Tahiti Iti

Tahiti Iti, Tahiti‘s smaller sister island that’s connected to the main island at the southeast coast, is home to one of the most famous surfing waves in the Pacific, Teahupoo. This powerful reef break most certainly should not be attempted by anyone but the best surfers—a fall means being dragged by the current across the sharp coral right below the surface. That edge of drama makes for a tense but enjoyable afternoon of observation (from the beach). The left break is best between April and October. The Billabong Pro competition is held here August.

The southern nub of Tahiti is known as Tahiti Iti (meaning Little Tahiti) and is my favorite spot to get off the grid for a few days. Lush and wild looking with deep green velvet mountains, waterfalls, caves and rugged hiking trails it is a refreshing, but unexpected, back to nature element of a destination mostly associated with turquoise lagoons and water sports. It’s also home to traditional Polynesian villages, archaeological sites, beautiful black sand beaches and one of the world’s most powerful waves, Teahupoo, and with it a sort of relaxed surfer community vibe. Time moves slowly on Tahiti Iti, which still feels undeveloped and uncommercial – something not easily found in today’s chaotic, digital world. It’s also home to some excellent unique boutique lodging options and family pensions (most of which do have WiFi should you wish to stay connected.