Sand River

Sand River is a dive site in the Cook Islands featuring a distinctive band of sand that slopes progressively downward to a steep drop-off, with coral nooks and crannies running along either side. The bottom is sand, and the depth range runs from 14 m to beyond 30 m, with technical deep dives possible beyond 50 m; the site is suitable for all certified divers, with technical options for those qualified.

The terrain creates an unusual sensation: swimming across the river above the sand at depth produces a strong feeling of weightlessness. Along the drop-off, caves shelter sharks, while the coral edges on each side offer plenty to explore. Napoleon Wrasse are sometimes encountered here, and in the right season large schools of bluefin trevally can be seen actively hunting juvenile surgeon fish on the reef.

Entry is from a mooring, and the same mooring point serves the adjacent site known as The Gap. The swim out crosses open water above depth, which is worth bearing in mind; less experienced divers who are not comfortable with that exposure may prefer The Gap instead.