Maldives Resorts

Where’s the best resort-based diving in the Maldives?

With almost 1,200 tropical islands surrounded by coral reefs, and a choice of superb resorts, there are few destinations in the world with a better choice than the Maldives.

Those who are on a tighter budget or are looking for a shorter stay may be best suited to resorts in the North and South Malé Atolls. The classic islands for diving in the Maldives, resorts in this area can be easily reached by speedboat, but their ease of access does not mean lesser diving experiences. Dive sites such as Banana Reef and Helengeli Thila are justifiably some of the famous in the archipelago, while numerous manta cleaning stations add to the experience.

The South Ari Atoll is another famed diving region in the Maldives, and one of the most popular with eager Regaldivers. There are some truly superb dive sites here. Broken Rock and Kudarah Thila are not to be missed, both offering dazzling coral coverage and astonishing fish life. A key draw of this area, however, is the consistent sightings of both manta rays and whale sharks throughout the year; who would not be happy with two ticks on their bucket list on the same diving holiday?

The Baa & Raa Atolls to the north-west are another popular region of the Maldives for resort-based diving holidays. A beautiful area at any time of year, both manta ray and whale shark gather here in larger numbers between June and September each year. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hanifaru Bay is also in the area, offering opportunities to snorkel with huge numbers of manta rays in season.

Filitheyo Island is another enviable location for divers in the know, with a sole resort and some incredible dive sites to explore.

What to see when

The Maldives is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity, making it a world-class destination for diving enthusiasts. While staying in a resort, you have the opportunity to encounter a wide array of marine life that inhabits the vibrant coral reefs and crystal-clear waters surrounding the atolls.

Between December and April, divers can expect to see an abundance of manta ray and whale shark, especially on the western sides of the atolls. These gentle giants are often found gliding gracefully through the water, feeding on plankton or being cleaned. The excellent visibility during this period enhances the experience, allowing divers to witness these magnificent creatures in all their splendour.

In addition to manta ray and whale shark, divers might also encounter various species of reef shark, including blacktip, whitetip, and grey reef sharks, all of which are commonly seen patrolling the reefs.

Cooler water temperatures between May and November can attract different species of marine life closer to the surface, including some shark species that often frequent deeper waters if you are lucky.

Around Baa and Raa atolls, large numbers of manta rays and whale sharks can ben seen between June and September, and are even sometimes seen on house reefs!

No matter the season, the Maldives' reefs are home to a myriad of other wonderful creatures. Divers and snorkellers can explore vibrant coral gardens inhabited by an array of smaller species such as moray eel, octopus, and various crustaceans. Green and hawksbill turtles are frequently seen grazing on the reefs or swimming gracefully through the lagoons, while Maldivian waters also hosts a variety of rays, such including elegant eagle rays.