🇫🇷Snorkeling, Freediving, and Scuba in French Polynesia

Quick Facts

  • Best season: Year-round (varies by region)
  • Typical visibility: 10-30m depending on location
  • Entry types: Shore diving, Boat diving
  • Highlights: Explore French Polynesia's underwater world

Welcome to the ultimate guide for snorkeling, freediving, and scuba diving in French Polynesia. With 71 documented dive spots across 8 regions, French Polynesia offers diverse underwater experiences for all skill levels. From vibrant coral reefs to mysterious wrecks, from shallow snorkeling bays to deep freediving drops, discover what makes French Polynesia a must-visit destination for underwater enthusiasts. Our community-driven platform provides real-time conditions, detailed spot information, and local insights to help you plan your perfect diving adventure.

71
Dive Spots
8
Regions

Regions in French Polynesia (8)

Dive Spots in French Polynesia (71)

Alibaba

Alibaba is a drift diving site located in the Fakarava north channel, specifically suited for diving during incoming currents. Divers begin in the open blue waters and can make a stop at the edge of the drop-off before drifting into the channel towards the lagoon. The dive features the 'Ali Baba Canyon,' which is rich in marine life. Common sightings include grey reef sharks, white tip lagoon sharks, snapper, and groupers. Occasionally, divers may encounter larger species such as great hammerhead sharks, tiger sharks, or manta rays.

-16.0856, -145.7112

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Anau

Anau is a dive site in Bora Bora that features a coral garden and is known for manta ray encounters. Divers can expect to see at least five manta rays feeding and interacting in the area. The dive is accessible by boat and is best conducted in the morning during manta season from May to December.

-16.4914, -151.7103

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Aquarium

The Aquarium is a coral garden situated on white sand, making it suitable for novice divers and those wishing to practice their skills. The site is home to a variety of reef fish, including butterflyfish, jackfish, and cornettefish. Divers may also encounter Javanese morays and stingrays during their exploration.

-16.5457, -151.7228

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Aquarium de Cook

Aquarium de Cook is a dive site located just a short distance from the dive shop, making it easily accessible for beginners. The site features shallow depths with a sandy bottom interspersed with coral formations, providing a habitat for diverse marine life. Notable species include anemones hosting clownfish, hawkbill turtles, stingrays, trumpetfish, schools of blue triggerfish, moray eels, stonefish, and pipefish. The conditions are generally calm, with little to no current, making it ideal for introductory dives, refresher courses, and initial training for Open Water Diver certification.

-17.4816, -149.8179

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Avatoru Pass

Avatoru Pass is a drift dive located on the northwestern side of the Rangiroa lagoon. Divers enter on the eastern side of Motu Fara and drift through the pass, observing marine life such as silvertip, blackfin, and whitetip sharks, along with groupers, jacks, and snappers. The dive reaches a maximum depth of around 30 meters before finishing in the lagoon.

-14.9335, -147.7151

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Canyons - Moorea (Tahiti)

The Canyon dive site is situated near Ōpūnohu Bay in Moorea. This location is known for its diverse marine life, including anemones that host clown fish, as well as sightings of turtles and blacktip sharks. The entry to the site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore the underwater ecosystem.

-17.4779, -149.8511

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Dérivante aux tortues

Dérivante aux tortues is a drift dive known for frequent encounters with turtles. Divers may also observe various species such as jack mackerels, striped bonitos, and dog-toothed tuna in the deeper waters. Sightings of grey sharks and even an Indo-Pacific sailfish have been reported, highlighting the diverse marine life present at this site. The dive offers a chance to explore the rich underwater fauna and flora while drifting along the current.

-17.7833, -149.3798

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Eden Park

Eden Park is a shore entry dive site suitable for divers from Level 1 or Open Water certification. The maximum depth at this location reaches 29 meters. Divers can explore a coral garden that is home to various marine species, including lemon sharks, blacktip sharks, turtles, barracudas, and clownfish residing in anemones.

-17.4776, -149.8495

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Eolienne

Eolienne is characterized by a well-preserved coral plateau situated between depths of 10 and 14 meters, leading to a steep drop-off. This site serves as the starting point for a drift dive that can conclude at the Angle site or within the pass. It is suitable for divers of all experience levels. Marine life includes common bottlenose dolphins, grey and coral sharks, and there is a possibility of encountering hammerhead and silky sharks during dives in the deeper waters. Schools of various tropical fish are also present.

-14.9783, -147.6196

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Fafapiti

Fafapiti is a dive site located in Bora Bora, known for its shallow depths and the opportunity to observe manta rays. The dive occurs along a drop-off, providing an easy diving experience with minimal current. Divers can encounter mantas at various cleaning stations, where these creatures can be approached with ease.

-16.4699, -151.7408

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Fausse Passe de Paea

Fausse Passe de Paea features a notable drop-off with various fissures and overhangs located at the edge of a vibrant pass. This site is characterized by a significant presence of turtles, which are commonly observed in large numbers. Additionally, divers may encounter Napoleon wrasses and leopard rays, which are prominent in this area. The site is accessible from the shore.

-17.6749, -149.5971

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Garuae Pass

Garuae Pass is the largest pass in French Polynesia, reaching depths of 30 meters (100 feet) with visibility ranging from 20 to 60 meters (66 to 196 feet). Divers can encounter grey reef sharks, hammerhead sharks, manta rays, and a variety of other marine life including humphead wrasses, nurse sharks, and dolphins. This site requires boat entry due to its location in the Tuamotu Islands.

-16.0808, -145.7220

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Haapiti

Haapiti offers a drift dive experience characterized by a coral plateau featuring three significant holes. Divers can explore various excavations and small caves in the area. Outside the lagoon, visibility is often exceptional, reaching up to 60 meters. Common marine life includes blacktip sharks, large Napoleon wrasse, and trevallies.

-16.4528, -151.7805

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Hydravion et Goelett

Hydravion et Goelett is notable for its wreck site, featuring the remains of a Catalina PBY-5A aircraft. This plane was previously operated by the US Navy and later transferred to the RAI, where it served in Polynesia during the 1950s. The dive site has a depth range of 20 to 25 meters, providing an environment that supports a diverse array of marine life. The wreckage offers an opportunity to observe various species that thrive in this underwater habitat.

-17.5427, -149.6089

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L’ile bleue/Blue Island

L’ile bleue, also known as Blue Island, is an isolated underwater peak located at the entrance to Cook’s Bay. Divers typically access this site from the shore. The dive involves swimming out into the open water before ascending into a coral canyon. At depths of 25 to 30 meters, divers can observe large anemones and clownfish, along with white-tip sharks. The area is also frequented by schools of jacks and hawksbill turtles, making it a diverse site for marine life observation.

-17.4748, -149.8232

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L' Aquarium, Tahiti

L'Aquarium in Tahiti is an excellent dive site for beginners, featuring a coral ring that provides a safe environment for first-time divers. The site is home to three wrecks located on the sandy bottom: a Cessna at a depth of 5 meters and two boats. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of small, colorful tropical fish that inhabit the area, enhancing the underwater experience.

-17.5653, -149.6275

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La Baie de Paea

La Baie de Paea offers a diverse coral plateau that is accessible from the shore, making it suitable for divers of all experience levels. The site features a gentle slope leading to a drop-off, providing opportunities to explore various marine habitats. The coral garden is rich in biodiversity, serving as a habitat for numerous lagoon fish and notable species found in Tahiti.

-17.6910, -149.5886

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La Dérivante du Phare

La Dérivante du Phare is located approximately 20 minutes by boat from Taina marina, situated at the northwest tip of Tahiti’s coral plateau. The site is marked by a lighthouse that assists boats in navigating towards the coral reef and the lagoon's entrance. This dive site features a drift dive, allowing divers to cover significant distances while being carried by the current, which enhances the likelihood of encountering various marine species. The conditions here can vary, and divers should be prepared for the currents typical of drift dives.

-17.5556, -149.6332

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La Faille d Arue

La Faille d Arue features a vertical wall that begins at a depth of 5 meters, leading divers across a coral plateau. At approximately 25 meters, there is a notable cave resembling a church door. The site is populated with various coral tables and a diverse array of marine life, including bonito, numerous parrotfish, groupers, and duck beaks.

-17.5151, -149.5246

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La Faille Pomare

La Faille Pomare features a prominent drop-off adjacent to Arue’s fault, often experienced as a drift dive. The site is known for its rich marine life, with potential encounters including sharks and turtles. Although infrequent, divers may also spot a Tiger Shark. The dive site is accessible from the shore.

-17.5154, -149.5260

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La Faille St Etienne, Tahiti

La Faille St Etienne is characterized by a notable drop-off with significant vertical features. The upper section of the drop-off is rich in marine life, showcasing a variety of colorful tropical fish and the possibility of encountering resting turtles in the crevices. The site is best enjoyed during periods of good visibility, enhancing the overall diving experience.

-17.6165, -149.6198

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La Grotte de Arue

La Grotte de Arue is located on the outer edge of the coral reef that faces the lagoon of Arue. This dive site features a small cave that starts at a depth of 27 meters and extends down to 30 meters. The cave provides a habitat for various shrimp and fish, making it an excellent location for underwater macro photography. Divers can expect to observe a diverse range of marine life within this unique underwater environment.

-17.5156, -149.5321

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La Grotte du Pari

La Grotte du Pari is situated within a lavatube, positioned between Teahupoo and Tautira. This extensive tunnel measures slightly over 100 meters in length and varies between 20 to 30 meters in width. Divers can explore the cave's floor, where a variety of marine life can be observed, including numerous sponges, sea cucumbers, shrimps, and bioluminescent fish. The site is accessible via a shore entry.

-17.8766, -149.1545

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La Marado

La Marado offers a diverse underwater landscape characterized by chimneys and a prominent peak known as Oti Point. The site is known for its clear waters, which enhance visibility for divers. Marine life includes gorgonians, octocorals, anemones, sea slugs, jackfish, moray eels, and Napoleon fish. Notably, divers may encounter a red-eyed cod during their exploration. At the conclusion of the dive, divers can relax in the naturally formed canyons within the coral reef.

-17.8303, -149.3025

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La passe de TIaia

La passe de Tiaia is characterized as a drift dive with steep drop-offs on both sides. Divers can expect to encounter schools of eagle rays, jacks, and various shark species, including nurse sharks and white tip sharks. The site offers a dynamic underwater experience due to its current conditions.

-17.4706, -149.7803

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La Source, Tahiti

La Source is characterized by a freshwater spring that emerges from the ocean floor at depths of 5 to 6 meters. This phenomenon creates a visible column of fresh water, known as a halocline. The site is recognized for its abundance of marine life, particularly turtles that frequent the area to rest among the corals. Divers may also encounter various fish species and the possibility of seeing sharks. The entry to this dive site is from the shore.

-17.6341, -149.6192

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La Vallée blanche, Tahiti

La Vallée blanche in Tahiti offers a unique diving experience characterized by its diverse shark population, including grey sharks, white tip, black tip, lemon sharks, and occasionally tiger sharks. This site is particularly suitable for drift diving, allowing divers to explore the underwater environment with the current. In addition to the sharks, divers can observe schools of silver jacks, triggerfish, and various species of Polynesian fish, contributing to the rich marine biodiversity of the area.

-17.5437, -149.6235

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La Vavi

La Vavi features a shore entry leading to an overhanging reef that is adorned with gorgonians. Divers can observe white-tipped sharks resting in the area. The dive site allows for exploration down to depths of 50 meters. Within the coral gaps, a diverse array of fish species can be found, including surgeonfish, wrasses, and soapfish, along with juvenile fish. In the deeper waters, sightings of fusiliers, bonitos, and tuna are possible.

-17.8216, -149.3044

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La Zélée, Tahiti

La Zélée is situated close to the port of Papeete and features the remains of a small French gunboat that was launched in 1899 and sank in 1914 during the Battle of Papeete. The wreck is scattered in multiple sections, providing a unique dive experience. Divers can observe corals gradually overtaking the wreckage, along with a variety of lagoon fish and resting sharks. At depths around 25 to 27 meters, rose-shaped corals can be seen, adding to the site's ecological interest.

-17.5303, -149.5792

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Le Fer à Cheval

Le Fer à Cheval features a natural horseshoe-shaped tunnel in the coral that connects the lagoon with the ocean. Divers can observe white-tipped sharks resting on the sandy bottom, along with active heteroconger eels and pipefish, which are related to seahorses. The site provides a unique opportunity to explore the interaction between lagoon and oceanic environments.

-17.8796, -149.2023

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Le piton aux gorgones

Le Piton aux Gorgones features a dramatic drop-off that begins at a depth of 25 meters. At this depth, divers will encounter a coral projection leading to a prominent peak with a diameter of 15 meters. The peak's base extends into deeper waters, while its slopes are decorated with various gorgonians, creating a striking underwater landscape. This site is accessed from the shore, making it convenient for divers to enter the water directly.

-17.6198, -149.6213

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Le Tombant Saint Étienne

Le Tombant Saint Étienne features a vertical wall that begins at a depth of 5 to 6 meters and descends steeply. The site is home to a diverse range of marine life, including turtles, Napoleon wrasses, parrotfish, salema, pufferfish, and moray eels. The vibrant colors of the reef contrast sharply with the deep blue water, creating a visually striking environment for divers.

-17.6132, -149.6214

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Le Trou du Lagon

Le Trou du Lagon is a lagoon dive site with depths ranging from 2 to 30 meters. Divers can encounter a variety of marine life including sleeping white-tip sharks, large tetrodons, scorpionfish, convict soapfish, milkfish, and anemones. The site is also home to a notable coral formation known as the coral rose, along with turtles and leopard rays. The entry to the site is from the shore.

-17.7679, -149.3237

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Les 3 Pitons

Les 3 Pitons features three prominent underwater peaks, with the highest reaching depths of 6 meters, 12 meters, and 20 meters. The site presents a striking contrast between the deep blue water and the elevated formations. Divers can expect to encounter schools of blue fusiliers, along with turtles, whitetip reef sharks, titan triggerfish, and clownfish, which inhabit this area. The entry to the site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore these unique underwater features.

-17.6302, -149.6188

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Les Éboulis

Les Éboulis is located a short distance from Taina marina, providing access to the channel's bottom and the shallow regions between the lagoon and the coral barrier. This site is known for its diverse marine life, including stonefish, scorpionfish, and lionfish. Night dives here can reveal unexpected marine encounters. The coral garden features structures referred to as 'huts,' which serve as important habitats for juvenile fish.

-17.5831, -149.6207

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Les Gorgones

Les Gorgones offers a dive site that reaches depths of up to 50 meters, showcasing a variety of marine life and coral formations. Divers can observe orange and violet gorgonians, black coral, octocorals, soft corals, ghost corals, and various sea slugs. The reef is home to species such as rabbit fish, surgeon fish, triggerfish, moray eels, and colorful damselfish. This site is accessible from the shore, making it convenient for divers looking to explore its underwater features.

-17.8107, -149.3103

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Les jumeaux

Les Jumeaux is a drift dive site that requires suitable weather for optimal visibility. The dive features two prominent underwater peaks and a coral formation resembling a cathedral, which provides shelter for resting nurse sharks. The area is rich in marine life, with various fish species found near the reef, located close to Cook's Bay.

-17.4764, -149.8291

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Les Roses de Matavai, Tahiti

Les Roses de Matavai features rose-shaped corals that become visible at a depth of approximately 30 meters, extending over a vast area. This site is known for its tranquil environment and the presence of iconic fish typical of Tahiti's lagoon. Divers can explore this expansive coral garden, which offers a unique underwater landscape.

-17.5036, -149.5161

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Mamaru

Mamaru, named after the Tahitian term for white-tip sharks, features a gentle slope leading to a sand spit. Divers can encounter whitetip sharks at depths ranging from 20 to 25 meters, along with lemon sharks and various turtle species, including green and hawksbill turtles. The site is accessible from the shore, providing a unique diving experience in this marine environment.

-17.4766, -149.8461

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Manta Point

Manta Point is a dive site primarily suitable for beginners, accessed by boat. The dive begins at a sandy seabed interspersed with coral formations. Divers can expect to encounter oceanic manta rays, which can have wingspans reaching up to 5 meters, as they visit the site for deparasitization. This unique interaction with the manta rays enhances the diving experience.

-15.0831, -148.2226

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Motu Nuhi-Nuhi (l’aquarium)

Motu Nuhi-Nuhi is a small coral islet situated within the lagoon near the Tiputa pass. This dive site is characterized by its shallow depths and sheltered conditions, making it suitable for beginner divers, training sessions, or rehabilitation dives. Divers can explore a vibrant coral garden teeming with a variety of colorful lagoon fish. The dive concludes on a sandy bottom scattered with coral formations, often referred to as 'coral potatoes.'

-14.9757, -147.6331

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Mur de corail/Coral Wall

Mur de corail, located near Opunohu’s Bay, features a dive area characterized by coral canyons and gentle slopes. The dive site is accessible to divers of all levels, with depths ranging from 15 to 20 meters. Marine life commonly observed includes numerous turtles, triggerfish, and occasionally leopard rays, lemon sharks, and whitetip sharks.

-17.4801, -149.8454

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Muri Muri

Muri Muri is a dive site outside the lagoon near Motu Mute Airport in Bora Bora. Divers can expect to see grey reef sharks, hard and soft corals, and a variety of fish species including jacks, barracudas, and sea turtles. The depth varies, making it suitable for multiple skill levels, with the opportunity to encounter larger marine animals like dolphins and whales during migration season from August to November.

-16.4376, -151.7546

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Muri Muri

Muri Muri is a notable dive site characterized by its deep blue waters. Divers can expect to encounter grey reef sharks and whitetip sharks, along with large schools of barracudas and bluefin jacks. The dive features a significant coral plateau that leads to a sandbank where garden eels are found. In the deeper sections of the site, divers may also see schools of trevallies and turtles. This site is classified as a drift dive and is accessed from the shore.

-16.4409, -151.7459

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Papa Whisky, Tahiti

Papa Whisky is characterized by a large amphitheater formed by the collapse of part of the underwater plateau. Divers can explore two distinct areas: the southern end, which features yellow gorgonians, and the northern section, abundant in coral formations. The site offers depths ranging from 8 meters to 40 meters, making it a significant location for observing pelagic species. Entry to the site is from the shore.

-17.5685, -149.6314

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Papetoai Aquarium

Papetoai Aquarium is a shore entry dive site that is accessible for both novice divers and those in training. The area features white sand and coral heads that are home to a variety of marine life. Commonly observed species include butterflyfish, parrotfish, clownfish, trumpetfish, and Maori snapper. Divers may also encounter hawksbill turtles and, at greater depths, spotted eagle rays. This site is suitable for divers of all skill levels, making it an ideal location for training and exploration.

-17.4869, -149.8754

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Passe de Tikehau - Tuheiava

Passe de Tikehau - Tuheiava is a small pass with a maximum depth of 30 meters. The dive is characterized by an incoming current, making it a drift dive where most of the activity occurs at depths less than 10 meters. This site is suitable for both beginner and experienced divers. Marine life is abundant, with frequent sightings of great hammerhead sharks, tiger sharks, manta rays, eagle rays, and large schools of yellowmouth barracudas.

-15.0093, -148.2777

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Passe de Tiputa

Passe de Tiputa, formerly known as Hiria pass, is located between Avatoru and the village of Tiputa on Rangiroa atoll. This pass measures 900 meters in length and 400 meters in width, with depths ranging from 14 to 55 meters. The site is characterized by strong and variable currents, making the presence of a local guide advisable for safety. Seasonal visits from large Pacific predators are common, including bottlenose dolphins, great hammerhead sharks, tiger sharks, and grey sharks, along with sightings of sailfish and rays.

-14.9708, -147.6278

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Plateau aux tortues

Plateau aux tortues is situated in Fishermen’s Bay and features a broad, disc-like structure that is influenced by wave action. The perimeter of the plateau drops steeply, providing views into deeper waters where gorgonians and black coral are present. The area is inhabited by various marine species, including turtles, blacktip sharks, gray sharks, leopard rays, and titan triggerfish. The summit of the plateau serves as a habitat for lionfish and various reef fish, making it a notable site for divers.

-17.6279, -149.6189

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Plateau de Vaiare

Plateau de Vaiare features a diverse coral garden interspersed with sandy channels. The plateau extends into a significant drop-off, providing a varied underwater landscape. This site is known for its rich marine life, including schools of jackfish, barracudas, and various shark species such as white-tip, black-tip, and grey sharks. Additionally, the area is frequented by turtles, enhancing the biodiversity of the dive experience.

-17.5340, -149.7585

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Poito

Poito is accessed from the shore, beginning at a coral reef plateau with depths ranging from 5 to 15 meters. The dive site features a gently sloping oceanic drop-off that follows the reef and leads into a channel or pass at an angle. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including big-eyed red fish, paddle perch, big-eyed jacks, white tip reef sharks, turtles, and Napoleon wrasse.

-15.0127, -148.2951

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Pufana

Pufana is situated within a lagoon, characterized by shallow depths that make it suitable for novice divers and training sessions. The site is also favorable for underwater photographers due to its bright white sand and calm conditions, which are protected from strong currents. A diverse range of marine life can be observed here, including various species of sharks, contributing to the site's ecological richness.

-16.0820, -145.6933

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Rotui

Rotui is a shore dive site with a maximum depth of 15 meters. Divers can explore the outer reef, which is home to numerous juvenile fish. Marine life includes blacktip sharks and lemon sharks, with the possibility of encountering a nurse shark during the dive.

-17.4800, -149.8370

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Tables de Taravao

Tables de Taravao offers a unique diving experience characterized by a vertical drop-off featuring numerous crevices, where divers may encounter species such as platax and tuna. The dive also includes a section with a flat area adorned with vaulted troughs, providing an expansive area to explore. The topography is notable for its coral formations that have been elevated, creating an intriguing structure that serves as a habitat for various fish and crustaceans.

-17.7807, -149.3270

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Tahi Nui

Tahi Nui is situated near White Valley and features the remains of the Tahi Nui boat wreck, located at a depth of approximately 30 to 40 meters. The site is characterized by a stunning colony of rose-shaped coral that enhances the underwater landscape near a significant drop-off. Divers can expect to see a variety of iconic Polynesian marine life, including lagoon fish, sharks, turtles, and pelagic species. The coral garden is noted for its pink corals, contributing to the site's visual appeal.

-17.5464, -149.6274

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Taotoi

Taotoi is a shore entry dive site located at coordinates -17.481800, -149.890800. This site is known for its diverse marine life, including Javanese morays, black tip sharks, and various reef fish species such as napoleon wrasses, trumpet fish, rainbow jacks, and giant triggerfish. It is particularly suitable for beginners and first-time divers, providing an opportunity to observe these species in their natural habitat.

-17.4818, -149.8908

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Tapu

Tapu is located near the airport in Bora Bora, French Polynesia. It is primarily known for shark sightings, including grey and lemon sharks, along with marine life such as Napoleon wrasses, trevallies, triggerfish, moray eels, and sea turtles. The dive site has limited coral formations, and diving is possible year-round in warm waters.

-16.5013, -151.7885

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Tapu

Tapu is a notable dive site characterized by a shallow coral plateau that transitions into a steep drop-off. Divers can explore a cave within the site, where lionfish are often observed. The area is known for sightings of blacktip and lemon sharks, along with other marine life such as Napoleon wrasse, turtles, and flying scorpion fish. The dive is accessible from the shore, making it convenient for divers looking to experience its diverse underwater ecosystem.

-16.4984, -151.7843

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Te Maru Ata

Te Maru Ata is a dive site situated near the Sofitel hotel at PK15. It features a series of canyons characterized by large coral formations, often referred to as 'coral mushrooms.' These structures provide shelter for whitetip sharks and Maori perch. Under calm conditions, divers can explore a notable canyon known as 'oho,' located adjacent to the coral reef.

-17.6506, -149.6106

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Teavanui Pass

Teavanui Pass is a dive site accessible by boat, located at coordinates -16.494500, -151.776600. The site is characterized by the potential for strong currents, making it more suitable for advanced divers. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of pelagic species, including schools of jacks and barracudas. Additionally, blacktip reef sharks are frequently observed in the area, alongside a diverse array of coral fish. The dynamic marine life and current conditions contribute to the site's appeal for experienced divers.

-16.4945, -151.7766

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Temae

Temae offers a straightforward dive experience that begins on a coral plateau at a depth of 15 meters. Divers can then descend along a gentle slope characterized by sandy tongues, where sightings of sharks are common. The area is home to a nursery for white tip sharks and sleeper sharks, alongside schools of coach fish, blue damselfish, and larger species such as tuna and jacks. Heterocongers, also known as arden eels, can also be observed in this location. The dive site is accessible from the shore.

-17.4854, -149.7606

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Teonai

Teonai offers a dive that begins on the reef, leading to a descent along an oceanic drop-off. Divers will reach a plateau at a depth of 20 meters, where they can explore the area before returning to the channel to head back to the shore. The site features a diverse array of marine life, including schools of horse mackerel, as well as sightings of napoleons, eagle rays, and both black and white tip sharks. The depth range for this dive extends from 6 to 50 meters.

-14.9957, -148.2917

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Tiki

Tiki is a dive site located approximately 10 minutes by boat from the shore, oriented from north to west. The site can be affected by waves and currents, making access dependent on prevailing weather conditions. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including Grey Sharks, Lemon Sharks, Nurse Sharks, Black Tip Reef Sharks, Snappers, Wrasses, Pufferfish, Groupers, Turtles, Angelfish, and Butterflyfish.

-17.4907, -149.9277

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Tiputa Pass

Tiputa Pass, located in the Rangiroa Atoll, offers deep dives at approximately 40 meters (131 feet) where divers can observe various shark species including grey, white-tip, and hammerhead sharks. Additionally, common sightings include barracudas, eagle rays, moray eels, manta rays, and turtles. Due to strong currents, this dive site is recommended for advanced divers only.

-14.9690, -147.6260

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Tombant d Ohotu

Tombant d Ohotu features a reef plateau that gently slopes down to a depth of 30 meters before leading to a drop-off. Divers can explore the wall along the reef, which culminates in a coral garden. This site is known for its rich marine life, serving as a nursery for various species. Common encounters include grey sharks, tunas, barracudas, jacks, and manta rays. The dive is suitable for divers of all experience levels and is accessed from the shore.

-16.0710, -145.7096

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Tombant de Papeari

Tombant de Papeari features a reef drop-off adorned with gorgonians and soft corals. At a depth of 20 meters, divers can observe schools of chubs and paddletail snappers. In the deeper waters, mackerel scads may be seen, often pursued by bonito or tuna. Spadelfish (paraha peue) are also commonly found in this area. The coral diversity is significant, attracting researchers from CRIOBE who study the various species present at this site.

-17.7789, -149.3664

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Toopua

Toopua is a dive site characterized by a steep drop-off where a variety of tropical fish congregate, including large anemones hosting clownfish. At the base of the wall, divers can find a sandy area frequented by leopard rays and eagle rays, which come to feed. The dive concludes in a vibrant coral garden, providing a diverse underwater landscape.

-16.5334, -151.7612

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Toopua

Toopua is a dive site in a lagoon with a maximum depth of 18 meters (60 feet). Divers can expect to see diverse marine life including stingrays, leopard wrasses, clownfish, scorpionfish, nudibranchs, and blacktip reef sharks. At about 15 meters (50 feet), there is a sandy valley with eagle rays, leading to a large coral garden towards the end of the dive.

-16.5319, -151.7583

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Tumakohua Pass

Tumakohua Pass in Fakarava offers a drift dive with an average depth of 20 meters (66 feet) and a maximum depth of 40 meters (131 feet). At approximately 28 meters (92 feet), there is a cave that provides a good vantage point for observing grey sharks, along with various marine life including parrotfish, goatfish, barracudas, groupers, and perch.

-16.5181, -145.4622

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Tupai

Tupai is a remote dive site located at coordinates -16.302700, -151.803500, accessible from the shore. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of oceanic pelagic species, including grey reef sharks, black-and-white tip reef sharks, and occasionally hammerhead sharks and tuna. The site is notable for its proximity to a heart-shaped motu, providing a unique diving experience in Polynesia. The underwater environment is characterized by its rich marine life, making it a significant location for divers interested in pelagic fauna.

-16.3027, -151.8035

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Tupitipiti

Tupitipiti is located southeast of Bora Bora and features a prominent drop-off with excellent visibility. At a depth of 20 meters, divers can explore a landscape characterized by caves, faults, and canyons. This area is frequented by various marine species, including nurse sharks and reef sharks, as well as gorgonians. As divers ascend along the vibrant coral wall, they may encounter species such as platax and Napoleon fish, along with schools of barracuda and jacks.

-16.5444, -151.6886

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is snorkeling good in French Polynesia for beginners?
French Polynesia offers various snorkeling spots suitable for different skill levels. Many locations feature calm, shallow waters perfect for beginners, while others provide more challenging conditions for experienced snorkelers. Check individual spot descriptions for difficulty ratings.
Where can I find easy shore entry freedives in French Polynesia?
French Polynesia has numerous shore-accessible freediving spots. Look for beaches, coves, and rocky points marked with "shore entry" in our dive map. Popular areas often feature gradual slopes and clear water, ideal for freediving practice.
What months have the calmest water and best visibility in French Polynesia?
Water conditions in French Polynesia vary by region and season. Generally, check local weather patterns and avoid monsoon or storm seasons. Our spot descriptions include seasonal visibility information to help you plan your trip.
Do I need a guide for diving in French Polynesia?
Guide requirements in French Polynesia depend on the specific location and your experience level. Some marine parks require guided dives, while many spots allow independent diving. Always check local regulations and consider hiring guides for unfamiliar or challenging sites.
What safety considerations should I know about when diving in French Polynesia?
Key safety considerations for French Polynesia include understanding local currents, boat traffic, and marine life. Always dive within your limits, check weather conditions, use proper signaling devices, and respect local regulations. Some areas may have specific hazards noted in spot descriptions.
What marine life can I expect to see in French Polynesia?
French Polynesia's waters host diverse marine ecosystems. Depending on the region and season, you might encounter tropical fish, coral reefs, larger pelagics, or unique endemic species. Check individual spot descriptions for specific marine life highlights.