The Maldives is renowned for being a top choice for relaxing and luxurious escapes, but it's also one of the world's best destinations for diving holidays. If you're looking for the next place to head for a diving, scuba or water sports break - or are simply browsing for an unforgettable adventure holiday - the Maldives might be just the place for you.
Scattered amongst the 1,200 islands of this Indian Ocean country you'll find countless dive sites offering incredible sites and unbeatable experiences. This is also one of the best places for spotting marine life, with Maldives diving holidays offering visitors the chance to spot tropical fish, manta rays, sea turtles, whale sharks and plenty more.
The Maldives is one of the best places in the world to scuba dive, snorkel, swim and take part in myriad other water sports. A wide variety of island resorts, many with house reefs and access to private beaches, mean there's plenty of choice for different types of holiday. The warm Indian Ocean climate, sunny skies and exceptional facilities make this a dream holiday destination for any traveller, though divers and water sports enthusiasts will find plenty dedicated just to them.
Whether you're a seasoned expert or a complete beginner, you'll find a range of resorts and dive centres here to suit your needs. Beginners to diving can find a dive centre with qualified instructors to get their bearings, while more experienced divers can head out on liveaboard or boat trips to explore some of the best dive sites in the world.
Lots of the Maldives dive resorts in our collection have their own house reef - a dedicated dive site that's either right on the beach or a short swim away. One of the major benefits of staying at a resort with a house reef is that you can virtually roll out of bed and head straight out on your dive every morning, without having to wait for the transport to get you to the site. Plus, because there's only one resort per island, you won't find the reef overcrowded when you do dive in.
There is a huge variety of dive sites and destinations spread across the Maldives, and choosing the 'best' will depend entirely on when you're visiting, the type of diving you want to do, and what you want to see.
The Baa Atoll is an official UNESCO Biosphere Reserve made up of 75 islands, and offers a fantastic array of marine wildlife to spot - including hawksbill turtles, green turtles, leatherback turtles, whale sharks and manta rays. Because of the protected nature of the Biosphere, diving is banned at certain sites across the atoll, though you can still snorkel from a purpose-built vessel (a liveaboard).
On excursions at Lhaviyani Atoll divers might spot everything from grey reef sharks and eagle rays to coral-encrusted shipwrecks. This is renowned as one of the most diverse and challenging atolls for diving, and is recommended for experienced and advanced divers.
With dive sites like Girifushi Thila (known as the Rainbow Reef) - and Manta Point, renowned for the amazing sight of manta ray cyclone feeding cycles, it's no surprise the North Male Atoll is one of the most popular destinations for divers.
One of the most popular areas, the North Ari Atoll is home to Maaya Thila, one of the very best wildlife spots - keep an eye out here for reef sharks, guitar sharks and eagle rays. There's also the incredible Fesdhoo Lagoon, famous for its population of manta rays.
The South Ari Atoll offers two quintessential Maldives diving sights - whale sharks around Maamigili Reef, and the incredible sunken shipwreck at Machchafushi. The wreck, known as the Kudhimaa shipwreck, can be explored, and also offers unbeatable underwater photography.
If you're thinking about learning to dive, need a little help, or want to get some official learning under your wetsuit - there's no better place than the Maldives. Plenty of space, varied sights, and warm water to get used to - the perfect conditions. Plus, many of the major resorts and islands have PADI Dive Centres within a short walking distance or even onsite, with experienced divers and instructors ready to lend a hand. Some of the resorts with a PADI Dive Centre onsite include:
A vibrant reef, rich with tropical marine life and colourful coral, hugs the paradise island of Vilamendhoo; home to this fabulous resort. Palm trees line the silky-soft white beach that leads out into the luxuriously warm waters of the lagoon. This picture-perfect luxury holiday resort in the Maldives is where dreams are made.
Shimmering turquoise waters, swaying palms and stretches of pure white sandy beaches are just some of the attributes that make a stay at the Meeru Island Resort and Spa, in the Maldives, an experience like no other. Whether you’re seeking a family holiday of a lifetime, a romantic escape in enchanting surroundings, or a dream wedding in paradise, this is a destination that will make all your dreams come true.
Experience a true tropical utopia at the Kuredu Island Resort. Surrounded by a shimmering aquamarine lagoon, with soft powdery-white sands and lush landscaped gardens, it’s hard to imagine a more heavenly destination. Luxury Maldives holidays here can be blissfully full of peace and serenity.
Step into paradise when you stay at the W Maldives, a luxurious 5-star resort on a stunning secluded island. Wake up to the sounds of waves gently lapping against the private beach of your comfortable villa. Enjoy blissful hours of relaxation around the pool or make use of the many leisure activities on offer such as reef snorkelling, diving, workout programs, or pamper yourself at the spa.
A blissful holiday experience awaits at RIU Palace Maldivas, a luxurious 24-hour all-inclusive escape on the sun-kissed private island of Kedhigandu in the magical Maldives. This sensational family-friendly 5-star getaway boasts lavish accommodation, including plush overwater suites, and you’ll savour gastronomic delights at the resort’s dining venues which include Japanese and fusion cooking restaurants. Sip cocktails at the fabulous swim-up bar in the resort’s excellent infinity pool or soak up the sun on the pristine private sandy beach.
A blissful holiday of a lifetime in paradise surroundings awaits at Angsana Velavaru, a luxurious 5-star South Nilandhe Atoll escape in the spellbinding Maldives. This magnificent getaway is located in an awe-inspiring island setting beside a glorious palm-fringed sandy beach, crystal-clear waters and mesmerising coral reefs. There’s so much to see and do when you take to the azure Indian Ocean, from thrilling dolphin-watching trips to exploring the resort’s 30 exciting dive sites where you’ll discover turtles, whale sharks, eagle rays and black tip reef sharks.
Relax on heavenly white sands or plunge into crystal clear waters in the heart of paradise at the spectacular Komanddo Maldives Island Resort. Perfect for a romantic escape, a heavenly honeymoon or a dream wedding, the adult-only destination boasts a number of superb leisure facilities to ensure guests can make the most of their getaway. Luxurious living is also guaranteed in the sumptuous villas, with beach or over-water locations and the option of having your own private jacuzzi.
Lose yourself on pristine tropical shores during an enchanting Indian Ocean holiday at the Movenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives. Relax on powdery-white beaches and take advantage of an array of water sports, leisure facilities and tantalising dining options. The sublime suites, villas and residence are also sure to impress with each featuring a private plunge pool and a host of luxurious amenities.
You’ll be wowed by beauty, luxury and style as soon as your speedboat transfer arrives at the 5-star Dhawa Ihuru, a magnificent all-inclusive escape to a North Malé Atoll in the magical Maldives. This enchanting hideaway is located in a breathtaking island setting near to white sandy beaches, glorious coral reefs and the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean. This resort offers superb opportunities for snorkelling and diving beneath the waves to gaze in awe at exotic sea life including turtles, rays and black tip reef sharks.
Wake up beside powdery white sand and crystal clear waters with a luxurious Maldives holiday at the 5-star Constance Moofushi. Located on its own private island, this sensational all-inclusive sanctuary is the ideal place for ultimate tropical relaxation, whether that be on a paradise beach, being pampered in the spa, or sipping a refreshing cocktail as you take in the sun setting over the Indian Ocean.
A holiday beyond all imagination awaits in the Maldives at the enchanting Nika Island Resort & Spa. This Indian Ocean paradise offers a unique taste of tropical life, combining beauty and tradition to create an unparalleled experience sure to be remembered forever. Guests will feel completely at ease in the sensational accommodation, with exquisite beach villas, delightful garden hideaways and stunning water villas among the options to choose from.
Immerse yourself in a blissful Indian Ocean holiday experience with a stay at Amilla Maldives Resort and Residences, a spellbinding 5-star all-inclusive haven of luxury, relaxation and leisure in Finolhas Island. More than 70% of this magical private island is untouched jungle, fringed by pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life.
Discover heaven on earth at LUX* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas, a sensuous hideaway in the Maldives. Nestled amongst palms and pristine sands, this secluded retreat invites you to indulge in the holiday of your dreams. Listen to the gentle lapping of turquoise waters as you recline in an ocean-top hammock or chase thrills on jet skis before sampling some of the delectable cuisine available in one of the several restaurants.
Jet off and live the dream at Six Senses Laamu, a spellbinding 5-star hideaway on an enchanting private island in the magical Maldives. This enchanting escape on Laamu Atoll is a dream come true for anyone craving an unforgettable holiday adventure in the blissful Indian Ocean sunshine. Restful nights await in your exquisitely-appointed water or beachfront villa and you'll savour culinary delights in a choice of wonderful dining venues including a wonderful spot boasting glass-bottomed tables right above the waves.
Immerse yourself in the magic of the Maldives at the Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, an enchanting 5-star escape on the awe-inspiring North Malé Atoll. You’ll stay in luxurious pool villa accommodation, surrounded by pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters. The resort has a fabulous diving centre and operates a host of thrilling activities on the sea including water-skiing, wakeboarding, catamaran sailing, banana boat rides and canoeing.
Getaway with the tropical holiday of a lifetime that you’ve always been dreaming of. Waiting for you in the Maldives is Cocoa Island by COMO, boasting pristine satin sands and sparkling turquoise waters, it’s the perfect place to laze beneath swaying palms and forget about the stresses of everyday life. Spend sun-drenched days atop the azure ocean as you enjoy the water sports on offer, before sinking into a sumptuous sleep in the luxurious comfort of your own room.
Live out the tropical holiday of your dreams in the middle of the Indian Ocean at Innahura Maldives Resort. Surrounded by swaying palms, pristine sands and shimmering turquoise waters, you can expect a magical exotic island experience enhanced by impressive leisure opportunities, charming beach bungalows and fabulous cuisine. Whether travelling as a couple, with friends or as a family, your stay at Innahura Maldives Resort is sure to exceed all of your expectations of a holiday in paradise.
Discover a tropical haven of peace and tranquillity in the Indian Ocean at the South Palm Resort Maldives. A holiday in this serene island sanctuary offers complete privacy and comfort surrounded by pristine white sands and glistening waters. Make yourself at home in the delightful living spaces and let your cares drift away as you relax on powdery-soft shores, feast on flavoursome fare and explore a colourful undersea world on an exhilarating snorkelling trip.
A vibrant reef, rich with tropical marine life and colourful coral, hugs the paradise island of Vilamendhoo; home to this fabulous resort. Palm trees line the silky-soft white beach that leads out into the luxuriously warm waters of the lagoon. This picture-perfect luxury holiday resort in the Maldives is where dreams are made.
Shimmering turquoise waters, swaying palms and stretches of pure white sandy beaches are just some of the attributes that make a stay at the Meeru Island Resort and Spa, in the Maldives, an experience like no other. Whether you’re seeking a family holiday of a lifetime, a romantic escape in enchanting surroundings, or a dream wedding in paradise, this is a destination that will make all your dreams come true.
Experience a true tropical utopia at the Kuredu Island Resort. Surrounded by a shimmering aquamarine lagoon, with soft powdery-white sands and lush landscaped gardens, it’s hard to imagine a more heavenly destination. Luxury Maldives holidays here can be blissfully full of peace and serenity.
Step into paradise when you stay at the W Maldives, a luxurious 5-star resort on a stunning secluded island. Wake up to the sounds of waves gently lapping against the private beach of your comfortable villa. Enjoy blissful hours of relaxation around the pool or make use of the many leisure activities on offer such as reef snorkelling, diving, workout programs, or pamper yourself at the spa.
A blissful holiday experience awaits at RIU Palace Maldivas, a luxurious 24-hour all-inclusive escape on the sun-kissed private island of Kedhigandu in the magical Maldives. This sensational family-friendly 5-star getaway boasts lavish accommodation, including plush overwater suites, and you’ll savour gastronomic delights at the resort’s dining venues which include Japanese and fusion cooking restaurants. Sip cocktails at the fabulous swim-up bar in the resort’s excellent infinity pool or soak up the sun on the pristine private sandy beach.
A blissful holiday of a lifetime in paradise surroundings awaits at Angsana Velavaru, a luxurious 5-star South Nilandhe Atoll escape in the spellbinding Maldives. This magnificent getaway is located in an awe-inspiring island setting beside a glorious palm-fringed sandy beach, crystal-clear waters and mesmerising coral reefs. There’s so much to see and do when you take to the azure Indian Ocean, from thrilling dolphin-watching trips to exploring the resort’s 30 exciting dive sites where you’ll discover turtles, whale sharks, eagle rays and black tip reef sharks.
Relax on heavenly white sands or plunge into crystal clear waters in the heart of paradise at the spectacular Komanddo Maldives Island Resort. Perfect for a romantic escape, a heavenly honeymoon or a dream wedding, the adult-only destination boasts a number of superb leisure facilities to ensure guests can make the most of their getaway. Luxurious living is also guaranteed in the sumptuous villas, with beach or over-water locations and the option of having your own private jacuzzi.
Lose yourself on pristine tropical shores during an enchanting Indian Ocean holiday at the Movenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives. Relax on powdery-white beaches and take advantage of an array of water sports, leisure facilities and tantalising dining options. The sublime suites, villas and residence are also sure to impress with each featuring a private plunge pool and a host of luxurious amenities.
You’ll be wowed by beauty, luxury and style as soon as your speedboat transfer arrives at the 5-star Dhawa Ihuru, a magnificent all-inclusive escape to a North Malé Atoll in the magical Maldives. This enchanting hideaway is located in a breathtaking island setting near to white sandy beaches, glorious coral reefs and the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean. This resort offers superb opportunities for snorkelling and diving beneath the waves to gaze in awe at exotic sea life including turtles, rays and black tip reef sharks.
Wake up beside powdery white sand and crystal clear waters with a luxurious Maldives holiday at the 5-star Constance Moofushi. Located on its own private island, this sensational all-inclusive sanctuary is the ideal place for ultimate tropical relaxation, whether that be on a paradise beach, being pampered in the spa, or sipping a refreshing cocktail as you take in the sun setting over the Indian Ocean.
A holiday beyond all imagination awaits in the Maldives at the enchanting Nika Island Resort & Spa. This Indian Ocean paradise offers a unique taste of tropical life, combining beauty and tradition to create an unparalleled experience sure to be remembered forever. Guests will feel completely at ease in the sensational accommodation, with exquisite beach villas, delightful garden hideaways and stunning water villas among the options to choose from.
Immerse yourself in a blissful Indian Ocean holiday experience with a stay at Amilla Maldives Resort and Residences, a spellbinding 5-star all-inclusive haven of luxury, relaxation and leisure in Finolhas Island. More than 70% of this magical private island is untouched jungle, fringed by pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life.
Discover heaven on earth at LUX* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas, a sensuous hideaway in the Maldives. Nestled amongst palms and pristine sands, this secluded retreat invites you to indulge in the holiday of your dreams. Listen to the gentle lapping of turquoise waters as you recline in an ocean-top hammock or chase thrills on jet skis before sampling some of the delectable cuisine available in one of the several restaurants.
Jet off and live the dream at Six Senses Laamu, a spellbinding 5-star hideaway on an enchanting private island in the magical Maldives. This enchanting escape on Laamu Atoll is a dream come true for anyone craving an unforgettable holiday adventure in the blissful Indian Ocean sunshine. Restful nights await in your exquisitely-appointed water or beachfront villa and you'll savour culinary delights in a choice of wonderful dining venues including a wonderful spot boasting glass-bottomed tables right above the waves.
Immerse yourself in the magic of the Maldives at the Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, an enchanting 5-star escape on the awe-inspiring North Malé Atoll. You’ll stay in luxurious pool villa accommodation, surrounded by pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters. The resort has a fabulous diving centre and operates a host of thrilling activities on the sea including water-skiing, wakeboarding, catamaran sailing, banana boat rides and canoeing.
Getaway with the tropical holiday of a lifetime that you’ve always been dreaming of. Waiting for you in the Maldives is Cocoa Island by COMO, boasting pristine satin sands and sparkling turquoise waters, it’s the perfect place to laze beneath swaying palms and forget about the stresses of everyday life. Spend sun-drenched days atop the azure ocean as you enjoy the water sports on offer, before sinking into a sumptuous sleep in the luxurious comfort of your own room.
Live out the tropical holiday of your dreams in the middle of the Indian Ocean at Innahura Maldives Resort. Surrounded by swaying palms, pristine sands and shimmering turquoise waters, you can expect a magical exotic island experience enhanced by impressive leisure opportunities, charming beach bungalows and fabulous cuisine. Whether travelling as a couple, with friends or as a family, your stay at Innahura Maldives Resort is sure to exceed all of your expectations of a holiday in paradise.
Discover a tropical haven of peace and tranquillity in the Indian Ocean at the South Palm Resort Maldives. A holiday in this serene island sanctuary offers complete privacy and comfort surrounded by pristine white sands and glistening waters. Make yourself at home in the delightful living spaces and let your cares drift away as you relax on powdery-soft shores, feast on flavoursome fare and explore a colourful undersea world on an exhilarating snorkelling trip.
Because all Maldives resorts and hotels are island-based, you’re never far away from world-class diving. Maldives resorts that don't have access to an onsite house reef will often organise transfers to the nearest dive sites and dive centres, and it's easy to arrange liveaboard experiences or boat trips with pick up from your resort.
The Maldives is a year-round diving destination, thanks to pleasant temperatures that generally sit around 28°C. However, for the best diving visibility underwater, the dry season during the Maldivian summer (December to April) is generally best.
However, if you're particularly keen to to spot whale sharks or manta rays, the more rainy season between May and November is probably a better option.
An amazing variety of marine wildlife is one of the main reasons the Maldives is such a popular location for diving holidays. Depending on the time of year and location of your dives, some of the marine life you might spot could include:
A general packing list for Maldives diving holidays includes:
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