Surfing's Back In Tahiti, And It's Been Pumping

The first post-quarantine run of swell just lit up the reef at Teahupoo, and the local contingent couldn't have been more thankful for the opportunity to get barreled once again.

Enjoying six- to eight-foot sets and oil-glass conditions, Michel Bourez described his session as "dreamy."

"I'm glad I was here to enjoy that moment," he said.

With international travel still largely restricted, the swell was a sweet score the resident chargers. Ariihoe Tefaafana, Kauli Vaast, Eimeo Czermak and Matahi Drollet were among those who picked off bombs.

"Back to work!! Teahupo'o on fire all day long!!" testified Vaast on Instagram.

And while there will be no swell chasing to the End Of The Road anytime in the immediate future, riding along with the local crew is a joy. The appreciation for the surf spot that they have such an intimate relationship with is a reminder of what the world continues to go through in the COVID-19 crisis. Surfers have learned what it's like to go without, and that sometimes, just one good one can make all the difference.