Tapu - Bora Bora

West End Wall, for us, is a classic Roatán dive, one you’ll probably find yourself returning to. It’s got that easy access, just a quick boat ride from the village, but it never feels overdone. What we love most is the sheer drama of the drop-off; it just plunges down, a true vertical face that makes you feel tiny. We always find ourselves scanning the blue here, often spotting tarpon gliding by or, if you’re lucky, an eagle ray or two ghosting past the deeper sections. The wall itself is a riot of colour and texture. Enormous barrel sponges jut out, big enough to sit in, and the sea fans sway gently with the surge. Keep an eye out for those smaller residents – we’ve had great luck spotting tiny yellow basslets tucked into crevices and needlefish hanging just below the surface. The max depth of 22 metres means it’s a comfortable dive for almost everyone, allowing plenty of time to explore the nooks and crannies. Just be aware that the current can pick up at the end of the dive, sometimes turning it into a brisk drift, but nothing too wild. It’s a site that suits anyone looking for a relaxed, visually rich wall dive with a good chance of encountering some larger pelagics too.

Location
Bora Bora, French Polynesia, Central & South Pacific
Coordinates
-16.498400, -151.784300
Type
wall

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 Tapu

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 Tapu

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 scuba diving at the Tapu dive site?
The maximum depth for scuba diving at the Tapu dive site is 19 meters. This makes it an accessible yet rewarding dive, often considered a Bora Bora classic. It's an exceptional dive on a magnificent shallow coral plateau with a beautiful drop-off.
What kind of marine life and coral can divers expect to see at Tapu?
Divers at Tapu can expect to encounter a vibrant array of marine life, including blacktip and lemon sharks, Napoleons, turtles, and flying scorpion fish. You might also spot lion fish within the cave. The site itself features a magnificent shallow coral plateau and a beautiful drop-off, offering diverse habitats for these species.
Is the Tapu dive site suitable for beginner divers, or is it more for advanced levels?
The Tapu dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty, making it more suitable for divers with some prior experience rather than absolute beginners. With a maximum depth of 19 meters, it offers a fantastic experience for those comfortable with deeper dives and potential currents. It's a rewarding wall dive for those with the appropriate skill level.
What is the best time of year to dive at Tapu in Bora Bora for optimal conditions?
Unfortunately, the provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at Tapu for optimal conditions. For general information on seasonal diving in the region, you might consult our When to Dive guide. We recommend checking local dive operators for current conditions and seasonal recommendations.
What scuba diving certifications are typically required to dive at Tapu?
While specific certification requirements are not explicitly stated, given the Tapu dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty and has a maximum depth of 19 meters, divers typically need at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. This ensures you have the necessary skills and experience to safely enjoy the site's features, including the drop-off and potential cave exploration. Always confirm with your dive operator.
What are the usual current and visibility conditions at the Tapu dive site?
The Tapu dive site boasts excellent average visibility of 23 meters, promising clear views of its vibrant marine life and coral formations. While specific current conditions are not detailed, the "intermediate" difficulty rating suggests divers should be prepared for potential moderate currents. Always consult with your dive guide for the most up-to-date conditions.