Pointe Venus in Tahiti

Where to find it?

Pointe Vénus, located at north of the island of Tahiti in the commune of Mahina, is a place full of history and natural beautyFrom Papeete, you get there by heading east. By car it will take about 16 minutes to browse the 10,2 kilometers which separate the capital from Pointe Vénus. On arrival, a large car park, will allow you to park your vehicle. Moreover, it should be noted that some places are in the shade. And with the ambient tropical heat, it’s far from being a luxury…

History of Pointe Vénus

Pointe Vénus owes its name to the famous British explorer James Cook, who landed there in 1769 to observe the Venus transit. Above all, do not see here any link with possible intestinal problems of the goddess Venus since this is only a rare astronomical phenomenon during which the planet Venus passes in front of the Sun. Because the study of this phenomenon was at the time crucial for the calculations of the distance between the Earth and the Sun. Besides, Cook and his crew built a temporary fort nicknamed Fort Venus, to protect their scientific equipment. However, these studies did not produce the expected results. In addition to Cook, Pointe Vénus has welcomed other notable visitors. Thus, Captain Samuel Wallis et Louis-Antoine de Bougainville have them too dropped anchor in Matavai Bay. And the first English Protestant missionaries in turn arrived here in 1797. Furthermore, the site also witnessed the arrival of the HMS Bounty, ordered by the Captain Bligh, a 1788.

Geography and nature

Pointe Venus is the northernmost point of Tahiti and is bordered to the west by Matavai BayIt is distinguished by its large beach of black sand, popular close to suppliers and tourists. It must be said that it is certainly theone of the most beautiful black sand beaches on the island. Indeed, this volcanic sand, of a shade deep et bright contrasts beautifully with the waters blue oil of the ocean and the green nature.

The black sand gives a unique character to this superb beach

One of the most beautiful beaches in Tahiti

The Pointe Vénus lighthouse

Another point of interest is the Pointe Vénus lighthouse, the first lighthouse in the South Pacific, inaugurated in 1867. Since then, this historic lighthouse continues to mark the north of the island and remains one symbol of maritime history from Tahiti. Top of 34 meters, it securesfor more than 150 years navigation approaching Matavai Bay.

Pointe Vénus and its activities

Lovers of diving and snorkeling will appreciate the proximity to the coral reef, easily accessible by boat. As for the history buffs, they will explore the vestiges of the colonial past. And they will learn more me on first interactions between Europeans and Polynesians.

Moreover, for photography lovers, Pointe Vénus is a true paradise. They particularly appreciate the spectacular sunsets, view of the island of Moorea and breathtaking natural landscapes. So, every moment is an opportunity to capture unforgettable memories.

A fare for local crafts

You can eat without leaving the site

Fast food restaurant just a stone's throw from the beach

Can't wait for the sunset 😉

Ultimately

Pointe Venus is a magnificent cape doubled with a living witness of the history of navigation, theastronomy, And some colonization. It continues to fascinate visitors with its natural beauty and his rich past, while serving as a place of community gathering for the inhabitants of Tahiti. In fact, they even play pétanque there, which is saying something...