Papenoo
Papenoo sits on Tahiti's north coast where a mountain river meets the sea—a rare spot that catches North Pacific energy during the summer hemisphere winter. This rivermouth setup creates shifting sandbars and reef sections that offer variety depending on conditions and swell direction. When north swells pulse through, Papenoo provides an alternative to the island's south-facing waves, extending the surf season for those based in Tahiti. The black sand beach, mountain backdrop, and less-crowded lineup make it feel more remote than its proximity to Papeete suggests.
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Location & Conditions
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Spot Details
Swell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NNW (340°)
- Direction range
- 300° - 20°
- Size range
- 0.8m - 3m
- Ideal size
- 2.3m
- Height multiplier
- 0.92×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- S (180°)
- Offshore range
- 140° - 220°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- low to mid
- Optimal range
- 0.3m - 1.5m
Water temp
28°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
5/10
Crowd level
4/10
Access: Black sand beach access.
Best Season
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Summer season (Nov-Mar). North Pacific swells.
Getting There
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