Dive into Paradise: The Best Diving Spots in Fakarava, Tahiti

Famous for its sapphire waters, diverse marine life, and mesmerizing underwater landscapes, Fakarava is a diver’s dream come true. Located in the beautiful Tuamotu Archipelago, this paradisiac island is part of French Polynesia, a magical world in the South Pacific. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the unforgettable underwater world of Fakarava, exploring its top diving spots that can offer you a unique and vibrant experience.

Fakarava - An UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

Before we get to the diving spots, it’s essential to understand why Fakarava is special. Recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Fakarava supports a complex and diverse ecosystem with rare species of flora, fauna, and a marine sanctuary that is nothing short of a scuba diving haven. The traditional Polynesian culture on the island is as captivating as the underwater haven the island offers.

Fakarava North Pass (Passe de Garuae)

Welcome to the largest pass in French Polynesia – the Passe de Garuae. With a width of about 1600 meters, this is where the Pacific Ocean meets the lagoon of Fakarava. Look out for the ‘Wall of Sharks’, an adrenaline-inducing spectacle where hundreds of grey reef sharks gather, making this a high-adrenaline dive spot. This dive spot is more suitable for advanced divers due to the strong currents.

Fakarava South Pass (Tetamanu Pass)

Diving at Fakarava is not complete without experiencing the unique beauty of its South Pass, known as Tetamanu Pass. The highlight here is the incredible ‘Coral Garden’. As you navigate through the soft white sands and intricate channels, you’ll be surrounded by a stunning array of corals, radiant with countless shades.

You can also expect to see manta rays, sea turtles, Napoleon Wrasse, and again, the thrilling sight of patrolling grey reef sharks. What divers love about the Tetamanu Pass is its exceptional visibility, which can extend up to 40 meters, making your dive feel like a swim in a giant crystalline aquarium!

Fakarava’s Lagoon

Fakarava’s lagoon is a perfect spot for beginners or those seeking a calm, leisurely dive. The lagoon is home to a variety of small reef fish, stunning corals, and the occasional Manta ray passing by. This lagoon provides a fantastic opportunity to familiarize yourself with the unique marine life of Polynesia in a more relaxed context before venturing into the thrilling passes.

Immerse yourself in Fakarava’s underwater culture

Remember, when diving in Fakarava, you are not merely participating in a recreational activity. You are immersing yourself in a rich aspect of Tahitian culture. The ocean and its creatures hold a sacred place in the myths, legends, and everyday life of the Polynesian people. So, with every dive, you connect with an ancestral bond that the Tahitian people share with the sea!

Ready to take the plunge? Fakarava’s underwater world is an unrivalled wonderland that is sure to enthrall novice and experienced divers alike. Just remember to dive responsibly, respecting the marine life and the age-old Polynesian reverence for the ocean!

This blog post is written by a diver for divers. Happy Scuba Diving in Fakarava!