Rapa Nui
Country/State Data
Regions
1
Breaks
15
Cost of living
Capital
Hanga Roa
Current Time
Security
Health
Positives
- Year round swells
- Powerful lava reefbreaks
- Uncrowded south shore
- Unreal history and location
- Good weather, clear water
Negatives
- Big, wild waves
- No quality beachbreaks
- Tricky exit/entry points
- Expensive and remote
- Sleepy Hanga Roa
Where to surf in Rapa Nui
Known as Rapa Nui by its inhabitants, Easter Island is the most remote, inhabited place on earth. The nearest large land-masses are Chile 3,850km (2406mi) away and Tahiti 3,610km (2256mi) although Gambier and Pitcairn, about 1500km (938mi) away are actually the closest inhabited islands. "Te-Pito-O-Te-Henua" (the navel of the world) is one large open-air museum; a UN designated archaeological site of 'humankind treasure'. Its world-famous statues, the Moais, are 3-21m (10-63ft) tall, made of volcanic basaltic rock, weigh between 20-300 tonnes and are thought to represent the faces of the royalty who ruled each of the 33 original tribes that lived on the island until the 16th century. These Moais are the largest monolithic expression in the entire Polynesian culture and amazingly, were moved as much as 18km (11mi) without mechanical help - legend has it they were moved by Mana, spiritual power. Despite there being local links to the ancient Tortoro reed boards, used as bellyboards, stand-up surfing is relatively new.
Geologically, the coastline is young, formed by a single volcanic eruption and consists of rugged lava cliffs, making entry/exit points scarce. Most spots are heavy reefs dotted along the west and south coasts, plus two average quality beachbreaks with remarkable scenery on the north coast. Local surfers are friendly and open, showing typical Polynesian pride in their island and culture that demands as much respect as the waves.
Surf spots in Rapa Nui
Research the 15 surf breaks in Rapa Nui and discover what spots suit the current conditions.
Break lowdown
We’ve collated the wave data giving you a unique insight into the 15 breaks in Rapa Nui.
When to go
Surf and weather statistics to help plan your surf trip to Rapa Nui
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- apr
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Library
Helpful surf travel videos and articles featuring Rapa Nui.
Travel Information
General
- Current Time
- Tourists
- 50,000
- Population
- 8
- Tourist Info
- Tourist Info
Security
Health
Money
- Currency
- CLP
- Exchange rate
- $1 = 540.75 CLP CLP
Cost of living
Communication
- Dialing in
- +32
- Dialing out
- 00
- Language
- Rapanui, Spanish
Electricity
- Plug Type
- cl
Visas
Same rules as Chile - For most countries in the world no visa is needed for stays of up to 90 days.
Getting There
LanChile flies four times a week: two from Santiago, Chile and two from Tahiti, French Polynesia (from $800 r/t). Travel international with LAN Chile for bargains on domestic flights. High season in summer gets busy, book early. A cargo ship comes to Hanga Piko port from Valparaiso in Chile 4 times a year.
Getting Around
No public transport so walk or ride horses ($15/day), a great way to get around Hanga Roa. Most roads are unsealed dirt tracks but in good condition. Motorcycles cost from $25/day. Rental cars cost $45 to $90/day with agencies. A taxi company can take you anywhere for a better rate.
Accommodation
There's a wide selection places in Hanga Roa. Lorana is ideally located: $200/night/dble full board. Camping Mihinoa is right next to the ocean ($18/n). Pea, facing Papa, or Te Moana in front of Motu Hava are great places to have lunch or dinner. Nightlife at Aloha Pub-Bar & Grill.
Activities
Enjoy open air, archaeological sites and the Sebastian Englert Museum, dive with orcas, trek or fish. The coastline is filled with natural caves containing many religious petroglyphs based on sea life.
Hazards & hassles
Most of the lava reefs are flat with rare exposed rocks. South coast spots get very big but break in deep water. Take reef boots for the black sea urchins and a fast exit over the rocks. The hospital is modern but major surgery must be done in Chile.
Handy Hints
Take thicker longer boards. Big wave leashes are essential. No surf shops yet but boards can be fixed. Islanders show their hospitality with alcohol, mostly beers and Pisco.
Due to global pandemic, Visas, Getting There, Getting Around or Accommodation information and pricing may have changed. Always check Government Travel Advice before travelling.
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