Tiputa Pass
Passe de Tiputa
A world-class dive site. On an incoming tide, divers drift with strong currents alongside spinner dolphins and grey reef sharks. From the shore you can also often see dolphins leaping out of the water.
Tiputa Pass is the main channel on the northeast side of the atoll, linking the lagoon with the open ocean. It is about 200 metres wide, and the tides bring strong currents and large schools of fish. On an incoming tide, divers drift in from the open sea with the current. They often see dozens of grey reef sharks, eagle rays and Napoleon wrasse. At the mouth of the channel, the 'dolphin zone' is home to a resident group of spinner dolphins that often come close to visitors. Non-divers can join a snorkelling tour to the 'natural aquarium' inside the channel, or watch dolphins surfing at Tiputa Point, the lookout at the channel mouth, in the afternoon. Drift diving requires an AOW certification or higher, plus some experience. Always dive with a reputable local operator.
Opening hours
Open all day (diving depends on tides)
Nearby sights
- Tiputa Village
- Gauguin's Pearl Farm
- Vin de Tahiti Winery
- Avatoru Village
- Avatoru Pass
- Rangiroa Atoll
- Île aux Récifs
- Lagon Bleu (Blue Lagoon)