Surfing in Huahine is a real local religion and is one of the most popular leisure activities of the island’s inhabitants. Naturally, it is a favorite destination for surfers from all over the world. Due to the inlets into the lagoon, the reef waves are powerful and hollow. In short, these are the ideal conditions for thrill seekers.
Best Surf Spots in Huahine
Mythical Ones at Fare
On Huahine Nui, the village of Fare hosts two unmissable surf spots in French Polynesia. Both are “reef break” left and right, meaning that the waves end on a coral bottom. First, the “Fare Left” is quite famous in the area. The waves can be very hollow and very fast, especially in winter. Then we find the “Fare Right”, a spot that seems perhaps more accessible because it is a bit deeper. The breakers remain nevertheless impressive.
These spots are among the most popular on the island. The Avamoa pass favors massive waves which close very quickly and the sensations are there. Logically, the frequentation is quite high, sometimes clogging the “Line-Up”.
Two More Remote Spots on Huahine Nui
To be a little more quiet on the waves, you have to go to the village of Maeva on the east coast. Near the motu Mahara, a spot takes advantage of the passing waves. This left reef break is less demanding than the one in Fare, and therefore less attractive for experienced surfers.
Accomplished surfers will quickly fall under the spell of the spot located in front of the village of Tifii. The passing waves are wonderful and also more accessible than on the spots of Fare. This small hidden jewel, this right reef break is not very frequented, except by the locals.
More Peaceful Spots in Parea
Far from the northern breakers, surfing in Huahine Iti is more peaceful. Waves are much less powerful and lower, at least in summer. This left and right reef break is very popular with amateur surfers, young people and guests of hotels in Huahine. The atmosphere is more relaxed, less competitive: an ideal spot to surf peacefully.
Good to Know for Surfers
Best Season For Surfing in Huahine
Because of the powerful reef passes, the waves will always be there. The tides are indeed insignificant, and only the incoming or outgoing currents can change the water level. On the other hand, surfing in Huahine clearly has a winter and a summer season. Therefore, the experiences can be very different depending on the dates of the trip.
The most experienced surfers will not miss the winter season. Then, winds from the north bring epic, often gigantic waves. Summer travelers, however, can enjoy year-round swells to indulge their passion.
What Is the Level Required to Surf in Huahine?
Clearly, surfers going to Huahine must have a good technical mastery of their sport. The waves are particularly powerful and can be very high. They are also very rough. It is therefore essential to master the fast “take-off”. On the other hand, the surfer must be able to get out of the roll at the last moment. Knowing that the bottom is covered with reefs, each fall can be risky.
Surfing in Huahine has to be earned. It can take up to 30 minutes of paddling to the “peak”, the point where the waves break. The ideal would be to go there by boat. The Royal Huahine Hotel organizes a shuttle service for a fee. It is also possible to rent a kayak and anchor it near the pass in question. However, the passes remain dangerous places, where the outgoing currents can be very violent.
To fully enjoy surfing on the island, it is advisable to respect an observation time. The surfer must familiarize himself with the movement of the waves and spot the coral spuds. Then, protections are necessary to avoid cuts on the reef. Wearing water shoes and even a helmet is recommended.
Surfing in Huahine Next to the Locals
In Huahine, many consider their island to be the cradle of surfing in French Polynesia. The spots are the pride and joy of the youth. Moreover, the young islanders demonstrate their talent every year during the flagship competition of the Taapuna Master of Tahiti. As a result, some people harbor a form of “patriotism” or “localism” against foreign surfers. The issue is as much sporting as it is cultural: these young champions don’t appreciate seeing amateurs taking over their waves.
As is often the case, introducing yourself and getting to know each other are the first steps to getting along. Join the local surfers in the water and simply ask them if you can go to the “peak”. Of course, you respect the priorities and codes of conduct of surfing. Most local surfers are friendly and caring.
Ready for Surfing in Huahine?
Surfing is probably hard for beginners visiting French Polynesia. On the other hand, experienced surfers will find in Huahine something to fully satisfy them. Knowing that Air Tahiti takes your boards on inter-island flights, you now have all the cards in hand. Contact us to know more about how to organize your stay in Polynesia!
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