Fausse Passe de Paea - Moorea & Tahiti

Kichafi is one of those sites we always come back to when we’re in Zanzibar. It's not about big pelagics, though you might get lucky with a green turtle gliding past. For us, Kichafi shines for its incredible macro life and the sheer health of its corals. Dropping down, the first thing you notice is the massive, rolling plates of coral. They stretch out, creating these perfect little hideaways. We love poking around the nooks and crannies here; the current description mentions scorpionfish and stonefish, and we’d add leaf fish to that list. They’re masters of disguise, and spotting one is a real thrill. Keep an eye out for the smaller stuff too, like the eroded cowries and prickly spotted drupes clinging to the reef. The visibility averages around 14 meters, which is plenty for close-up viewing. The middle section of Kichafi transitions into dense, healthy patches of soft corals. It's a different vibe, more swaying and colourful. It’s a shallower dive, maxing out at 17 meters, so it's a relaxed profile. We often find ourselves spending ages just hovering, watching the small schools of yellow snapper dart in and out of the coral heads. It’s a site that rewards patience and a keen eye. Kichafi is ideal for divers who appreciate the intricate details of a reef. If you love hunting for camouflaged creatures or just want a chill dive amongst vibrant, healthy corals, this one’s for you. It’s a gentle introduction to Zanzibar diving or a lovely afternoon dive for experienced photographers.

Location
Moorea & Tahiti, French Polynesia, Central & South Pacific
Coordinates
-17.674900, -149.597100
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Grottes de Maraa

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 Fausse Passe de Paea

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 Fausse Passe de Paea

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 maximum depth for diving at Fausse Passe de Paea?
The maximum depth for diving at Fausse Passe de Paea is 24 meters. This makes it a great site for divers with various certification levels to explore the stunning drop-off and rich pass.
What kind of marine life, such as sharks, rays, and turtles, can I expect to see when diving Fausse Passe de Paea?
When diving at Fausse Passe de Paea, you can expect to encounter a significant number of turtles. Additionally, you'll likely see impressive Napoleon wrasses and leopard rays, which are prominent residents of the pass. For more information on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
How difficult is the Fausse Passe de Paea dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The Fausse Passe de Paea dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty. While it offers a stunning experience, it may not be ideal for absolute beginner divers due to its characteristics. Divers with an Open Water certification and some experience would be well-suited for this site.
What is the best time of year or specific conditions recommended for diving Fausse Passe de Paea?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or particular conditions recommended for diving at Fausse Passe de Paea. However, the site is known for its average visibility of 19 meters, offering clear views of its stunning features. For general information on diving seasons in French Polynesia, please consult our When to Dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at Fausse Passe de Paea?
While specific certifications are not explicitly stated, given the Fausse Passe de Paea dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty, an Open Water Diver certification with some experience is generally recommended. Advanced certifications would further enhance your comfort and ability to explore the maximum depth of 24 meters. Always check with local dive operators for their specific requirements.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like during a drift dive at Fausse Passe de Paea?
The average visibility at Fausse Passe de Paea is an excellent 19 meters, providing clear views of the stunning drop-off and marine life. While the data doesn't explicitly detail current conditions, passes often experience currents, which can make for exciting drift dives. Always consult with your dive guide for real-time current assessments.