French Polynesia, a tropical paradise in the South Pacific, is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and incredible surf breaks. With its consistent swells and warm weather, it’s no wonder that French Polynesia has become a popular destination for surfers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking to catch your first wave or an experienced surfer looking to improve your technique, there are several outstanding surf schools in French Polynesia that can help you make the most of your time in the water. In this article, we’ll explore the five best surf schools in French Polynesia for learning to surf.
Moana Surf School – Tahiti:
Located in the capital city of Papeete, Moana Surf School offers excellent surf lessons for all ages and skill levels. The experienced instructors at Moana Surf School are passionate about sharing their love for surfing and providing a safe and enjoyable learning environment. The school is situated in a prime location, with easy access to some of Tahiti’s best surf breaks. The surrounding beaches boast consistent waves, making it an ideal spot for beginners to learn and progress.
Moana Surf School offers both group and private lessons, allowing for personalized instruction tailored to individual needs. The group lessons foster a sense of camaraderie among participants, creating a fun and supportive learning environment. Private lessons, on the other hand, provide focused attention and personalized feedback, enabling students to progress at their own pace.
The instructors at Moana Surf School are not only skilled surfers but also experienced teachers. They understand the importance of building a strong foundation in surfing fundamentals, including proper paddling techniques, wave selection, and board control. Students will learn how to read the waves, position themselves correctly, and ride waves with confidence and style.
The school also prioritizes safety, ensuring that students are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the ocean responsibly. They provide comprehensive instruction on ocean awareness, surf etiquette, and water safety, ensuring that students have a solid understanding of the potential risks and how to minimize them.
The facilities at Moana Surf School are top-notch, with well-maintained equipment available for students to use. Whether you’re a complete beginner in need of a soft-top board or an experienced surfer looking to rent a high-performance board, Moana Surf School has you covered. They also offer a range of surf camps and packages, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the surfing lifestyle while exploring the beauty of Tahiti. (surf schools in French Polynesia)
Mahana Surf School – Bora Bora:
Bora Bora, famous for its turquoise lagoons and overwater bungalows, is also home to the Mahana Surf School. Located on the island’s stunning coastline, Mahana Surf School offers an unforgettable surfing experience in one of the most beautiful settings in the world. The school is known for its commitment to providing personalized attention and creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere for surfers of all levels.
Mahana Surf School caters to both beginners and intermediate surfers, offering lessons that are tailored to individual needs and goals. The instructors at Mahana Surf School are not only highly skilled but also genuinely passionate about teaching others how to surf. They possess an intimate knowledge of Bora Bora’s surf breaks and can guide students to the best spots based on their skill level and the current conditions.
The school’s lessons focus on building a strong foundation in surfing technique while emphasizing safety and fun. Beginners will learn the basics of paddling, balancing on the board, and catching small waves under the guidance of patient instructors. As students progress, they will be introduced to more challenging waves and given the tools to improve their turns, maneuvers, and overall performance in the water.
One of the unique aspects of Mahana Surf School is its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The instructors emphasize the importance of preserving Bora Bora’s natural beauty and marine ecosystem, instilling in students a sense of responsibility and respect for the ocean. Students are encouraged to minimize their impact on the environment and learn about local conservation efforts.
Mahana Surf School provides all the necessary equipment for its students, including high-quality surfboards, leashes, and rash guards. They also offer surf photography services, capturing memorable moments on camera for students to cherish. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, Mahana Surf School welcomes everyone with open arms and ensures that your surfing experience in Bora Bora is nothing short of amazing. (surf schools in French Polynesia)
Papenoo Surf School – Tahiti:
Situated on the picturesque island of Tahiti, Papenoo Surf School is renowned for its world-class waves and experienced instructors. This surf school is located in close proximity to some of the most sought-after surf breaks in Tahiti, making it an excellent choice for surfers looking to challenge themselves and take their skills to the next level.
Papenoo Surf School caters to surfers of all levels, from beginners to advanced riders. The instructors are not only skilled surfers but also passionate about sharing their knowledge and helping others progress. They understand that every surfer has unique goals and learning styles, and they adapt their teaching methods accordingly.
For beginners, Papenoo Surf School offers comprehensive lessons that cover the basics of surfing. Students will learn proper paddling techniques, how to catch waves, and the fundamentals of board control. The instructors provide hands-on guidance and personalized feedback, ensuring that beginners gain confidence and develop a solid foundation in surfing.
Intermediate and advanced surfers will benefit from Papenoo Surf School’s in-depth coaching and guidance. The instructors have extensive experience navigating Tahiti’s powerful waves and can provide valuable insights to help experienced surfers refine their technique, improve their maneuvers, and take on more challenging breaks.
In addition to regular lessons, Papenoo Surf School organizes surf trips to some of the best surf spots in French Polynesia. These trips allow students to explore different breaks, experience a variety of wave conditions, and learn from different instructors. Surf trips also provide a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the local surf culture and connect with like-minded individuals from around the world.
The facilities at Papenoo Surf School are well-equipped, with a range of surfboards available for rental. From soft-top boards for beginners to high-performance shortboards for advanced surfers, students can find the right equipment to suit their skill level and personal preferences. The school also offers wetsuits and other accessories to ensure students are comfortable in the water. (surf schools in French Polynesia)
Teahupo’o Surf Academy – Tahiti:
Teahupo’o, often referred to as the “heaviest wave in the world,” is one of the most famous and challenging surf breaks on the planet. Located on the southwestern coast of Tahiti, Teahupo’o attracts advanced surfers from across the globe, seeking the ultimate adrenaline rush and a chance to conquer the infamous wave.
For experienced surfers looking to tackle the powerful waves of Teahupo’o, the Teahupo’o Surf Academy offers specialized coaching and guidance. The instructors at Teahupo’o Surf Academy are themselves accomplished surfers who have ridden the monstrous barrels of Teahupo’o and understand the intricacies of the wave.
The academy’s instructors possess an intimate knowledge of Teahupo’o’s unique characteristics, including the reef’s shallow and treacherous nature. Safety is of paramount importance at Teahupo’o Surf Academy, and students are provided with extensive instruction on wave selection, positioning, and how to navigate the break safely. The instructors prioritize the well-being of their students and ensure that they are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to tackle the powerful waves responsibly.
In addition to coaching on Teahupo’o, the academy also offers instruction on other nearby breaks, allowing students to explore the surrounding surf spots and gain a well-rounded experience of Tahiti’s surf culture.
Teahupo’o Surf Academy provides a range of coaching options, including one-on-one sessions, small-group lessons, and personalized coaching programs. The individualized approach allows the instructors to focus on the specific needs and goals of each student, helping them progress at their own pace and overcome any challenges they may face.
For those who prefer a more immersive experience, Teahupo’o Surf Academy offers surf camps that provide a comprehensive package of coaching, accommodation, and transportation. These camps provide the opportunity to fully immerse oneself in the Teahupo’o surf scene, interact with fellow surfers, and build lasting memories. (surf schools in French Polynesia)
Mo’orea Surf School – Mo’orea:
Just a short ferry ride from Tahiti, the island of Mo’orea offers a laid-back atmosphere and incredible surf breaks. Mo’orea Surf School, located on the island’s beautiful coastline, provides a fantastic opportunity for beginners to learn how to surf in a stunning tropical setting.
Mo’orea Surf School caters to surfers of all levels, from complete beginners who have never touched a surfboard to those looking to improve their skills and gain confidence in the water. The school’s skilled instructors have a wealth of experience teaching surfing to students of various ages and backgrounds.
Beginners at Mo’orea Surf School will receive thorough instruction on the basics of surfing, including ocean awareness, proper paddling techniques, and board control. The instructors create a supportive and encouraging environment, ensuring that students feel comfortable as they take their first steps into the world of surfing. Students will learn how to read the ocean, identify suitable waves, and catch their first rides with excitement and joy.
Mo’orea Surf School also offers intermediate and advanced lessons for surfers looking to progress. These lessons focus on improving techniques, mastering turns and maneuvers, and building confidence in bigger and more challenging waves. The instructors provide detailed feedback and guidance, helping students refine their skills and reach their surfing goals.
In addition to lessons, Mo’orea Surf School offers surf camps and packages for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the surfing lifestyle during their stay on the island. These camps provide a comprehensive experience, including accommodation, surf equipment, transportation to surf breaks, and additional activities such as yoga sessions and guided tours of Mo’orea’s natural wonders.
The facilities at Mo’orea Surf School are well-maintained, with a wide selection of surfboards available for rental. Students can choose the appropriate board based on their skill level and preferences. The school also provides other essential equipment such as rash guards and leashes to ensure the safety and comfort of its students.
In conclusion, French Polynesia is a dream destination for surfers of all levels, and the surf schools in the region offer exceptional opportunities for learning and improving your surfing skills. Whether you choose Moana Surf School in Tahiti, Mahana Surf School in Bora Bora, Papenoo Surf School in Tahiti, Teahupo’o Surf Academy in Teahupo’o, or Mo’orea Surf School in Mo’orea, you can expect professional instruction, beautiful surroundings, and unforgettable surfing experiences. So, grab your board and get ready to ride the waves in one of the most breathtaking surf destinations in the world. Book Far and Away Adventure’s latest packages to learn surfing in these 5 best schools in French Polynesia.
Our Top FAQ's
The best surf schools in French Polynesia are located in popular destinations such as Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Mo’orea.
The surf schools in French Polynesia cater to surfers of all skill levels, from beginners who have never surfed before to advanced riders looking to improve their technique.
Beginners can expect comprehensive instruction on surfing fundamentals, including paddling, balance, wave selection, and board control, in a supportive and enjoyable learning environment.
Yes, there are surf schools in French Polynesia, such as the Teahupo’o Surf Academy, that offer specialized coaching and guidance for experienced surfers looking to tackle challenging waves like Teahupo’o.
Yes, the surf schools in French Polynesia typically provide all the necessary equipment, including surfboards, leashes, rash guards, and wetsuits, ensuring students have everything they need for their lessons.
Yes, several surf schools in French Polynesia, such as Mo’orea Surf School and Teahupo’o Surf Academy, offer surf camps that provide a comprehensive package of coaching, accommodation, transportation, and additional activities.
Yes, many surf schools in French Polynesia organize surf trips to various breaks, allowing students to explore different surf spots and experience a variety of wave conditions.
Absolutely. Safety is a top priority for surf schools in French Polynesia. Instructors provide comprehensive instruction on ocean awareness, surf etiquette, and water safety to ensure students can navigate the waves responsibly.