Shark Reef Marine Reserve – Beqa Lagoon and Pacific Harbour

Site Overview

Shark Reef Marine Reserve is arguably the most famous dive site in Fiji and one of the most renowned shark diving destinations on Earth. Located within Beqa Lagoon near Pacific Harbour on the southern coast of Viti Levu, this site has been the focus of a successful marine conservation initiative that has transformed what was once a depleted fishing ground into a thriving shark sanctuary. On any given dive, visitors can expect to encounter up to eight different shark species in a single session, including large bull sharks that approach within metres of kneeling divers, impressive tiger sharks that patrol the deeper sections, and sicklefin lemon sharks that cruise along the sandy bottom. Grey reef sharks, whitetip reef sharks, blacktip reef sharks, and tawny nurse sharks round out the regular cast, with scalloped hammerheads and oceanic whitetips making occasional appearances. The dive itself takes place on a reef slope where divers kneel in a semi-circle at approximately 15 to 20 metres while trained feeders conduct a controlled feeding session. The reserve also supports exceptional reef fish populations including large groupers, schooling jacks, and trevally that have become accustomed to the feeding activity. The no-fishing protections have allowed fish biomass to recover dramatically, making the site ecologically valuable beyond its tourism appeal. Shark Reef has been featured in countless documentaries, magazines, and films, drawing divers from around the world who seek the thrill of face-to-face encounters with some of the oceans most impressive predators in a safe, professionally managed environment.