Diving in Tahiti is a year-round experience. The great variety of spots allows everyone to discover the underwater world at their own pace. It is also possible to observe the aquatic fauna with a mask and a snorkel. Discover the best sites for snorkeling and diving in Tahiti.

Best Diving Spots in Tahiti

Aquarium: Your First Dive

On Tahiti Nui, near Tahiti-Faa’a airport, the Aquarium is an excellent place to start your diving experience. You will dive in the warm waters of the lagoon and observe a multitude of tropical fish. Indeed, the place is a real aquatic reserve. This discovery continues with the exploration of the wreck of a plane.

Breathtaking Coral Reefs on the Snorkeling Tour in Tahiti

 

This beautiful outing is done quietly, without current, at low depth and peacefully installed on the sandy bottom. The Aquarium is therefore very suitable for children and first dives. Amateur photographers will also find their pleasure here.

Exploring Wrecks in the Lagoon

The lagoon of Tahiti has the particularity of sheltering several wrecks. Not far from the Aquarium, you can discover a mysterious and very photogenic site. In front of you, you will suddenly see the hull of a seaplane and the remains of a ship. The wreck of the plane lies on the sandy bottom at a depth of about ten meters. The whole thing is still very well preserved, so much so that it is even possible to enter it through the side door. Nearby, the huge wooden schooner has deteriorated considerably. But it offers, on the contrary, a fantastic visual.

These two wrecks are now the place of intense aquatic activity. Indeed, many fishes have made their privileged habitat, protected from predators. Exploration and observation are therefore part of the program. Easily accessible, this magnificent dive in Tahiti Nui is suitable for all levels.

White Valley: Meeting Sharks

Off the coast of Tahiti Nui, this ocean trip takes place on one of the best dive sites in Tahiti. The White Valley owes its reputation to the numerous species of sharks that live there. Thus, you will meet the black and white tips, the greys and the lemons. Sometimes you will even cross the path of the tiger shark. But that’s not all, as jacks and countless tropical fishes also put on a show.

Encounter lemon sharks while diving in Tahiti, French Polynesia

The site is more and more frequented by tourists. The majestic sharks remain predators and some of them can impress by their size. For obvious security reasons and to preserve the natural balance, feeding is not allowed. On the other hand, the current makes the dive almost drifting. Also, this trip requires Open Water Diver PADI and seems more adapted to experienced divers.

Arue Cave: Best Dive in Tahiti

On Tahiti Nui, this oceanic dive meets the wind, which can make underwater visibility quite difficult. At first, a shallow plateau gives a nice view on the coral gardens. Quickly, an impressive drop-off appears. The very vertical coral wall reveals numerous cavities where a nice aquatic fauna prospers. At about 30 meters, an underwater cave offers a fantastic sight.

The experience is to be lived in Tahiti in all serenity. However, diving is also technical and requires a certain autonomy. Therefore, we recommended having at least an Advanced Open Water PADI certification to see the cave.

What About Diving in Tahiti Iti?

It would be wrong to ignore the underwater sites of the peninsula. Far from the urban centers, the diving conditions are purer. Visibility is often much better. The corals are in very good condition. The intense colors and the numerous multicolored fish are a treat for the eyes.

The experience is not only contemplative. Indeed, the exploration of the bottom is highlighted by a surprising topology. You will be able to appreciate the numerous drop-offs and caves.

Diving in Tahiti Iti

The spots on Tahiti Iti are much less frequented by the local population and tourists. Most of them are accessible for Open Water Diver PADI divers. In other words, Tahiti Iti is a dream destination for divers looking for peace, privacy and unspoiled natural beauty.

Choosing a Diving Center in Tahiti

There is no shortage of diving centers in Tahiti. Two of them stand out, either because of their varied offer or the quality of their welcome. They are both located on Tahiti Nui, at the Marina Taina in Punaauia.

Fluid Tahiti: Quality Made Simple

The dynamic team of Fluid Tahiti welcomes you in a simple and relaxed atmosphere. Its members are very friendly. This allows us to build trust, to reassure the anxieties of the first dives and of course to spend a good time together. With a personalized contact, quality equipment and an interest in environmental issues, this center is an essential address in the local landscape.

Eleuthera Tahiti Diving Center: Polynesian Experience

Eleuthera Tahiti Diving Center is a reference in terms of guidance and professionalism. You will appreciate the well thought-out teaching methods and the special attention given to children. The center is a member of the “Te Moana” network. By buying a 10-dive package, you can also access the dives of other member clubs, in Bora Bora or Rangiroa for example. Unmissable for all divers.

Alternative to Diving: Discover Snorkeling

Snorkeling in Tahiti

 

Best Spots for Snorkeling

You will find beautiful snorkeling spots along the West coast of Tahiti Nui. You just have to reach the beaches located between the towns of Punaauia and Paea. Don’t forget your mask and snorkel!

Vaiava beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Tahiti. Although it is quite crowded, it offers a wide access to the clear waters of the lagoon. You will see several coral patches more or less preserved, as well as a nice aquatic fauna. It is even possible to cross the path of leopard rays and black tip sharks. To make the exploration even more fun, a water course has been set up in the lagoon.

Some Recommendations Before Going Alone

The beaches in Tahiti are generally not supervised. Also for your safety, never go beyond the coral reef which, depending on the place, can be quite close to the shore, a few hundred meters away. On the other side, the swell and the violent currents would carry you away.

We recommend staying along the beach strips, within a maximum distance of 100 to 150 meters. You don’t have to go that far. Sometimes it takes only a few dozen meters to observe many colorful fish.

Will You Make Your First Dive in Tahiti?

Woman snorkeling with a sting ray in Tahiti

If you are passionate about underwater adventure and sharks, diving in Tahiti is for you! The others will enjoy the beaches and discover the Queen Island of Polynesia from another angle. There are many things to do in Tahiti: hiking, caving, culture and restaurants are waiting for you. Contact us to start organizing your stay in the South Pacific Islands.