Moorea is one of the best diving destinations in French Polynesia. The water ranging 25–29 °C depending on the season. Sharks, rays, and turtles just a few minutes by boat from the coast. The best dive sites are on the north side: Tiki, The Coral Wall, and Shark Valley. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, you’ll find a dive that’s right for you.
The Best Dive Sites in Moorea for Certified Divers
| Dive Site | Maximum depth | Level | Species observed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tiki | Up to 25 m | All skill levels | Blacktip sharks, lemon sharks, and gray sharks |
| Coral Wall | Up to 30 m | All skill levels | Numerous green and hawksbill sea turtles |
| Shark Valley | Up to 40 m | All skill levels | Lemon sharks, whitetip sharks, blacktip sharks, sea turtles |
| Rotui | Up to 20 m | All skill levels | Whitetip sharks, blacktip sharks, sea turtles, eagle rays |
Prices and schedules (subject to change; please check the official websites) Aremiti / Online Ticket Sales – Apetahi Express & Tauati Ferry / VAEARA’I – Your ferry for traveling the Polynesian way. Before your departure.
1 — Tiki Point
At Tiki, Moorea’s reef reveals its full vitality. This site is home to a rich diversity of species, including blacktip, lemon, and gray sharks, which are regularly spotted swimming peacefully in crystal-clear water. Suitable for divers of all levels, it’s an ideal dive for observing these predators in their natural habitat, in complete tranquility.
It is a site that is highly exposed to the elements, making it less accessible.
2 — Coral Wall
This site is more commonly known as “Turtle Paradise” because of the large number of sea turtles that live there. You’ll be diving above the lava flows. A spot particularly popular with marine wildlife enthusiasts.
3 — Shark Valley
The go-to spot for shark enthusiasts! At this site, which spans three mooring buoys and reaches depths of up to 40 meters, divers willoften spot regularly spot lemon sharks, whitetip sharks, and blacktip sharks. Sea turtles round out the scene, making Shark Valley one of Moorea’s must-see sites.
4 — Rotui
Named after Moorea’s iconic mountain that faces it, this dive site offers a wealth of marine life from the smallest to the largest : whitetip sharks, blacktip sharks, and eagle rays all share the waters here. Caves provide shelter for the turtles that nest there. It’s also possible to encounter nurse sharks. A gentle and accessible dive, perfect for discovering the of the area.
What can you see underwater in Moorea?
In Moorea, marine life thrives in the lagoon, starting just a few meters from the shore. On most excursions, you’ll encounter:
Sharks. They can be found on almost every dive on the north side. They’re impressive to see, but pose no danger if you follow the safety guidelines.
Skates. Eagle rays can sometimes be seen in open water (at Shark Valley and Rotui), while stingrays can be found on the sandy bottoms of the lagoon (best viewed during a boat tour).
Turtles. Their numbers are growing, and that’s great news! They’re fairly easy to spot, as they come up to breathe regularly.
Whales. From August through October, humpback whales come close to the coast and sometimes even enter the bays. Tour operators organize boat trips to observe them from the boat, with or without a swim.
Scuba Diving in Moorea for Beginners
You don’t need to be certified to try scuba diving in Moorea.
The introductory dive goes down to a depth of 3 to 6 meters with an instructor for up to 2 people. No prior training required. The lagoon waters are calm, and the currents are mild at the beginner dive sites. Few islands in French Polynesia offer these conditions for a first-time experience.
What is the minimum age? Most dive centers in Moorea accept children ages 8 and up for introductory dives. Requirements vary by center. Be sure to check directly with the center before booking.
Comprehensive Training ? You can complete your training in just a few days by taking a course through the French national certification program (ANMP, FFESSM) or an international program (PADI, SSI).
Dive Centers in Moorea
There are several centers operating on the island. Here’s what we consider when recommending a center to you:
- Safety: thorough briefings before each outing, well-maintained equipment, certified instructors
- Quality of instruction: A maximum of 5 divers per instructor; recommended for beginner dives
- Languages: The best centers are fluent in French and English
- Packages: introductory dives, à la carte dives, private excursions, day passes, combo packages
Vitamin Sea Moorea: Aboard his Zodiac and in a very small group, he takes divers and snorkelers to explore the lagoon’s most beautiful spots, where sharks, rays, turtles, and multicolored fish await.
What visitors remember most is this personal touch and personalized attention: several reviews highlight just how well Fred knows the area and the best spots, with an impressive knowledge of the local marine life. Others describe a unique experience in a small group, punctuated by a friendly break featuring fresh fruit from the garden and the famous coconut bread—a distinctly Polynesian touch that makes all the difference. Tripadvisor
Whether it’s a first-time dive experience you can feel confident about or a more advanced outing, the atmosphere remains the same: warm, personalized, and designed to help you make the most of what Moorea has to offer.
Special offer for Cook’s Bay Hotel guests: up to 15% off listed rates!
Good to know: Want to do your part? Hello Reef Tahiti offers combined snorkeling and coral propagation excursions that depart from the hotel.
Important: If you’re interested in taking a course, the Moorea Blue Diving Center specializes in this.
When is the best time to go diving in Moorea?
The water in Moorea’s lagoon never drops below 25 °C, even during the cooler months. There’s no need for a thick wetsuit. Visibility regularly exceeds 25 m in all seasons.
- Dry season (May–October): water temperature 25–27 °C, calm seas, ideal conditions for beginner divers and boat trips
- Wet season (November–April): water temperature 27–29 °C, fewer people at the sites
- August–October: Whale-watching tours are added to your itinerary
Diving + Vacation: Planning Your Days from the Hotel
Plan your dive from the hotel, and the pace of your stay will change: no need to rent a car in the morning to get to the dive center, and no juggling between multiple service providers.
With Vitamin Sea Moorea, you can try snorkeling from the beach or take a boat out from the dock at the Cook’s Bay Hotel & Suites.
Moorea Diving FAQ
Can you go scuba diving in Moorea without a certification?
Yes. The introductory dive does not require any prior training. An instructor will accompany you throughout the entire dive.
What animals can you see while diving in Moorea?
On the vast majority of trips: blacktip sharks, leopard rays and stingrays, sea turtles, tropical fish (parrotfish, surgeonfish). From August through October, whale-watching trips offer the chance to observe humpback whales at the surface from the boat.
Are there sharks in Moorea? Are they dangerous?
Yes. Sharks are among the main attractions of diving in Moorea. Blacktip sharks can be found as shallow as 5 meters. Gray reef sharks are found between 15 and 25 meters. These species are not aggressive toward divers who follow the safety rules provided during the briefing. Dive centers in Moorea have not reported any serious incidents during their guided dives.
How much does a dive cost in Moorea?
It all depends on whether you choose to join a shared boat or take a private boat. Prices vary by center and package. Check directly with the center of your choice.
What is the best time of year to go diving in Moorea?
All year round. The water temperature stays between 25 and 29 °C. The sea is calmer from May through October. For whale-watching excursions, plan your trip between August and October.
Your dive organized from the hotel's dock
Sharks, rays, and turtles just a few minutes by boat from Cook’s Bay. Our guests enjoy a 15% discount at Vitamin Sea Moorea, with the option to depart directly from our dock—no need to rent a car or search for a tour operator.
