Papenoo is a surf spot located on the eastern coast of Tahiti. It's well-known among local surfers and can get quite crowded, especially when the North swells arrive. You can expect a range of peaks, particularly around the river mouth where the sand and rock bars help shape the waves. The vibe is usually chill, but during those bigger days when the left is really firing, things might heat up a bit.

The ideal swell direction for Papenoo is NorthEast, but it also handles NorthWest swells. This spot is suitable for various swell sizes, starting from 2 feet (about 0.6 meters). The waves break over uneven reef and sand, creating both beach breaks and some fun lefts and rights. It works well with low, mid, and high tides, so you have flexibility in when to hit the water. If you’re a beginner, this place can offer some decent waves to get you started, especially when the surf is smaller.

Wind plays a role here, too. South winds are preferable, so try to get there early in the day before the trade winds kick in. Overall, Papenoo is a spot where you can enjoy some fun surf while soaking in the local atmosphere, but just be aware that it can get busy!