Plizio Visual Lab
Tetamanu Pass
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Landmark
Weather…
Water temperature…
Tetamanu Pass, located at the southern tip of Fakarava Atoll, is a world-class diving destination renowned for the "wall of sharks" where hundreds of gray reef sharks hover in the current. This remote passage holds significant historical value as the site of the atoll's former capital, featuring the Notre-Dame de l’Assomption church. Built in 1874 from coral limestone, it stands as the first church constructed in the Tuamotu Archipelago. The surrounding environment is characterized by pristine motus and unique pink sand beaches, colored by crushed coral and foraminifera. The pass is a critical ecological site, especially during the full moons of June and July, when thousands of camouflaged groupers gather for their annual spawning event, creating a spectacular display of marine life.
- Location: French Polynesia
- Nearby: Tetamanu (18 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 167 | 151 | 113 | 85 | 77 | 62 | 40 | 28 | 38 | 73 | 98 | 173 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Tetamanu Pass at the southern tip of Fakarava is a natural wonder best explored by boat. Crystal clear water and pink sand beaches invite snorkeling and diving.
Typical hours
The pass is accessible at any time, but the best visibility is in the morning when the sea is calm. Consider the tides - at low tide the current is stronger.
Photography
Underwater photography is a must here. The schools of fish and clear water offer fantastic subjects. An underwater camera or waterproof housing is highly recommended.
Time needed
A snorkeling or diving trip usually lasts 2-3 hours. Plan for half a day to also enjoy the beaches and surroundings.
Combine with
Combine the visit with a tour to the northern tip of Fakarava or to the nearby motus. An overnight stay at one of the island's pensions is also worthwhile.
Getting there
Fakarava is reached by inter-island flight from Tahiti. Boats to Tetamanu depart from the main village Rotoava. Book an organized tour or boat from local providers.
Insider tip
Go snorkeling early in the morning when the water is still calm and visibility is best. Bring your own snorkeling gear if you are sensitive to rental equipment.
Geography
Facts
- Tetamanu Pass is about 100 meters wide.
- Depth reaches up to 50 meters.
- Manta rays with a wingspan of 2 meters are common.
- Underwater visibility exceeds 30 meters.
- The pass is at the southern end of the atoll.
- Water temperature is 27 degrees Celsius.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Tetamanu Pass (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is Tetamanu suitable for snorkeling?
Yes, the lagoon is shallow and very colorful.
Why are there so many sharks?
It is a protected area where sharks feel safe.
How to get to Tetamanu?
Only by boat from Fakarava.
Can you stay there?
There are very simple guesthouses right by the pass.
Is it safe?
Yes for snorkeling, diving requires experience.
Tetamanu Pass: where is it located?
Tetamanu Pass is located in French Polynesia.
Tetamanu Pass: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Tetamanu Pass: why is it worth visiting?
Tetamanu Pass, located at the southern tip of Fakarava Atoll, is a world-class diving destination renowned for the "wall of sharks" where hundreds of gray reef sharks hover in the current.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Oceania
More places in French Polynesia →
Nearby cities
Faa'a
Faa'a is the most populous commune in French Polynesia, located directly west of the capital Papeete.
Papeete
Papeete is the capital of French Polynesia and the primary economic hub located on the island of Tahiti.
Puna'auia
Puna'auia is a major residential commune on the west coast of Tahiti, known for its university and beaches.
Pirae
Pirae is an urban commune east of Papeete that hosts major medical and administrative facilities.
Mahina
Mahina is a coastal commune in northern Tahiti, famous for the historical Point Venus and black sand beaches.
Paea
Paea is a commune on the west coast of Tahiti, rich in archaeological sites and coral reefs.
Papara
Papara is an extensive commune on the southern coast of Tahiti, known for its agriculture and wide beaches.
Arue
Arue is a commune in northeastern Tahiti that offers a mix of industrial areas and exclusive residential neighborhoods.
Toahotu
Toahotu is a commune at the entrance of the Tahiti Iti peninsula, known for its white sand beaches and coconut groves.
Taravao
Taravao is a strategically important town located on the isthmus connecting the two peninsulas of Tahiti.
Afaahiti
Afaahiti is a commune on the Tahiti Iti peninsula, bordering the important commercial center of Taravao.
Mataiea
Mataiea is a picturesque coastal commune on the southern shore of Tahiti, renowned for its lush botanical gardens and serene beaches.
Mataiea
Mataiea is a village in southern Tahiti known for its lush vegetation and historical links to Paul Gauguin.
Paopao
Paopao is a village located at the base of the majestic Cook's Bay on the island of Moorea.
Papeari
Papeari is a coastal village on Tahiti famous for its natural beauty and the Paul Gauguin Museum.
History & landmarks
Nature
More places
Papeete Town Hall
Papeete Town Hall is a magnificent colonial-style building that resembles the former palace of Queen Pomare.
Vaiare
Vaiare is the primary port of Moorea and the main gateway for travelers arriving by ferry from Tahiti.
Fakarava Pearl Farms
Fakarava is known for its ecological pearl farming.
Manihi Pearl Farms
Manihi is considered the birthplace of black pearl farming.