Lafayette Beach
Discover Lafayette Beach, a stunning Tahitian gem with unique black sand, clear waters, and perfect waves for surfing and snorkeling.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal waves for swimming
Lafayette Beach
Best Time
Ideal waves for swimming
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Lafayette Beach, a stunning Tahitian gem with unique black sand, clear waters, and perfect waves for surfing and snorkeling.
"Beautiful and quiet black sand beach with soft waves that are great for body surfing or boogie boarding."
🥽 Water Shoes Recommended
The black sand can get hot; water shoes offer comfort and protection.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is limited. Consider arriving early or walking from nearby accommodations.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Unique Black Sand
Experience the striking beauty of soft, dark volcanic sand against the clear blue water.
Vibrant Underwater World
Swim east towards the coral and rocks to discover a lively undersea world teeming with fish.
Perfect Waves for Surfing
Enjoy the soft, consistent waves ideal for body surfing and boogie boarding.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Black Sand
Parking and Proximity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥽 Water Shoes Recommended
The black sand can get hot; water shoes offer comfort and protection.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is limited. Consider arriving early or walking from nearby accommodations.
🐠 Explore East for Marine Life
Swim east towards the coral for a chance to see vibrant fish and underwater ecosystems.
🏄♀️ Great for Bodyboarding
The soft, consistent waves are perfect for body surfing and boogie boarding.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥽 Water Shoes Recommended
The black sand can get hot; water shoes offer comfort and protection.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is limited. Consider arriving early or walking from nearby accommodations.
🐠 Explore East for Marine Life
Swim east towards the coral for a chance to see vibrant fish and underwater ecosystems.
🏄♀️ Great for Bodyboarding
The soft, consistent waves are perfect for body surfing and boogie boarding.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Lafayette Beach is celebrated for its stunning black sand and clear waters, offering excellent conditions for body surfing and snorkeling. Visitors appreciate the unique beauty, the vibrant marine life, and the convenience of nearby amenities and showers. However, some note that the waves can be strong for young children and parking can be limited during busy periods.
"Beautiful place, especially if you visit during Sunset it's so cool. Parking is limited. The sand is unusually black here. Full day fun with family. Swim or read book or just go and watch amazing views. There are few places close to this. Place is very close to resort, in fact, you can walk. I will certainly recommend."
Kanan Mehul
"Beautiful and quiet black sand beach with soft waves that are great for body surfing or boogie boarding. A few spots to sit in the shade along the shore and plenty of room to make it feel like you're by yourself. Easy parking and a shower to rinse off when you're done!"
Kasey Benjamin
"Extremely clear water. If you swim towards the east end of the beach there's a wonderful undersea world of fish playing around the coral and rocks. Loved this swim"
Jen Rose
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lafayette Beach is conveniently located close to Papeete. You can typically reach it by a short drive or taxi. Some visitors staying at nearby resorts can even walk to the beach.
While specific public transport routes might vary, the beach's proximity to Papeete suggests that local bus services could be an option. It's best to check local transit schedules upon arrival.
If you're staying at a resort near Lafayette Beach, walking is often the easiest and most pleasant option. Some resorts may also offer shuttle services.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Lafayette Beach is generally a public beach, and there is no entrance fee to access it. You can enjoy the sand and waves freely.
As a public beach, Lafayette Beach does not have set opening or closing hours. It's accessible at any time, though visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
No, you do not need to book anything in advance to visit Lafayette Beach. It's a public access area, so you can simply show up.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Lafayette Beach is famous for its unique and beautiful black sand, a result of its volcanic origins.
The waves at Lafayette Beach are often described as soft and perfect for body surfing or boogie boarding. However, they can be close to shore and may be too big for very young children.
Yes, snorkeling is highly recommended! If you swim towards the east end of the beach, you can explore a wonderful undersea world around the coral and rocks.
Yes, visitors will find showers available at Lafayette Beach, which are very convenient for rinsing off after a swim.
Lafayette Beach offers a full day of fun with opportunities for swimming, reading, or simply enjoying the views. The black sand and clear water are highlights. However, parents should be mindful of the wave size for younger children.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset is a particularly magical time for photography at Lafayette Beach, offering stunning light and colors. Morning hours can also provide beautiful, softer light.
The striking contrast between the black sand, the clear turquoise water, and the lush green surroundings makes Lafayette Beach incredibly photogenic. The unique sand color is a major draw.
While the entire beach offers beautiful vistas, the eastern end, where the coral and rocks are, can provide interesting foreground elements for photos, especially when combined with the underwater marine life.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏄♀️ Water Sports Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Black Sand Beaches
The visual impact of black sand is undeniable, offering a unique backdrop for photos and a memorable experience for travelers. It’s a reminder of the powerful geological forces that shape our planet and contribute to the diverse beauty of coastal environments worldwide.
Marine Life and Snorkeling Opportunities
The clear waters at Lafayette Beach enhance the snorkeling experience, allowing for excellent visibility of the coral reefs and the colorful fish that inhabit them. This makes it a fantastic activity for both experienced snorkelers and beginners looking for an accessible underwater adventure. Remember to swim respectfully and avoid touching the coral to help preserve this delicate environment.
Waves and Water Activities
While the waves are generally considered great for recreational surfing, it's important to note that they can be quite powerful and may not be suitable for very young children or those who prefer calm waters. Visitors are advised to assess the conditions upon arrival and exercise caution. The beach offers a full day of fun, whether you're actively riding waves or simply enjoying the refreshing ocean.
Social
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