Looking for the best beaches in Tahiti? We’ve got you covered. Whether you’re planning a visit or looking for recommendations, we’ll help you discover the most stunning and picturesque beaches that Tahiti has to offer.
The gem in the crown of French Polynesia, Tahiti, is well known for its vivid coral reefs, pristine waterways, and verdant landscapes. But its immaculate beaches are arguably the most alluring feature of this paradise in the South Pacific.
If you’re seeking for the perfect blend of sun, sand, and sea, Tahiti has a lot of options to satisfy your tropical fantasies. Explore the best beaches in Tahiti, each of which is a testament to the island’s natural beauty and allure.
Things you'll find in this article
11 Best Beaches In Tahiti
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1. Papenoo Beach
Papenoo Beach is one of the best black sand beaches in Tahiti. Tucked away in the picturesque Papenoo area, the Papenoo Beach is a well-liked hangout for both residents and visitors. With its immaculate beachfront and crystal-clear blue waves, this beach provides breathtaking views.
You will have fun whether you enjoy beach games with your pals or just unwind and sunbathe by the bay. A treat awaits those seeking excitement as this beach is home to both novice and experienced surfers.
There aren’t many facilities on the beach itself, but you should have no problem getting some food in town. From Papeete, Papenoo, on Tahiti’s northern shore, is conveniently accessible by vehicle or taxi.
The beach is yours to use at any time of day without charge, but you’ll need to coordinate your return time with your taxi driver.
Best Things to Do in Papenoo Beach:
- Surfing
- Enjoy a sunset walk
- Visit Arahoho Blowhole
2. Toaroto Beach
Toaroto Beach is considered to be one of the best wind-sand beaches in Tahiti. Tahiti doesn’t have many beaches with white sand, but if you’re searching, go to Toaroto Bay.
This beautiful beach, which is located on the northwest part of the island, provides visitors with a peaceful setting in which to unwind and enjoy the warm, tropical weather. This bay has it all, including breathtaking views of Moorea, Tahiti’s sister island.
Discover the wonders of Tahiti’s underwater world at Toaroto, one of the island’s most well-liked snorkeling locations, and its safe waters. The crystal-clear, glistening seas provide ideal circumstances for catching a peek at some really amazing aquatic life.
Best Things to Do in Toaroto Beach:
- Snorkeling
- Enjoy a Romantic Sunset
- Swimming
3. Venus Point
Venus Point is a well-known beach located in the northern part of Tahiti Island. It gained notoriety when Captain James Cook made significant astronomical discoveries there in 1769. In spite of the dark sand, the beach itself is rather pleasant.
There are plenty of trees, and you might be able to see the 19th-century lighthouse from the cape.
With great views of Moorea Island and Matavai Bay, it’s the perfect place to unwind on a beach day and is near the barrier reef. Near the shore are a craft store and many eateries.
In addition to preserving its natural beauty, the beach is also home to a charming lighthouse whose grounds are ideal for a stroll in the afternoon. The beach is a great place to view the sunset, and the seas are ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Best Things to Do in Venus Point:
- Visit the Light House
- Learn about the History
- Swimming and Snorkeling
4. Lafayette Beach
Lafayette is a quiet, isolated beach that is well-liked for swimming and tanning. It is considered to be among Tahiti’s best black-sand beaches.
Lafayette Beach, which is only 23 minutes from Tahiti’s main city Papeete, is a beautiful spot to unwind, revitalize, and take in some truly amazing views.
Watching the sunset from the beach is also a wonderful experience, with vivid pink waves and streamers of scarlet orange light up the sky.
From neighboring volcanoes, Lafayette Beach’s black sand is so velvety you could dive into it. Encircled by magnificent lush tropical foliage, the beach is a great place to relax and enjoy world-class spa treatments.
Best Things to Do in Lafayette Beach:
- Sunset Watching
- See the Flora and Fauna
- Swimming
5. Mahana Park Beach
One of the greatest places to explore Punaauia’s lagoon, the largest on Tahiti Island, is Mahana Park Beach. The quiet, pristine seas that face the beach are perfect for snorkeling. Stingrays, tiny sharks, angelfish, and several more Polynesian reef species can be found underwater.
This lagoon, like many others in Polynesia, has shallow, quiet waters that make it ideal for snorkeling. But never attempt to swim out into the open sea beyond the coral reef; the outer reef is extremely dangerous due to violent currents and waves.
Best Things to Do in Mahana Park Beach:
- Snorkeling
- Have a Fun Picnic at the Park
- Swimming
6. Maui Beach
The sand is the main draw for Tahitian visitors to this section of coastline: Unlike many other beaches on the island, which have a black tint from volcanic eruptions, Maui Beach is a stunning white.
Situated on Tahiti’s southern coast, the adjacent lagoon’s clear, warm waters are an additional attraction.
Remarkably clean water and a peaceful, shallow lagoon have been commended by visitors, making this an excellent place for families with small children and novice snorkelers.
Due to its peace, lack of crowds, and lovely, clean water, this beach is among the best for some R&R. Additionally, you may climb into the jungle to see the stunning Caverna de Maui.
Best Things to Do in Maui Beach:
- See Caverna de Maui
- Hiking
- Swimming and Snorkeling
7. Vaiava Beach
The beach at PK 18 is commonly referred to as Vaiava Beach in Punaauia. It is widely regarded as Tahiti’s most beautiful beach, and local families love coming here for picnics and enjoy the day swimming in the pristine waters.
There are plenty of parking spaces, public restrooms, and showers. You are not required to wear special shoes because it’s a large coastline with dazzling sand and a clear turquoise ocean. It’s typical for the water to feel harsh when you first step in.
Many types of visitors, including single travelers and those looking for a relaxing holiday, can enjoy this beach. During the peak season, it gets rather congested.
Best Things to Do in Vaiava Beach:
- Snorkeling
- Sunbathing
- Swimming
8. Tautira Beach
The southern peninsula’s Tautira Beach is untamed, enigmatic, and distinctive. It offers the greatest perspective of Tahiti Nui’s towering valleys, shielded by pitch-black sand. The most incredible exploits are worthy of this amazing scenery.
Tahiti Iti conceals a lot of mysteries, but one spot stands out as having the most genuine appearance of nature. Because there aren’t many waves, the location is ideal for swimming. Access to buildings, restaurants, and gardens is available nearby.
Best Things to Do in Plage de Maeva:
- See the Flora and Fauna
- Swimming
- Relax at the Garden
9. Bain Lot Beach
The major beach in Papeete is called Bain Lot Beach, and it’s well-liked by both locals and visitors for its great swimming and water activity options as well as its unique break with waves that sway in both directions.
Even though it’s so close to Papeete, the beach is rarely crowded. Don’t forget to include Papeete in your itinerary if you’re planning a day of shopping and cultural exploration.
If you are a visitor to Tahiti, your first choice may be Bain Lot Beach. The nicest feature of this waterfront is that it allows you to swim and stroll back to your accommodation.
Given its excellent transit connections to other areas in the region, Papeete is also the greatest option for first-time visitors to French Polynesia.
Best Things to Do in Bain Lot Beach:
- Rent a Sailbord
- Kayaking
- Water Sports
10. Teahupo’o Beach
Tahiti, an island in French Polynesia, is home to the sleepy little fishing community of Teahupo’o. Nestled on the southwest flank of Tahiti Iti, the smaller dormant volcano is the town of Teahupo’o.
Teahupo’o is called “The End Of The Road” for good reason after crossing the river bridge, there are only footpaths and dirt pathways. The Pacific Ocean is the lifeblood of those who call it home.
From fall in April to spring in October, Teahupo’o breaks regularly. If you’re a serious surfer, this is the greatest time to catch the strong southern storms that create those terrible days that have made Teahupo’o a must-see destination.
Best Things to Do in Teahupoo Beach:
- Surfing
- Be amazed by the waves
- Jetskiing
11. Plage de Maeva
The Plage de Maeva is a gorgeous white coral sand beach that is conveniently close to the waterfront Sofitel Resort at Papeete. It is an excellent place to swim, snorkel, and sunbathe.
From Papeete’s downtown, Tahiti’s well-known “le trucks,” which are brightly painted wooden cottages atop flatbed trucks, provide transportation to the beach.
Best Things to Do in Plage de Maeva:
- Snorkeling
- Sunbathing
- Swimming
Best Tips for Exploring Tahiti Beach
Wear Modest Attire
Although Hawaii has a warm, tropical environment, it is nevertheless wise to dress modestly in public, especially when visiting holy places or places of worship. When not at the beach, stay away from bikinis and skimpy apparel.
Pack Essentials
Water lovers will find paradise at Tahiti Beach, so bring the right accessories. Remember to include necessities like sunscreen, swimsuits, snorkeling equipment, and comfortable walking shoes for exploring the surroundings.
You may record your seashore activities and the fascinating aquatic environment with a waterproof camera.
Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries and lived in 4 continents in the last 10 years, including France. A self-proclaimed Francophile, I love everything France.