Five Best Places for Scuba Diving in Fiji
The South Pacific is home to some of the best scuba diving destinations on the planet, and Fiji is no exception. Between the lush, sprawling gardens and the fringing coral reefs, Fiji is guaranteed to amaze even the most experienced of divers.
However, there are a few destinations that all divers should add to their bucket list when diving in Fiji.
1. Beqa Lagoon
Shutterstock.com/Alexander MachulskiyА big bull shark suddenly emerges from a flock of colorful tropical fish in Beqa Lagoon, Fiji.
With over 100 different dive sites to choose from, this picturesque lagoon sits south of Viti Levu and has something for every type of scuba diver. Discover colorful soft corals at Caesar's Rocks, or explore the sunken shipwreck at Carpet Cove. Adventurous divers should also check out the Shark Reef Marine Reserve, a protected sanctuary home to eight different shark species.
If you're interested in shark diving while in Fiji, then this is the most popular spot to swim with whitetips, tawny nurses, bull sharks and tiger sharks.
2. Yasawa Islands
Shutterstock.com/Angela N PerrymanA manta ray just above the reef off Naviti Island in the Fiji Islands.
The volcanic Yasawa Islands have some of the best scuba diving in Fiji. There are dozens of dive locations scattered around the 20 islands, but the most spectacular spot has to be on Barefoot Manta Island.
Between April and October, divers have the rare opportunity to swim with manta rays. If you're looking for a unique Fiji diving experience, then you won't want to miss a once-in-a-lifetime experience with these majestic creatures.
3. Somosomo Strait
Situated between Taveuni Island and Vanua Levu, Somosomo Strait is considered to be the soft coral capital of the world.
With vibrant sheets of pink and orange corals, Rainbow Reef is a popular dive spot that lives up to its name. On the south side of Rainbow lies the Great White Wall, a 25m deep coral wall that stretches as far as the eye can see.
Besides admiring the reef, divers flock to Somosomo strait for the abundance of marine life. It's common to see manta rays, sharks, and even barracudas lurking around the waters.
4. Kadavu Island
Shutterstock.com/Ethan DanielsCoral colonies grow in warm, shallow water near the island of Kadavu in Fiji. Fiji has extensive amounts of coral reef throughout its islands and therefore has wonderful scuba diving and snorkeling.
Tucked away from the crowded touristy destinations in Fiji is Kadavu Island, a tropical paradise filled with coral reefs and lively marine life.
Kadavu is home to the Great Astrolabe Reef, the fourth largest barrier reef in the world and one of the most popular dive sites in Fiji. Here, you'll find soft coral pinnacles and steep sloping coral walls right off the coast. It's also a great spot for a Fiji shark dive since the waters are teeming with reef sharks and hammerheads.
5. Bligh Waters
Shutterstock.com/Danita DelmontSchooling fairy basslets near soft corals in the Bligh Waters off, Viti Levu, Fiji.
Separating the two main islands of Vanua Levu and Viti Levu, Bligh Water is a must-see when diving Fiji. Although the currents can be too strong for beginners, experienced divers will enjoy the clear waters, narrow passageways, and schools of tropical fish.
Although it's possible to visit Bligh Waters on a day trip, spending a few days on a liveaboard dive Fiji tour allows you to explore several different dive spots in the area.
As you can see, if you're traveling to Fiji, you've got plenty of choices when it comes to dive sites. From swimming with sea creatures to exploring one of the world's largest reefs, Fiji is a brilliant choice for a dive trip. It's not the easiest place to get to, but I can guarantee you won't be sorry you decided to come!
