Toopua Sharks Sandbank

Shallow Bora Bora sandbank for shark and butterflyfish encounters.

Boat Access
0m Avg Depth
1m Max Depth

About this dive site

This dive site, Toopua Sharks Sandbank, is a renowned sandbar located in the beautiful Bora Bora lagoon. It's famous for offering an unparalleled underwater spectacle in extremely shallow crystal-clear water, with a maximum depth of only 1 meter. Primarily a destination for snorkelers and bathers, it provides an easy and safe environment for close encounters with marine life, making traditional scuba diving impractical due to the depth.

Visitors to Toopua Sharks Sandbank can expect to be surrounded by numerous sharks, likely blacktip reef sharks, which are generally docile in this environment. Additionally, hundreds of vibrant butterflyfish create a colorful display. While specific coral types aren't detailed, the clear waters suggest a healthy, shallow reef ecosystem supporting these fish.

The sandbank is a popular spot for day-trippers and is suitable for all ages, including young children. It offers fantastic opportunities for wide-angle underwater photography due to the excellent visibility and abundant marine life. The best time to visit is generally year-round, as French Polynesia enjoys a consistently warm climate. While not a scuba diving spot, it's perfect for a relaxing snorkeling experience or shallow freediving.

DivingFreedivingSnorkeling

Plan Your Visit

sharkbeginner friendlywide anglesnorkelingshallow divewildlife encounterlagoonbutterflyfish

Things to Note

Difficulty:

All levels

Extremely shallow (1m max), suitable for snorkeling, swimming, and beginner freediving.

Hazards:
boat traffic
Current Strength:

Mild

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