Diving in South Pacific Ocean
Quick Facts
- • Entry types: Mostly shore entries
- • Expect: Varies by conditions visibility
- • Highlights: Discover South Pacific Ocean's dive spots
Explore the underwater wonders of South Pacific Ocean, sea. This region features 100 documented dive spots, each offering unique underwater experiences. Whether you're seeking calm snorkeling bays, challenging freediving depths, or exciting scuba adventures, South Pacific Ocean has something for every underwater explorer. Browse detailed spot information, check current conditions from recent dive logs, and connect with the local diving community to make the most of your visit.
Regional Context
🏛️ Marine Hierarchy
🌍 Associated Countries
Countries in South Pacific Ocean (25)
🇦🇸American Samoa
🇦🇷Argentina
🇦🇺Australia
🇨🇱Chile
🇨🇰Cook Islands
🇪🇨Ecuador
🇫🇯Fiji
🇵🇫French Polynesia
🇮🇩Indonesia
🇰🇮Kiribati
🇳🇷Nauru
🇳🇨New Caledonia
🇳🇿New Zealand
🇳🇺Niue
🇳🇫Norfolk Island
🇵🇬Papua New Guinea
🇵🇪Peru
🇵🇳Pitcairn Islands
🇼🇸Samoa
🇸🇧Solomon Islands
🇹🇴Tonga
🇹🇻Tuvalu
🇺🇲United States Minor Outlying Islands
🇻🇺Vanuatu
🇼🇫Wallis and Futuna
Sub-regions in South Pacific Ocean (6)
Juan Fernandez and Desventuradas
province
Marquesas
province
Southeast Polynesia
province
Magellanic
province
Easter Island
province
Warm Temperate Southeastern Pacific
province
Popular Spots in South Pacific Ocean (100+ spots)
3 Sisters
The 3 Sisters dive site features three pinnacles that begin at a depth of 5 meters. These pinnacles are connected by a ridge that descends to 18 meters, ultimately leading to a sandy bottom at 30 meters. Divers can explore a notable swim-through in one of the pinnacles. The site is rich in marine life, showcasing a variety of soft and hard corals, large sea fans, and numerous nudibranchs. Divers are encouraged to observe the diverse macro and larger marine species in all directions during their dive.
3 ways
3 Ways is situated around Te Anaputa Island and features an archway system that connects various sections of the island. The dive site offers depths ranging from 5 meters to 22 meters, with a diverse terrain that includes shallow reefs and vertical walls on the island's exterior. Marine life commonly observed here includes Sandagger wrasse, Goatfish, schooling Demoiselles, and Porcupine fish. During the summer months, large stingrays can often be spotted in the area.
Agusta Reef
Agusta Reef is a dive site that requires expert divers due to strong currents. The reef is situated at a depth of 10 to 12 meters, making it essential for divers to be prepared with a hook. The site is known for its diverse marine life, including schools of fish, black and white tip reef sharks, and nudibranchs, which can be observed if time allows. Redtooth triggerfish are also commonly seen in the area.
Aldermens-Middle Middle
Aldermens-Middle Middle is located at the center of Alderman Island. This dive site features a unique underwater landscape characterized by expansive grassy gulleys. Divers can observe smaller reef fish that frequent these areas, feeding on the grass. Additionally, crayfish are commonly found along the gulleys, adding to the site's biodiversity. The entry to the site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking for a scenic underwater experience.
Algae Patch 1
Algae Patch 1 is a muck dive site located in a channel, making it essential to monitor tide charts to avoid strong currents. The area consists of sandy patches interspersed with coral blocks, providing a habitat rich in macro marine life. Regular sightings include Nudibranchs, Rhinopias, Scorpaenid Leaf Fish, Mimik Octopus, and Wonderpus. This site is accessible from the shore.
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.
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.
Always Cool
Always Cool consists of a cluster of 10 coral heads, adorned with a mix of soft and hard corals, along with sea fans and several swim-throughs. The dive site begins at a depth of 5 meters and descends to approximately 21 meters, with the optimal diving depth being around 18 meters. This site is accessible for diving at any time. Marine life includes a variety of soft and hard corals, nudibranchs, anemones, crustaceans, reef sharks, moray eels, and schools of fish visible in the blue waters. It is also noted for being a good location for night dives.
Amazing Maze
Amazing Maze features a series of coral heads and pinnacles that begin at a depth of 5 meters and descend to a sandy bottom at 21 meters. The tops of these formations are adorned with anemones, and the site includes several swim-throughs decorated with soft coral and sea fans. It is recommended to dive this site during an incoming tide, making it suitable for divers of varying experience levels. Marine life observed here includes whitetip reef sharks, clownfish, octopus, anthias, fusiliers, nudibranchs, and various invertebrates such as shrimps and gobies.
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.
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.
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.
Anchovies
Anchovies is located twenty minutes west of Papatura, featuring depths ranging from 5 to 25 meters. The site includes an inner wall that provides shelter from larger swells, while the outer wall is more expansive but can be affected by significant swell. Divers may encounter bi-directional currents influenced by tides. Marine life at this site includes turtles, which utilize the rocky areas for resting, as well as reef and nurse sharks, rays, and eels. Large schools of fish are commonly observed where the currents and swell interact.
Ancient Mariner
The Ancient Mariner dive site features a reef structure with varying depths, typically ranging from 10 to 30 meters. Divers can observe a variety of marine life, including reef fish, corals, and possibly larger species such as sharks or rays.
Anemone Boulders
Anemone Boulders is a shore entry dive site characterized by a reef that extends down to a depth of 21 meters. Divers can navigate easily along the edge of the reef, which features swim-throughs and overhangs. The site is home to various species of reef fish, including blue maomao, demoiselles, and parore, as well as pelagic species such as kingfish. Additionally, divers may encounter rays and snake eels among the many boulders covered in anemones located along the sand line. Optimal diving conditions occur with southerly winds, while easterly winds and northerly swells should be avoided.
Annie’s Bommie
Annie's Bommie consists of two prominent pinnacles connected to the main reef by a ridge. The dive site begins at a depth of 5 meters and descends to 27 meters, with the optimal diving zone being around 18 meters. The area is rich in marine biodiversity, featuring schooling barracuda, reef sharks, various anthias, ghost pipefish, moray eels, clownfish, titan triggerfish, spiny lobsters, and groupers, among other species.
Anytime
Anytime features three interconnected pinnacles that begin at a depth of 3 meters and descend to 24 meters. The pinnacles are aligned in a north-south orientation, allowing for flexible dive planning at any time. This site offers a diverse range of marine life, including schooling barracuda, bluefin trevally, and various coral types such as soft and hard corals. Divers can also observe sea whips, leather coral, anemones with their associated fish, fusiliers, anthias, lobsters, moray eels, and damsel fish, making it ideal for extended bottom time through multi-level diving.
ANZAC
ANZAC is characterized by a prominent coral head that begins at a depth of 3 meters and features a decorated swim-through, descending to depths exceeding 30 meters. The site is accessible from the shore and is best explored during periods of strong current, which enhances visibility and marine life activity. Divers can expect to see a variety of species including reef sharks, sea turtles, moray eels, and a range of colorful fish such as antheas and fusileers. Additionally, the area is home to shrimps, lobsters, and lionfish, making it a diverse ecosystem. This site is also suitable for experienced snorkelers.
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.
Aquarium
Aquarium is accessible via a boat ride of approximately 12 minutes from Natadola Beach. This dive site allows for deep diving, reaching depths of up to 30 meters. The bottom consists of a sand patch, and divers should be aware that strong currents or waves can make access challenging, necessitating prior experience. While coral formations are not the primary feature here, divers can expect to encounter various marine life, including sharks, turtles, and rays, particularly in the shallower areas where tropical fish are abundant.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Arch
Arch is characterized by numerous swim-throughs that resemble arches, with depths ranging from 5 meters to 21 meters. The site is best explored during an incoming tide and is accessible to divers of varying experience levels. Marine life includes nudibranchs, lobsters, gobies, shrimp, and a variety of corals, both soft and hard. Divers may also encounter sea fans, sponges, blue sea stars, sea cucumbers, moray eels, anthias, fusiliers, as well as anemones and their associated fish.
Arefi Reef
Arefi Reef is located approximately one hour from Soul Scuba divers and is typically the second dive on the Batanta trip, following the P-47 Wreck. This dive site is characterized by the presence of wobbegong sharks and a variety of marine life including nudibranchs, snapper, triggerfish, trevally, jackfish, clownfish, angelfish, and butterflyfish. The entry to the site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore its underwater ecosystem.
Arno’s Underwater Reef
Arno's Underwater Reef features a notable drop-off that begins at depths of 28 meters and extends beyond 50 meters. Divers should be prepared for strong currents on optimal days, making it advisable to start near the drop-off to conserve energy and reduce decompression time. The site is characterized by an overhang at depths between 28 and 35 meters, leading to a soft coral garden that rises to about 5 meters. Marine life includes various fish species, marine corals, and shell-less nudibranchs, with the possibility of encountering a manta ray.
Aroa Rā’ui
Aroa Rā’ui is located at coordinates -21.258000, -159.817900 and features a marine reserve known for its excellent snorkeling opportunities directly accessible from the beach. This site is popular for both recreational snorkeling and as a location for confined water scuba diving training. Marine life commonly observed here includes schools of goatfish, gold-lined seabream, and surgeonfish. Additionally, the area is home to large star pufferfish, flounders, octopus, and various species of moray eels.
Aroa Rā’ui
Aroa Rā’ui is located at coordinates -21.258000, -159.817900 and features a marine reserve known for its excellent snorkeling opportunities directly accessible from the beach. This site is popular for both recreational snorkeling and as a location for confined water scuba diving training. Marine life commonly observed here includes schools of goatfish, gold-lined seabream, and surgeonfish. Additionally, the area is home to large star pufferfish, flounders, octopus, and various species of moray eels.
Aroa Rā’ui
Aroa Rā’ui is located at coordinates -21.258000, -159.817900 and features a marine reserve known for its excellent snorkeling opportunities directly accessible from the beach. This site is popular for both recreational snorkeling and as a location for confined water scuba diving training. Marine life commonly observed here includes schools of goatfish, gold-lined seabream, and surgeonfish. Additionally, the area is home to large star pufferfish, flounders, octopus, and various species of moray eels.
Arorangi Drop Off
Arorangi Drop Off is located in front of Arorangi Passage and features a reef that gradually slopes with large coral bommies. The dive site ranges in depth from 18 to 30 meters. This area is known for its frequent currents, which attract larger marine species such as eagle rays, trevally, and lionfish.
Arorangi Drop Off
Arorangi Drop Off is located in front of Arorangi Passage and features a reef that gradually slopes with large coral bommies. The dive site ranges in depth from 18 to 30 meters. This area is known for its frequent currents, which attract larger marine species such as eagle rays, trevally, and lionfish.
Arorangi Drop Off
Arorangi Drop Off is located in front of Arorangi Passage and features a reef that gradually slopes with large coral bommies. The dive site ranges in depth from 18 to 30 meters. This area is known for its frequent currents, which attract larger marine species such as eagle rays, trevally, and lionfish.
Arorangi Passage
Arorangi Passage is the smallest and shallowest of the passages in Rarotonga, characterized by frequently strong currents. The main passage has been recently dredged to accommodate smaller vessels and cruise ship tenders. Divers can explore various canyons and swim-throughs located on the outer edges of the passage. Marine life commonly observed includes lionfish and reef sharks.
Arorangi Passage
Arorangi Passage is the smallest and shallowest of the passages in Rarotonga, characterized by frequently strong currents. The main passage has been recently dredged to accommodate smaller vessels and cruise ship tenders. Divers can explore various canyons and swim-throughs located on the outer edges of the passage. Marine life commonly observed includes lionfish and reef sharks.
Arorangi Passage
Arorangi Passage is the smallest and shallowest of the passages in Rarotonga, characterized by frequently strong currents. The main passage has been recently dredged to accommodate smaller vessels and cruise ship tenders. Divers can explore various canyons and swim-throughs located on the outer edges of the passage. Marine life commonly observed includes lionfish and reef sharks.
Avaavaroa Drop Off
Avaavaroa Drop Off features a series of sand channels that traverse the reef in front of Avaavaroa Passage. The dive begins along a sand channel that leads to a significant drop-off, providing an opportunity to explore the edge or venture into deeper waters to observe pelagic species. On favorable days, divers may encounter a variety of marine life, including sharks, eagle rays, turtles, lionfish, and schooling tunas. This site is particularly noted for sightings of tiger sharks and hammerhead sharks, making it a notable location for divers seeking these species.
Avaavaroa Drop Off
Avaavaroa Drop Off features a series of sand channels that traverse the reef in front of Avaavaroa Passage. The dive begins along a sand channel that leads to a significant drop-off, providing an opportunity to explore the edge or venture into deeper waters to observe pelagic species. On favorable days, divers may encounter a variety of marine life, including sharks, eagle rays, turtles, lionfish, and schooling tunas. This site is particularly noted for sightings of tiger sharks and hammerhead sharks, making it a notable location for divers seeking these species.
Avaavaroa Drop Off
Avaavaroa Drop Off features a series of sand channels that traverse the reef in front of Avaavaroa Passage. The dive begins along a sand channel that leads to a significant drop-off, providing an opportunity to explore the edge or venture into deeper waters to observe pelagic species. On favorable days, divers may encounter a variety of marine life, including sharks, eagle rays, turtles, lionfish, and schooling tunas. This site is particularly noted for sightings of tiger sharks and hammerhead sharks, making it a notable location for divers seeking these species.
Avaavaroa Passage
Avaavaroa Passage features a unique dive experience as you navigate through a reef passage that connects the outer reef to the lagoon. The dive includes tunnels and steep canyons, creating an adventurous underwater landscape. Depths range from 24 to 26 meters. This site is known for strong currents, making it suitable for experienced divers. Marine life includes reef sharks, turtles, and eagle rays, with fish activity often enhanced by the currents.
Avaavaroa Passage
Avaavaroa Passage features a unique dive experience as you navigate through a reef passage that connects the outer reef to the lagoon. The dive includes tunnels and steep canyons, creating an adventurous underwater landscape. Depths range from 24 to 26 meters. This site is known for strong currents, making it suitable for experienced divers. Marine life includes reef sharks, turtles, and eagle rays, with fish activity often enhanced by the currents.
Avaavaroa Passage
Avaavaroa Passage features a unique dive experience as you navigate through a reef passage that connects the outer reef to the lagoon. The dive includes tunnels and steep canyons, creating an adventurous underwater landscape. Depths range from 24 to 26 meters. This site is known for strong currents, making it suitable for experienced divers. Marine life includes reef sharks, turtles, and eagle rays, with fish activity often enhanced by the currents.
Avana Passage
Avana Passage is located on the east coast and provides access to Ngatangiia Harbour. Divers can choose to explore the sandy passage's exterior or venture through it into the lagoon. The site is notable for its diverse marine life, including lionfish and eels. Surrounding the passage are impressive rock formations that create an ambiance reminiscent of underwater ruins.
Avana Passage
Avana Passage is located on the east coast and provides access to Ngatangiia Harbour. Divers can choose to explore the sandy passage's exterior or venture through it into the lagoon. The site is notable for its diverse marine life, including lionfish and eels. Surrounding the passage are impressive rock formations that create an ambiance reminiscent of underwater ruins.
Avana Passage
Avana Passage is located on the east coast and provides access to Ngatangiia Harbour. Divers can choose to explore the sandy passage's exterior or venture through it into the lagoon. The site is notable for its diverse marine life, including lionfish and eels. Surrounding the passage are impressive rock formations that create an ambiance reminiscent of underwater ruins.
Avarua Passage
Avarua Passage begins at Edna’s Anchor mooring, where divers can follow the sandy edge of the reef towards the shore. This sandy channel extends into Avarua Harbour. The site is characterized by notable coral formations and a diverse array of marine life, including scorpion fish, moray eels, and flounders. Additionally, it serves as a mating site for parrotfish.
Avarua Passage
Avarua Passage begins at Edna’s Anchor mooring, where divers can follow the sandy edge of the reef towards the shore. This sandy channel extends into Avarua Harbour. The site is characterized by notable coral formations and a diverse array of marine life, including scorpion fish, moray eels, and flounders. Additionally, it serves as a mating site for parrotfish.
Avarua Passage
Avarua Passage begins at Edna’s Anchor mooring, where divers can follow the sandy edge of the reef towards the shore. This sandy channel extends into Avarua Harbour. The site is characterized by notable coral formations and a diverse array of marine life, including scorpion fish, moray eels, and flounders. Additionally, it serves as a mating site for parrotfish.
Avatiu Drop Off
Avatiu Drop Off is situated just west of Avatiu Harbour, featuring a notable drop-off that begins at approximately 18 meters and descends into deeper waters, reaching depths of 12 to 40 meters. The shallower areas are rich in fish life, while divers can encounter larger predatory species along the edge of the drop-off. This site is accessible from the shore.
Avatiu Drop Off
Avatiu Drop Off is situated just west of Avatiu Harbour, featuring a notable drop-off that begins at approximately 18 meters and descends into deeper waters, reaching depths of 12 to 40 meters. The shallower areas are rich in fish life, while divers can encounter larger predatory species along the edge of the drop-off. This site is accessible from the shore.
Avatiu Drop Off
Avatiu Drop Off is situated just west of Avatiu Harbour, featuring a notable drop-off that begins at approximately 18 meters and descends into deeper waters, reaching depths of 12 to 40 meters. The shallower areas are rich in fish life, while divers can encounter larger predatory species along the edge of the drop-off. This site is accessible from the shore.
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.
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.
Backyard Beach
Backyard Beach features a reef wall that stretches approximately 200 meters along the perimeter of Drawaqa Island. The top of the reef is situated at a depth of 2 to 4 meters, while the wall descends to a maximum depth of 10 meters at the sea floor. Scattered along the wall are several swim-throughs, and the sea floor is adorned with small coral bommies extending down to 18 meters. The area is rich in marine life, showcasing both hard and soft corals, anemones, and numerous small fish species including damsels, butterflies, and parrotfish. As divers explore deeper, they can observe pavona corals and sea whips along the wall.
Baja Huaman
Baja Huaman is situated on the northwest side of Pucusana Island, approximately 25 minutes by boat from Santa Maria and just 10 minutes from the Pucusana pier. The site features a combination of sandy and rocky bottoms, separated by a rock formation. Divers should be prepared for a swift entry and descent due to the direct impact of the sea. This site is recommended for advanced divers only, as conditions can be challenging.
Baja Huaman
Baja Huaman is situated on the northwest side of Pucusana Island, approximately 25 minutes by boat from Santa Maria and just 10 minutes from the Pucusana pier. The site features a combination of sandy and rocky bottoms, separated by a rock formation. Divers should be prepared for a swift entry and descent due to the direct impact of the sea. This site is recommended for advanced divers only, as conditions can be challenging.
Baja Huaman
Baja Huaman is situated on the northwest side of Pucusana Island, approximately 25 minutes by boat from Santa Maria and just 10 minutes from the Pucusana pier. The site features a combination of sandy and rocky bottoms, separated by a rock formation. Divers should be prepared for a swift entry and descent due to the direct impact of the sea. This site is recommended for advanced divers only, as conditions can be challenging.
Baja Loca
Baja Loca is a deep dive site that reaches depths of up to 22 meters. The dive features a combination of sandy and rocky substrates. It is characterized by a diverse array of marine life, including various species of nudibranchs and schools of fish. Due to the depth and conditions, this site is recommended for advanced or expert divers only. Entry to the site is from the shore.
Baja Loca
Baja Loca is a deep dive site that reaches depths of up to 22 meters. The dive features a combination of sandy and rocky substrates. It is characterized by a diverse array of marine life, including various species of nudibranchs and schools of fish. Due to the depth and conditions, this site is recommended for advanced or expert divers only. Entry to the site is from the shore.
Baja Loca
Baja Loca is a deep dive site that reaches depths of up to 22 meters. The dive features a combination of sandy and rocky substrates. It is characterized by a diverse array of marine life, including various species of nudibranchs and schools of fish. Due to the depth and conditions, this site is recommended for advanced or expert divers only. Entry to the site is from the shore.
Balolo Reef
Balolo Reef is a submerged reef located at coordinates -17.184400, 177.168700, accessible via shore entry. The site features a depth range of 12 to 25 meters, with wall drop-offs and coral gardens. It supports a diverse array of marine life, including various species of hard corals and numerous fish such as fusiliers, butterflyfish, angelfish, wrasse, and parrotfish. Occasional sightings of turtles and reef sharks enhance the experience. This site is suitable for divers of all levels, from beginners to advanced.
Barney’s Rock
Barney's Rock, situated on Panau Island, is accessible via a shore entry and is located approximately 15 minutes south on SH1 from Daves Diving Kaikoura. This site serves as an entry point to the Hikurangi Marine Reserve, with dive depths reaching up to 19 meters. The area is known for its population of New Zealand Fur Seals, and divers may also encounter Dusky Dolphins and juvenile whales. The underwater environment is rich with fish life and features dense kelp, providing habitat for various marine species, including crayfish.
Barracuda Drift
Barracuda Drift is a drift dive located approximately 13 minutes from the dive center, accessible by boat. The dive site features a coral-covered reef with a maximum depth of around 30 meters. Divers can expect to encounter a diverse range of marine life, including triggerfish, surgeonfish, butterflyfish, and various nudibranchs. As the name suggests, barracuda are also commonly observed in this area. The steady current makes it suitable for both open water and advanced divers.
Bartle Bay
Bartle Bay is situated in the channel between the two main islands of the Poor Knights Island Marine Reserve. The site experiences significant water movement, contributing to a rich ecosystem characterized by abundant kelp and a variety of fish species. This area is not frequently dived due to the strong currents present. Divers can observe Blue Mao Mao and Demoiselles in the water column, alongside snapper and kingfish that frequent the area for hunting.
Base Jump
Base Jump is a wall dive that reaches depths exceeding 20 meters and features several swim-throughs, providing a varied diving experience. Divers can expect to encounter marine life such as Green and Hawksbill turtles, Nudibranchs, and white tip reef sharks. The site is accessible via shore entry.
Bats Reef
Bats Reef is characterized by a gentle sloping wall that begins at a depth of 1 meter and levels off at 15 meters. The site features a small bommie or coral head, surrounded by a mix of soft and hard corals. It is suitable for diving at any time and is particularly appealing for those interested in macro photography. The marine life includes various species such as butterfly fish, nudibranchs, gobies, shrimp, lobsters, anthias, fusiliers, feather stars, anemones with their associated fish, angel fish, and trumpet fish.
Batu Lima
Batu Lima, translating to 'Five Rocks' in Indonesian, is a dive site located at coordinates -0.449400, 130.699100. The dive begins on the northeastern side, reaching a maximum depth of approximately 24 meters. Divers can expect to encounter large schools of barracudas, and during certain seasons, manta rays may also be spotted. Additionally, the site is home to electric clams, which can be found in various locations throughout the area.
Baxter’s Reef
Baxter’s Reef is a shore dive suitable for training and beginner divers. The inner section of the reef is generally sheltered from wind and swell, while the outer area is more exposed, featuring depths ranging from 8 to 16 meters. This site offers straightforward navigation along a clear reef structure. Divers can observe a variety of marine life, including heavy kelp and diverse plant species such as Bull Kelp, Sea Fans, and Brown Kelp.
BIG BAY
Big Bay is characterized by its expansive area, with various diving locations scattered throughout. The depth increases as you move towards the center of the bay, while the western edge features patches of white sand. A notable feature of this site is the large kelp forest, which is a habitat for a variety of marine life including butterfish, John Dory, and kingfish. The area is also frequented by resident bronze whaler sharks, making it a popular spot for spearfishing.
Big Eyes Lair
Big Eyes Lair features a notable swim through that begins at a depth of 24 meters. This natural tunnel extends 35 meters and emerges at the northern end at a depth of 18 meters, surrounded by kelpy boulders. The tunnel is home to various marine life, including Big Eye fish, Scorpionfish, Bastard Cod, Moray Eels, and crayfish. Divers may also encounter other reef species such as Maomao and Demoiselle in the area.
Biodiversity House Reef
The Biodiversity House Reef extends from the Biodiversity Jetty to Batu Lima, with depths ranging from 2 meters to 20 meters. This site features numerous concealed areas that provide shelter for various marine species. Underneath the jetty, divers often encounter walking sharks and Blacktip reef sharks navigating along the reef.
Bird Rock
Bird Rock is a prominent underwater feature located off Cape Brett, with walls that descend to depths of 30 to 40 meters. The site is frequented by fur seals during the winter months, which may interact with divers. It is advisable for divers to have experience due to the potential for strong currents in the area. Marine life includes moray eels and crayfish that can be found hiding in the rock's crevices, while the currents attract schooling fish and kingfish.
BLACK JACK REEF
Black Jack Reef is a 2-kilometer stretch of reef located between Kuoatunu and Otama Beach. The site is accessible from the shore. While the seafloor has been affected by an increase in kina (sea urchins), leading to a barren appearance, the reef still supports a variety of fish species. It is recognized as a hotspot for nudibranchs and other macro marine life. Divers should be aware of strong currents, which can attract kahawai to the area.
Black Magic Mountain
Black Magic Mountain is a pinnacle dive site located in Vatu-i-ra, Fiji, with depths reaching up to 22 meters (72 feet). The site features diverse marine life, including soft corals, black corals, and various fish such as unicornfish, surgeonfish, barracudas, and both blacktip and whitetip reef sharks.
Blackrock
Blackrock is located directly in front of its namesake and features a series of reef plateaus that rise from the seafloor. The site is characterized by healthy coral bommies and offers intriguing swim-throughs. Divers can also explore shallow caverns at the conclusion of their dive. The depth ranges from 12 to 28 meters. Marine life commonly observed includes angelfish, moray eels, crayfish, and lionfish, particularly in the shallow caverns.
Blackrock
Blackrock is located directly in front of its namesake and features a series of reef plateaus that rise from the seafloor. The site is characterized by healthy coral bommies and offers intriguing swim-throughs. Divers can also explore shallow caverns at the conclusion of their dive. The depth ranges from 12 to 28 meters. Marine life commonly observed includes angelfish, moray eels, crayfish, and lionfish, particularly in the shallow caverns.
Blackrock
Blackrock is located directly in front of its namesake and features a series of reef plateaus that rise from the seafloor. The site is characterized by healthy coral bommies and offers intriguing swim-throughs. Divers can also explore shallow caverns at the conclusion of their dive. The depth ranges from 12 to 28 meters. Marine life commonly observed includes angelfish, moray eels, crayfish, and lionfish, particularly in the shallow caverns.
Blanche Wall
Blanche Wall is located approximately 20 minutes southeast of Papatura and features a wall that extends around three kilometers. The depth at this site varies from 3 meters to over 40 meters. Divers should be aware of bi-directional currents influenced by tidal movements, and while the site can experience large swells, there are areas that offer protection. Marine life commonly observed here includes turtles resting in the wall's crevices, as well as grey reef sharks and black/white tip sharks. A diverse range of reef fish, such as triggerfish and clownfish, can also be seen.
Block 24
Block 24 is a shore dive site characterized by a diverse marine ecosystem. The area is populated with cabbage and potato corals, as well as sea fans and wire corals. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of fish species, including parrotfish, nudibranchs, lobsters, and spotted sweet lips. Spotted eagle rays may also make an appearance. Visibility is generally low, averaging around 6 meters (20 feet), which is suitable for critter spotting. The site is accessible for diving at any time, although it is recommended to dive during an incoming tide for optimal conditions. A boat drop-off is possible, located approximately 1 kilometer from the resort, taking about 3 to 4 minutes.
Blue Magic
Blue Magic is an underwater pinnacle located between Kri and Waigeo Islands, rising from a depth of 30 meters to 7 meters below the surface. The area features diverse hard and soft corals and attracts large pelagic species including reef sharks, manta rays, and barracudas, particularly active from October to April.
Blue Maomao Arch (Bay of Islands)
Blue Maomao Arch is located in a small, sheltered bay surrounded by rocky reefs. The arch itself is shallow, with depths of less than 5 meters, and divers can follow the bottom contour out to depths exceeding 30 meters. The site features a kelp-covered bottom interspersed with areas of kina barrens. Divers can expect to see schooling fish, including blue maomao, as well as stingrays and a variety of other marine life typical of New Zealand waters.
Blue Room
The Blue Room is a shore entry dive site located at coordinates -17.178400, 177.137000. This site features a circular submerged reef, providing a unique underwater landscape. Divers can expect excellent visibility in the blue waters, which contributes to the site's name. The marine life is abundant, with numerous tropical fish present, as well as vibrant young hard corals. Notable species include schools of buffalo parrotfish, hawksbill turtles, and reef sharks, making it a diverse ecosystem for underwater exploration.
Blue Wall
Blue Wall is a wall dive that begins at a depth of 3 meters and descends to over 100 meters. The site is characterized by a diverse range of marine life, particularly during strong currents, which are most favorable during outgoing tides. Visibility in the blue water is typically excellent. The wall is adorned with various sponges and soft corals. Common marine species include green sea turtles, hawksbill turtles, barracuda, hammerhead sharks, silver tip reef sharks, wahoo, yellowfin tuna, and schooling giant trevally (GTs) or jacks.
Boulder Garden
Boulder Garden is a dive site that descends from the surface to depths exceeding 50 meters. The underwater landscape is characterized by a slope covered in boulders, which host a variety of colorful sponges and other invertebrates. This site is suitable for advanced and technical divers. Marine life observed here includes Lord Howe Coral Fish, Nudibranchs, and Scorpionfish, with occasional sightings of sharks.
Bowling Alley
Bowling Alley is a dive site with depths ranging from 5 to 25 meters. The area is characterized by boulders covered in kelp, providing habitats for various marine life, including Crayfish and Moray Eels. This site is known for its abundance of fish, making it suitable for both Open Water and Advanced divers. Commonly observed species include Snapper, Two-spot Demoiselle, Blue Maomao, and Scorpionfish.
Bream Rock
Bream Rock is a dive site that reaches depths exceeding 40 meters and is characterized by strong currents, making it suitable for experienced divers and freedivers. The site is accessible from the shore. Marine life includes Red Moki, two spot demoiselles, and leather jackets, with schools of kingfish, trevally, and snapper commonly observed during the warmer months. Additionally, snake eels can be found along the sand line.
Breath Taker
Breath Taker is a dive site characterized by a ridge that runs from south to north, connecting it to the nearby Golden Dream site. The dive ranges in depth from 3 meters to 36 meters, with the most notable feature being a pinnacle located at 21 meters. This site is best explored during incoming currents, which can be strong, and divers are advised to use a DSMB for safety during their safety stop. Marine life is abundant, including grey, blacktip, and whitetip reef sharks, as well as schooling barracuda and giant trevally. Divers may also encounter moray eels, eagle rays, and occasionally Pacific mantas at cleaning stations, making for a diverse underwater experience.
Brown Trousers
Brown Trousers is located on the outer reef of the Yasawa chain, accessible via a shore entry. The site features a combination of caverns and soft corals, providing a habitat rich in marine life. It is recognized as an excellent location for macro photography, with the possibility of encountering occasional pelagic and oceanic species. Good weather conditions are necessary for access to this dive site, which is situated at coordinates -17.221000, 177.280400.
Bula Maker
Bula Maker is a wall dive that begins at a depth of 2 meters and descends to 24 meters at the main reef. The site is characterized by numerous swim-throughs and canyons adorned with soft corals and sea fans. It is accessible for divers of various experience levels and is also frequented by confident snorkelers. Marine life includes a variety of small and macro critters, such as nudibranchs, banded sea kraits, moray eels, and both green and hawksbill sea turtles. Divers should also keep an eye on the blue waters for additional marine activity.
Bula Tula
Bula Tula features two prominent pinnacles that begin at a depth of 5 meters and extend down to 21 meters. The site is connected by a ridge that descends to approximately 21 meters, making it ideal for exploration during an outgoing tide, particularly down to around 16 meters. Divers can expect a variety of swim-throughs, overhangs, and canyons, providing ample opportunities for observation. The marine life includes reef sharks, octopus, nudibranchs, leaf scorpionfish, anthias, fusiliers, anemones, anemone fish, angelfish, and schooling barracuda. The walls and tops of the reef are adorned with healthy soft corals, enhancing the underwater experience.
Bullseye
Bullseye is situated on the backside of Voivoi Island, just a short 5-minute walk from the beach at Mantaray Island Resort. This site features a fringing reef with a sandy bottom and new coral growth. Divers may encounter rare bull sharks and occasionally see pelagic species such as Spanish Mackerel. The site is accessible via shore entry.
Cabo Douglas Qn9Z
Cabo Douglas Qn9Z is a drift dive site located off Fernandina Island in the Galapagos. You can see marine life such as Galapagos marine iguanas, penguins, sea turtles, yellow boxfish, parrotfish, amberjacks, and groupers. The dive reaches a maximum depth of 22 meters (72 feet) and features various corals, sponges, and gorgonians. Strong currents make it suitable for experienced divers only.
Cannibal’s Cave
Cannibal's Cave is located at the tip of Nananu Passage, featuring a variety of swim-throughs, caves, and canyons. The dive site begins at a depth of 3 meters and descends to 30 meters, making it accessible for divers of varying experience levels. The area is rich in marine life, including spotted sweet lips, moray eels, blacktip and whitetip reef sharks, as well as schooling red bass and barracuda. Divers can also observe nudibranchs, various types of coral, sea fans, flatworms, and angelfish throughout the dive.
Cannon Cove
Cannon Cove is situated approximately ten minutes from Kuata Island, on the eastern side of Wayalailai. The site is accessible from the shore, particularly when there is a northern swell affecting the opposite side of Wayalailai. Divers can explore a variety of saltwater fauna and observe numerous species of soft corals located within the cannon wall. The optimal time to dive here is during the morning tide for the best conditions.
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.
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.
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.
Cape Kri
Cape Kri is a dive site off Kri Island, Indonesia, with depths ranging from 5 to 40 meters and visibility up to 30 meters. Divers can expect to see large schools of humphead parrotfish and Napoleons; an anchor can be found at the base of the reef. This site is suitable for experienced divers due to strong surface currents.
Cape Mansuar
Cape Mansuar is accessible via a 5-minute boat ride from the nearest diving center. Divers are dropped off at a wall dive site where they can swim towards an area known for abundant marine life. The dive site experiences mild to medium currents, making it suitable for divers of varying experience levels, from beginners to advanced. Marine life commonly observed includes barracuda, fusiliers, surgeonfish, triggerfish, jacks, giant trevally, blacktip sharks, green turtles, and batfish.