Scuba Diving in French Polynesia

Explore 145 dive sites and 33 dive centres in French Polynesia. Conditions, marine life, and the best time to dive.

French Polynesia Diving at a Glance

5 dive regions, 145 dive sites, 33 dive centres, 290 marine species recorded.

Travel Advisories for French Polynesia

UK FCDO: See travel advice before travelling.

Best Time to Dive in French Polynesia

The best months to dive in French Polynesia are January, February, March, based on water temperature, visibility, wave conditions, and currents.

Month-by-Month Diving Conditions

  • January: Great, water 28.4°C, current 8.2 cm/s
  • February: Great, water 28.6°C, current 6.5 cm/s
  • March: Great, water 29.1°C, current 5.4 cm/s
  • April: Great, water 29.2°C, current 6.8 cm/s
  • May: Great, water 28.6°C, current 7.7 cm/s
  • June: Great, water 27.9°C, current 9.6 cm/s
  • July: Great, water 27.1°C, current 9.7 cm/s
  • August: Great, water 26.7°C, current 9.8 cm/s
  • September: Great, water 26.7°C, current 10.9 cm/s
  • October: Great, water 27.1°C, current 10.8 cm/s
  • November: Great, water 27.7°C, current 9 cm/s
  • December: Great, water 28.1°C, current 7.5 cm/s

Recommended Packing List for French Polynesia

Based on average water temperature of 27.9°C, currents 8 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 28°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Dive Regions

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time of year to go scuba diving in French Polynesia?
French Polynesia offers excellent diving conditions year-round due to consistently warm water temperatures, ranging from 27°C to 29°C. While specific seasons for certain marine life, like Moorea's humpback whale season, might influence your choice, the diving is generally superb any time. For more detailed information on seasonal variations, visit our When to Dive guide for French Polynesia.
What are the visa and passport requirements for international travelers diving in French Polynesia?
Unfortunately, the provided data context for DivePlnr does not include information regarding visa and passport requirements for international travelers diving in French Polynesia. We recommend checking official government travel advisories for the most up-to-date entry requirements.
What types of marine life and sharks can divers expect to see in French Polynesia?
Divers in French Polynesia can anticipate incredible pelagic encounters, including the legendary shark wall in Fakarava. You can also expect thrilling dolphin encounters in Rangiroa and experience the majestic humpback whale season around Moorea. For a comprehensive list of species, explore our wildlife database.
What are the typical diving difficulty levels and conditions in French Polynesia, especially for pass dives?
The provided data context does not specify typical diving difficulty levels or conditions, particularly for pass dives, in French Polynesia. However, the region is renowned for its "crystal-clear Pacific waters," suggesting excellent visibility for divers.
How much does a typical diving trip to French Polynesia cost, including individual dives and packages?
The provided data context for DivePlnr does not include information regarding the cost of typical diving trips, individual dives, or packages in French Polynesia. We recommend contacting one of the 33 dive centres in the region directly for current pricing.
Which islands or atolls are considered the best diving destinations in French Polynesia?
For exceptional diving, Fakarava is renowned for its legendary shark wall, while Rangiroa offers incredible dolphin encounters. Moorea & Tahiti, with 73 dive sites, is excellent for its humpback whale season, and Bora Bora also boasts a significant 39 dive sites. These destinations collectively contribute to French Polynesia's 149 dive sites.
What are the water temperatures and visibility like for diving in French Polynesia throughout the year?
Water temperatures in French Polynesia are consistently warm, ranging from 27°C in July, August, September, and October to 29°C in February, March, April, and May. Throughout the year, divers can expect excellent conditions with "crystal-clear Pacific waters," offering superb visibility for exploring the region's 149 dive sites.
What diving equipment is recommended or required for diving in French Polynesia?
The provided data context does not specify recommended or required diving equipment for French Polynesia. However, given the warm water temperatures ranging from 27°C to 29°C, lighter wetsuits are generally suitable. For specific gear advice, it's always best to consult with one of the 33 local dive centres or refer to our general equipment guide.