Lists West Side Story as a Mele-side reef that comes to within 6 m of the surface and extends to 30 m plus, with morays, crayfish, and occasional reef sharks.
Shore reef on the Mele side of Port Vila
Shore reef on the Mele side of Port Vila
Operators in Port Vila can choose the right side of the bay based on wind, weather, and tides.
West Side Story (Mele 2) is a shore reef on the Mele side of Port Vila that combines shallow staghorn gardens with a longer sloping profile. The site stays colorful through the mid-range and then drops to deeper water, so it works as an easy-pace reef dive rather than a flat swim. It is best for divers who want coral cover, fish life, and a flexible route that can be kept shallow or extended deeper.
Conservative baseline from public research. No community dives logged yet.
Depth range, seasonality, and planning context.
Reported Depth
6m - 30m
Depth Note
The reef rises to within about 6 m, with the main fingers and slope running down to 30 m plus.
Best Season
Year-round, with calmer wind and tide windows.
Typical Conditions
Protected bay reef with a shallow coral top, a longer sloping face, and easier dives when wind and tides are settled.
Hazards, restrictions, and access requirements.
Safety Notes
Stay aware of depth if you want to keep the dive easy. Wind and tide can make the shallow top feel more exposed.
Access Restrictions
Best dived with a local operator when wind or tide is unsettled.
Legal Notes
Follow local reef and marine-area rules.
Community notes to help plan your visit.
Scuba Diving
A relaxed reef dive that can be kept shallow or extended down the slope depending on experience and gas planning.
Species commonly reported at this site, with direct links into their wildlife guides.
Community dive logs and visit reports for this site.
Average conditions based on logged dives & visits.
Planning answers for access, conditions, timing, and site logistics.
Last Updated
Research Sources
Lists West Side Story as a Mele-side reef that comes to within 6 m of the surface and extends to 30 m plus, with morays, crayfish, and occasional reef sharks.
Spot page describing the reef as one of the healthier reefs in Port Vila with staghorn corals and small reef fish.
Trip report describing West Side Story on the Mele side of the bay with green staghorn coral rebuilding after Cyclone Pam.
Official tourism guide describing West Side Story as one of the coralline sites around Port Vila in protected bay waters.
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