The Maldives is a dream destination for divers, with over a thousand islands scattered across the Indian Ocean and some of the world’s most extraordinary underwater encounters. From swimming with tiger sharks to gliding alongside manta rays, every atoll offers something unique. But if you’re planning your dive holiday, these four islands stand out as the best islands for divers in the Maldives: Fuvahmulah, Hulhumalé, Dhangethi, and Addu.
🌊 1. Fuvahmulah – The Tiger Shark Capital of the World
Located in the deep south of the Maldives, Fuvahmulah is legendary among divers for one main reason: tiger sharks. This isolated island offers year-round encounters with these apex predators, making it one of the only places in the world where divers are guaranteed to see tiger sharks up close.
But it doesn’t stop there—Fuvahmulah’s pelagic-rich waters attract hammerheads, thresher sharks, oceanic manta rays, and even mola mola. Add to that the island’s vibrant local culture, modern guesthouses, and untouched beaches, and you’ve got a dive destination that feels both raw and authentic.
Highlights for divers:
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Daily tiger shark dives
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Chance to see hammerheads and thresher sharks
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Pristine coral walls and deep channels
🏝️ 2. Hulhumalé – Gateway to Wrecks & Day Trips
Just a short distance from Malé International Airport, Hulhumalé is often overlooked as simply a transit hub. But for divers, it’s a convenient base with access to some excellent dive sites in the North Malé Atoll.
From here, you can explore shipwrecks like the Victory Wreck, vibrant reef dives, and channels where eagle rays and reef sharks glide by. Hulhumalé is also perfect for travelers who want to combine city stays in Malé with quick day-trip dives before heading to outer atolls.
Highlights for divers:
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Easy access to wreck diving (Victory Wreck, Maldives Victory)
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Reef dives with turtles and eagle rays
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Convenient for short dive trips near Malé
🐠 3. Dhangethi – Whale Sharks & Local Island Vibes
Located in South Ari Atoll, Dhangethi is a diver’s paradise for those chasing whale sharks. South Ari is famous for year-round whale shark sightings, manta cleaning stations, and colorful reefs.
Dhangethi itself is a laid-back local island where you can stay in charming guesthouses, enjoy Maldivian hospitality, and head out daily for snorkeling or scuba adventures. It’s also close to Dhigurah and Maamigili, two other whale shark hotspots.
Highlights for divers:
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Whale shark encounters year-round
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Manta ray cleaning stations
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Budget-friendly guesthouses with authentic Maldivian charm
🌴 4. Addu Atoll – Wrecks, Mantas & History
At the very southern tip of the Maldives lies Addu Atoll, a unique destination with diving opportunities unlike anywhere else in the country. Here you’ll find the British Loyalty wreck, one of the largest wrecks in the Maldives, lying at 33 meters and home to schools of fish, rays, and soft corals.
Addu is also famous for its resident manta ray population that can be seen year-round, even outside the typical manta season. With calm lagoons, WWII history, and a distinct cultural identity, Addu offers both rich diving and fascinating topside exploration.
Highlights for divers:
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British Loyalty wreck dive
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Year-round manta sightings
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Calm lagoons suitable for all levels of divers
🌐 Plan Your Dive Adventure with Isle Dive Maldives
Whether it’s Fuvahmulah’s tiger sharks, Hulhumalé’s wrecks, Dhangethi’s whale sharks, or Addu’s mantas, each island offers a unique diving story. At Isle Dive Maldives, we curate custom dive packages across these islands, combining local experiences with unforgettable underwater adventures.
📌 Ready to explore the best islands for diving in the Maldives?
👉 Contact Isle Dive today to start planning your trip.
