Diving in Bora Bora

Explore 41 dive sites in Bora Bora, French Polynesia. Ocean conditions, marine species, and dive centres.

Best Time to Dive in Bora Bora

The warmest water temperatures in Bora Bora occur in April, averaging 29.3°C. The coolest conditions are in September at 26.8°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.4°C
  • February: 28.6°C
  • March: 29.3°C
  • April: 29.3°C
  • May: 28.9°C
  • June: 28.1°C
  • July: 27.2°C
  • August: 26.9°C
  • September: 26.8°C
  • October: 27.2°C
  • November: 27.8°C
  • December: 28.1°C

Marine Life in Bora Bora

Home to 141 recorded species including 121 reef fish, 7 sea snails & nudibranchs, 4 hard corals, 3 whales & dolphins, 2 sharks & rays, 1 other.

Dive Site Difficulty in Bora Bora

Bora Bora has 1 beginner dive sites - suitable for divers of all levels.

Recommended Packing List for Bora Bora

Based on average water temperature of 28.0°C, currents 6 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

Marine Protected Areas in Bora Bora

  • Motu Tapu - Protected natural landscape (IUCN Category V)

Getting to Bora Bora - Nearest Airports

  • Raiatea Airport (RFP), Uturoa - 16 km away, approx 32 min travel time
  • Fa'a'ā International Airport (PPT), Papeete - 233 km away, approx 269 min travel time
  • Bora Bora Airport (BOB), Motu Mute - 27 km away, approx 45 min travel time

Dive Sites

Dive Centres

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical water conditions, such as visibility and temperature, for scuba diving in Bora Bora?
Bora Bora offers wonderfully warm water conditions, with optimal temperatures reaching around 29.29°C in April, 29.26°C in March, and 28.85°C in May. While specific visibility metrics are not provided, the pristine lagoon environment typically ensures excellent underwater clarity. These comfortable temperatures make for enjoyable diving experiences year-round in Bora Bora.
What kind of unique or highlight marine life can divers expect to encounter in Bora Bora?
Divers in Bora Bora can look forward to unique encounters with a variety of marine life, including exciting shark and ray feeding dives. The region is also renowned for seasonal humpback whale encounters, offering an unforgettable experience against the stunning backdrop of Mount Otemanu. Explore more about these incredible creatures in our wildlife database.
Which dive sites are considered the best in Bora Bora for different skill levels or interests?
With 39 dive sites to explore in Bora Bora, there's something for every skill level and interest. Beginners can enjoy the vibrant reef at Tapu Canyon, while intermediate divers might explore the fascinating wreck of Le Nordby. For those seeking a thrilling experience, intermediate drift dives like Passe de Céran - TAHAA offer dynamic underwater adventures.
Is Bora Bora a suitable dive destination for both beginner and experienced scuba divers?
Absolutely, Bora Bora is an excellent dive destination catering to both beginner and experienced scuba divers. With sites like the beginner-friendly Tapu Canyon, new divers can comfortably explore the underwater world. More experienced divers will find plenty of intermediate challenges, including drift dives such as Passe de Céran - TAHAA and the wreck of Le Nordby, among the 39 available sites.
What is the most common way for international travelers to reach Bora Bora for a dive vacation?
The provided data context for Bora Bora does not include information regarding the most common ways for international travelers to reach the destination for a dive vacation. We recommend checking general travel resources for details on flights and transfers to French Polynesia.
When is the best time of year to dive in Bora Bora to experience optimal conditions and specific marine life, like manta rays or whales?
For optimal water temperatures, the best time to dive in Bora Bora is typically around March (29.26°C), April (29.29°C), and May (28.85°C). While the data indicates seasonal humpback whale encounters, specific months for these sightings are not provided. For more detailed seasonal information, consult our When to Dive guide.
Are there any particular dive sites in Bora Bora known for strong currents, and how do they affect the diving experience?
Yes, Bora Bora features several dive sites known for currents, which are ideal for exhilarating drift dives. Sites like Passe de Céran - TAHAA, Avapeihi pass, and Teavapiti pass are designated as intermediate drift dives. These currents allow divers to effortlessly glide along the reef, offering a dynamic and often fast-paced viewing experience of the vibrant marine life.
What are the general expectations regarding the cost or value of scuba diving in Bora Bora?
The provided data context for Bora Bora does not include specific information regarding the cost or value of scuba diving experiences. We recommend contacting one of the 8 dive centers directly for current pricing and package details.