Canyons - Moorea (Tahiti) - Moorea & Tahiti

Fish Den is one of those sites we always recommend, especially if you’ve got a good eye for the smaller stuff. The mooring sits right on a coral pillar, almost like a natural monument, at about 7 meters. From there, it’s a gentle drop into a square-shaped cut in the main reef wall, winding down to around 18 meters before rejoining the wall proper. It’s a great spot for an easy, meandering dive, perfect for photographers or anyone who likes to take their time. We love poking around the sponges and sea fans, really getting into the nooks and crannies. You’re almost guaranteed to spot a mottled conger moray peeking out from a crevice, or if you’re lucky, a yellowhead jawfish hovering near its burrow. Keep an eye out for the blennies, especially the banded and dusky varieties, they’re masters of camouflage here. The schooling fish add a nice dynamic, too, often swirling around the pillar. We've found the best light is usually mid-morning, really bringing out the corals' colours.

Location
Moorea & Tahiti, French Polynesia, Central & South Pacific
Coordinates
-17.477900, -149.851100
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Pointe Vénus

Best Time to Dive in Moorea & Tahiti

The warmest water temperatures in Moorea & Tahiti occur in April, averaging 29.0°C. The coolest conditions are in September at 26.3°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.2°C
  • February: 28.5°C
  • March: 28.9°C
  • April: 29.0°C
  • May: 28.4°C
  • June: 27.6°C
  • July: 26.7°C
  • August: 26.4°C
  • September: 26.3°C
  • October: 26.6°C
  • November: 27.2°C
  • December: 27.8°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Moorea & Tahiti

Nearest Dive Centres to Canyons - Moorea (Tahiti)

Marine Life in Moorea & Tahiti

Home to 141 recorded species including 116 reef fish, 7 hard corals, 6 sea snails & nudibranchs, 5 sea cucumbers, 2 whales & dolphins, 1 clams & mussels.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Canyons - Moorea (Tahiti)

Based on average water temperature of 27.6°C, currents 8 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 typical depth range for diving at the Canyons dive site in Moorea?
The Canyons dive site in Moorea offers a maximum depth of 20 meters, making it accessible for a range of divers. This depth allows for comfortable exploration of the reef and its diverse marine life.
What kind of marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to see at the Canyons in Moorea?
At the Canyons dive site, divers can expect to explore a vibrant reef system. The underwater life is varied, featuring beautiful anemones with clown fish, graceful turtles, and impressive black tip sharks. For more information on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
How challenging is the Canyons dive site in Moorea, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The Canyons dive site is rated as intermediate in difficulty. While not ideal for absolute beginners, divers with some experience and appropriate certifications should find it a rewarding dive. It's always recommended to dive with a local guide familiar with the site.
What is the best time of year to dive the Canyons in Moorea for optimal conditions and marine life sightings?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the Canyons in Moorea for optimal conditions or marine life sightings. For general information on seasonal diving, you might consult our When to Dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at the Canyons in Moorea?
The specific scuba diving certifications required to dive at the Canyons dive site are not detailed in the provided information. Generally, an intermediate-rated dive site would require at least an Open Water certification, and often an Advanced Open Water or equivalent is recommended for deeper or more challenging conditions. It's best to check with a local dive operator.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions like at the Canyons dive site in Moorea?
Divers at the Canyons dive site can typically expect excellent visibility, averaging around 23 meters. However, the provided data does not include specific information regarding the typical current conditions at this site. It's always wise to consult with your dive guide on the day of your dive for the most up-to-date current reports.