Dive Site: The Canyons

About The Canyons

The Canyons is a captivating outer reef dive located near Opunohu Pass on the north coast of Moorea in the Society Islands of French Polynesia. This site is renowned for its unique topography, featuring submerged canyons that resemble fingers extending from the reef, shaped by thousands of years of surging water. It offers an immersive experience into Moorea's vibrant marine ecosystem, accessible by dinghy or dive boat moorings. The dive site typically ranges from 11 to 20 meters (35-65 feet) but extends to depths exceeding 120 feet (36 meters) or more, with no discernible bottom. These coral formations are rich in various species of hard coral, providing an intricate habitat for numerous marine creatures. The clear waters and unique underwater landscape make it a popular spot for exploring the diverse life of the outer reef. While Moorea is known for its resident lemon sharks and occasional humpback whale sightings between August and October, The Canyons offers consistent encounters with sharks and a variety of tropical fish. The site also features Javanese moray eels and sea turtles resting among the corals. Although conditions are generally clear, currents can sometimes be strong, influencing the dive experience. Divers can anticipate a dynamic experience, navigating through coral gardens and along the canyon walls. Visibility is typically excellent, often reaching 25 meters (80 feet), allowing for clear views of the abundant marine life. The site is best explored during the drier, cooler months from March to November for optimal conditions.

Dive site facts: The Canyons

Depth

11–20 m

Current

Occasional strong, surge

Visibility

Excellent, ~25 m

Water temperature

26–29°C

Entry

Dinghy / Dive boat

Level

Advanced recommended, current experience helpful

Dive type

Outer reef canyons, drift

Region / port

Moorea, Society Islands

Coordinates

17.4850° S, 149.8517° W

Conditions & Currents

Currents at The Canyons can be significant and unpredictable, ranging from mild to strong, especially near the Opunohu Pass, which demands careful planning. Divers may encounter surge near the reef, particularly when closer to the surface. It is prudent to plan dives to go up-current first and then drift back to the boat, though current directions can shift unexpectedly, sometimes even creating a mild opposing current on return. Visibility is typically excellent, often reaching 25 meters (80 feet) or more, although it can be temporarily affected by heavy rains, especially closer to shore. Water temperatures consistently remain warm, generally between 26°C and 29°C (79°F and 84°F). Divers should maintain good buoyancy control and be prepared for changing conditions, making this site best suited for those with some current diving experience.

Marine life & sighting chances

Lemon Shark

common

Blacktip Shark

common

Javanese Moray Eel

occasional

Hawksbill Turtle

occasional

Green Sea Turtle

occasional

Butterflyfish

common

Angelfish

common

Triggerfish

occasional

Octopus

occasional

Schools of tropical fish

common

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Entry to The Canyons is typically from a dinghy or dive boat onto moorings on the outer reef near Opunohu Pass. The dive usually begins by descending into depths of 11 to 20 meters (35-65 feet), following the topography of the reef. Divers explore the dramatic canyon formations, which resemble fingers extending from the main reef. A common strategy involves navigating up-current initially, allowing for observation of marine life sheltering from the flow, then turning to drift back along the canyons. The turn point is often determined by air consumption, for example at 1,500 psi. The dive concludes with a safety stop in the shallower areas, often experiencing some surge, before surfacing near the entry point where the dinghy waits.

Underwater photography

The Canyons offers excellent wide-angle photography opportunities due to its dramatic coral topography, clear water, and frequent large animal sightings. A fisheye or wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the expansive coral formations and the iconic Lemon Sharks that patrol the area. Given the potential for strong currents and abundant pelagic life, be ready to shoot quickly. Natural light is often sufficient given the excellent visibility, but strobes will enhance color and detail on reef subjects. Practice good buoyancy to avoid stirring up sand in the canyons and to approach marine life respectfully. Be prepared for potential surge, which can make stable framing challenging at shallower depths.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• The Small Rose Garden & Coral Wall

  The Small Rose Garden & Coral Wall is one of Moorea's premier dive sites, located on the island's scenic north coast in the Society Islands…

• Taotoi

  Taotoi, situated in Moorea, French Polynesia, is widely recognized as a premier location for divers seeking an accessible yet vibrant…

• Stingray World

  Stingray World is a renowned dive and snorkel site located within the calm, shallow waters of Mo'orea Lagoon in French Polynesia.

• Ray Corridor

  The Ray Corridor in Moorea offers an exhilarating drift dive experience within a natural lagoon, making it a favorite for divers seeking…

• Moorea - The Roses

  Mentioned as a highlight of Moorea diving for its rose-shaped corals.

Getting there & logistics

To reach Moorea, you first fly into Faa'a International Airport (PPT) in Tahiti. From Tahiti, Moorea is a short 9-mile journey, accessible by ferry. Major dive operators in Moorea, like TOPDIVE, are strategically located along the north coast at resorts such as the InterContinental Moorea and Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa, offering free transfers from all resorts and pensions. Dive excursions to The Canyons typically depart from these northern coastal points. While specific trip lengths are not detailed for this single site, dive packages often combine multiple dives around Moorea, or form part of longer multi-island itineraries across French Polynesia. No specific permit fees for this site are mentioned, but general dive fees apply.

Safety & environment

For diving in Moorea, the nearest recompression chamber is located in Tahiti. In the event of a dive emergency requiring evacuation, transportation to Tahiti would be necessary, highlighting the importance of comprehensive dive insurance that covers medical treatment and emergency evacuation. French Polynesia has strict dive safety regulations, including depth limits typically around 30 meters unless holding higher qualifications. At The Canyons, divers should be mindful of occasional strong currents and potential surge, particularly at shallower depths, which can lead to rapid air consumption and separation from buddies. Always adhere to your guide's briefing, maintain good buoyancy, and practice a no-touch approach to marine life to ensure both diver safety and environmental protection.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

The Canyons FAQ

Liveaboards diving The Canyons

These liveaboards may visit The Canyons on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Aqua Tiki II

French Polynesia

8 guests

$579/day

Aqua Tiki III

French Polynesia

10 guests20 m

$505/day