Reef break · Polynésie française · Tahiti · Beginner → Advanced
Forecast for Sunday 30 August
Intermediate : Nothing to surf today. Rest those arms.
Today's score by level (at the day's best, out of 100)
Historic spot on the north coast of Tahiti, elegant waves.
Surfable all year. Autumn (Sep-Nov) is the best season: powerful swells, water still mild, less crowd.
Good level required. You can stand, paddle and read a peak. When it fires, better know what you're doing.
Direct access from the beach, but mind the rocky bottom. Wetsuit + booties recommended, do not surf at low tide.
Wear an appropriate wetsuit. Scout the currents before you paddle out. Respect the locals and right-of-way. Check weather and tides.
At Matavai, tide isn't a deciding factor: the spot stays surfable across most tide states. Focus on the swell and the wind instead.
Matavai is rather recommended for intermediate surfers. If you're a beginner, prefer a surf school, a small swell and a suitable tide, or look for a more sheltered nearby spot.
The ideal wind at Matavai comes broadly from North: it's offshore, which helps shape and hold the waves. A strong onshore wind generally degrades conditions.
Around Matavai, you can also check conditions at Papenoo, Papara, Teahupo'o. Compare the scores, wind and swell direction before choosing where to surf.