The coral reefs of Ha'apai are undoubtedly some of the most beautiful in the South Pacific. They are particularly notable for their excellent health, hard coral cover and highly varied topography. The geographical isolation of Ha'apai has helped to keep these reefs in simply beautiful condition. Fringing reef systems, sea mounts, pinnacles, channels, walls and drop offs, each of which is further supplemented by features such as swim-throughs, caves, overhangs and tunnels, offering interesting and memorable experiences for the diver and snorkeller alike. Myriad vibrant tropical fish make their home here with all the major families represented including several species of sharks and rays, moray eels, tuna, barracuda, trevally, groupers, angelfish, butterflyfish, surgeonfish, puffers, boxfish and triggers. Apart from the fish there are turtles, sea snakes and dolphins.
From the massive to the miniature Ha'apai boasts an array of invertebrate macro life with critters including flamboyant nudibranchs, coral crabs and delicate shrimps on every dive. Water temperatures range from 21 to 27 degrees between winter and summer and the visibility rarely drops below a lucid twenty meters. With its secluded nature, varied dive sites and abundant marine life, Ha'apai is one diving destination you really should not miss.
From July to November you may be lucky enough to encounter all fifteen meters of a Humpback whale gliding past in the blue - a truly unforgettable moment. Whale watching from the boat and snorkeling with the Humpbacks is also possible in these months.
Ha'apai boast numerous fantastic white sandy beaches with excellent swimming, snorekeling and even kite surfing spots (own board and equipment required). The volcanic islands of Kao and Tofua (still active) are popular destinations to visit, although getting there is not always easy due to distance and weather conditions that need to be perfect for landing. But there are plenty of other other islands that can be reached easily from the main island of Lifuka, which itself offers beautiful diving, snorkeling, beaches and a few historic sites that can be visited.
By Fins 'n' Flukes
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