Slack Water
Fiji · South Pacific

Fiji

Soft coral in every colour, fed by currents in the channels.

At a glance

Best months
May to October for clear water
Water
24–30°C5 mm in the cooler months, 3 mm in summer
Visibility
15–40 m
Current
ModerateModerate in the passages, where the soft coral is best
Certification
Open WaterMinimum Open Water
How you dive
Land-based or liveaboard

When to go

May to October for clear water; November and April are shoulder months.

Overview

Fiji calls itself the soft coral capital of the world, and the claim holds up. Where currents run through the passages between reefs, soft corals cover the rock in pinks, purples and yellows. Fiji is also known for organised bull shark dives in Beqa Lagoon.

Most diving is from resorts on the main island or the outer islands, and liveaboards cover the more remote reefs. The reefs suit Open Water divers, while passages with stronger current are better for Advanced divers.

May to October is the dry season, with the clearest water and cooler temperatures. December to March is warmer and full of plankton, but brings cyclone risk and lower visibility, and some resorts close for maintenance.

Who it suits

Open Water friendly at most sites. Passages with current are better with Advanced certification.

What you'll see

Soft coralReef sharksBull shark dives (Beqa Lagoon)

Know the risks

  • Cyclone season December to March
  • Current in the passages

Sources

Last reviewed 2026-10. Where sources disagree we use the more conservative range.