Rarotonga, Cook Islands

    Blackrock

    Best months: Jan–May

    Why dive here

    With 134+ marine species recorded in the area - including humpback whales and pufferfish - Blackrock offers some of Rarotonga's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 24-28°C, warmest February, March, April.

    Best timeJan–May
    WetsuitA 3mm shorty or thin full wetsuit
    Marine lifeHumpback Whales and Pufferfish · 134+ species recorded
    Water24-28°C · warmest February, March, April
    CharacterWreck dive

    Blackrock feels like Rarotonga’s playful side. We love it because it’s an absolute maze of reef plateaus, all rising from the sandy bottom. You’re constantly finding new corners, new swim-throughs, and little hidden nooks. The coral bommies here are proper healthy, providing shelter for more than just your usual reef fish. Keep an eye out for the Granulated Drupe, they’re cool to spot. Our favourite part, though, has to be those shallow caverns at the end. That’s where you’re likely to see crayfish tucked away, and often a lionfish or two just hanging out. Sunlight shafts through the openings, creating these beautiful, shifting patterns on the rock – it’s a great place to just slow down and observe. Visibility averages around 18m, so you’ve got good scope to appreciate the details. This site is great for divers who enjoy exploring and don't mind a bit of a meander, rather than just cruising along a wall. It’s perfect for a second dive or if you just want something a little more chill with plenty to discover.

    Safety Notes

    Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.

    Today05:1317:4112h 28m daylightGolden hour 17:12

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Blackrock

    Blackrock Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for Blackrock, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (-21.2, -159.82) (1km away)

    ExcellentGreatGoodFairPoor★Best monthsThis month

    October Averages

    Sea Temperature

    24°C

    76°F · Range: 23.3–26°C

    Air Temperature

    22°C

    72°F

    Wind Speed

    9.54 m/s

    18.5 knots

    Atmospheric Pressure

    1016.5 hPa

    Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data

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