Browse by Atoll
The Maldives is made up of 26 natural atolls. Explore each one to find local islands, guesthouses, and authentic experiences.
The Maldives is made up of 26 natural atolls. Explore each one to find local islands, guesthouses, and authentic experiences.
22 atolls
Haa Alifu is the northernmost administrative atoll of the Maldives, known for its unspoiled beaches, rich biodiversity, and the historic Utheemu Ganduvaru palace. The atoll offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Maldivian life with vibrant fishing communities and stunning turquoise lagoons.
Haa Dhaalu is a northern atoll featuring the bustling regional capital Kulhudhuffushi, one of the largest cities outside Malé. The atoll is celebrated for its lush vegetation, excellent surfing spots, and warm local hospitality rooted in centuries of seafaring tradition.
Shaviyani Atoll sits in the northern Maldives and is home to pristine reefs and quiet local islands. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful lagoons, it is a hidden gem offering an off-the-beaten-path Maldivian experience away from the tourist crowds.
Noonu Atoll is a serene northern atoll dotted with picturesque inhabited islands and surrounded by thriving coral reefs. Its calm, crystal-clear waters are ideal for snorkelling and diving, while its local communities offer genuine Maldivian cultural experiences.
Raa Atoll, also known as North Maalhosmadulu, is famed for its spectacular marine biodiversity including manta ray aggregation sites and pristine coral gardens. The atoll combines natural beauty with authentic local island culture across its many inhabited communities.
Baa Atoll is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and one of the most biodiverse marine areas in the world. Home to the legendary Hanifaru Bay where hundreds of manta rays and whale sharks congregate, Baa offers unmatched snorkelling and diving alongside welcoming local island communities.
Lhaviyani Atoll, historically called Faadhippolhu, is a compact and beautiful atoll with some of the Maldives' finest diving sites. Its thriving local fishing community and unspoilt coral reefs make it a favourite for divers and nature lovers seeking an authentic experience.
Kaafu Atoll encompasses North and South Malé Atolls, the heart of the Maldives. Home to the capital Malé and many popular local islands, it is the most accessible atoll and offers a rich blend of urban energy, traditional island life, and excellent water sports.
Alifu Alifu, the North Ari Atoll, is renowned for its exceptional year-round diving with whale sharks, manta rays, and vibrant coral ecosystems. Local islands like Thoddoo and Ukulhas offer eco-conscious guesthouses and authentic Maldivian hospitality in a stunning natural setting.
Alifu Dhaalu, the South Ari Atoll, is world-famous for its whale shark sightings around Dhigurah island. With beautiful sandy beaches, excellent snorkelling, and a growing guesthouse scene, the atoll is a favourite for travellers seeking both wildlife and relaxation.
Vaavu Atoll, known as Felidhe Atoll, is one of the smallest atolls but boasts some of the most spectacular diving in the Maldives. Remote and tranquil, its local islands like Fulidhoo offer an escape into traditional Maldivian life surrounded by pristine reefs.
Meemu Atoll, or Mulaku Atoll, is a central Maldivian atoll characterised by its flat, lush islands and outstanding coral reefs. The atoll's local communities are known for their traditional craftsmanship and fishing skills, offering visitors a deeply authentic cultural experience.
Faafu Atoll is a small and tranquil atoll in the central Maldives. Its local islands are surrounded by beautiful coral reefs ideal for diving and snorkelling, while the relaxed island pace and friendly communities make it a perfect destination for unhurried island exploration.
Dhaalu Atoll, also called South Nilandhe Atoll, is known for its excellent surfing breaks and pristine marine environments. The atoll's local islands maintain strong fishing traditions, and its uncrowded reefs offer superb diving and snorkelling experiences away from mass tourism.
Thaa Atoll, or Kolhumadulu, is a large and beautiful atoll in the south-central Maldives. It is home to numerous inhabited islands with rich cultural traditions, along with excellent diving on dramatic ocean channels and thriving reef ecosystems teeming with marine life.
Laamu Atoll, historically Hadhdhunmathi, is one of the largest atolls in the Maldives and a stronghold of traditional Maldivian culture and craftsmanship. Its diverse marine habitats, including healthy coral reefs and seagrass beds, support a remarkable range of sea life.
Gaafu Alifu, the North Huvadhu Atoll, is part of the vast Huvadhu Atoll — the largest natural atoll in the world by area. Its remote local islands are fringed by spectacular reefs, and the area is renowned for its excellent surfing and outstanding underwater visibility.
Gaafu Dhaalu, or South Huvadhu Atoll, is the gateway to the far south of the Maldives. Its capital Thinadhoo is a lively regional hub, and the surrounding local islands offer beautiful beaches, world-class surfing waves, and pristine dive sites rarely visited by tourists.
Gnaviyani Atoll consists of a single island — Fuvahmulah — one of the most unique in the Maldives. Surrounded by a single continuous reef with no lagoon, it is famous for its two freshwater lakes, diverse ecosystems, and exceptional diving — including encounters with tiger sharks, thresher sharks, and whale sharks.
Addu Atoll is the southernmost atoll of the Maldives and the only naturally circular atoll. Its multi-island community is linked by a causeway, and the atoll is rich in WWII history, having served as a British Royal Air Force base. Excellent diving and a relaxed local culture make it a unique destination.