Moorea is a Polynesian land where the natural elements are in perfect harmony. This is a reality that you can appreciate more at sea than on land. The lagoon and the Pacific Ocean are the habitat of a rich and intense fauna. To measure the aquatic biodiversity, diving in Moorea appears as an ideal solution. A unique experience to be lived alone or accompanied.
Diving in Moorea
After having explored the warm waters of the lagoon, let yourself be seduced by scuba diving. Accompanied by professional instructors, you will venture into the Pacific Ocean. There, you will discover an amazing aquatic fauna. The best part is that you can do this activity even when it rains in Moorea.
What to See During a Scuba Dive?
Most of the diving in Moorea takes place in the Pacific Ocean, usually off the north coast. On a boat trip, you will reach the sites to discover the most remarkable sea beds. You can witness the intense aquatic life in the coral gardens. The countless tropical fishes flutter and twirl in the infinite blue. The experience is magical. But ocean diving means big fish and sometimes very big fish.
If black tip sharks impress, what about grey reef sharks? And especially what about the huge lemon sharks, which can reach more than 9 ft in size! Sharks are not the only predators you will see. Barracudas of almost 3 ft. in length appear from time to time.
In the presence of such a fauna, you will not miss to observe the magnificent Javanese morays. More discreet and less imposing, they populate the coral reefs. This is an opportunity for a bewitching and mysterious encounter. Diving in Moorea is definitely a must!
How to Organize a Diving Trip?
If you are a beginner, the first step before jumping into the water is to take your first dive (or diving baptism). This consists of one or two consecutive sessions of diving in the lagoon on a calm and accessible site. Generally, you will do it at the Aquarium, where at a shallow depth you will already meet the aquatic fauna. This will be the first opportunity to get a feel for the situation.
The baptisms are accessible even for the youngest, from 8 years old. Once you have obtained your first dive, you can continue with a Scuba Diver or Oper Water course. Diving courses take place in both the lagoon and the ocean. If you already know you want to start diving in Moorea, you can now book your first dive and/or your level 1 training!
Our partner dive center’s instructors are experienced and provide you with quality equipment. In addition, they are very concerned about preserving the ecosystem. Through their work, they contribute to a better knowledge of the aquatic fauna and thus offer you an excellent introduction to diving.
Snorkeling Instead of Diving in Moorea
In Moorea, the beauty of the lagoon can also be appreciated during snorkeling sessions. With fins, mask and snorkel, you can discover the aquatic fauna in its habitat. On the program, you will meet playful rays, some turtles and dozens of sharks.
Spots at Sofitel & Hilton Hotels
If you want to enjoy a trip directly from your bungalow, we recommend a stay at the resorts in the north of the island. The Hilton and the Sofitel have exceptional sites to enjoy the aquatic life. Note that a day pass (about $90) is available to residents of other hotels in Moorea. They can access the sites and sometimes the Spa center of the resorts in question. Unfortunately, day passes are still suspended in the summer of 2022, due to the global health situation.
The Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort‘s private beach provides access to one of the best snorkeling spots in Moorea. You will meet many species of fish and slalom between the coral spats. Safety conditions are optimal. Moreover, the shallow waters make the site a great place for beginners and children.
The Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea also offers remarkable conditions for observing multicolored tropical fish. However, you must respect a safety perimeter away from the outgoing ocean currents.
Another Way to Discover the Aquatic Fauna
Another activity with a change of scenery is the night snorkeling tour in Moorea. The departure is about thirty minutes before sunset, and the activity itself lasts one hour. It is an opportunity to discover the underwater species that only become active after dark. In other words, another way to discover the best diving and snorkeling spots on the island. You can book this tour today. If you hesitate, take a daytime snorkeling tour!
Other Essential Spots
Snorkeling lovers can also turn to two other exceptional sites. The first one is located on the west coast, near Tiahura Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Moorea. It will be the opportunity to observe the numerous rays and turtles. The second site on the northwestern side is much more impressive. The one called the Shark Bank sees dozens of black tip sharks gather every day. The experience is truly fascinating and guarantees strong emotions.
For trips to the lagoon, you can book a boat tour and visit the essential snorkeling spots. In the company of experienced professionals, you will go to meet the humpback whales between August and October. Tours are regularly organized: don’t hesitate to book online today!
Eco-responsible Snorkeling
Going to meet the aquatic life requires to respect certain rules to preserve the ecosystem. Unfortunately, some local agencies still practice shark feeding on a daily basis. Indeed, shark feeding is dangerous for snorkelers and harmful for the environment. This is particularly the case on the Lagoonarium site, which we cannot advise you to visit.
Another basic recommendation is not to walk on the reef. By doing so, you would kill the coral life. Due to the high number of visitors, a part of the reefs is now very degraded. In order to bring the aquatic activity back to life, local initiatives are busy with the work of cuttings, moreover with success.
Snorkeling or Diving in Moorea Is a Must
Ready to make the switch? Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’re bound to find something that suits you. What’s next? Will you be tempted by a relaxing session in one of the spas in Moorea? Or perhaps you’d prefer hiking the mountains? There is so much to do! Don’t hesitate to contact us, we’ll be happy to help you organize your trip to Moorea and French Polynesia.
Hi my name is Zach. I was just wondering where I could rent scuba tanks for shore dives on the island. Any info about tanks or the shore dives would be great! Thanks, Zach.
Hi Zach,
As for as we know, there are no shops just for scuba diving equipment rental. But you can book some fun dives and go with a Dive Master to explore the area.