Joanna James
There are a number of outstanding snorkelling spots in the Maldives such as Banana Reef, HP Reef, Lankanfinolhu Manta Point, Hanifaru Bay, Coral Garden Dhigurah and more; these sites will be entrancing for visitors seeking to experience the underwater wonders of this nation.
An outstanding location at which to start your snorkelling adventures in these islands is the renowned Banana Reef. The name of this well-known attraction is derived from its distinctive banana-like shape. At this entrancing reef, you will encounter a myriad of marine creatures including corals, palette surgeonfish, rays, bannerfish, sharks, black snappers, giant squirrelfish, barracudas, soldierfish, oriental sweetlips and more. This site is also known for its splendid visibility and comfortable water temperatures that make snorkelling and diving here a pleasure.
Another fine locality for avid snorkelers is the alluring HP Reef which provides a marvellous environment for those who take the opportunity to experience its underwater treasures. Interestingly, in the local tongue, this site is known as ‘Girifushi Thila’. As you snorkel here, you may spot absorbing aquatic life such as modestly sized reef fish in addition to larger ocean denizens like grey reef sharks, tuna, barracudas and eagle rays. Another eye-catching attraction at this spot is the vividly coloured soft corals that add to the allure of the marine wonders.
If you seek an adventurous, enthralling snorkelling experience Lankanfinolhu Manta Point will be a superb choice. As its name indicates, one of the highlights of this site is the huge yet generally docile manta rays that could be found here. However, to have close encounters with these amazing creatures, it is usually necessary to act calmly without disturbing them. This reef which is called ‘Emas Thila’ in the local language also boasts other kinds of ocean life.
A not-to-be-missed attraction for snorkelers is the remarkable Hanifaru Bay which is situated within the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll. This noteworthy attraction is famed for its incredibly varied ecosystem which you could experience during your visit. Hanifaru Bay is particularly renowned for its manta rays which can often be seen at this site from July to October. Additionally, you may encounter huge but gentle whale sharks in the course of your excursion. A Maldives 5 star resort in the Baa Atoll to consider staying at and from which you could easily visit Hanifaru Bay is Amilla Maldives.
The entrancing Coral Garden which you would find in the environs of the inhabited island of Dhigurah may be regarded as another excellent choice for the snorkelling enthusiast. This site boasts a marvellous undersea ecosystem featuring flourishing coral formations as well as other kinds of ocean life. As you make your way through the shimmering waters to be found here, you could encounter vibrantly coloured fish, sea turtles and manta rays.
Your exploration of snorkelling sites in Maldives wouldn’t be complete without experiencing Rasdhoo, which is widely regarded as an outstanding locality for this activity. In the environs of this island, you will encounter an expansive house reef featuring many kinds of sea denizens such as white and black tip reef sharks as well as different kinds of fish and sea turtles. In fact, both novice snorkelers as well as proficient enthusiasts could enjoy a satisfying experience here.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
