Pointe Vénus, Tahiti Travel Guide

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Discover Tahiti's historic Pointe Vénus: black sand beaches, iconic lighthouse, and Captain Cook's celestial observations await!

Pointe Vénus, located in Māhina, Tahiti, is a historic peninsula known for its black sand beach, iconic lighthouse, and stunning views of Matavai Bay and Moorea. It marks the spot where Captain James Cook observed the transit of Venus in 1769, lending the point its celestial name.

A brief summary to Pointe Vénus

Māhina, PF

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Pointe Vénus.

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate marine environment while swimming or snorkeling.
Explore the craft shops near the beach for unique souvenirs and local artwork.
Take a moment to appreciate the historical significance of the site and learn about Captain Cook's expedition.

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A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Pointe Vénus, mapped for you.

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Shore Fishing Adventure in Tahiti

$285.00

Getting There

Public Transport

From Papeete, take the bus towards Mahina. Buses run approximately every three hours. The ride takes about 18 minutes to reach Mahina. From the Mahina bus stop, Pointe Vénus is a short taxi or bus ride away. Bus fare from Papeete to Mahina is approximately 750 XPF.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Papeete. A taxi ride from Papeete to Pointe Vénus takes approximately 10 minutes, covering around 10 km. The estimated fare is around 1,500 XPF, but confirm the price before starting your journey.
Car

From Papeete, follow the coastal road (Route 1) north towards Mahina. The drive is approximately 10 km and takes about 10 minutes. Free parking is available at Pointe Vénus, though spaces may be limited.

Discover more about Pointe Vénus

Pointe Vénus, situated in the commune of Māhina on the northern coast of Tahiti, is a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical significance. This peninsula, the northernmost point of the island, is famed for its unique black sand beach, a result of Tahiti's volcanic origins. The beach offers a picturesque setting for relaxation, swimming, and enjoying panoramic views of Matavai Bay and the distant island of Moorea.The area's historical importance stems from Captain James Cook's expedition in 1769, when he chose this site to observe the transit of Venus across the sun, an event that was crucial for astronomical calculations. This observation gave the peninsula its name, Vénus, forever linking it to the celestial event. Later, in 1867, a lighthouse was constructed, becoming the first in the South Pacific and a vital navigational aid. Mangarevian workers built the lighthouse.The Pointe Vénus Lighthouse, standing tall and proud, remains an active beacon and a symbol of Tahiti's maritime history. During World War II, locals camouflaged the lighthouse with coconut palms to protect it from potential Japanese landings. Today, visitors can explore the lighthouse grounds, relax on the black sand beach, visit the nearby restaurants and craft shops, and soak in the rich history and stunning scenery.