Anau, Bora Bora: Reef Manta Ray Cleaning Station

The topography of Anau is characterized by a gently sloping reef structure located inside the eastern lagoon of Bora Bora. This site consists of several coral heads and reef terraces that descend from shallow coral formations at 5 metres down to a sandy bottom and deeper reef edges around 25 to 30 metres. You will find two primary reef structures that are separated by a narrow strip of sand. This sand strip provides a stable location where divers can settle on the bottom to watch the activity above without wasting air or struggling against movement.

The main draw of this site is its established role as a cleaning station for reef manta rays. These rays circle slowly above the coral bommies to allow smaller reef fish to remove parasites from their bodies. Because the interaction is predictable, it is a primary destination for those looking for close encounters with these large filter feeders. You do not have to travel to the outer reef or high-current passes to experience these animals in such a calm environment.

Visibility at Anau typically ranges between 10 and 25 metres. It is important to note that visibility can sometimes decrease due to the presence of plankton. This presence of organic matter is actually a functional part of the site, as the plankton provides the food source that attracts the mantas to this specific location. When the water is slightly more turbid, the concentration of life often increases, making the cleaning station more active.

The local fauna is centered around the interaction between the manta rays and their cleaner fish. You will frequently observe cleaner wrasse performing their roles during these sessions. In addition to the mantas, the reef is populated by various butterflyfish that move through the coral structures. The environment is calm and allows for a focused observation of these species in their natural behavior.

Accessing the site requires a boat trip from local dive centers, entering the water via a giant stride. The dive profile is relatively straightforward, moving from the shallow plateau down to the deeper reef terraces. Because the site is sheltered within the lagoon, you are largely protected from the heavy ocean swell found on the outer reefs. This makes the site a stable environment for observing the slow, rhythmic movement of the rays.

The currents at Anau are generally light and easy to manage. While the site is considered protected, you may encounter a flow of 1 to 2 knots that changes based on the tides and the lagoon's circulation. Unlike sites on the outer reef that face direct ocean surges, the water movement here is driven by tidal exchanges and prevailing winds. This makes for a much more controlled experience for both beginners and experienced divers.