Dive Site: Huahine - Avapeihi Pass

About Huahine - Avapeihi Pass

Avapeihi Pass is a premier dive site in Huahine, known for its dynamic marine life and healthy coral ecosystems. Situated in the Society Islands, this pass offers a distinct diving experience compared to the more crowded atolls, blending quiet charm with exciting encounters. The pass serves as a vital channel connecting the open ocean with the lagoon, creating conditions rich in nutrients that attract a diverse array of pelagic and reef species. The topography features a sloping reef at the entrance, transitioning to a sandy bottom that deepens from 15 meters to a maximum of 26-27 meters. Corals within the pass have shown significant growth and health since 2010. Diving here typically involves a drift along the current, allowing you to observe schools of barracudas, jacks, and various shark species that frequent the pass for feeding and reproduction. Leopard rays and green sea turtles are also common sights. The currents, influenced by tidal movements, can vary from mild to strong, offering a different dive experience each time. After drifting through the pass, dives usually conclude with safety stops in the calm, shallower waters of the lagoon, often near healthy coral gardens. While liveaboards like Aqua Tiki II and Aqua Tiki III may include Huahine in their itineraries, the diving here is often described as local and boat-based, allowing for relaxed two-tank mornings and plenty of time for land-based exploration. The site is accessible to a range of diver levels, with conditions dictating the pace and challenge. Huahine's overall atmosphere of authenticity and uncrowded nature extends to its dive sites, making Avapeihi Pass a rewarding choice for those seeking vibrant underwater encounters away from mass tourism.

Dive site facts: Huahine - Avapeihi Pass

Depth

10–27 m

Current

Variable, mild to strong

Water temperature

27–28°C

Entry

Tender / drift entry

Level

Open Water or Level 1 minimum

Dive type

Drift, pelagic encounters, reef

Region / port

Huahine, Society Islands

Coordinates

-16.7333, -151.05

Conditions & Currents

Avapeihi Pass is a channel dive, meaning currents are a significant and defining feature, varying in strength and direction with tidal movements. Divers should expect drift dives where the current carries them through the pass. Conditions can range from mild to strong, necessitating good buoyancy control and comfort with current for an enjoyable experience. The intensity of the current dictates the pace of the dive, which attracts large pelagic species. Entry often involves a tender drop to begin the drift, with exit typically occurring in the calmer lagoon waters. Visibility can be affected by stronger currents or recent rainfall but generally remains good due to the constant water exchange. There are no notable thermoclines or surge issues mentioned. Divers should plan their gas consumption factoring in the drift nature of the dive, and be prepared to stay grouped with their guide.

Marine life & sighting chances

Grey reef shark

common

White tip reef shark

occasional

Barracuda

common

Bigeye trevally

common

Dogtooth tuna

occasional

Leopard ray

common

Green sea turtle

common

Napoleon wrasse

occasional

Batfish

occasional

Moray eel

occasional

Pufferfish

occasional

Manta ray

rare

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Dives at Avapeihi Pass typically begin with a boat drop at the ocean side entrance of the pass, allowing divers to descend onto a sloping reef. The initial depth is around 10 meters, gradually increasing as you drift with the current into the channel. The route follows the natural flow of the water, moving over a sandy bottom that descends to about 26-27 meters at its deepest point. Divers will observe coral formations along the reef slope and encounter schools of pelagic fish in the blue. The turn point is dictated by the current's direction and strength, and the dive progresses further into the pass, allowing for observations of sharks and rays. Safety stops are conducted in the calmer, shallower waters of the lagoon, often among vibrant coral gardens, before ascending to meet the boat.

Underwater photography

Avapeihi Pass offers excellent wide-angle photography opportunities due to the frequent presence of large pelagic species and schooling fish. A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the expansive schools of barracudas and jacks, as well as the grey reef sharks. When currents are strong, maintaining stable buoyancy is crucial to avoid stirring up sediment or colliding with the reef. External strobes are recommended to bring out the true colors of the corals and marine life, especially at deeper sections of the pass. For macro enthusiasts, there are some smaller reef inhabitants among the corals in calmer sections, though the primary draw is the larger fauna. Always be mindful of diver etiquette, especially when photographing sharks, by maintaining a respectful distance and avoiding sudden movements.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Raiatea - Tepua Coral Garden

  Tepua Coral Garden, located near Raiatea and Taha'a in French Polynesia, is a renowned drift snorkeling destination.

• Moorea - Tiki Point

  Tiki Point is an outstanding dive site located off the picturesque island of Moorea in French Polynesia, easily accessible from Tahiti.

• Moorea - The Canyons

  The Canyons is a notable dive site located off the mythical Ōpūnohu Bay in Moorea, one of French Polynesia's easily accessible Society…

• Tahiti - The Aquarium

  Tahiti - The Aquarium offers a unique and accessible diving experience within the vibrant marine environment of French Polynesia.

Getting there & logistics

To reach Huahine, divers typically fly into Tahiti Faa'a International Airport (PPT) and then take a domestic flight to Huahine Fare Airport (HUH), which is about a 40-minute journey. The airport is approximately 15 minutes by car from the main town of Fare. While liveaboards occasionally visit, Huahine is often experienced as a land-based destination, with local dive operators taking small boats to sites like Avapeihi Pass. Dive trips often involve two-tank mornings. Huahine is commonly combined with other Society Islands such as Raiatea, Tahaa, Bora Bora, or Moorea for a broader French Polynesia itinerary. There are no specific dive site permits or fees mentioned for Avapeihi Pass, but national park fees or operator charges may apply for overall diving activities.

Safety & environment

Safety at Avapeihi Pass hinges on preparedness for currents, which can vary significantly. Divers should be comfortable with drift diving and possess good buoyancy control. It is imperative to stay with the dive guide and group, as strong currents can separate divers. The nearest recompression chamber is located in Tahiti, necessitating robust emergency evacuation plans. Divers should carry comprehensive dive insurance that covers emergency medical treatment and evacuation. Local dive operators prioritize safety briefings and will assess conditions before each dive. Always ensure your equipment is in excellent working order and adhere strictly to all instructions from your dive master.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Huahine - Avapeihi Pass FAQ

Liveaboards diving Huahine - Avapeihi Pass

These liveaboards may visit Huahine - Avapeihi Pass on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Aqua Tiki II

French Polynesia

8 guests

$572/day

Aqua Tiki III

French Polynesia

10 guests20 m

$498/day