Listly by Alex Untola
Maldives is the world's premier diving locations thanks to its abundant underwater life and pristine waters. There are many spots to catch a glimpse of the thriving marine ecosystem in the islands.
Ari Atoll is a natural atoll located in the western Maldivian archipelago which is made up of over 100 islands spread among crystal clear waters. This is a beautiful location to witness the fascinating undersea life in Maldives. The many resorts Maldives such as the Niyama Maldives, allow visitors to hire a boat or to dive into the ocean through the beach. The Ari Atoll is close to a few great tourist resorts and makes a perfect diving spot.
Laamu Atoll is a truly pristine site for diving. The beautiful coral reefs and the clear waters are one of the favorites for many liveaboard tours offered by leading resorts as well as independent services providers. Also referred to as Hadhdhunmathee Atoll, Laamu is famed for its exquisite underwater topography.
Also referred to as North Maalhosmadulu and South Maalhosmadulu, the Baa and Raa Atolls are found in the North Western portion of the Maldives. This location is famous for being the place to find huge congregations of whale sharks and manta rays who come there to feed in the Hanifaru Lagoon.
At Faafu and Dhaalu Atolls, there are plenty of opportunities to channel dive and to catch a glimpse of quite a few whale sharks as well as manta rays. This is one of the emerging diving hotspots in the Maldives and has received the admiring attention of many of its travellers. The Faafu and Dhaalu Atolls are locally referred to as the North and South Nilandhe.
Gaafu Atoll is another popular diving spot in the Maldives and is famous for being the second largest Atoll in the country. The Gaafu has caves and excitingly steep drops along with untouched reefs for curious travellers to explore and enjoy. The Gaafu Atoll is locally referred to as the Huvadhoo Atoll and is located in the Southern portion of the Maldivian Islands.
Also known as the Faadhippolhu Atoll, Lhaviyani Atoll is a beautiful diving location with quite a few gorgeous resort islands scattered about. The Lhaviyani Atoll is a place to enjoy extraordinary underwater scenery that includes not only the natural marvels of the island but also a few shipwrecks.
Male is the main island in Maldives and located on the Eastern portion of the Maldives Archipelago. With a massive selection of resorts, Male is one of the most popular diving spots and water sports locations in the country. The Male Atoll is a true delight in the eyes of a diver with its extraordinarily clear waters and stunning coral reef scenery. There are several easily accessible dive sites in the Male Atoll and is one of the best choices for divers of all shapes and sizes. With the vibrantly colored coral reefs, steep drops and spectacular sea creatures the Male Atoll is an exciting diving destination with much to offer its travellers. If you are a fan of observing shipwrecks, the Male Atoll is the perfect diving spot for you as it lies on one of the shipping routes in the region.