Moorea is a magical volcanic island with stunning landscapes, located in French Polynesia in the South Pacific Ocean. Situated about 9 mi /17 km northwest of Tahiti, Moorea has a unique shape and boasts vertical mountains and green meadows, covered with lush nature, as well as a breathtaking coastline with pristine sandy beaches.
Moorea Island attracts many visitors from around the world, as it is a favorite destination among the rest of the Society Islands and can be easily accessed by boat or plane from Tahiti. For those who are into water sports, Moorea offers a wide variety of activities, as it is surrounded by the bluest waters of the Pacific.
Ha’apiti Reef is an exposed reef break and one of the best spots for surfing and kitesurfing on the island. Located on the west coast of Moorea, the reef can be approached by launching your kite from the quay of Ha’apiti’s town harbour and kite out for about 0.6 mi/1 km. The tropical climate provides small temperature variations and the average temperature ranges from 70 °F/21 °C to 88 °F/31 °C. However, during winter months, the strong South and South-east winds create perfect conditions for wave kite surfing.
The spot is available for intermediate and advanced kiters, since the size of the swell starts working from 5 ft/1.5 m and holds up to 8 ft/2.5 m and more. The cross shore wind and high currents can push you out in the open ocean, so extra caution is needed. The waves are fast and powerful and crash onto hard and hollow corals, creating extreme conditions for endless fun. Note, that the beach is ultra crowded during weekends, so be aware of other kiters and surfers.
There are schools operating on spot that can provide you with all the necessary gear, boats and experienced instructors, if you want to combine holidays on a paradise island and also brush up your skills. Kitesurfing in Ha’apiti Reef is a one of a lifetime experience that no kiter should miss!
