Joanna James
Ask travellers who have been to the Maldives and they are bound to tell you that you haven’t really experienced this tropical paradise till you have gone snorkelling there! Of course, some atolls here are ideal for this activity, and these are five of the best.
The North and South Malé Atolls are snorkelling hotspots, with vibrant reefs easily accessible from the shore. The crystal-clear waters here are home to turtles, reef sharks, and plenty of tropical fish. One of the best places to explore is Banana Reef in the North Malé Atoll, named for its curved shape. Keep an eye out for bannerfish, black snappers, and even barracudas lurking in the blue. Oh, and don’t be surprised if you spot a familiar ‘face’… palette surgeonfish, which you may recognise as “Dory”, from Finding Nemo, love hanging out here!
Raa Atoll is a dream destination not only for scuba diving but snorkelling too. Since there’s much to discover, it’s best to stay here at resorts like Adaaran Prestige Water Villas, which offer these water sports; what’s more, such properties offer water villas in Maldives with direct access to the water below, perfect for an impromptu snorkelling session. Resorts in Raa Atoll also provide special snorkelling excursions where you can seek out sea turtles or even glide alongside majestic manta rays. For something truly unique, you can even try night snorkelling, where you will witness the marine world in a whole new light, quite literally!
Baa Atoll gives you a unique opportunity to snorkel in a protected UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The ultimate highlight here is undoubtedly Hanifaru Bay, a natural wonder that comes ‘alive’ between May and November each year. This is when hundreds of manta rays gather and gracefully glide through the water as they feast on plankton. If that’s not enough, you might even spot the ocean’s gentle giant, the whale shark, cruising by as well, adding to the site’s allure for snorkellers.
Ari Atoll is a snorkelling paradise where dramatic coral walls drop into the deep blue, while shallow lagoons offer perfect visibility for spotting all manner of marine life. Sea turtles, reef sharks, eagle rays, and colourful angelfish are just some of the creatures you will get to see here. This atoll is also home to Whale Shark Point, one of the best places in the Maldives to swim with whale sharks year-round. And if you visit during the right season, you might catch sight of manta rays gliding gracefully through the water as well.
Lhaviyani Atoll is where snorkelling dreams come true. From blacktip and whitetip reef sharks (don’t worry, they are totally harmless!) to eagle rays and sea turtles, there’s no shortage of marine life to marvel at. The coral formations here are stunning, providing a colourful backdrop for the many fish species that call these waters home. Keep your eyes peeled for lionfish, parrotfish, Picasso triggerfish, and even barracudas lurking in the shadows. Suffice it to say, it’s worth bringing an underwater camera or GoPro (some resorts offer the option to rent them) to capture the spellbinding scenery beneath the waves!
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.
