The Surf Window

Taapuna

Tahiti, French Polynesia

Reef breakAdvanced

Tahiti's second most celebrated wave, Taapuna is a quality left-hand reef break near the capital Papeete that fires on south swells and draws the island's best surfers for sessions of genuine power and beauty.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalN (0°)
WindowW–E (270°–90°)

Wind

Offshore winds

Tide

Varies

LowMidHigh

Season

Varies

The Wave

Type

Left

Bottom

Coral reef

Shape

Long, powerful left-hand wall with hollow sections, a proper reef break that rewards commitment

Length

100–250m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Advanced
  • •Why: Shallow coral reef, powerful wave, and real barrel potential make this an advanced surfer's break.

Hazards

  • •Shallow coral reef throughout
  • •Strong current when the swell is running
  • •The pass is navigated by fishing boats and ferries, boat traffic is a consideration

Local Tips

  • •Taapuna is only 15 minutes from Papeete, the easiest quality reef break to access from the capital.
  • •Surfers often session Taapuna in the morning before checking whether Teahupo'o is firing in the afternoon.

Location

Map showing the location of Taapuna in Tahiti, French Polynesia

-17.5833, -149.6333