The Maldives is more than just overwater villas and white-sand beaches — it’s a living underwater paradise. With crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life, the Maldives offers some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving experiences in the world.
Whether you’re a first-time snorkeler or a certified diver chasing whale sharks, here’s your guide to the top underwater spots in the Maldives you shouldn’t miss.
1. Banana Reef (North Malé Atoll)
One of the first dive sites discovered in the Maldives, Banana Reef is perfect for both beginners and seasoned divers.
- Highlights: Colourful coral formations, reef sharks, and schools of bannerfish
- Depth: 5–30 meters
- Ideal for: Diving & snorkelling
Easily accessible from Malé — great for short stays or day trips.
2. Maaya Thila (Ari Atoll)
A diver’s favorite, Maaya Thila is famous for night dives and sightings of white-tip reef sharks.
- Highlights: Overhangs, soft corals, turtles, barracudas
- Depth: 6–30 meters
- Ideal for: Scuba diving (especially at night)
Night diving here is like floating through a glowing aquarium.
3. Manta Point (Lankanfinolhu Island, North Malé Atoll)
True to its name, this site is a manta ray cleaning station, especially active from May to November.
- Highlights: Majestic manta rays circling above coral blocks
- Depth: 10–25 meters
- Ideal for: Scuba diving & snorkelers with guides
Go early morning for a quiet, magical encounter.
4. Dhigurah & Maamigili (South Ari Atoll)
This is whale shark central! South Ari is the best place to snorkel or dive with these gentle giants year-round.
- Highlights: Whale sharks, turtles, vibrant reef fish
- Depth: 5–30 meters
- Ideal for: Snorkelling & diving
Bring your underwater camera — it’s bucket list material.
5. The Shipyard (Lhaviyani Atoll)
For wreck diving enthusiasts, this site features two sunken ships, both partially visible above the surface.
- Highlights: Rusting hulls, corals reclaiming steel, and schools of snappers
- Depth: 6–30 meters
- Ideal for: Advanced divers
Diving through history with a touch of marine magic.
6. Fotteyo Kandu (Vaavu Atoll)
Often called one of the most colourful dive sites in the Maldives, Fotteyo Kandu is a drift dive packed with big pelagic sightings.
- Highlights: Grey reef sharks, eagle rays, vibrant coral canyons
- Depth: 20–40 meters
- Ideal for: Experienced divers
Strong currents = thrilling drift dives.
7. Coral Gardens (Various Atolls)
For snorkelers seeking gentle waters and rich biodiversity, coral gardens across the Maldives offer easy access from resort beaches or sandbanks.
- Highlights: Butterflyfish, parrotfish, clownfish, coral blooms
- Depth: 1–5 meters
- Ideal for: Beginners, families, relaxed snorkelers
Perfect for a lazy afternoon underwater.
8. Hanifaru Bay (Baa Atoll, UNESCO Biosphere Reserve)
A seasonal wonder, Hanifaru Bay is famous for massive manta ray feeding frenzies (June–November).
- Highlights: Up to 200 mantas swirling in plankton-rich waters
- Depth: 5–15 meters (snorkelling only)
- Ideal for: Snorkelers only (no diving allowed)
One of the world’s most spectacular underwater shows — no tank required.
9. Kuda Giri Wreck (South Malé Atoll)
A photogenic shipwreck surrounded by colourful coral growth and macro life — ideal for new divers.
- Highlights: The sunken ship, glassfish, nudibranchs
- Depth: 18–30 meters
- Ideal for: Beginner to intermediate divers
A hidden gem with a calm vibe and great visibility.
Best Time to Dive & Snorkel in the Maldives
- November to April: Best visibility and calm seas (dry season)
- May to October: Great for mantas and whale sharks, but occasional rain
Marine life is vibrant year-round — just pick your season based on what you want to see.
Final Thoughts: Dive into Another World
The Maldives is a marine paradise, offering something for every underwater explorer. Whether you’re chasing whale sharks, drifting over coral gardens, or exploring forgotten wrecks, each dive is a story waiting to be told beneath the surface.
So grab your fins, gear up, and dive into the magic of the Maldives — where the real treasures lie underwater.
