Overview
Teahupoo is a left-hand reef break off Tahiti Iti in French Polynesia, and it has earned its name as one of the heaviest barrels in the world. The wave breaks over live coral in nearly the same spot regardless of size, stacking up into a thick, top-heavy tube rather than a tall face. This is an expert-level wave with an excellent rating, and it demands full commitment on the drop.
When It Works
Teahupoo draws swell from southeast through south to west (SE-S-W), with southwest swell the best match for lining up its famous barrel. It works from 0.9 m / 3 ft to 5.5 m / 18 ft, though the power ramps up hard as the size builds. The main season runs through autumn and winter. It is moderately consistent, so it pays to time a visit around a solid swell window.
Wind and Tide
Look for northeast offshore wind to groom the face. The reef can work through low, mid, and high tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
This is a wave for expert surfers only. Bring a shortboard for the smaller days, a gun for size, and a tow board or bodyboard when it maxes out. Expect a moderately busy lineup when it turns on, with a somewhat reserved atmosphere in the water.
Access
Reaching the break means a roughly 30-minute paddle out to the reef or a short boat ride. When it is big, there is too much current in the channel to paddle anywhere, so a boat is the safer way out.
