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Plage Lafayette: Tahiti's Volcanic Beach

Discover Plage Lafayette, Tahiti's unique black sand beach in Arue, offering tranquil beauty, swimming, and stunning sunset views just minutes from Papeete.

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Plage Lafayette is a unique black sand beach located in Arue, French Polynesia, offering stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere. Its volcanic sand creates a striking contrast with the turquoise waters, making it a memorable spot for relaxation and recreation.

A brief summary to Plage Lafayette

  • FFHQ+HH8, Arue, PF

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and capture stunning sunrise photos.
  • Bring snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant underwater life near the coral reefs.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy on the beach, as there are limited food options nearby.
  • Don't forget sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be quite intense during the day.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Papeete, take the local bus service towards Arue. Inform the driver you are going to Plage Lafayette, and they will let you know the nearest stop. From the bus stop, it's approximately a 10-minute walk to the beach. Bus fare is approximately 300 XPF.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Papeete. A taxi from Papeete Airport to Plage Lafayette costs approximately 11000-14000 XPF and takes around 13 minutes. Confirm the price with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Driving

    From Papeete, follow Route de la Côte towards Arue. Look for signs directing you to Plage Lafayette. Limited roadside parking is available near the beach. Parking is free.

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Discover more about Plage Lafayette

Plage Lafayette, also known as Plage Maivai by locals, is a captivating black sand beach nestled in Arue, just a few kilometers east of Papeete. This unique beach offers a tranquil escape with its sparkling black volcanic sand stretching along the shoreline, contrasting beautifully with the azure Pacific waters. The beach extends at the foot of the Tahara'a hill, providing a picturesque backdrop for visitors. The beach's black sand is fine and soft, inviting visitors to stroll along the shore and soak up the sun. The waters are generally gentle, making it suitable for swimming and body surfing. However, caution is advised as larger waves can occur. Plage Lafayette is also known for its stunning sunset views, painting the sky with golden hues. Plage Lafayette is named after the Marquis de La Fayette, a hero of the American Revolutionary War, highlighting the historical French influence in Polynesia. While the beach offers natural beauty, it has limited facilities, so visitors are advised to bring their own refreshments and supplies. Public shower nozzles are available for rinsing off. Parking is available along the street, but it can be limited, especially during peak hours.

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