(Morgan Maassen)
One can't help but fall under its spell.
For surfers, there is no adrenaline rush to rival Teahupo’o, the iconic and infamous wave of Tahiti. Located in the crystal-clear waters of the South Pacific with a lush mountain landscape in the background, Teahupo'o is a postcard of paradise. And a terrifying test.
Defending Olympic champion Carissa Moore calls it a wonder of the world.
"I put my time in and found the beauty of it," said local surfer and French Olympian Vahine Fierro. "Once you get a good wave out there, it's almost like you get addicted. The best drug I think you can ever have is to catch a wave at Teahupo'o and then you will forever come back to get in a new one."
Photographer Morgan Maassen, who's in Teahupo'o for this historic surf competition, is sharing his unique perspective of this special place and the people who love it.
Welcome to the casual, stunning beauty of Tahiti.
On the eve of the start of the Olympic surfing event, a relaxed and joyful Vahine Fierro welcomes guests to her Teahupo'o home.
Vahine Fierro pauses for a moment of reflection.
(Morgan Maassen)