Aquarium - Bora Bora

The Aquarium in Bora Bora is one of those sites we always make time for, even if we’ve been to the island a dozen times. It’s a gentle dip into the lagoon, maxing out at a comfortable 12m, making it perfect for a relaxed start to a trip or for introducing new divers to the reef. We love just hovering above the patches of staghorn coral, watching the silver-streaked rainbowfish shimmer and scatter as we drift past. It’s an easy, colourful dive, a real visual feast without the need for advanced skills. The sandy bottom between the coral bommies often has orange-lined triggerfish pottering about, and we’ve spotted green turtles gliding by on more than one occasion. The visibility here is usually excellent, around 18m, making everything feel incredibly vibrant. If you’re a photographer, this is a fantastic spot for close-up reef shots, especially mid-morning when the light really makes the dot and dash butterflyfish pop against the coral.

Location
Bora Bora, French Polynesia, Central & South Pacific
Coordinates
-16.545700, -151.722800
Type
reef
Maximum Depth
5-15m

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 Aquarium

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 Aquarium

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 at the Aquarium dive site?
The maximum depth at the Aquarium dive site is 12 meters. This shallow depth makes it an excellent location for divers of all experience levels, including those just starting out or refreshing their skills. It provides a comfortable and accessible diving environment.
What kind of marine life and coral can I expect to see when diving at the Aquarium?
At the Aquarium, you can expect to explore a magnificent coral garden with vibrant coral rock set on beautiful white sand. This rich environment is home to a plethora of multicolored fish, including butterflyfish, jackfish, and cornettefish. Keep an eye out for beautiful Javanese morays and graceful stingrays, which are also sometimes observed here.
How difficult is the Aquarium dive site, and is it suitable for beginners?
The Aquarium dive site is generally classified as intermediate in difficulty, but it is explicitly described as ideal for first-time divers and those looking to refresh their skills. Its shallow maximum depth of 12 meters and calm conditions make it very suitable for beginners. This site offers a comfortable and rewarding experience for new divers.
What is the best time of year to dive at the Aquarium for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at the Aquarium for optimal conditions. For general information on diving seasons in the region, please refer to our When to Dive guide. We recommend checking with local dive operators for current seasonal advice.
What certifications are required to dive at the Aquarium dive site?
The provided data does not specify the exact certifications required to dive at the Aquarium dive site. However, given its suitability for first-time divers and a maximum depth of 12 meters, an Open Water Diver certification or equivalent is typically sufficient. We recommend checking with local dive operators for specific requirements.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the Aquarium dive site?
The Aquarium dive site boasts excellent visibility, with an average of 18 meters, providing clear views of its magnificent coral garden. While specific current conditions are not detailed in the provided data, its designation as ideal for first-time divers suggests generally calm or manageable currents. This combination ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all divers.