The reefs of the Maldives: manta rays, whale sharks and new species

The Maldives is a nation built by coral. Its 26 atolls and some 1,190 islands are the tops of reefs that have grown up over millions of years, and almost all of the country is water. For visitors, that means nearly every island has a reef on its doorstep.

Why it’s special

Maldivian reefs support more than 1,000 species of fish, and new ones are still being described. In 2022 the rose-veiled fairy wrasse became the first fish species to be scientifically described by a Maldivian researcher, and its name, finifenmaa, means “rose” in the local language. Hanifaru Bay in Baa Atoll, part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, hosts some of the largest gatherings of manta rays in the world, and whale sharks are seen all year in South Ari Atoll.

The reef today

The Maldives has been hit by mass bleaching in 1998, 2016 and again during the 2023–25 global event. The reefs recovered well after earlier events, but recovery takes years, and the country is particularly vulnerable to sea-level rise. Many resorts now run coral restoration programmes that guests can join.

What you’ll see

• House reefs: many resorts have reefs you can snorkel straight from the beach.
• Manta rays: at Hanifaru Bay (June to November) and cleaning stations across the atolls.
• Whale sharks: in South Ari Atoll, all year.
• Channels (kandus): currents bring grey reef sharks, eagle rays and schools of fish.

When to go

The north-east monsoon, from December to April, brings dry, sunny weather and the best visibility. The south-west monsoon, from May to November, is wetter but brings plankton and manta rays. Water stays at about 27–30°C year-round.

How to get there

Fly to Velana International Airport on Malé, then transfer by speedboat, seaplane or domestic flight. Local islands now offer guesthouses, a cheaper alternative to resorts, and liveaboards visit the best channels and manta sites.

Snorkelling or diving?

The Maldives is perfect for snorkellers: many resorts are built on islands with a house reef a few metres from your room, and boat trips go out to manta points and channel edges. Divers can explore thilas (underwater pinnacles), channel dives with sharks and eagle rays, and night dives with feeding nurse sharks. Currents in the channels can be strong, so some sites suit more experienced divers.

Know before you go

• Resort or local island: guesthouses on local islands are far cheaper but follow local laws on alcohol and dress; resorts are exempt.
• Transfers: seaplanes only fly in daylight, so check arrival times.
• Currency: the rufiyaa; US dollars are widely accepted at resorts.
• Water temperature: 27–30°C.
• House reef quality: it varies a lot between resorts, so check reviews before booking.

Protecting the reef

Choose resorts with real reef programmes, avoid touching coral when snorkelling, and don’t buy shell or coral souvenirs.

Book a trip

Compare snorkel trips, dive days and tours for this area on our partner GetYourGuide, with reviews from other travellers and free cancellation on many trips. For the full list, see the world’s top 20 coral reefs, or read about coral bleaching and the future of reefs.

Questions people ask

What is the best time to see manta rays in the Maldives?

From June to November at Hanifaru Bay in Baa Atoll, although mantas are seen year-round in different atolls.

Can you snorkel in the Maldives without a boat?

Yes. Many resorts and local islands have house reefs right off the beach.

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