If you had the power to create your own islands, sea, and country designed specifically for diving, it may well look a lot like the Maldives. With over 1000 coral islands sitting in the temperate and nutrient-rich Indian Ocean, the dive sites in the Maldives are truly paradise.
By its geography and geology, the Maldives support a wide range of marine life. From tuna to turtles, rays to wrasse, you’ll find it here. Mix this with the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean, and you have one of the best diving spots on the planet.
We take a look at some of the best dive sites in the Maldives
Kuredu Island, Lhaviyani Atoll – Besides being considered one of the most popular resorts in the Maldives, Kuredu has some unmissable spots for diving. The island is surrounded by a coral reef home to manta rays, reef sharks, and turtles – to name a few of its inhabitants.
Hurawalhi, Lhaviyani Atoll – This couples-only retreat features the world’s largest underwater restaurant made completely from glass. This serious investment from hotel owners only goes to show how much they value the waters that surround the island. Scuba diving on Hurawalhi is truly an experience. Whether you’re diving the house reef to spot sweetlips and snappers or taking advantage of the regular excursions, you’re guaranteed one of the best dives of your life.
Fotteyo Kandu, Vaavu Atoll – Fotteyo Kandu absolutely had to make our top 5 list. With its dramatic overhangs, swim-throughs, and caves, this is a remarkable dive place. The channel is also home to a myriad of sea life. One would expect the usual Maldivian marine residents such as manta rays and coral groupers, but lucky divers will often glimpse a school or two of hammerhead sharks.
Dhigurah Island, Ari Atoll – Home to one of the longest beaches in the Maldives, Dhigaurah Island has become a diving hotspot. Set at the most southerly tip of the Ari Atoll, the waters surrounding this island are perfect for the elusive whale shark. In fact, over 200 whale shark sightings are reported off this coast each year. In addition to the majestic whale sharks that call the area home, you may also be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the beautiful sailfish.
Filitheyo Island, Faafu Atoll – Filitheyo, based in the Faafu Atoll, features a beautiful channel running between coral islands right at its front door. Just off the coast of Filitheyo, divers will find the Km Agro Mina Wreck, a wreck that was intentionally sunk as an artificial reef to promote coral growth. A myriad of marine life now inhabits this wreck, and divers will welcome the easy penetration of this wreck.
Hanifaru Bay, Baa Atoll – Located on the southeastern side of Baa Atoll, Hanifaru Bay is a marvel for divers seeking the spectacle of manta rays in their natural habitat. Overlooking a deep-water channel that separates it from neighboring Dharavandoo, Hanifaru Bay’s reef boasts a keyhole-like shape that acts as a giant funnel for plankton. This unique geographic feature creates the perfect conditions for a filter-feeding frenzy, attracting huge numbers of manta rays. Divers can witness the incredible sight of mantas barrel-rolling through dense plankton patches and forming spiraling ‘cyclones’ as they feed in formation. This extraordinary behavior makes Hanifaru Bay a standout among the best dive sites in the Maldives.
There you have it—our top picks. The reality is that the Maldives is a terrific spot for diving across the entire country. There are many great reefs, islands, and channels to dive in. These are just our favorites so far, solidifying their reputation as one of the best dive sites in the Maldives.
Ready to explore the wonders of the Maldives deeper? Visit the PADI Dive Shop Locator to discover more of the best dive sites in the Maldives. Don’t miss out on the adventure of a lifetime!
