Tairapa Pass, also known as Turipaoa Pass, is the only pass in Manihi and provides a drift snorkel experience. Snorkellers enter on the ocean side during an incoming tide, allowing the current to carry them through the channel and into the lagoon. The topography consists of a reef and wall structure with coral formations. Depths range from 10 to 30 metres, with an average of 18 metres. Due to strong currents, this site is suitable for advanced snorkellers. Boat access is required to reach the site. Visibility varies between 10 and 40 metres, and water temperatures range from 27 to 29 degrees Celsius throughout the year.

The Roses is an outer reef site in Manihi, French Polynesia, distinguished by large Montipora coral formations that resemble rose petals. The site offers depths ranging from 1m to 42m, with an average depth of 2m. Access is by boat, as the site is located 1000m from the shore. Conditions vary, with visibility typically between 30m and 70m and water temperatures ranging from 27C to 29C. Due to the presence of moderate to strong currents, this site is suited for advanced divers. Snorkellers can access the upper sections of the reef on calm days.

The Circus is a reef drift dive site located in Manihi, French Polynesia. Accessible only by boat, the site features depths ranging from 14 to 25 metres, with an average depth of 18 metres. Divers can expect moderate currents throughout the dive. Visibility at this location typically fluctuates between 10 and 30 metres. Given the drift conditions and depth profile, this site is best suited for intermediate divers. Water temperatures remain consistent, ranging from 27C to 29C throughout the year.

Tairapa Pass is a drift dive site located 500 metres from the shore of Manihi. Divers typically explore depths between 10 and 30 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres. The site requires boat access and is suited for intermediate divers due to moderate currents and the presence of sharks. Visibility varies significantly, ranging from 5 to 40 metres. Water temperatures remain warm throughout the year, between 27C and 29C. Species recorded around this area include Napoleon Wrasse, Giant Moray, Titan Triggerfish, Whitetip Reef Shark, and various butterflyfish and wrasses. A typical dive lasts 60 minutes.

The Drop Off in Manihi is a vertical wall site accessible only by boat. The topography features a significant drop-off with depths ranging from 14 to 55 metres. Divers and snorkellers can expect mild currents and visibility between 10 and 30 metres. Water temperatures remain consistent throughout the year, typically between 27 and 29 degrees Celsius. The site is suitable for intermediate divers and supports night diving. Species recorded around this area include Napoleon Wrasse, Giant Moray, Titan Triggerfish, Whitetip Reef Shark, and various butterflyfish and wrasses. Local facilities include dive shops, equipment rental, and boat charters.

The Break is located on the edge of the Manihi Atoll reef system, featuring a drop-off that descends beyond 25 metres. Divers typically experience visibility ranging from 10 to 30 metres. While conditions are generally mild, currents can strengthen, requiring intermediate skill levels and close proximity to guides. Boat access is required for this site, which also supports night diving. Water temperatures remain between 27 and 29 degrees Celsius throughout the year. Species recorded around this area include Napoleon Wrasse, Whitetip Reef Sharks, Titan Triggerfish, and various butterflyfish and wrasses. Divers should remain aware of potential strong currents and boat traffic during surface intervals.

Manihi Coral Garden is a shallow reef site located in the lagoon near the airport motu. Situated approximately 100 metres from shore, this area features numerous coral bommies that provide a calm environment for beginners. The site is accessible by both shore and boat, with depths ranging from 1 to 10 metres and an average depth of 5 metres. Conditions are generally mild, with visibility typically between 10 and 30 metres. Water temperatures remain consistent throughout the year, ranging from 27C to 29C. Snorkellers should be aware of sharp coral present throughout the site.

Kamoka Pearl Farm in Manihi offers a unique opportunity to explore the submerged lines of a working pearl farm. The site features artificial structures that attract a high density of fish and provide a habitat for black-lipped oysters. Diving and snorkelling here take place at depths ranging from 2 to 7 metres, with an average depth of 4 metres. Access is by boat, and the site is suitable for beginners. Conditions include mild currents and visibility between 5 and 20 metres. Water temperatures remain warm throughout the year, typically between 27 and 29 degrees Celsius. Divers should be aware of boat traffic, entanglement risks, sharp coral, and triggerfish.