Teahupoo surf guide

Teahupo'o is a surf spot located on the southern end of Tahiti Iti, which is one of the two extinct volcanoes making up Tahiti. The small town of Teahupo'o is pretty remote, with the pavement ending right there. Surfers have been riding waves here since the '60s, but it wasn't until the mid-'80s that word got out about what this place could offer. The hype really kicked off with those iconic shots of massive waves that took the surf world by storm. Today, Teahupo'o is known as one of the heaviest waves on the planet, attracting surfers looking for the ultimate challenge.

The waves at Teahupo'o are intense, breaking over a live coral reef and delivering powerful barrels that can leave even the most experienced surfers in awe. The optimal swell direction is from the southwest, but it can handle swells from the southeast and west as well. This place can produce waves ranging from 1.5 meters (5 feet) to a staggering 7.5 meters (25 feet), especially when the swell hits just right. The preferred wind is from the northeast, and you can surf on an incoming tide, whether it’s low, mid, or high. To ride these waves, you’ll want to have expert skills, as the drop is super critical and mistakes can lead to serious consequences. It's primarily a left-hand reef break, and the wave is best tackled with shortboards, guns, or even tow-in setups when it gets really big.

Getting to the waves can take a bit of effort—a 30-minute paddle from the shore or a short boat ride, especially when the swell is up. The current can get pretty strong, so paddling back can be tough. Crowds can be light when it’s smaller but watch out for pro surfers showing up during the good swells or the annual WSL event. The vibe in the water can be pretty laid-back if you respect the locals; just know that they don’t take kindly to anyone who doesn’t. Teahupo'o is one of those spots where every ride feels intense and short, but trust us, the adrenaline rush is worth it.