Lagoonarium | Bora Bora

The Lagoonarium in Bora Bora is a popular, unique, and exciting marine sanctuary where visitors can interact with and observe the rich marine life of the island’s lagoon. Located just off the coast of Bora Bora, this natural aquarium offers visitors a chance to explore the underwater world in a safe and controlled environment, often through snorkeling and guided tours. Here's a detailed look at what the Lagoonarium offers:

What is the Lagoonarium?

The Lagoonarium is essentially a marine park and natural lagoon where local marine life, including tropical fish, rays, and sharks, thrive within a protected environment. It is an open-water marine sanctuary, and it has been specifically designed to give visitors an opportunity to get close to the island's marine ecosystem without disturbing it.

Located on a small islet off the Bora Bora mainland, the Lagoonarium is surrounded by the lagoon's clear waters and coral reefs, making it a prime location for underwater exploration.

Marine Life at the Lagoonarium

The Lagoonarium is home to a diverse range of marine species, both common and exotic to the region. Visitors can expect to see a variety of marine animals, including:

1. Tropical Fish

The Lagoonarium offers great snorkeling opportunities to observe a multitude of colorful fish species. Some commonly seen species include:

• Clownfish (often found among coral)
• Parrotfish
• Angelfish
• Butterflyfish
• Surgeonfish

These species are often seen in schools, creating a mesmerizing display of vibrant colors.

2. Stingrays

One of the most popular animals that visitors can interact with is the stingray. These gentle creatures glide through the shallow waters of the lagoon, and visitors often have the opportunity to feed and swim alongside them. The Lagoonarium offers a safe environment to interact with stingrays, ensuring both visitor and animal safety.

3. Blacktip Reef Sharks

The Lagoonarium is also home to the blacktip reef shark, a small and harmless species of shark. While the sharks are present in the lagoon, they are generally not a threat to humans. These sharks are often seen swimming gracefully through the waters, offering an exciting and educational experience for visitors. Guided tours help ensure safety when interacting with these creatures.

4. Sea Turtles

Occasionally, visitors may encounter sea turtles as they feed on the underwater plants or swim in the lagoon. These majestic creatures are a highlight for many visitors.

5. Moray Eels

The Lagoonarium is also home to a variety of moray eels, which can often be spotted hiding in the rocks or coral crevices. These fascinating creatures are usually shy but offer a glimpse into the diverse marine ecosystem of Bora Bora.

6. Coral Gardens

Beneath the surface, the Lagoonarium features beautiful coral gardens where visitors can snorkel to explore the incredible biodiversity of the reef. The coral formations are vibrant and provide shelter to many marine species, creating an underwater paradise.

Activities and Experiences at the Lagoonarium

1. Snorkeling

The Lagoonarium is primarily known for its snorkeling experiences, where visitors can swim in the lagoon and interact with a variety of marine species. The shallow waters around the islet make it easy for snorkelers of all levels to enjoy the experience. Tours often include safety equipment such as snorkels, masks, and fins.

2. Shark and Stingray Feeding

An exciting highlight of visiting the Lagoonarium is the feeding experience. Visitors can watch local guides feed the stingrays and blacktip reef sharks, which are drawn to the area for the daily feedings. Some tours even allow visitors to participate in the feeding process (under the guidance of the staff), giving them the opportunity to come face-to-face with these incredible creatures.

3. Guided Tours

Many Lagoonarium tours are led by local guides, who provide detailed explanations about the marine ecosystem, the species that inhabit the lagoon, and the importance of conservation. These tours are a great way to learn about the local wildlife and the environment while ensuring that visitors follow best practices for interacting with marine life in a responsible and sustainable manner.

4. Glass-Bottom Boat Tours

For those who prefer to stay dry but still want to experience the marine life, many Lagoonarium operators offer glass-bottom boat tours. These boats have glass panels in the floor, allowing passengers to observe the vibrant underwater world without getting wet. It's a great way to view the reef and fish from above.

5. Private Experiences

For those looking for a more intimate experience, some tour operators offer private snorkeling tours or private boat tours to the Lagoonarium. These private experiences allow for personalized attention, and visitors may have the chance to interact with marine life in a quieter, less crowded setting.

Conservation Efforts

The Lagoonarium is part of ongoing efforts to promote marine conservation and educate visitors about the fragile ecosystem of Bora Bora's lagoon. By providing a safe and controlled environment for marine life, the Lagoonarium helps protect the local species and ensures that the coral reefs are not damaged by overfishing or unsustainable practices. Visitors are encouraged to respect the marine life and their habitats, and the guides often share information about how to reduce environmental impact and promote conservation.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Lagoonarium is during the dry season (from May to October), when the weather is sunny and the waters are calm, providing excellent snorkeling conditions. However, the Lagoonarium is open year-round, and it is still possible to visit during the wet season (from November to April), though some rain showers may occur.

How to Reach the Lagoonarium

The Lagoonarium is located on a small islet just off the main island of Bora Bora, and it is accessible by boat. Many hotels and resorts on the island offer organized tours to the Lagoonarium, which include boat transportation to the islet. You can also arrange tours directly through local operators or as part of a guided lagoon tour.

Why Visit the Lagoonarium?

The Lagoonarium is an exceptional way to experience the vibrant marine life of Bora Bora's lagoon in a safe, interactive environment. Whether you’re snorkeling with rays and sharks, exploring the coral gardens, or simply enjoying the clear waters, the Lagoonarium offers an unforgettable adventure for all ages. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the natural wonders of Bora Bora up close and learn more about the incredible marine ecosystem that inhabits the island's lagoon.