La Vavi

This dive site, La Vavi, is named after a local river flowing from the valley. It features a stunning overhanging reef structure, providing a dramatic underwater landscape. Divers navigate along this reef, exploring its various contours and discovering 'gaps' in the coral which act as small swim-throughs or hideaways for marine life. While no specific history is provided, the site offers a classic French Polynesian reef dive experience. The marine life at La Vavi is abundant and diverse. Divers can expect to spot white-tipped sharks, often found resting. The coral gaps are home to a variety of smaller reef fish including surgeon fish, wrasses, soapfish, and numerous juveniles. Venturing into the deep blue, encounters with schooling fusiliers, swift bonitos, and powerful tuna are possible, showcasing the site's rich pelagic activity. The best time to visit La Vavi, and French Polynesia generally, is during the dry season from May to October for optimal visibility and calm conditions. This site is excellent for both wide-angle photography, capturing the dramatic reef and schooling fish, and macro photography within the coral gaps. Freedivers will appreciate the varied depths and potential for large animal encounters, while snorkelers can enjoy the shallower parts of the reef.