Gypset Travel ~ The Epic Teahupoo

Surfers are constantly drawn to the lore of this famous break on the southwest side of Tahiti. This reef break that mainly produces lefts (and some great barrels!) has inspired awe among those who can claim to have surfed it. In fact, loosely translated, Teahupoo means “scraped head,” which gives you an idea of the power of this particular wave.

Source: Flickr— Agobar Junior

Teahupoo is a small village on the southwest coast of Tahiti’s southern island, Tahiti Iti. It boasts magnificent views, and great surf of course! Food lovers will revel in the mix of local and French cuisine—imagine a delicious breakfast of croissants and tropical fruit before your morning surf session.

Although Teahupoo is best known for its surf break, typical for many gypset travel destinations, there are other things to do in your down time including exploring the area on foot or horseback. Tahiti Iti’s does not boast the white sandy beaches that are so prevalent in other areas of French Polynesia. The rocky shorelines are black sand and volcanic rock—great for surfing, not so great for beaching it.

The small village of Teahupoo has about 4,000 residents and has been nicknamed “End of the Road” (Passe Havae) by surfers, since the road through Teahupoo literally ends at the river. It’s not a through way, but a place to stop and spend some quality (surfing) time!

Source: Aafes 49 (Flickr)

Those choosing to brave the lineup at Teahupoo can expect a 15-20 minute paddle from Passe Havae out to the world-famous break. Don’t feel like expending the energy to paddle out? You can take a boat taxi to the break too (see Teahupoo Excursion). If you are interested in other breaks, you can check out Papara Black Sand Beach, Paea, Papenoo, Punaauia or Taapuna Pass.

Source: Pierre Lesage (Flickr)

If you are thinking of tackling Teahupoo, you will want to travel there between May and August, when the break is in season. While wave fades generally average 6 feet, peak swells can produce 15-25 foot faces. There are numerous surf lodges that offer a unique and affordable way to enjoy your surfari. Nomadsurfers is a company that can provide you with lodging and can assist with all of the details of planning what will become one of the best surf vacations ever.

Source: Pierre Lesage (Flickr)

Vanira Lodge is another great option, offering open style bungalows that are artfully decorated and blend in with the local landscape (rates under $200 per night). When you are up and ready to hit the surf, there are a number of surf taxis ready to take you out to the break.

Source: Duncan Rawlinson (Flickr)

If you are searching for a great surf destination—one that is definitely not a tourist trap- check out Teahupoo!