12 Islands With The Clearest Water In The Pacific
The Pacific Ocean has some of the clearest waters on our planet; the sea sparkles like liquid glass and visibility feels infinite. These clean beaches are not just greeting cards come to life, they are great for snorkeling, diving, and enjoying the sun, sand, and sea. If you’re searching for sunken treasures or want to have a relaxing vacation, these islands will provide a view of the untouched beauty of the Pacific Ocean.
From the turquoise waters of Bora Bora to the lesser-known beauties of Palau, let’s travel through the 12 islands with the clearest waters you can imagine.
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Bora Bora is the traveler’s paradise with water that seems to have been borrowed from fairy tales. The water in the lagoon is crystal clear and blue-green, and one can easily see the rays, sharks, and multicolored fishes. Small overwater villas are built on the water, providing a perfect view of this water world. Bora Bora is famous for being an ideal location for a honeymoon, but its splendor attracts all lovers of the sea.
Palawan, Philippines
Often referred to as one of the best islands globally, Palawan provides turquoise waters with stunning sharp rock formations. Sites like El Nido and Coron are quite popular, with clear waters and even lagoons with visible coral gardens. If you want to paddle through small and secluded bays or swim as much as you like, Palawan is a piece of paradise.
Aitutaki, Cook Islands
The Lagoon of Aitutaki is a picture of calm and beautiful water of blue-green color. The water is so clean you feel like you’re suspended in mid-air. This small island is part of the Cook Islands and the atmosphere here helps you disconnect from the earth and relax. End your days swimming, paddleboarding, or enjoying the scenic views of this gem.
Palau, Micronesia
Palau is a divers’ paradise full of the famous Rock Islands and the Jellyfish Lake. The water in its surroundings is some of the most crystal-clear in the Pacific which makes snorkeling and diving incredible. Here you can find the most diverse marine life, including coral reefs, and WWII shipwrecks to make your diving experience unique.
Fiji
Fiji’s islands are well known for their glorious pristine beauty and its waters are no exception. This is perhaps true, especially with the Yasawa and Mamanuca Islands which are reputed to have waters that are as clear as gin and stunning corals. If you’re a diver or just chilling on the beach, there’s so much to do in Fiji’s beautiful crystal clear waters.
Moorea, French Polynesia
Moorea is just a short ferry ride from Tahiti and its water clarity is as good as Bora Bora’s, even though it might not be as popular as the latter. There are coral reefs and marine life mere steps from shore and the island’s lagoon is ideal for swimming. Its amazing view, including lush green mountains, makes Moorea a breathtaking view above and below the water.
Rangiroa, French Polynesia
Rangiroa is a dive paradise, known for its massive atoll (ring-shaped coral reef) that encloses a lagoon of striking clarity. Here, you can swim with dolphins, sting rays, and even sharks. It’s a favorite spot for underwater photographers and anyone who is interested in the sea.
Easter Island (Rapa Nui), Chile
Although Easter Island is known for the strange statues called moai, it is home to some of the most beautiful waters of the Pacific Ocean. Due to its location, the island has a very clean underwater scenery, and divers can explore the underwater caves, coral gardens, and even sunken statues.
Vanuatu
Vanuatu’s islands are a cultural and natural wonder, with waters so clear you almost feel they’re unreal. This Island is a spotlight, with well-known Champagne Beach and Blue Hole, where freshwater springs converge with the sea in a magnificent show of color and transparency.
Tahiti, French Polynesia
Tahiti’s waters contain marine life and coral reefs which are a jewel. Its lagoons and beaches have their own charm, although it is the gateway to other French Polynesian islands. Snorkeling in the Lagoonarium should not be missed; the water is so clear you’ll feel like part of the underwater world.
Niue
Niue, one of the smallest countries in the world, punches far above its weight when it comes to water clarity. The island is also called “The Rock of Polynesia” and its waters are so transparent you can see dolphins swimming by from shore. Its underwater caves and coral reefs make it a snorkeler and divers paradise.
Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia
The Marquesas Islands are less traveled than other French Polynesian islands but they have beautiful waters. Offering a more rugged, less-polished kind of beauty, this island has dramatic volcanic landscapes and untouched coral reefs. Fishes, rays, and turtles can be spotted due to its clear waters.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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