Tahiti, the heart of French Polynesia, is renowned for its idyllic beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and lush landscapes. As the largest island in the archipelago, Tahiti offers a diverse range of beach experiences, from serene white-sand shores to vibrant black-sand beaches, all framed by the azure waters of the South Pacific. Whether you're looking to relax, explore, or immerse yourself in Polynesian culture, Tahiti’s beaches offer something for everyone. Let’s dive into the top beaches in Tahiti that you must visit on your next tropical getaway.
1. La Plage de Maui
La Plage de Maui is one of Tahiti’s most famous beaches, known for its stunning white sand—a rarity on an island predominantly covered with black-sand beaches. Located on the southern coast of Tahiti Iti, the smaller peninsula of Tahiti, this beach is a true tropical paradise. The calm, shallow waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, making it a favorite spot for families and those looking to unwind in a tranquil setting. Coconut palms and lush greenery line the shore, offering plenty of shade for a relaxing day by the sea. The nearby lagoon is teeming with marine life, providing excellent opportunities for snorkeling. The beach is also close to several small, local restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood with your feet in the sand, adding to the overall experience of paradise.
Location: Southern coast of Tahiti Iti
How to Get There: La Plage de Maui is accessible by car via a scenic drive along the coast from Papeete, the capital of Tahiti. The beach is well-signposted, and there is parking available nearby.
Rating: 4.7/5
Local Tip: Visit the beach in the morning when the waters are calmest, and don’t miss the chance to try the poisson cru, a traditional Tahitian dish, at one of the beachfront eateries.
2. Papenoo Beach
Papenoo Beach is one of the most popular black-sand beaches on the island, located on Tahiti’s northeastern coast. This beach is particularly famous among surfers, thanks to its consistent waves and strong currents. The striking black sand, formed from volcanic activity, contrasts beautifully with the lush green mountains and the deep blue ocean. While the waves make it less ideal for swimming, the beach is perfect for sunbathing, beachcombing, and enjoying the raw, natural beauty of Tahiti’s rugged coastline. The nearby Papenoo River offers additional opportunities for exploration, including kayaking and fishing. For those interested in surfing, local surf schools offer lessons, making it a great place for beginners to catch their first wave.
Location: Northeastern coast of Tahiti
How to Get There: Papenoo Beach is easily accessible by car from Papeete, just a 30-minute drive along the coastal road. The beach is well-marked, and there is ample parking available.
Rating: 4.5/5
Local Tip: Even if you’re not a surfer, visit during the early morning or late afternoon to watch the surfers in action and enjoy the dramatic scenery.
3. Plage de Toaroto
Plage de Toaroto is a beautiful beach located on the western coast of Tahiti, offering soft, white sand and clear, shallow waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is part of a protected marine area, making it one of the best spots on the island to explore Tahiti’s vibrant underwater world. Coral reefs just offshore are home to a diverse array of marine life, including colorful fish and sea turtles. Plage de Toaroto is also popular for its tranquil atmosphere, with plenty of space to spread out and relax. The beach is equipped with picnic areas, making it a great spot for a family day out. The nearby resorts and restaurants offer easy access to refreshments and facilities, ensuring a comfortable visit.
Location: Western coast of Tahiti, near Punaauia
How to Get There: Plage de Toaroto is easily accessible by car, located about 20 minutes from Papeete along the west coast road. Parking is available near the beach.
Rating: 4.6/5
Local Tip: Bring your snorkeling gear to fully enjoy the coral reefs, and arrive early to secure a good spot under the shade of the palm trees.
4. Pointe Venus
Pointe Venus is a historic and scenic black-sand beach located on the northeastern tip of Tahiti. This beach holds a special place in Tahitian history, as it was the landing spot for Captain James Cook during his 1769 voyage to observe the transit of Venus. The black sand, formed from volcanic activity, contrasts beautifully with the surrounding greenery and the turquoise waters of Matavai Bay. Pointe Venus is a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and leisurely strolls along the beach. The nearby lighthouse, built in 1867, adds to the historical charm of the area. The calm waters of the bay are perfect for families, and the beach is equipped with facilities, including restrooms, showers, and picnic tables, making it a convenient and enjoyable destination.
Location: Northeastern coast of Tahiti, near Mahina
How to Get There: Pointe Venus is about a 15-minute drive from Papeete. The beach is well-signposted, and there is ample parking available close to the beach.
Rating: 4.5/5
Local Tip: Visit the Pointe Venus Lighthouse for panoramic views of the bay, and bring a picnic to enjoy a meal with a view of the historic site.
5. Taharuu Beach
Taharuu Beach, located on Tahiti’s southern coast, is one of the island’s best black-sand beaches, known for its expansive shoreline and strong surf. The beach is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering a laid-back atmosphere and stunning natural scenery. The powerful waves make it a popular spot for surfing, with surf schools nearby catering to both beginners and experienced surfers. Despite the strong currents, there are areas where the waves are gentle enough for swimming, particularly closer to the shore. The beach is also a great spot for a leisurely walk, with the black sand providing a striking contrast to the vibrant blue of the ocean. The surrounding area is lush and green, offering plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of Tahiti.
Location: Southern coast of Tahiti, near Papara
How to Get There: Taharuu Beach is easily accessible by car, about a 45-minute drive from Papeete. There is ample parking available near the beach.
Rating: 4.4/5
Local Tip: Pack a picnic and enjoy the beach’s serene atmosphere, or take a surf lesson from one of the local schools for an authentic Tahitian experience.
6. Plage de Lafayette
Plage de Lafayette is a unique black-sand beach located on the eastern coast of Tahiti, near the capital city of Papeete. This beach is part of the grounds of the luxurious Tahiti Pearl Beach Resort, but it remains open to the public, offering visitors a taste of tropical elegance. The striking black sand, combined with the lush, green mountains that surround the beach, creates a stunning and serene setting. The calm waters are perfect for swimming, and the beach is also popular for kayaking and paddleboarding. Plage de Lafayette is less crowded than some of the more well-known beaches, providing a peaceful retreat where you can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Tahiti. The resort offers easy access to amenities, including restaurants and spa facilities, making it an ideal spot for a day of relaxation.
Location: Eastern coast of Tahiti, near Papeete
How to Get There: Plage de Lafayette is just a 10-minute drive from Papeete. The beach is part of the Tahiti Pearl Beach Resort, but public access is allowed. Parking is available at the resort.
Rating: 4.3/5
Local Tip: Visit in the early morning for a peaceful swim and take advantage of the nearby spa facilities for a day of pampering.
7. Teahupo’o Beach
Teahupo’o Beach, located on the southwestern coast of Tahiti Iti, is world-famous for its massive, barreling waves that attract surfers from around the globe. This legendary beach is the site of the annual Billabong Pro Tahiti surf competition, and its waves are considered some of the most challenging and dangerous in the world. While Teahupo’o is primarily a destination for experienced surfers, the beach itself is stunning, with a rugged, unspoiled beauty that captivates visitors. The area around the beach is remote and peaceful, offering a glimpse into the wilder side of Tahiti. Even if you’re not a surfer, visiting Teahupo’o is a must for its dramatic scenery and the chance to witness some of the best surfers in the world tackle these monstrous waves.
Location: Southwestern coast of Tahiti Iti
How to Get There: Teahupo’o Beach is accessible by car, about a 90-minute drive from Papeete. The road to Teahupo’o is well-paved, but the area is remote, so plan accordingly. Parking is available near the beach.
Rating: 4.8/5
Local Tip: If you’re visiting during the surf competition, arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, or take a boat tour to get up close to the action.
8. Matavai Bay
Matavai Bay is a historically significant and visually stunning beach located on Tahiti’s northern coast. This bay is where Captain James Cook anchored during his voyages in the 18th century, and it’s steeped in both European and Polynesian history. Today, Matavai Bay is known for its calm waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is surrounded by lush, tropical gardens and offers breathtaking views of the bay and beyond. The nearby Tahiti Pearl Beach Resort provides access to amenities, including restaurants and spa facilities, making it a great spot for a relaxing day by the sea. The bay’s tranquil atmosphere and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for those looking to combine relaxation with a bit of Tahitian history.
Location: Northern coast of Tahiti, near Papeete
How to Get There: Matavai Bay is easily accessible by car, about a 10-minute drive from Papeete. The beach is near the Tahiti Pearl Beach Resort, and parking is available at the resort.
Rating: 4.6/5
Local Tip: Take a leisurely stroll through the tropical gardens surrounding the bay and visit the historic markers that detail the area’s significance.
9. Punaauia Beach
Punaauia Beach, also known as PK18, is one of Tahiti’s most popular white-sand beaches, located on the western coast of the island. The beach is renowned for its soft sand, clear turquoise waters, and stunning views of the nearby island of Moorea. Punaauia is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists, offering excellent swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing opportunities. The beach is well-equipped with amenities, including picnic areas, restrooms, and showers, making it ideal for a family day out. The calm, shallow waters are perfect for children, and the nearby coral reefs provide great snorkeling. The beach’s location on the western coast also makes it an excellent spot for watching the sunset, with the silhouette of Moorea in the background creating a picture-perfect scene.
Location: Western coast of Tahiti, near Punaauia
How to Get There: Punaauia Beach is about a 20-minute drive from Papeete along the west coast road. The beach is well-marked, and there is parking available nearby.
Rating: 4.7/5
Local Tip: Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy the stunning sunset, and bring a picnic to enjoy as the sun dips below the horizon.
10. Arahoho Blowhole
While not a traditional beach, the Arahoho Blowhole is one of Tahiti’s most unique natural attractions, located on the island’s northeastern coast. This natural blowhole was formed by the erosion of volcanic rock, and it creates a powerful and awe-inspiring spout of water when the waves crash against the shore. The surrounding area is ruggedly beautiful, with black volcanic rock and lush greenery creating a dramatic contrast. The blowhole is located near a small black-sand beach, which is perfect for a quick dip or a picnic while you take in the views. The site is well-maintained, with a lookout point and safety railings, making it a safe and enjoyable stop on your Tahitian adventure.
Location: Northeastern coast of Tahiti, near Tiarei
How to Get There: The Arahoho Blowhole is about a 30-minute drive from Papeete along the coastal road. The site is well-signposted, and there is parking available nearby.
Rating: 4.5/5
Local Tip: Visit during high tide for the most impressive display of the blowhole’s power, and take a short walk to the nearby beach for a peaceful retreat.
Tahiti’s beaches offer an incredible range of experiences, from the tranquil white sands of Punaauia to the thrilling waves of Teahupo’o. Go discover the unparalleled beauty of Tahiti’s shores.
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