Tables de Taravao - Moorea & Tahiti

Viva Shallow is a solid pick for newer divers in Bayahibe, a gentle site where you can really stretch out your bottom time. At a maximum depth of 10 metres, it’s all about relaxed exploration. We’ve drifted over healthy patches of brain coral here, spotting trumpetfish lurking and the occasional pufferfish puffing itself up in the sand. Visibility usually sits around 15 metres, which is plenty to watch the resident schools of grunts and snapper. It’s a great spot to fine-tune buoyancy without feeling rushed.

Location
Moorea & Tahiti, French Polynesia, Central & South Pacific
Coordinates
-17.780700, -149.327000
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 Tables de Taravao

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 Tables de Taravao

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 diving depth at Tables de Taravao?
The maximum diving depth at Tables de Taravao is 27 meters. This allows divers to explore both the magnificent vertical drop-off and the superb platier, which features vaulted troughs over a vast expanse. The site offers a surprising topography with lifted coral reef pieces.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Tables de Taravao?
Divers at Tables de Taravao can expect a unique "2in1" experience, featuring a magnificent vertical drop-off with numerous crevasses and a superb platier covered with vaulted troughs. The site boasts a surprising topography where pieces of coral reef have lifted up, creating interesting architecture. You'll often encounter passing platax and tuna, along with numerous other fish and crustaceans finding refuge in the reef's intricate structures. For more on marine life, visit our wildlife database.
How challenging is the Tables de Taravao dive site, and what skill level is required?
The Tables de Taravao dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty. This means it is suitable for divers with some experience beyond entry-level certification. Divers should be comfortable with varying depths up to 27 meters and navigating unique reef structures.
When is the best time of year to dive at Tables de Taravao for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at Tables de Taravao for optimal conditions. However, the average visibility is excellent at 22 meters. For general information on diving seasons in French Polynesia, please refer to our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are needed to dive at Tables de Taravao?
While the specific certifications are not detailed in the provided data, the Tables de Taravao dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty. This typically implies that an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent experience is recommended. Always check with your local dive operator for specific certification requirements before planning your dive.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at Tables de Taravao?
The provided data indicates excellent water conditions at Tables de Taravao, with an average visibility of 22 meters. However, specific information regarding typical currents or water temperature is not available. It is always advisable to consult with local dive centers for up-to-date conditions before your dive.