Maldives
North
Northern Maldives: Atolls of Paradise
- Experience luxurious overwater bungalows in North Malé Atoll, offering direct lagoon access and stunning views.
- Discover vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life through diving and snorkeling in South Malé Atoll.
- Explore the wide range of resorts in Ari Atoll (North), catering to various preferences and activities.
- Witness manta ray aggregations (seasonal) in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll.
- Enjoy tranquil beaches and excellent house reefs in the less crowded Lhaviyani Atoll.
- Indulge in sunset cruises and dolphin watching excursions common in the northern atolls.
- Visit local islands in North Malé Atoll to experience Maldivian culture and traditions.
- Surf the renowned breaks of North Malé Atoll, including Chickens, Cokes, Jails, Sultans, and Honkys.
- Find additional surf spots in South Malé Atoll, such as Riptides and Foxys.
- The best time for surfing in the Northern Atolls is generally from April to October.
South
Southern Maldives: Untouched Beauty & Adventure
- Discover the pristine and less crowded atolls like Vaavu Atoll, known for its narrow channels and abundant marine life, perfect for dive expeditions.
- Explore the tranquil lagoons and vibrant house reefs of Meemu Atoll, offering excellent snorkeling and a more serene resort experience.
- Find exceptional diving opportunities in Dhaalu Atoll, boasting diverse dive sites including historical wrecks and thriving coral gardens.
- Indulge in the more private/secluded beaches and resorts in the southern Thaa Atoll and Laamu Atoll.
- Learn about the unique cultural heritage of the southern atolls by visiting local islands such as Thinadhoo (Vaavu Atoll) or Gan (Addu Atoll) and interacting with the friendly local communities.
- Explore the remote and largely untouched beauty of Gaafu Alifu Atoll and Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, renowned for their pristine reefs and exceptional fishing and diving experiences.
- Discover the unique characteristics of the southernmost atolls, Gnaviyani Atoll and Seenu Atoll (Addu Atoll), with their lush vegetation, historical remnants from World War II, and unique equatorial climate.
- Surf the powerful breaks in the Southern Atolls, including the renowned right-hander Beacons located in Huvadhoo Atoll (Gaafu Dhaalu).
- The best time for surfing in the Southern Atolls, when consistent swells arrive, is generally from March to May and again from September to November.
Suggested Travel Itinerary
Maldives - 2 Weeks
Days 1-7: Luxury & Iconic Experiences in the Northern Maldives
- Arrive in North Malé, settle in, and enjoy the lagoon and a sunset cruise.
- Experience world-class diving or snorkeling in South Malé's vibrant reefs before transferring to a North Ari resort to explore different water sport activities.
- In Baa Atoll, stay in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve resort, focusing on manta ray snorkeling (seasonal) and perhaps a sandbank picnic.
- Relax at an Ari Atoll resort, known for its diverse offerings and beautiful underwater scenery.
Days 8-14: Adventure & Culture in the Southern Maldives
- Arrive in Vaavu Atoll and enjoy the thrilling diving/snorkeling in the channels. Known for its sharks and vibrant marine life; consider a night dive.
- Explore Laamu Atoll for a secluded resort experience; opportunities to surf may be available depending on the season.
- Explore Gaafu Alifu Atoll with excursions to local islands to learn about Maldivian culture, traditional crafts, and local cuisine.