Good to know
Good to Know
- Tahiti's white sand beaches are rare—most are black sand from volcanic origins. West coast beaches are generally quieter with more coral reefs; east coast beaches have stronger currents and swell due to exposure.
- Go early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends. Beaches can get quite busy, particularly those closest to Papeete.
- Some beaches have sacred sites on or near them—treat these with respect. Swimming costumes are worn only on beaches, not elsewhere.
- Bring eco-friendly sunscreen, hat, and water bottle—the sun is intense. Water shoes recommended for rocky beaches and those with sharp coral.
- Check weather conditions before visiting, especially Papenoo Valley which can experience flash flooding after heavy rain.
- Stonefish are reported in some areas (e.g., Teahupo'o region)—watch where you step. Sharks are present but generally keep their distance and behave as healthy wild animals should; they're curious, not aggressive.
- Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels and main establishments, but smaller beach vendors may prefer cash.
Beaches
Vaiava Beach (PK18)
- Location
- Punaauia, west coast
- Sand Type
- white
- Designation
- family
- Description
- One of Tahiti's few white sand beaches with calm waves ideal for younger travelers. Features clear water, protected by coral reef. Nearby park with picnic areas, beach volleyball, paddleboard and kayak activities available.
Amenities
- parking
- showers
- Picnic areas
- Water sports rentals
Toaroto Beach
- Location
- Northwest coast, 30 minutes west of Papeete
- Sand Type
- white
- Designation
- quiet
- Description
- Protected by coral reef with calm clear waters ideal for snorkeling. One of the quieter beaches on Tahiti. Small parking lot, showers available.
Amenities
- parking
- showers
- Snorkeling access
Pointe Vénus (Venus Point)
- Location
- Mahina, north coast near Papeete
- Sand Type
- black
- Designation
- family
- Description
- Historic black sand beach where Captain James Cook measured Venus transit in 1769. Now features a lighthouse, park with large black sand beach. Good for swimming and snorkeling with coral reef close to shore. Popular for sunset viewing.
Amenities
- parking
- showers
- lighthouse
- park
- Snorkeling access
Paofaï Park Beach
- Location
- Papeete center
- Sand Type
- black
- Designation
- family
- Description
- Small rocky black sand beach within Paofaï Park. Features fitness area, entertainment games, and activities designed for children. One of few beaches accessible directly in Papeete.
Amenities
- Fitness area
- Children activities
- Entertainment games
Taharuu Beach
- Location
- Papara, southwest coast (PK40)
- Sand Type
- black
- Designation
- party
- Description
- Popular with surfers due to consistent breaks. Vast black sand with fine texture. High waves limit swimming but ideal for surfing. Venue for events and social gatherings. Shaded tables, refreshment bar, showers, free parking.
Amenities
- parking
- showers
- Restaurant bar
- Picnic tables
Lafayette Beach
- Location
- East coast, 20 minutes north of Papeete
- Sand Type
- black
- Designation
- quiet
- Description
- Secluded black sand beach rarely drawing crowds. Soft sand from nearby volcanoes. Crystal clear water with views toward Moorea. Minimal amenities but ideal for relaxation, swimming, and sunbathing. Near Pearl Beach Resort.
Amenities
- parking
Rohotu Beach
- Location
- West coast (PK23.5), Paea
- Sand Type
- white
- Designation
- family
- Description
- Clean white/golden sand beach with park featuring sanitary facilities, showers, and picnic tables. Free parking with easy access. Ideal for picnics by the lagoon.
Amenities
- parking
- showers
- Picnic tables
- restrooms
Tautira Beach
- Location
- Tahiti Iti, north coast, ~1.5 hours from Papeete
- Sand Type
- black
- Designation
- quiet
- Description
- Beautiful and secluded beach surrounded by sea and mountains of Tuatara Valley. Fine black sand with clear, calm water. Excellent for swimming. Features showers, picnic tables, pétanque court, and play areas for children.
Amenities
- parking
- showers
- Picnic tables
- Children play areas
Parc Varai (Parc Vairai)
- Location
- Near Papeete airport and market
- Sand Type
- white
- Designation
- full-service
- Description
- Small protected beach near cruise port and airport with pleasant swimming conditions. Walking paths and grassy picnic areas. Public showers. Ideal for short shore excursions.
Amenities
- parking
- showers
- Picnic areas
- Walking paths
Maui Beach (Plage De Maui)
- Location
- Tahiti Iti, south coast
- Sand Type
- white
- Designation
- quiet
- Description
- Secluded white sand beach surrounded by rainforest with turquoise water and palm trees. Rarely draws crowds. Peaceful with excellent water quality. Can explore nearby Caverna de Maui cave by rainforest hike.
Amenities
- Restaurant nearby
Papenoo Beach
- Location
- North coast, 45 minutes from Papeete
- Sand Type
- black
- Designation
- quiet
- Description
- Off-the-beaten-path black sand beach little developed but offers solitude and natural beauty. Popular with surfers. Near natural attractions including Arahoho Blowhole and waterfall. Good for day excursions.
Amenities
- minimal
Overview
Tahiti's beaches are diverse, featuring both white and black volcanic sand. The western coast near Papeete has quieter beaches and white sand (a rarity), while the east coast has more black sand, stronger currents, and swell. Most beaches are easily accessible from the road.
AI-generated estimateData refreshed July 2026
Sources cited for this category
These are the sources cited in this beaches research for this city. Individual figures may not each trace to one of them.
More About Tahiti
Data last updated July 2026 · Verify anything important.