Beach· Tahuata· French Polynesia: Tuamotus, Marquesas, Gambier & Australs
Hanamoenoa White Sand Beach (Tahuata)
9° 54.5′ S · 139° 6.2′ W · approximate
A crescent of white sand under coconut palms facing the sunset, called by the tourism office one of the most beautiful beaches in the Marquesas, and the reason Hanamoenoa is generations of cruisers' favourite stop.
Practical
Approximate position: the beach at the east head of the bay, about 150 m inshore of the 7 m sand anchorage (cruiser positions 09°54.465'S 139°06.225'W), derived from the 2026 brief chart. Landing: the beach is steep with a shore break; take the dinghy in only in small swell (a light outboard helps you get off again), or anchor close in 7 m and swim (May 2022). Look for the distinctive double coconut tree; a small beach hut may be used overnight. Bring repellent: aggressive nonos come out at the end of the day, and there are lots of ants. No services, no shops and no rubbish facilities. Do not pick fruit, which belongs to valley residents; Solange (Vaitahu Tourism Committee, +689 87 26 46 64) can arrange fruit baskets. Locals visit to hunt and fish; ask if you can join them.
Best for
Sunset beach and calm swimming
Season
Year-round in normal trades; shore break in W or strong S swell