Talofofo Bay – Facpi Point & Southern Bays

12m Max

8-20m Vis

shore

Site Overview

Talofofo Bay is a calm, shallow bay on Guam's east coast that is rarely dived due to periodic river runoff but offers rewarding macro diving and training opportunities when conditions are clear. The bay features a mix of sandy bottom, scattered coral patches, and muddy substrate that supports a unique community of benthic organisms adapted to the brackish water environment where the river meets the ocean. Goby and shrimp partnerships are abundant on the sandy patches, providing fascinating behavioural observations for patient macro photographers. Flatfish camouflage perfectly against the muddy bottom, while seahorses can occasionally be found clinging to the sparse coral and seagrass. The bay is protected from ocean swells by its enclosed geography, creating calm conditions ideal for Open Water training dives when visibility permits. The site rewards adventurous divers who are willing to explore beyond the typical Guam dive sites and appreciate the unique ecology of estuarine environments. The best conditions occur during extended dry periods when river flow is minimal and the water clears to reveal the diverse benthic community living beneath the surface. The estuarine environment where fresh and saltwater mix creates unique ecological conditions that support species not commonly found on the coral-dominated reef systems elsewhere on Guam. Marine biologists consider these transitional habitats important for understanding how coastal ecosystems function and respond to environmental changes over time.

Dive Briefing

"Enter from the shore access point and descend to the sandy bottom at approximately 4 to 8 metres. Visibility will depend on recent rainfall, with the best conditions occurring during extended dry periods. Work your way across the sandy and muddy substrate, scanning carefully for camouflaged flatfish, goby-shrimp partnerships, and occasional seahorses. The coral patches, though scattered, support a surprising diversity of small reef fish and invertebrates. Move slowly and use careful finning technique to avoid stirring the silty bottom. The shallow depth allows for extended bottom times of 50 minutes or more. Focus on the transition zones between the sandy areas and coral patches where species diversity is highest. Exit via the same shore entry point, being careful of any surge near the river mouth. Check water clarity from the surface before committing to the dive, as conditions can change rapidly after rain. The river mouth area where fresh water mixes with the ocean creates a unique brackish environment that supports specialized species adapted to variable salinity conditions not found at other dive sites around the island."