La Vavi - Moorea & Tahiti

Nitrox Garden sits in the lagoon, about a 15-minute boat ride from the dive centers. We’ve found the buoy anchored around 20m, dropping down to a maximum of 29m on the northern side, with the southern wall continuing much deeper. Visibility averages a decent 16m. This spot is a good choice for divers looking to explore some small canyons and a boulder-strewn landscape. You’ll often find lobsters tucked away, and moray eels peeking from crevices. Keep an eye out for graysby and coney hovering over the hard corals. It’s also a solid spot for those working on their deep diving or EAN specialities, offering a bit more depth than some other local sites without being overly challenging.

Location
Moorea & Tahiti, French Polynesia, Central & South Pacific
Coordinates
-17.821600, -149.304400
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Fenua Aihere

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 La Vavi

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 La Vavi

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 La Vavi (Viva Shallow)?
At La Vavi, divers can expect a maximum depth of 30 meters. While the general area offers ocean diving up to 50 meters, the specific site is typically explored within the 30-meter limit. This makes it an accessible reef dive for many certified divers.
What kind of marine life and historical artifacts can divers expect to see at La Vavi (Viva Shallow)?
Divers at La Vavi will encounter a vibrant marine life, including white-tipped sharks often found fast asleep. The overhanging reef is adorned with gorgonians, and its coral gaps shelter a variety of fish such as surgeon fish, wrasses, soapfish, and juveniles. In the deep blue, you might also spot fusiliers, bonitos, and tuna; however, there is no information provided regarding historical artifacts at this site.
How difficult is the La Vavi (Viva Shallow) dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The La Vavi dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty. This suggests it may not be suitable for absolute beginner divers who have just completed their open water certification, as it might require more experience with currents or deeper profiles. Divers with some experience and advanced certifications would find it more appropriate.
What is the best time of year to dive at La Vavi (Viva Shallow) for optimal conditions and marine life sightings?
Unfortunately, the provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at La Vavi for optimal conditions or marine life sightings. We recommend checking local dive operators or our When to Dive section for general information on diving in Moorea & Tahiti.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at La Vavi (Viva Shallow)?
Given that La Vavi is an intermediate dive site with a maximum depth of 30 meters, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent is highly recommended. This certification ensures divers have the necessary training and experience for deeper dives and potentially more challenging conditions. Always consult with a local dive center for specific requirements.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at La Vavi (Viva Shallow)?
Divers at La Vavi can generally expect good visibility, with an average of 23 meters. While specific current conditions are not detailed in the provided data, the site's intermediate difficulty rating suggests that divers should be prepared for potential currents. Always check with your dive guide for real-time conditions.