Best dive sites in Maldives
Asia · Indian Ocean · 4 dive sites reviewed · best Nov–Apr
The Maldives consists of roughly 26 atolls scattered across the Indian Ocean, offering classic drift dives and dramatic coral walls at the edge of deep water. It is a premier destination for mantas, whale sharks, reef sharks, and other pelagics. Liveaboard safaris crisscross the atolls, while resort diving is widespread and exceptionally well organized.
Diving in Maldives: the essentials
We've ranked 4 dive sites in Maldives, averaging 3.8/5 across the set. Our top pick, North Male Atoll, scores 4.1/5 — Wall-and-reef diving with visibility up to 25 m, liveaboard access — a great fit for most divers..
Conditions are strongest in Nov–Apr.
A realistic travel budget in Maldives works out to about $350/day per person — see the cost breakdown below for the full picture.
Local food
Mas huni, garudhiya and coconut-and-tuna staples of Maldivian home cooking.
Local culture
The Maldives is Muslim: alcohol is confined to resorts and dry on local islands, so dress modestly when you step off-resort. Fridays are more relaxed.
Typical travel cost
Average daily cost per person
Source: BudgetYourTrip — real traveler expenses, not a fixed rate.
North Male Atoll
Wall-and-reef diving with visibility up to 25 m, liveaboard access — a great fit for most divers.
Dive sites in this country
4 ranked
North Male Atoll
Wall-and-reef diving with visibility up to 25 m, liveaboard access — a great fit for most divers.
Ari Atoll
Wall-and-reef diving with visibility up to 25 m, liveaboard access, challenging currents — a strong choice for experienced divers.
Baa Atoll (Hanifaru Bay)
Drift diving with visibility up to 25 m — a great fit for most divers.
Vaavu Atoll
Wall-and-reef diving with visibility up to 25 m, liveaboard access, challenging currents — a strong choice for experienced divers.