Fafapiti - Bora Bora

Look, we're not going to lie. Kauri Mountain Awarua Rocks isn't the Poor Knights' showstopper. It doesn’t have the archways or the deep, dark caves. What it does have, however, is a classic slice of New Zealand’s rocky coastline underwater, and sometimes that's exactly what you want. It's a short jaunt from Dive Now if you're keen for a shore entry down Kauri Mountain Road. The maximum depth sits at about 11 metres, making it a great spot for a relaxed potter. We've spent hours here just watching the smaller stuff. The kelp sways, and in among the holdfasts, you’ll spot at least three kinds of triplefins – the Yellow-and-black, Longfinned, and those tiny Spotted Robust ones. We often see rig and dory ghosting through, and if you’re lucky, a black stingray or even a sleepy leopard seal might be tucked away. Visibility averages 13 metres, so it’s usually clear enough to appreciate the encrusting life that carpets the rocks. It's a proper kiwi kelpy dive, perfect for photographers who love macro or anyone who just wants to chill out and explore without the pressure of a big-name site.

Location
Bora Bora, French Polynesia, Central & South Pacific
Coordinates
-16.469900, -151.740800

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 Fafapiti

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 Fafapiti

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 are the typical diving depths at the dive sites accessible from Fafapiti Lodge in Fakarava?
The provided data details the dive site Fafapiti located in Bora Bora, French Polynesia, not Fakarava. At Fafapiti in Bora Bora, divers can expect a shallow maximum depth of 15m, making it an accessible dive. Unfortunately, we do not have specific information regarding typical diving depths at sites accessible from Fafapiti Lodge in Fakarava within the provided context.
What kind of marine life, especially manta rays (fafapiti), can divers expect to see when diving in Fakarava?
Our data describes the Fafapiti dive site in Bora Bora, not Fakarava. At Fafapiti in Bora Bora, divers are almost guaranteed to see an abundance of manta rays, as they frequently revolve around cleaning stations and can be easily approached. We cannot provide specific details on marine life encounters in Fakarava based on the given information.
How challenging are the dive conditions and currents around Fafapiti in Fakarava, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The information provided pertains to the Fafapiti dive site in Bora Bora, not Fakarava. For Fafapiti in Bora Bora, the diving conditions are described as very easy, with no current and a shallow depth, making it suitable for divers seeking a relaxed experience. While the site is generally categorized as intermediate difficulty, its specific conditions of no current and shallow depth are quite beginner-friendly.
What is the best time of year to dive near Fafapiti Lodge in Fakarava for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
The provided data focuses on the Fafapiti dive site in Bora Bora, French Polynesia, and does not include information about Fakarava. Furthermore, the context does not specify the best time of year for diving at Fafapiti or any other location. For general guidance on optimal diving seasons, you might consult our When to Dive resource.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at the main sites accessible from Fafapiti Lodge in Fakarava?
Our current data specifically details the Fafapiti dive site in Bora Bora, not Fakarava. The provided context does not include any information regarding specific scuba diving certifications required for Fafapiti in Bora Bora or any sites in Fakarava. Divers should always check with local dive operators for specific certification requirements.
What are the typical water currents and visibility like for diving in the Fafapiti area of Fakarava?
The data provided describes the Fafapiti dive site in Bora Bora, French Polynesia, not Fakarava. At Fafapiti in Bora Bora, divers will experience very easy diving conditions with no current. The average visibility at this site is an excellent 16m.