Imagine diving among gray reef sharks while surrounded by pink coral reefs, in one of the purest marine ecosystems on the planet. This is Fakarava, an atoll in French Polynesia, recognized by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve.
In this article, you will discover why this remote atoll is one of the most exceptional diving destinations on Earth, what marine life awaits beneath its turquoise waters, and which dive sites make divers from all over the world dream.
Why Dive in Fakarava?
Fakarava is not just any destination. This coral atoll, shaped like a ring, encloses a lagoon 60 km long by 25 km wide and is surrounded by an impressive coral barrier.
It has only two passes that connect the lagoon with the open ocean: Garuae in the north (the largest in all of Polynesia) and Tumakohua in the south. Both are true highways of marine life and undoubtedly two of the best places in the world to dive with sharks.
Diving here means immersing yourself in a pristine, remote, and protected ecosystem, where currents bring abundant nutrients, reefs remain untouched, and human presence is minimal. On land, some areas only have electricity thanks to generators. In the water, life flows without interruption.
Marine Life and Flora
The biodiversity of Fakarava is as rich as it is wild. Highlights include:
- Large numbers of gray reef sharks
- Whitetip and blacktip reef sharks
- Mantas, rays, eagle rays, turtles, and dolphins
- Barracudas, jacks, tunas, trevallies, and Napoleon wrasses
- Hard and soft corals in excellent condition
- Pink coral, endemic to the southern area
- Thousands of tropical fish: butterflyfish, parrotfish, damselfish, leaf fish, and more
In calmer spots, you’ll also find plenty of nudibranchs, moray eels, scorpionfish, and other small creatures—a paradise for macro lovers and underwater photographers.
Best Dive Sites
Garuae Pass (North Pass)
Stretching 1.6 km, this is the largest pass in Polynesia. Its incoming currents attract abundant marine life: sharks, rays, turtles, pelagics, and dozens of “raira” (gray reef sharks). Diving is only possible during incoming tides, ensuring an intense and adrenaline-filled experience.
Ohotu
At the exit of Garuae Pass, a vibrant reef gently slopes down to 30 m. It is ideal for seeing pristine corals, tropical species, and frequent encounters with gray and whitetip sharks, mantas, tunas, and barracudas. The dive ends in a spectacular coral garden.
Pufana
Inside the lagoon, near the north pass, this shallow dive (12–15 m) is perfect for all levels and photographers. White sand and crystal visibility create the ideal setting, with chances to spot reef sharks and much of Fakarava’s marine life.
Maiuru
A magnificent reef at 20 m deep that drops into an impressive vertical wall. Table corals and soft corals abound. Currents can be strong, making it suitable for experienced divers. Frequent encounters with pelagics and large schools of fish are common.
Tumakohua Pass (South Pass)
A narrower but equally breathtaking pass, with walls covered in the famous pink coral. Home to hundreds of gray reef sharks, creating an unforgettable spectacle. Eagle rays, blacktip sharks, and abundant tropical fish are also found here—ideal for observing predator interactions.
Plan Your Diving Trip with Te Moana Expeditions
At Te Moana Expeditions, we help you discover Fakarava and other unique destinations in French Polynesia. We design responsible and authentic diving experiences, working with local operators committed to protecting the ecosystem.
Explore the Asia and Pacific section on our website and start dreaming of your next dive.
Want more inspiration?
Keep reading our articles about the best dive destinations in the Pacific and other routes through Southeast Asia. For us, the ocean is our home… and we want it to be yours too.
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