Anau - Bora Bora

Anau is one of those spots we talk about constantly when Bora Bora comes up. It’s a genuine cleaning station inside the lagoon, a place where mantas really do show up with remarkable consistency. We’ve been lucky enough to spend entire dives just watching these giants glide in, circling the coral heads, almost posing for their regular scrub-down. It’s pretty special to see them come so close, wings flexing, completely unbothered by our presence as long as you play by the rules – no touching, no chasing, and if you can manage it, try to hold your breath as they pass directly overhead. They really do seem to dislike those big bubble plumes. The reef itself is pretty shallow, maxing out at 18 metres, with a decent spread of staghorn coral providing homes for lots of smaller stuff – we’ve seen arcs of fusiliers, clown tangs, and even an oriental flying gurnard once, fan-like fins spread wide. Visibility averages around 14 metres, which is usually plenty to watch the manta show unfold. This site is perfect for anyone keen to spend time observing these magnificent creatures up close in a calm, protected environment, even if you’re newer to diving.

Location
Bora Bora, French Polynesia, Central & South Pacific
Coordinates
-16.491200, -151.710700

Marine Protected Area: Motu Tapu

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

Nearby Dive Sites in Bora Bora

Nearest Dive Centres to Anau

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.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Anau

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum depth for diving at Anau and is it suitable for Open Water certified divers?
The maximum depth for diving at Anau is 18 meters. This depth makes it perfectly suitable for Open Water certified divers, as their certification typically allows diving to this limit.
What kind of marine life and coral formations can divers expect to see at the Anau dive site?
At the Anau dive site, divers can expect to see magnificent manta rays year-round, as it serves as a vital cleaning station for them. Turtles are also sometimes observed, and the site itself is described as a reef, indicating coral formations.
How challenging is the Anau dive site, and is it recommended for beginner divers?
The Anau dive site is officially rated as intermediate in difficulty. While the description notes it offers easy and protected diving within the lagoon, beginner divers should ensure they are comfortable with their skills before attempting this site.
When is the best time of year to dive Anau for optimal conditions and manta ray sightings?
For manta ray sightings at Anau, divers are in luck as they can be observed all year round due to the site being a dedicated cleaning station. The provided data does not specify a particular best time of year for optimal diving conditions beyond the consistent manta presence. For general information on when to dive in the region, consult our resources.
What scuba diving certifications are typically required or recommended to dive at Anau?
Given the maximum depth of 18 meters at Anau, an Open Water Diver certification is typically required. While the site is rated as intermediate, its protected lagoon environment makes it accessible for divers who are comfortable at this certification level.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the Anau dive site?
The Anau dive site is known for its easy and protected diving conditions within the lagoon, suggesting typically mild or negligible currents. Divers can expect an average visibility of 14 meters, offering clear views of the underwater environment.