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Scuba diving in the Maldives: Best dive spots + eco-friendly resorts

ByEcoOceanEscapes

Want to explore the Indian Ocean’s underwater world? Discover everything you need to know about scuba diving in the Maldives, including the best dive sites and eco-friendly resorts for a sustainable stay.

Aside from being the definition of paradise, the Maldives is without a doubt one of the world’s best scuba diving destinations. For us, it’s one of the most postcard-perfect places we’ve been and honestly, we’d return in a heartbeat.

Situated in the warm, crystalline waters of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives offers incredible underwater adventures for all level of divers.

Fringing its atolls are stunning white sand beaches and abundant coral reefs, as well as dramatic walls and pinnacles patrolled by a diverse array of pelagic creatures. 

From nurse sharks and manta rays to whale sharks, the marine life encounters in the Maldives are out of this world.

The dive sites themselves are equally captivating. They range from thrilling drift dives through narrow channels to serene underwater gardens teeming with tropical fish.

Even the house reefs (just steps away from many Maldives resorts) offer snorkellers and beginner divers the chance to experience this underwater paradise safely. 

It’s no wonder the Maldives has long been a magnet for scuba divers wanting to experience the best our oceans have to offer….including us!

And with scuba centres and PADI-certified operators at many of the archipelago’s resorts, you don’t have to go far to venture underwater.

Due to the fragility of the Maldives’ ecosystems, many of these tourism operators understand the importance of championing sustainability and have implemented eco-friendly practices into their experiences. As a result, eco-tourism is alive and well in the archipelago. 

In this sustainable guide to scuba diving in the Maldives, discover why this Indian Ocean gem should be at the top of your dive wishlist. In addition to highlighting the best dive sites in the Maldives, we’ve included eco-friendly dive resorts in each of the atolls to help you plan your trip. 

Planning a high-end dive trip? Discover 10 of the best eco-luxe dive resorts in the Maldives for a sustainable stay.

Scuba diving in the Maldives: A shallow coral reef below the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean
Scuba diving in the Maldives: A shallow coral reef below the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean

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Why choose the Maldives for a sustainable dive vacation?

Scattered across the Indian Ocean, this island nation is renowned for its incredible marine life. It boasts a staggering array of creatures that range from tiny nudibranchs to massive whale sharks.

With plunging walls and sheltered coral lagoons, the Maldives presents a wealth of options for divers of all levels to explore.

What really sets the Maldives apart is the sheer scale and variety of the pelagic species that congregate in these nutrient-rich currents.

Divers can expect to encounter a diverse array of sharks, including reef sharks, hammerheads and tiger sharks. Additionally, you may be lucky enough to see enormous moray eels, schools of jacks and sea turtles, plus manta rays and even sailfish.

While the remote location of the atolls may present some logistical challenges, this only serves to heighten the sense of adventure and exclusivity. It has also encouraged many Maldives resorts to implement sustainable practices into their construction and operations in order to minimise their impact on the fragile surroundings.

Aside from being powered by renewable energies and eliminating plastic waste, many of the best Maldives dive resorts directly inject funds into coral reef and marine life conservation projects.

As a result, an eco-friendly dive vacation in the Maldives is well within reach. And trust us, you don’t even have to compromise on a luxury stay. 

Best dive sites in the Maldives

Rainbow Reef, North Male Atoll

Powerful, consistent currents sweep through this area of the Maldives, nourishing the abundant growth of soft coral bushes that dot the seafloor. Open-mouthed moray eels lurk within the crevices. Meanwhile, graceful schools of eagle rays glide effortlessly through the azure waters.

The reef itself is a riot of colour, with countless species of smaller reef fish – parrotfish, clownfish, angelfish – weaving between the coral heads. Put simply, Rainbow Reef is an underwater photographer’s dream and one of the most spectacular dive sites in the Maldives.

Eco-friendly dive resort in North Male Atoll

Baros Maldives

Home to one of the first eco dive centres in the Maldives, Baros is a luxury overwater bungalow resort near Rainbow Reef.

It participates in several globally recognised conservation programs and offers Project Aware specialty courses that teach divers about issues affecting local marine life. Definitely one of the best eco-friendly dive resorts in the Maldives. 

“Our stay at Baros resort surpassed all expectations.” – Athanasios (read more reviews here)

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A thatched roof suite with a private pool at Baros Maldives, an eco-friendly resort in the Maldives
A thatched roof suite with a private pool at Baros Maldives, an eco-friendly resort in the Maldives (photo courtesy of Expedia)

Embudu Express, South Male Atoll

Located off the coast of Embudu Island, this dive site offers exhilarating drift dives through its dynamic channel. Descending to depths of 24 to 30 metres (80 to 100 feet), divers are propelled through the channel and into a serene inner lagoon.

Along the way, you may encounter schools of eagle rays, tuna, grey reef sharks and the occasional hammerhead. Halfway through the passage, there is a small but impressive pinnacle blanketed in soft corals.

A luxurious private villa at Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, an eco-hotel in the Maldives (photo courtesy of Expedia)

Eco-friendly dive resort in South Male Atoll

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa

Boasting the largest floating solar park in the Maldives, this luxury resort near Embudu Island takes sustainability seriously. Aside from its stunning overwater bungalows, the Taj Exotica Resort & Spa is home to a PADI 5-Star dive centre and a spa offering wellness treatments rooted in ancient Indian practices. 

“Amazing and unforgettable!” – Mohsin (read more reviews here)

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A bird's eye view of an eco-friendly dive resort in the Maldives
A bird’s eye view of an eco-friendly dive resort in the Maldives

Kandooma Thila, South Male Atoll

This teardrop-shaped pinnacle rises from the seafloor to just 10 metres (30 feet) below the surface, with a bottom depth of around 30 metres (100 feet). Its mid-channel position subjects the site to powerful currents that can be challenging to navigate. We recommend it only for intermediate to advanced divers.

However, it is precisely these conditions that attract such an incredible array of marine life, from sea turtles and eagle rays to nurse sharks and even tiger sharks.

In the nooks and crannies that dot the site, tiny banded boxer shrimp and larger lobsters find refuge, meaning there’s always something unique to discover. 

Eco-friendly dive resort in South Male Atoll

Waldorf Astoria Maldives

Through its partnership with Parley for the Oceans, the Waldorf Astoria Maldives has made a strong commitment to protecting its surrounding reef.

Aside from being one of the most luxurious resorts in the Maldives (the overwater villas here are simply breathtaking), it offers daily dives to sites in South Male Atoll, such as Kandooma Thila. 

“Once in a lifetime holiday destination.” – Greg (read more reviews here)

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The spectacular beachside setting of the Waldorf Astoria Maldives, one of the best sustainable resorts in the Maldives
The spectacular beachside setting of the Waldorf Astoria Maldives, one of the best sustainable resorts in the Maldives (photo courtesy of Expedia)

Karedu Island, Lhaviyani Atoll

Surrounding Kuredu Island are two of the Northern Atolls’ most exceptional dive sites, which offer underwater adventures for all skill levels.

The first, Kuredu Express, is renowned for its intense drift diving experience. Here, divers are swept along a sandy channel while graceful reef sharks, eagle rays and jacks drift bay.

Just a short boat ride away lies the Shipyard, home to two captivating shipwrecks. Drifting among the wrecks, you’re likely to encounter schools of shimmering anthias, inquisitive gobies and the occasional Napoleon wrasse. The resident stingrays that patrol the sandy seabed add an extra element of excitement.

Eco-friendly dive resort in Lhaviyani Atoll

Soneva Jani

Interconnected by a network of elevated wooden walkways are the gorgeous villas at this sustainable Maldives resort. They feature open-air living spaces and expansive private decks with infinity pools.

A 2% sustainability levy is included in all stays and supports the Soneva Foundation. Its focus is on offsetting the resort’s carbon emissions and funding local community initiatives. 

“Heaven on earth!” – Marketa (read more reviews here)

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A luxurious whitewashed suite at Soneva Jani, an eco-friendly resort in the Maldives
A luxurious whitewashed suite at Soneva Jani, an eco-friendly resort in the Maldives (photo courtesy of Expedia)

Hanifaru Bay (snorkelling only), Baa Atoll

The Maldives is renowned for its manta rays, with these majestic creatures a common sight while scuba diving in the Maldives. However, one particular location stands out as a manta ray mecca – Hanifaru Bay.

Situated within a UNESCO-recognised Biosphere Reserve, Hanifaru Bay draws vast numbers of these graceful filter feeders between June and November. This is due to a plankton bloom of epic proportions.

It’s an awe-inspiring spectacle, with dozens of mantas seen gliding effortlessly through the water as they gorge on the abundance.

To protect the delicate ecosystem and the mantas themselves, access to Hanifaru Bay is strictly regulated. Only five boats are permitted in the bay at a time and only snorkelling is permitted.

Eco-friendly dive resort in Baa Atoll

Soneva Fushi

With impressive green credentials, Soneva Fushi features a handful of thatched-roof villas constructed from recycled wood and bamboo. It is a 100% carbon-neutral Maldives resort and partners with local NGOs to protect the archipelago’s marine biodiversity.

Soneva’s multi-lingual dive instructors offer daily trips to explore nearby sites, including snorkelling with mantas in Hanifaru Bay. 

“Best time of my life!” – Faisal (read more reviews here)

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A spectacular overwater restaurant at Soneva Fushi in the Maldives
A spectacular overwater restaurant at Soneva Fushi in the Maldives (photo courtesy of Expedia)

Fotteyo Kandu, Vaavu Atoll

On the eastern edge of Vaavu Atoll, Fotteyo Kandu is a renowned dive site that has captivated the hearts of seasoned divers visiting the Maldives.

This deep channel is an underwater playground. It has dramatic caverns, overhanging rock formations and thrilling swim-throughs to explore.

All are adorned with flamboyant sponges and gracefully swaying fans, making this one of the most stunning dive sites in the Maldives. The powerful currents attract a diverse array of large pelagic species, as well as colourful nudibranchs and well-camouflaged leaf scorpionfish.

The site’s exceptional biodiversity extends even further, with the occasional sighting of dolphins and hammerhead sharks.

Eco-friendly dive resort in Vaavu Atoll

Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives

Awarded the prestigious Travelife Gold Certification for its commitment to sustainability, this Maldives resort has taken a holistic approach to reducing its environmental impact.

It’s the ideal base for diving Vaavu Atoll, with a range of affordable beach bungalows and overwater villas to choose from. 

“Out of the this world.” – Robert (read more reviews here)

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An aerial view of the overwater bungalows at Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives
Scuba diving in the Maldives: An aerial view of the overwater bungalows at Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives (photo courtesy of Expedia)

Maaya Thila, North Ari Atoll

Maaya Thila is undoubtedly one of the most famous dive sites in the Maldives, with this underwater pinnacle (thila) dramatically rising up from the seafloor.

The top of the pinnacle sits at a relatively shallow depth of just 7 metres (25 feet), making it an accessible site for beginners. Meanwhile, the base plunges down to 35 metres (115 feet).

The pinnacle hosts a diverse array of resident species, from tiny, colourful nudibranchs and crustaceans to larger predators like moray eels.

But the real stars of the show are the grey reef sharks that are frequently spotted patrolling the base of the thila. This is definitely one of the best places in the Maldives to observe them, particularly during night dives. 

Eco-friendly dive resort in North Ari Atoll

Kandolhu Maldives

Surrounded by some of the most colourful reefs in the archipelago is Kandolhu Maldives. This luxury dive resort features your choice of beach or overwater villas, all of which radiate tropical chic.

The resort has implemented solar power and rainwater harvesting to reduce its environmental impact and it has eliminated single-use plastics. Clean-up dives are regularly conducted by their in-house team, which offers both PADI and SSI certifications. 

“A trip to heaven on Earth.” – Morij (read more reviews here)

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One of the luxurious suites at Kandolhu Maldives, a sustainable dive resort in the Maldives
One of the luxurious suites at Kandolhu Maldives, a sustainable dive resort in the Maldives (photo courtesy of Expedia)

Fuvahmulah, Gnaviyani Atoll

Fuvahmulah is a southern isle that’s home to several exceptional dive sites, mostly centred around the presence of sharks. Its location near the equator creates remarkably stable water temperatures, which in turn support a thriving population of marine predators.

One of the best dive sites in the Maldives is Tiger Zoo, named after the tiger sharks that frequent the area. Additionally, the waters surrounding Fuvahmulah offer occasional sightings of hammerhead sharks and oceanic manta rays.

This makes it a great place to expand your checklist of elusive pelagic species while scuba diving in the Maldives.

Eco-friendly dive resort in Gnaviyani Atolls

Canareef Resort Maldives

Boasting a beachfront setting on Addu Atoll’s Herathera Island is this budget-friendly Maldives dive resort. It’s an ideal base for exploring the Southern Atolls (there are around 25 dive sites nearby).

Canareef draws on solar power for its energy and champions a range of sustainability practices, including a dedicated Environment Week each year.

When it comes to accommodation, you can choose from the resort’s sunrise or sunset-facing villas. 

“Amazing villas and customer service!” – Halima (read more reviews here)

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Scuba diving in the Maldives alongside a whale shark
Scuba diving in the Maldives alongside a whale shark

Best time to dive in the Maldives

While you can go scuba diving in the Maldives year-round, the best time to experience the full splendour of the archipelago’s underwater realm is during the northeast monsoon season (December to May).

At this time, the winds blow in from the northeast. This results in calm, glassy seas and exceptional visibility, particularly on the eastern side of the archipelago.

The northeast monsoon also ushers in a unique set of marine phenomena that draw divers from around the globe. As the currents flow from east to west through the underwater channels, they carry with them a rich bounty of plankton that attracts manta rays to the western side of the atolls.

Meanwhile, at the eastern channel entrances, divers have the chance to spot a variety of shark species taking advantage of the nutrient-rich waters. 

In contrast, the southwest monsoon, which lasts from June through November, reverses the direction of the currents. This shifts the ideal diving conditions to the western side of the islands.

Though visibility can be good during this time, the seas can become quite choppy due to the stronger winds. In fact, swells can reach up to two metres at the height of the rainy season.

That being said, this is also when Hanifaru Bay comes alive. It offers fantastic opportunities to observe the whale sharks and manta rays that congregate in this plankton-rich area.

PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH OUR FAVOURITE RESOURCES:

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About the authors

We are a team of passionate divers and surfers with decades of combined experience in the water and travelling to all corners of the globe. After years of chasing waves and descending into the deep blue, we’ve created this resource to highlight sustainably run surf camps, eco-friendly dive resorts and conservation-focused ocean trips to help inspire your next adventure.

Eco Ocean Escapes was born out of a love of the ocean, an obsession with travel and a concern about the impacts of our adventures on the environments we explore. Despite the benefits that surf and dive tourism can bring to local communities, we recognised that ocean-based adventures are not always managed in a sustainable manner.  

Through our articles, we hope to inspire those seeking a responsible surf or dive trip that is all about supporting local communities, preserving our coastal environments and the incredible marine species that inhabit our oceans. 

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