Overview
Avatoru is a long, hollow right-hand reef break sitting on the northern pass of Rangiroa, the world's second largest atoll. It peels over live coral and is regularly ridden by local surfers and bodyboarders.
When It Works
The right draws swell from northwest to northeast (NW-NE), and it comes together best on a northeast (NE) swell. It works from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 2.4 m / 8 ft, forgiving enough for most surfers when it's small but turning nasty once it jumps overhead. Consistency is moderate, so expect worthwhile windows rather than something to count on every day.
Wind and Tide
Look for southeast (SE) offshore wind to clean it up. The reef works on mid and high tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
Avatoru suits intermediate surfers, and you can expect a moderately busy lineup when it's on. The reef is sharp live coral that local surfers scamper across, so mind your feet. A strong rip also runs through the pass, averaging around 5 km/h and flowing out to sea more often than in, so keep that current in mind while you pick your spot.
Access
Because the wave sits right on the pass, you can paddle out without a boat, unlike many Tuamotu breaks where surfers rely on surf charters.
