

Best for beginner divers, 3-16m, shore entry, mild current.
Blackrock is a shore-entry reef and cave site located on the western coast of Rarotonga. Divers explore depths ranging from 3 to 16 metres, with visibility typically between 16 and 40 metres. The site features a cave system alongside the reef, suitable for beginners. Water temperatures remain between 25 and 28 degrees Celsius. While currents are generally mild, divers must navigate a shore break and potential surge during entry. Marine life recorded here includes Giant Moray, wrasses, Pennant Bannerfish, Vagabond Butterflyfish, Palenose Parrotfish, Fourspot Butterflyfish, Pacific Orange-spine Unicornfish, Elongate Clam, Moorish Idol, Freckled Hawkfish, Rock Cod, Lagoon Triggerfish, Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse, and Speckled Butterflyfish. Night diving is also available.
-21.20460, -159.82480
The shore break at entry is the main challenge, so watch a few sets before committing and choose a calm moment to get in and out. Check locally for current conditions on the day, as swell can make the entry significantly more demanding than the dive itself.
Access info coming soon
Recorded at this site
Depth
3-16m
Visibility
16-40m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
25-28°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
45 min
Divers can encounter Giant Moray, various wrasses, Pennant Bannerfish, Vagabond Butterflyfish, Palenose Parrotfish, Fourspot Butterflyfish, Pacific Orange-spine Unicornfish, Elongate Clam, Moorish Idol, Freckled Hawkfish, Rock Cod, Lagoon Triggerfish, Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse, and Speckled Butterflyfish.
Yes, the site is suitable for beginners, though the shore break at entry requires careful timing and observation of the swell.
The site ranges from 3 to 16 metres in depth, with an average depth of 12 metres.
Blackrock is a shore-entry site. The shore break is the main challenge, so it is recommended to watch the sets before entering.
While the site is primarily a dive location with reef and cave features, the shallow depths of the reef area allow for snorkelling, provided conditions are calm.
Hazards include sharks, sharp coral, strong currents, surf, and surge. Rip currents can occur near the reef, and divers should remain close to their guide or vessel.
Diving at Blackrock in Rarotonga requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Blackrock in Rarotonga. Water temperatures range from 25°C to 28°C.
Blackrock in Rarotonga typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Blackrock in Rarotonga typically ranges from 16 metres to 40 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.