Papara provides a refreshing contrast to Tahiti's heavy reef breaks—a beginner-friendly beach break on the island's south coast where black volcanic sand meets warm Pacific waters. The wave offers mellow peaks that work across all tide stages, making it ideal for learners and longboarders seeking something less intense than the island's famous reef passes. The setting is quintessentially Tahitian: palm trees, black sand, and crystalline water, without the reef hazards that make other spots so challenging. For families or surfers needing a mellower session between reef adventures, Papara is Tahiti's forgiving side.
Water temp
27°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
4/10
Crowd level
4/10
Access: Easy beach access.
Peak: May-Oct
Winter south swells. Good for beginners to intermediate.
Verified by Surf-forecast spot guide
How well swell angle matches the spot
Wave height in the ideal range
Each spot has different period requirements. Points and reefs can handle longer periods than beaches.
Offshore/glassy conditions