Coral Garden of Taha'a
Drift snorkel through a vibrant underwater paradise in Taha'a, French Polynesia, teeming with colorful coral and diverse marine life.
The Coral Garden of Taha'a is a must-see attraction for snorkeling enthusiasts visiting French Polynesia. Situated in a natural channel between Motu Maharare and Motu Tautau, this underwater paradise boasts crystal-clear waters and an incredible array of marine life. The garden is easily accessible by boat, often as part of organized tours from Taha'a or the neighboring island of Raiatea. The main draw of the Coral Garden is the opportunity to drift snorkel through the narrow, shallow channel. A gentle current carries you along, allowing you to effortlessly glide over the vibrant coral formations and observe the diverse fish species that call this place home. Expect to see butterflyfish, parrotfish, angelfish, clownfish, and more, all darting among the colorful corals. The water depth typically ranges from 1 to 3 meters, making it suitable for snorkelers of all skill levels. Beyond the underwater wonders, the surrounding scenery is equally captivating. Taha'a, also known as Vanilla Island, is famous for its lush landscapes and tranquil atmosphere. The island's vanilla plantations infuse the air with a sweet fragrance, adding to the overall sensory experience. Many tours to the Coral Garden also include visits to pearl farms and vanilla plantations, offering a glimpse into the local culture and economy.
Local tips
- Wear water shoes or reef booties to protect your feet from sharp coral and rocks when entering and exiting the water.
- Consider bringing your own snorkeling gear for the best fit and comfort.
- Apply reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin and the delicate coral ecosystem.
- The best time to visit for optimal visibility is during the dry season (May to October) in the morning hours.
- If you are not a strong swimmer, consider wearing a snorkeling vest for added buoyancy and safety.
A brief summary to Coral Garden
- CGPX+64, Taha'a, PF
Getting There
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Boat
The most common way to reach the Coral Garden is by boat. Many tour operators offer excursions from Taha'a and Raiatea that include a snorkeling stop at the Coral Garden. These tours often combine the snorkeling experience with visits to other attractions on Taha'a, such as pearl farms and vanilla plantations. The boat will typically drop you off near the channel, and you can then drift snorkel through the area.
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Water Taxi
If you are staying on Raiatea and miss the regular shuttle, water taxis are available from Uturoa airport to Taha'a. Temana Tours/Tahaa Locations agency offers this service, though it is more expensive. From there, you'll need to arrange transportation to the Coral Garden, either through your accommodation or a local tour operator. Water taxi cost varies.
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Hotel Shuttle
Some hotels, like the Taha'a Island Resort & Spa, offer their own shuttle service to the Coral Garden for guests. If you are staying at one of these resorts, inquire about their shuttle schedule and availability. This is often the most convenient option, as it eliminates the need to arrange separate transportation. Round trip can cost up to $130 per person.
