every May.

That indicates that surfing in Tahiti is particularly beautiful during the fall.

In addition, because it is the dry season, there are also more offshore winds.

Winter

The southern hemisphere is active during the winter.

Creating consistent swells until October.

Spring

Becoming calmer towards the end of October.

Remaining this way until March or April.

This is the rainy season, which means a TON of rain.

Summer

Generally, surfing isn’t great in Tahiti’s summer season.

November to March is the off-season, which means you might get lucky to find some surf in Tahiti’s north coast.

You also have to deal with onshore winds.

What are the best surfing spots in Tahiti?

The best surfing spots in Tahiti are Passe de Maraa, Papara, Papenoo, and Taapuna. These spots have waves that range from 4 to 7 feet high, making them perfect for intermediate to experienced surfers.

How is the surf in Tahiti during the fall?

The sun rises in the south, and that’s when you can find good waves to surf in Tahiti. The WCT holds a big event there every May. The dry season is also known as fall, and that’s when there are more opportunities than ever before.

What is the best time of year to surf in Tahiti?

The optimum time to surf in Tahiti is between March and June. During this period, the waves are the biggest, and there’s less of a risk of rain.

Are there any hazards at Tahiti surfing spots?

Overall in French Polynesia it is safe to travel to. When surfing in Tahiti, be aware of the dangers posed by the sharp coral reef below the surface, powerful waves, and intense UV rays from the sun.

What type of waves can I expect to surf in Tahiti?

The waves in Tahiti are perfect for intermediate to experienced surfers. They are usually between 4 and 9 feet high. The best surfing spots are Passe de Maraa, Papara, Papenoo, and Taapuna.

Are there any surf festivals or competitions in Tahiti?

The Tahiti Pro Teahupoo is an annual surf competition that brings professional surfers from all over together to try and ride Tahiti’s most famous and difficult wave, Teahupoo.