The Maldives is one of the few places on Earth where you can swim alongside both manta rays and whale sharks. Two atolls stand out for these encounters: Baa Atoll, home to the UNESCO-protected Hanifaru Bay, and South Ari Atoll, a well-known whale shark zone.
But before you embark on your next ocean adventure, here are a few Maldives resorts that are best for manta ray and whale shark experiences.
“The other big draw of staying at Anantara Kihavah Villas lies not in the sky but under the water. The island is located in the Baa Atoll, the Maldives’ only UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, designated so in 2011 for its bounty of marine life.” (Luxury London)
Set in the Baa Atoll, Anantara Kihavah sits within a breathtaking UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, home to the legendary Hanifaru Bay. Here, manta rays gather in large numbers to feed on plankton, while whale sharks, marine turtles, and colourful coral make an appearance. Peak periods generally run from May to November, during the southwest monsoon.
The resort arranges guided snorkelling excursions with marine biologists, trained to carefully navigate the waters while keeping the rays and the sharks safe. For beginner snorkellers still getting used to their fins, Anantara Kihavah’s house reef also offers incredible encounters with reef fish and sea turtles.
Back at the resort itself, the SEA restaurants let you enjoy the marine world from the comfort of a table beneath the waves.
-
LUX* South Ari Atoll
“ LUX* South Ari Atoll offers guests the opportunity to snorkel with whale sharks, as the island is located near an aggregation site.” (Good Housekeeping)
LUX* South Ari Atoll isn’t just an ultra-luxury 5-star getaway – the resort is a natural base for whale shark spotting. The surrounding atoll is renowned for whale shark sightings, where the colossal giants can be spotted throughout the year. The best season for divers is between November and April, when several whale sharks can be spotted around the western islands.
The resort’s dive and water sports teams run dedicated whale shark excursions, and manta rays can also be seen on visits to nearby cleaning stations. With a lively beach setting and several dining options, it suits couples and families who want adventure without sacrificing comfort.
-
Constance Moofushi
“For those less interested in learning to dive, you can still get your fix of sea life by heading on one of the boat excursions, with dolphins and whale shark outings available, depending on the time of year.” (HELLO! Magazine)
Constance Moofushi is a smaller, relaxed island resort on the edge of South Ari Atoll, ideal for travellers who seek marine encounters in a quieter setting. Its location gives guests easy access to whale shark sites, while its house reef is a draw in its own right with colourful fish and turtles close to shore. The dive centre offers manta and whale shark trips depending on the season and conditions, taking divers to incredible sites hidden within the atoll.
Add a spa and a laid-back atmosphere, and it makes for a rewarding choice for nature lovers and those looking to take it slow.
-
NH Collection Maldives Reethi Resort
“Witnessing a school of manta rays gliding with wings spanning 3–4 meters is truly spectacular. Being in the water feels like being covered by a giant carpet.” (The Chosun Daily)
NH Collection’s Baa Atoll property offers one of the most accessible routes to Hanifaru Bay’s famous manta gatherings. Formerly known as the Reethi Beach Resort, its white sand beaches and excellent house reef are popular for a reason, allowing guests to snorkel straight from the shore between excursions. Guided trips to the bay are available during the plankton-rich season, led by experienced staff members who navigate the waters like the back of their hands.
The resort is a great fit for guests looking for a well-established option.
-
Lily Beach Resort & Spa
“For guaranteed manta and whale shark sightings, South Ari Atoll is one of the best areas in the Maldives. September through to October is the optimum time for whale shark sightings, although they can be seen all year round.” (DIVERNET)
Where laid-back luxury meets unforgettable marine hotspots, Lily Beach Resort & Spa is yet another excellent choice for those looking to explore the South Ari Atoll. Whale sharks and manta rays are commonly sought out on excursions from the resort, while the nearby reef systems provide a rich habitat for turtles, reef sharks and schools of tropical fish.
Beyond the water, the resort also offers a luxury spa, diverse dining and a wide range of water activities.
At Lily Beach, snorkellers and divers will find plenty to do, while the non-divers take their time on the beach or at the wellness centre.
Conclusion
Whether you choose the manta-rich waters of Baa Atoll or the whale shark territory of South Ari, each of these resorts offers a gateway to unforgettable marine encounters. Pick the one that matches your travel style, time your visit well, and you may find yourself gliding beside the ocean’s gentle giants and graceful creatures.
