Explore the Leeward Islands
The Leeward Islands are the western section of the Society Islands in French Polynesia. They are made up of the islands: Maupiti, Bora Bora, Tahaa, Raiatea, Uturoa, Huahine and a number of small atolls. The Polynesian people are defined by the ocean and it’s no surprise that this love for the sea (or “moana”) has trickled over into the tourism industry.
Diving in the Leeward Islands is very popular. Dive resorts are often incorporated into the standard honeymoon resorts, found abundantly on Bora Bora. Dive centres are more rare, though they do exist for those wishing to find alternative accommodation. Dive courses, especially for beginners, are popular, mainly due to the excellent conditions. Liveaboards are a great way to dive more than one of the Leeward Islands and most boats leave from and return to Papeete on Tahiti Island.
Diving in the Leeward Islands is possible year round due to the tropical climate. The winter months between November and February are the warmest and wettest and there is often heavy rainfall. By contrast, the months between May and October are dryer and cooler, though it is still a pleasant average of 26oC!
One of the big draws to French Polynesia for divers are the multitude of sharks. Whitetips hide away in small holes whilst baby blacktips prowl the reefs like house cats. In the blue, you can spot bigger species like lemon, silky, grey reef, bull, tiger and hammerhead.
Places to Explore
Tahaa
Tahaa, sometimes spelt Taha’a, is one of the Leeward Islands, found within the Society Islands of French Polynesia. Tahaa is often grouped with nearby Raiatea, which is enclosed by the same coral reef. The 90sq kilometre, flower shaped island has a population of around 5,000 and is known for its exports of pearls and vanilla which has earned Tahaa a reputation as a particularly aromatic island!
Bora Bora
Bora Bora is perhaps the most famous of the French Polynesian islands, nestled away in the southern Pacific Ocean. It is a 30km² island group, geographically part of the Leeward Islands. Popular with honeymooners, it is a location often found on “dream holiday” lists for its sheer, tropical beauty. It is hard to imagine a more perfect destination - volcanic islands surrounding a crystalline turquoise lagoon; craggy, palm tree covered hills and enveloped by still, cobalt ocean, as far as the eye can see.
Huahine
Huahine, often referred to as the "Garden Island" of French Polynesia, offers a diving experience that is both enchanting and diverse. Nestled among the Society Islands, this tropical paradise is renowned for its vibrant coral gardens, making it a haven for underwater photographers and marine life enthusiasts. Divers can explore spectacular reef systems teeming with colorful fish, moray eels, and the occasional turtle gliding by. The island's clear waters provide excellent visibility, ensuring that every dive reveals the intricate details of Huahine's underwater world.
Raiatea
Raiatea, known as the sacred island, offers divers a captivating underwater experience that blends natural beauty with cultural richness. The island, part of French Polynesia, is surrounded by vibrant coral reefs teeming with exotic marine life, including colorful parrotfish, graceful manta rays, and elusive sea turtles. These reefs provide a stunning backdrop for divers, offering a chance to explore a diverse underwater ecosystem that is both thriving and pristine.
Top Dive Sites Map
Diving in the Leeward Islands
The Leeward Islands in the Caribbean offer a rich tapestry of underwater adventures for dive travelers. One highlight is the "Wreck of the Rhône" off the coast of Salt Island in the British Virgin Islands. This historic wreck dive is a favorite, with vibrant coral and abundant marine life making it an underwater spectacle. The "Wreck of the RMS Rhône" is considered one of the best wreck dives in the region, providing a hauntingly beautiful experience for divers.
For those preferring shore dives, "Cane Bay" in St. Croix offers easy access to the renowned "Cane Bay Wall," where divers are greeted with dramatic drop-offs and a plethora of marine species. Notably, night dives here reveal the mesmerizing sight of bioluminescent organisms. While liveaboard options are available, offering wider range and variety, the balance between shore and boat diving ensures a flexible itinerary to suit individual preferences.
The best Months to Dive in the Leeward Islands
The Leeward Islands offer year-round diving opportunities with generally favorable conditions. Water temperatures remain inviting, ranging from 25°C in the winter to 84°F 29°C in the summer, ensuring comfortable dives throughout the year. Visibility is typically excellent, often exceeding 30 meters, especially during the dry season.
While diving is possible year-round, some factors can affect conditions. The trade winds, blowing mainly from December to June, may cause surface chop and currents, impacting dive sites on wind-exposed shores. The rainy season, from July to November, can bring reduced visibility due to runoff, though it rarely halts diving activities. Planning around these factors can help ensure an optimal diving experience in this tropical paradise.
Statistics
Historical data and trends
