Swim with Rays and Sharks in Bora Bora, Moorea
Looking for an unforgettable marine adventure in 2025? Swimming with rays and sharks in Bora Bora, Moorea, and across French Polynesia is one of the top bucket-list experiences for ocean lovers. Crystal-clear lagoons, vibrant coral reefs, and the chance to safely encounter blacktip reef sharks and graceful stingrays make this a must-do activity.
Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a luxury getaway, or an eco-tour, this guide reveals where, when, and how to swim with sharks and rays in Polynesia—plus tips for choosing the best tours and staying safe.
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What Are the Best Places to Swim with Rays and Sharks in French Polynesia?
We’ve listed the main islands and top spots to see and swim with rays and sharks in the Society and Tuamotu archipelagos. This map helps you visualize which islands you can explore during a 2 to 3 week trip through French Polynesia.
🔍 Curious about the marine life you might encounter during your stay?
Here’s an overview of the rays, sharks, turtles, and whales you can spot in the most beautiful lagoons of Polynesia based on each island in our top 5 list.
🏆 Species to Observe in French Polynesia
| Species | Moorea | Bora Bora | Tikehau | Taha’a | Rangiroa |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ✨ Stingray | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| 🐆 Leopard ray | ✅ | 🚫 | 🚫 | ✅ | 🚫 |
| 🛸 Manta ray | ✅ | ✅ | 🚫 | ✅ | |
| ⚫ Blacktip reef shark | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| ⚪ Whitetip reef shark | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| 🩶 Grey reef shark | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| 🍋 Lemon shark | ✅ | ✅ | 🚫 | ✅ | 🚫 |
| 😴 Nurse shark | ✅ | 🚫 | ✅ | 🚫 | ✅ |
| 🔨 Hammerhead shark | 🚫 | 🚫 | ✅ | 🚫 | ✅ |
| 🐅 Tiger shark | 🚫 | 🚫 | 🚫 | 🚫 | ✅ |
| ✅ Green turtle | ✅ | ✅ | 🚫 | ✅ | ✅ |
| ✅ Hawksbill turtle | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| 🐋 Whale (seasonal) | ✅ | ✅ | 🚫 | ✅ | ✅ |
Moorea
| ✨ Stingray |
| 🐆 Leopard ray |
| 🛸 Manta ray |
| ⚫ Blacktip reef shark |
| ⚪ Whitetip reef shark |
| 🩶 Grey reef shark |
| 🍋 Lemon shark |
| 😴 Nurse shark |
| ✅ Green turtle |
| ✅ Hawksbill turtle |
| 🐋 Whale (seasonal) |
Bora Bora
| ✨ Stingray |
| 🛸 Manta ray |
| ⚫ Blacktip reef shark |
| ⚪ Whitetip reef shark |
| 🩶 Grey reef shark |
| 🍋 Lemon shark |
| ✅ Green turtle |
| ✅ Hawksbill turtle |
| 🐋 Whale (seasonal) |
Tikehau
| ✨ Stingray |
| 🛸 Manta ray |
| ⚫ Blacktip reef shark |
| ⚪ Whitetip reef shark |
| 🩶 Grey reef shark |
| 😴 Nurse shark |
| 🔨 Hammerhead shark |
| ✅ Hawksbill turtle |
Taha’a
| ✨ Stingray |
| 🐆 Leopard ray |
| ⚫ Blacktip reef shark |
| ⚪ Whitetip reef shark |
| 🩶 Grey reef shark |
| 🍋 Lemon shark |
| ✅ Green turtle |
| ✅ Hawksbill turtle |
| 🐋 Whale (seasonal) |
Rangiroa
| ✨ Stingray |
| 🛸 Manta ray |
| ⚫ Blacktip reef shark |
| ⚪ Whitetip reef shark |
| 🩶 Grey reef shark |
| 😴 Nurse shark |
| 🔨 Hammerhead shark |
| 🐅 Tiger shark |
| ✅ Green turtle |
| ✅ Hawksbill turtle |
| 🐋 Whale (seasonal) |
Our Top 5 Lagoon Excursions (2025 Guide)
🥇 1.Bora Bora: The Iconic Lagoon Excursion 💙
It’s impossible to visit Bora Bora without discovering its legendary lagoon… And what better way to experience it than a full-day boat tour with Lagon Service? Get ready for an authentic Polynesian adventure—swimming, unforgettable marine encounters, and pure joy on a motu (islet).
From the moment you board a traditional motorized outrigger canoe, you’re warmly welcomed by smiling local guides, often with a ukulele in hand. The atmosphere is friendly and cheerful… and that’s just the beginning. You’ll head straight into the turquoise lagoon of Bora Bora, with its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, making stops that are nothing short of magical.
The first unforgettable moment? Swimming with stingrays in shallow water—majestic creatures that glide around you with curious grace. Then it’s off to a deeper area to watch blacktip reef sharks, impressive yet peaceful, circling freely around the boat. Just a mask and snorkel are enough—this show is within fin’s reach.
To top off this magical morning, you’ll head to a private motu for a local lunch with your feet in the sand. Coconut milk-marinated raw fish, grilled skewers, fresh tropical fruit… everything is prepared on site in a laid-back atmosphere. A demonstration of palm weaving or coconut opening often adds a fun cultural touch.
The afternoon wraps up beautifully with snorkeling in a coral garden, where colorful fish and living corals swirl in a mesmerizing underwater ballet.
✨ Why We Love It:
🌊 An Unreal Lagoon – It’s hard to believe water like this actually exists! Ranging from electric blue to milky turquoise, Bora Bora’s lagoon is a living painting. Cruising through it feels like a dream… swimming with rays and sharks? Pure magic.
🦈 Gentle Yet Impressive Marine Encounters – Coming face-to-face with a stingray brushing past you, or watching calm sharks glide nearby… it’s breathtaking but soothing. A true lesson in trust with nature.
🎶 Polynesian Vibes Onboard – From the guides’ laughter and ukulele tunes to fascinating stories about the local wildlife, plants, and traditions, it feels like you’re truly connecting with Polynesian culture.
🍍 Lunch on a Private Motu – The ultimate dream: eating freshly prepared raw fish, tropical fruit, and grilled skewers… all with your feet in the water and Mount Otemanu as your backdrop. A timeless escape.
📸 Unforgettable Memories – Every moment is photo-worthy—but more importantly, filled with emotion. You leave with a full heart, vivid memories… and often, the irresistible urge to come back.
💬 Traveler Reviews
⭐ Camille R., France — 06/12/2023
An unforgettable day! Swimming with rays and sharks in that endlessly blue lagoon is an experience I’ll never forget. The guides were lovely, funny, and passionate.
⭐ Mathis & Sarah L., Canada — 08/27/2023
A Polynesian dream! The water was crystal-clear, the marine life was super close yet so calm. Amazing vibe on the boat, music, smiles… and lunch on the motu? Absolutely delicious!
⭐ Lucie V., France — 10/03/2024
Magical from start to finish. The lagoon is even more beautiful in real life than in photos. The sharks, the rays, the snorkeling… everything was perfectly organized. Thanks to the team for their great energy.
⭐ Nicolas T., France — 11/19/2023
I was a bit nervous at first, but the guides made us feel at ease right away. Once in the water, it was pure happiness. The sharks are impressive, but calm and majestic.
⭐ Ana & Teva P., French Polynesia — 01/08/2025
Our best memory from our honeymoon in Bora Bora. The warm welcome, the snorkeling spots, the lunch on the motu… everything was perfect. Thank you to Lagon Service for this beautiful Polynesian moment.
🥈2. Moorea Lagoon: Snorkeling and Lunch with Your Feet in the Water
The half-day excursion aboard Vaapiti’s traditional outrigger canoe in Moorea is, above all, an immersion in the island’s crystal-clear lagoon—an opportunity to discover exceptional marine life and breathtaking scenery.
From the start, you set off to explore one of the most beautiful lagoons in all of Polynesia. Several stops allow you to dive into translucent waters and explore vibrant marine ecosystems. At each site, a living spectacle unfolds beneath the surface. You’ll have the chance to swim among graceful stingrays, encounter harmless reef sharks, and even spot sea turtles lounging peacefully on the sandy seabed. Tropical fish of all shapes and vivid colors will also come to greet you, creating a magical underwater experience.
This excursion is also the perfect opportunity to snorkel among stunning coral reefs. These shallow, colorful reefs are the ideal habitat for countless marine creatures. Swim through schools of multicolored fish, admire vibrant corals, and—if you’re lucky—spot exotic species like parrotfish or clownfish. Each stop offers a moment of serenity to soak up the marine biodiversity and appreciate the quiet beauty of Moorea’s lagoon.
✨ Why We Love It:
🌊 A Full Immersion in Nature
From the moment you board the canoe, you’re surrounded by spectacular nature. The crystal-clear lagoon, stunning landscapes, and rich marine life make this experience truly unforgettable. Turquoise waters, secluded motus, and colorful coral reefs offer a glimpse into the untouched beauty of Polynesia.
🐠 Unforgettable Encounters with Marine Life
What makes this tour so special are the encounters with wildlife. Swimming alongside rays, reef sharks, sea turtles, and tropical fish in crystal-clear waters is simply magical. Moorea’s lagoon is one of the richest in marine biodiversity, and experiencing it in such peace is a true privilege.
🌿 An Environmentally Responsible Experience
What sets Vaapiti apart is its eco-conscious philosophy and respect for nature. The traditional canoe is built using ancient, eco-friendly techniques, and the whole activity is focused on preserving the environment. Joining this tour also means supporting a local initiative committed to protecting Polynesian heritage.
⛵ The Joy of Sailing a Traditional Canoe
One more reason this experience is so beloved is the opportunity to discover Polynesian navigation. While you’re not expected to be a sailor, helping raise the sails or steer the canoe under the captain’s guidance makes the adventure more interactive and memorable.
💬 Traveler Reviews
⭐ Marc L., Belgium — 03/18/2025
“One of the best experiences of our stay in Moorea. The captain and crew were so friendly and took time to explain everything. The lagoon was stunning, and the snorkeling stops were just perfect. We saw tropical fish, rays, and sharks. This outing is absolutely worth it!”
⭐ Sophie B., Canada — 03/15/2024
“This excursion exceeded all our expectations! The lagoon was incredibly beautiful, and snorkeling in those crystal waters was amazing. We saw turtles, rays, and even reef sharks. The atmosphere was super friendly, and the crew was passionate and very attentive. A must-do in Moorea.”
⭐ Pierre M., Switzerland — 09/10/2024
“If you really want to experience Moorea from a different angle, this tour is for you. It was such a pleasure to sail a traditional canoe and snorkel in such a paradise. The motus were beautiful and the team was very professional. A must during your stay!”
⭐ Caroline S., France — 12/05/2023
“We did this excursion as a family, and it was unforgettable. The kids loved swimming with the fish and rays, and we were all amazed by the stunning landscapes. The crew was so welcoming and caring. I highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Moorea.”
🥉3. Rangiroa: Snorkeling in an Endless Lagoon 🌊
The adventure begins the moment you board the comfortable boats of Rangiroa Excursion at the port of Avatoru. As you cruise toward your destination, the crew shares fascinating stories about Rangiroa’s history and the rich traditions of the Paumotu culture. As stunning island landscapes glide past, you’re already captivated—but the best is yet to come.
Upon arriving at the Blue Lagoon, you’re instantly taken by the water’s clarity—it’s a true invitation to dive in. Slip into this crystal-clear world and swim among brightly colored fish, graceful rays, and, for the more daring, blacktip reef sharks. Gliding alongside these incredible marine creatures in such a spectacular setting is a moment you’ll never forget. Time seems to stand still, and every second in the water feels like pure magic—an immersive plunge into Rangiroa’s wild beauty.
After about an hour and a half of exploring this aquatic paradise, you’ll be welcomed to enjoy a delicious traditional lunch, lovingly prepared right on the spot. Picture yourself with your feet in the warm sand, a local dish in front of you, gazing out at the shimmering sea. And to enrich the experience even further, a member of the crew will give a live demonstration of traditional coconut leaf weaving—a wonderful opportunity to witness an ancestral skill and connect with local culture.
The journey back offers one last surprise: a snorkeling session at the famous Avatoru Pass. Known for its incredible marine life, this site might reward you with close-up views of colorful fish, rays, and maybe even playful dolphins swimming nearby. Every moment beneath the surface is a window into a vibrant and mesmerizing underwater world.
This full-day boat trip to Rangiroa’s Blue Lagoon isn’t just an aquatic excursion—it’s a sensory journey, deeply connected to the nature, culture, and spirit of this unique place. If you’re looking for an authentic and unforgettable experience in French Polynesia, this one is a must. A perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion that will stay with you long after you’ve left.
✨ Why we love it:
🌊 A stunning lagoon experience – Diving into the crystal-clear waters of Rangiroa’s Blue Lagoon, surrounded by colorful fish and majestic rays, is nothing short of magical.
🐬 Unforgettable encounters – Spotting rays, dolphins, and even reef sharks adds just the right dose of thrill to this one-of-a-kind marine adventure.
🍽️ A delicious and authentic lunch – Savoring a traditional Polynesian meal with your feet in the sand and a view over the lagoon is a memory in the making.
🌴 Cultural immersion – The live weaving demonstration offers a glimpse into the authentic Paumotu heritage and makes the experience all the more meaningful.
🚤 A smooth and serene journey – With warm, welcoming guides and comfortable boats, this excursion is both relaxing and awe-inspiring—perfect for nature lovers and those simply seeking peace in paradise.
💬 Traveler Reviews
⭐ Julien M., France — 07/06/2024
An incredible day! The lagoon’s blue is unreal—we swam with tropical fish and even spotted some sharks. The crew was super professional and passionate. We left with stars in our eyes.
⭐ Clara B., Switzerland — 09/21/2023
It was simply magical. Swimming in the Blue Lagoon, lunch on the motu, the weaving demonstration… everything was perfect. Huge thanks to the crew for such a day full of discovery.
⭐ Antoine D., Belgium — 11/13/2023
The most memorable excursion of our trip to Polynesia! The scenery is breathtaking, the snorkeling was amazing, and the welcome on board was so warm. I recommend it 200%!
⭐ Nina K., Germany — 03/02/2025
You really feel privileged to discover such a pure and untouched place. The team taught us so much about Rangiroa, and the surrounding nature was just… wow. Like living a dream.
⭐ Léo R., Canada — 02/17/2024
An exceptional experience! Between swimming in the Blue Lagoon, enjoying a traditional meal, and snorkeling at Avatoru Pass, we were blown away. An absolute must-do if you’re visiting Rangiroa.
🏅4. Tikehau: Snorkeling in One of Polynesia’s Most Pristine Atolls
Step aboard a small, intimate boat and set off for a 4-hour escape between lagoon and open ocean. Guided by a passionate local deeply connected to his island, this journey is all about discovering Tikehau’s natural treasures—while learning about island life, marine ecosystems, and the importance of protecting them.
First stop: the manta ray cleaning station—an iconic site in Tikehau. Here, giant manta rays glide through the water in a mesmerizing underwater ballet. Swimming beside these gentle giants in their natural sanctuary is pure magic.
Next, a stop in a small village for a delightful homemade snack with a local host. The warm Polynesian welcome is authentic and heartfelt—offering a perfect break to connect, chat, and soak in the laid-back rhythm of Tuamotu life.
Then it’s time to head out into the open ocean in search of dolphins, often playful in this area. And if the weather permits, the highlight of the excursion awaits: drift snorkeling in the Tikehau pass. Let the natural current carry you through a living tapestry—leopard rays, Napoleon wrasses, barracudas, hammerhead sharks… an untamed underwater aquarium.
To end on a high note, you’ll enjoy one last swim in a vibrant coral garden, where tropical fish weave through multicolored coral formations in unbelievably clear turquoise waters.
✨ Why We Love It
Swimming just meters from majestic manta rays, spotting dolphins on the horizon, drifting through a living reef teeming with fish and color—this is the stuff dreams are made of. Each stop brings a new visual shock, every minute in the water another surge of wonder.
We also love the stop at the local home, where simple hospitality becomes a genuine and heartwarming moment. It’s these human touches that make the experience all the more meaningful.
In short, this is a well-rounded and unforgettable excursion, beautiful, biodiverse, adventurous, serene… The kind of once-in-a-lifetime moment you’ll carry with you forever.
💬 Traveler Reviews
⭐ Thomas V., Switzerland — 02/11/2024
An incredible trip! Seeing the manta rays so close was absolutely surreal. Shout-out to our guide Teva—passionate, caring, and incredibly knowledgeable.
⭐ Camille B., France — 09/24/2023
Drift snorkeling in the pass was something I’ll never forget. I saw more marine life in 10 minutes than in 10 years of travel.
⭐ Luca M., Italy — 12/03/2023
A perfect morning. Everything was well-organized, we felt completely safe, and the beauty of the sites is beyond words. Just go for it!
⭐ Mélanie D., French Polynesia — 01/15/2025
I live in Tahiti and thought I had seen it all… But Tikehau is on another level. Thank you for this amazing adventure.
🏅Taha’a and Raiatea: Culture, Discovery & Snorkeling in the Lagoon
The boat excursion across the lagoons of Taha’a and Raiatea offers a full day of discovery, blending local culture with underwater exploration. From the moment you depart from the port of Uturoa, you’ll be greeted by a passionate guide who will accompany you throughout the adventure.
Your first stop takes you to a pearl farm in Taha’a, where you’ll learn everything about the cultivation of black pearls—an iconic symbol of Polynesian culture. Your guide will walk you through the fascinating process of how these precious gems are nurtured and harvested.
Next, you’ll head to a vanilla plantation, set in a lush tropical setting. Discover the secrets of vanilla cultivation—from pollination to harvest—and sample some delicious, locally-made vanilla products.
After these cultural discoveries, it’s time for snorkeling in the coral garden of Tautau. Equipped with a mask, snorkel, and fins, you’ll plunge into the crystal-clear waters of the lagoon to swim alongside colorful tropical fish, stingrays, and blacktip reef sharks. Your guide will be right there to help you make the most of this underwater experience.
The tour includes a stop in a local village, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Polynesian meal and have the chance to chat with the locals, deepening your connection to the culture.
The adventure then continues with drift snorkeling in the pass of Taha’a, a site renowned for its vibrant marine life. You might spot leopard rays, barracudas, Napoleon wrasses, or even hammerhead sharks—a truly unforgettable encounter for ocean lovers.
To wrap up the day, one last stop gives you the chance to explore another coral garden before heading back to port. Depending on the season, you may be treated to a spectacular sunset over the lagoon—a magical and memorable way to end an extraordinary day.
✨ Why We Love It:
This excursion is a great opportunity to dive into Polynesian culture, with visits to a pearl farm and a vanilla plantation—especially perfect if you’re short on time.
The lagoon’s clear waters and incredible marine biodiversity make the snorkeling experience absolutely breathtaking. Swimming among stingrays, tropical fish, and blacktip reef sharks is something truly special.
Snorkeling in the Taha’a pass gives you a rare chance to spot marine wonders like leopard rays, barracudas, and hammerhead sharks—a dream for nature enthusiasts.
Ending the day with a sunset over the lagoon is the perfect final touch—a lasting memory of a day filled with discovery, nature, and awe.
💬 Traveler Reviews
⭐ Marie L., France — 02/09/2024
An absolutely magical day! Discovering Taha’a and Raiatea through this excursion was truly unforgettable. The snorkeling was amazing—we saw rays, blacktip reef sharks, and tropical fish—it was fascinating! The guide was super friendly and taught us so many interesting things about the islands. And the sunset over the lagoon… just wow! An experience not to be missed.
⭐ Lucas B., Canada — 18/08/2023
A perfect day—I highly recommend it! The visits to the pearl farm and vanilla plantation were so interesting, and the snorkeling in the lagoon was just incredible. We were lucky enough to see barracudas and rays—it was magical. The guide was very professional and took us to some stunning spots. A true mix of relaxation and adventure!
⭐ Elena R., Italy — 10/02/2025
If you’re looking for a unique experience, this excursion is for you! I loved the variety of activities—between cultural stops, snorkeling, and breathtaking scenery, there’s never a dull moment. Seeing hammerhead sharks in the Taha’a pass was one of the highlights of my trip to Polynesia. The sunset at the end of the day was just the cherry on top!
The excursions we’ve highlighted all share the same philosophy: authenticity, respect for the environment, and a deep connection to the ocean. They don’t just showcase the wonders of the lagoon — they tell their stories, honor them, and share them with heartfelt passion.
Whether you’re a first-time snorkeler or a seasoned explorer, these islands offer unforgettable playgrounds, each with its own character and hidden treasures. Choosing to dive into these waters means more than just taking a trip at sea — it’s stepping into a timeless moment, fully connected to the raw, vibrant beauty of the Pacific.
👉 Ready to plan your dream escape?
💦 Check out our complete guide to visiting French Polynesia — from whale season 🐋 to island hopping tips, ferry schedules, best months by travel style, and how to fly from LAX to Tahiti like a pro: 🛫
📅 Planning a romantic getaway in French Polynesia? Don’t miss our 🌺Top 10 Overwater Bungalows in Bora Bora & Moorea
💡 Not sure when to come? Discover the 🌴 Best Time to Visit French Polynesia
✈️ Flying from the US? Read our 🧳 Flight Time from Los Angeles to Tahiti – What to Know
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WELCOME !
👉 Here, we share our best travel experiences, insider tips, favorite spots, and authentic advice to explore French Polynesia with passion 💙 (Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, Huahine, the Marquesas, Tuamotu…)
