Western Tuamotu
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Positives
- Year-round swells
- Juicy reef passes
- World-class fishing and diving
- Luxury boat travel
Negatives
- Occasional flat spells
- No shelter from trade winds
- Large distances between breaks
- Extremely expensive surf trip
Western Tuamotu surf travel guide
Tuamotu covers a territory as vast as western Europe 1800km (1125mi) long, 600km (375mi) wide consisting of 78 islands, 77 of them being atolls, the exception being Makatea, a raised coral island whose phosphate pits have been mined to exhaustion. Also called 'The Labyrinth' or the 'Archipelago of the Rough Sea' the Tuamotus have remained essentially uncharted due to the difficulty of navigating the local waters aside from a handful of boat-only spots on the western extremities.
The exotic appearance of these atolls are linked to the palm trees which have only been growing since 1860. Until then, the eroded peaks of the 2000-3000m (6100-9100ft) underwater mountains were merely flat barren patches of dead coral and white sands with no fresh water or soil to grow anything. In addition, the earlier natives, the Paumotus, were aggressive towards visitors, indulging in tribal wars and cannibalism until it was annexed to French Polynesia in 1880. In 1842, Darwin wrote that these atolls were the tops of old volcanoes and his theory was confirmed decades later.
Surf spots in Western Tuamotu
Research the 3 surf breaks in Western Tuamotu and discover what spots suit the current conditions.
Break lowdown
We’ve collated the wave data giving you a unique insight into the 3 breaks in Western Tuamotu.
When to go
Surf and weather statistics to help plan your surf trip to Western Tuamotu
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Library
Helpful surf travel videos and articles featuring Western Tuamotu.
Travel Information
General
- Current Time
- Tourists
- 216,300
- Population
- 280,908
- Tourist Info
- Tourist Info
Security
Health
Money
- Currency
- XPF
Cost of living
Communication
- Dialing in
- +689
- Dialing out
- 00
- Emergencies
- 112
- Language
- French, Tahitian
Electricity
- Plug Type
- abe
Visas
Most European countries plus USA, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, japan and some others can visit visa free for stays up to 90 days. All other nationalities should check at the time of travel what the latest visa requirements are.
Getting There
Fly to Papeete (PPT) then, fly Air Tahiti but ATR 42 or 72 have a 6/7’ limit while Dornier planes can’t take boards. It is 200 nautical miles (20hr minimum) sailing or much longer with golettes (freighters).
Getting Around
DIY transport is not an option as most reef passes are not close to airports & docks. Travelling fast between spots is crucial.
Accommodation
Long distances between waves are the main issue and so you must have a decent boat to explore. There is no dedicated surf charters but Haumana does cover surfing in full luxury and they have hosted many surfers including pros. Land-based accommodation is not ideal at all, but in Rangiroa/Tikehau there are one or two semi accessible waves possible by local boat hire. Expect lots of fish and French cuisine.
Activities
Early natives, the Paumotus, were aggressive towards visitors, indulging in tribal wars and cannibalism until it was annexed to French Polynesia in 1880. Tikehau atoll claims to have some of the best fishing in the world. Pearl farms (black pearls) and fish traps/farming provide the main economy.
Hazards & hassles
Dogs chase small black tip sharks in 1ft of water: maos (sharks) are just about everywhere but attacks unlikely. Reef cuts, sunburn and rough seas are the main worries. Communication is possible via satellite phone but it will cost $5 a minute.
Handy Hints
Take a quiver incorporating pin tails or gunny shapes with spare leashes. Accomplished longboarders should survive, but this is not a beginner/improver zone. Bring reef booties, board shorts, rashies, helmet, ding repair, tropical wax and plenty of sun protection.
Due to global pandemic, Visas, Getting There, Getting Around or Accommodation information and pricing may have changed. Always check Government Travel Advice before travelling.