How to Find the Best Place to Scuba Dive?

If you’ve imagined what it’s like to scuba dive in the Maldives, you probably had images of islands that contrast perfectly with the blue water. It’s an accurate description of the Maldives, but whatever you have in your mind, it doesn’t even come close to the experience of actually being there. The Maldives is a set of islands seemingly scattered haphazardly across the ocean. This geographical setup is exactly what makes it one of the best diving destinations in the world.

Pick the Right Place to Stay 

First things first, you need to choose the right accommodation. What does ‘right’ mean in this context? Well, there are resorts that specifically cater to divers. The best thing about these resorts is that they offer training as well, in accordance with your skill level and experience. What’s more, if you have kids, they might be able to have a go too. While you have a range of accommodations in terms of budget if you decide to stay at a Maldives five-star resort that offers the best of creature comforts, a place like Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives could be a great fit!

Now, it’s time to – well, dive in!

Sunlight Thila 

Located in North Malé Atoll, also known as the Kaafu Atoll, Sunlight Thila is a small, shallow pinnacle dive site with two rather small coral reefs. If you’re here between March and October, your encounters might include giant manta rays. Turtles and various colourful reef fish also take shelter here, and a whitetip shark or two might wander by as well. Sunlight Thila is ideal for divers with little experience.

Okobe Thila

Another North Malé Atoll gem, Okobe Thila has three sections. The largest one is about 80-100 metres long, and it’s packed with corals – a great spot to start your excursion. To the east, you’ll find another beautiful section, also filled with corals, and the smallest one is in the north. So, what kind of marine encounters will you experience here? Snappers, jacks, and fusiliers, which are hunted by the majestic white-tip and black-tip reef sharks. You might even spot grey reef sharks and barracudas.

Fish Head

Offering excellent diving opportunities for both beginners and experienced divers, Fish Head is in North Ari Atoll. Although the name doesn’t make it sound appealing, it’s quite a beautiful place. Yes, you’re here for the thrill of diving, but Fish Head is home to an abundance of fish, including grey reef sharks, barracudas, and various other colourful tropical fish. Plus, the underwater landscape here is marked by numerous overhangs and coral reefs, so your diving experience is going to be one of enchanting beauty.

Maaya Thila

Want to try some night diving? Maaya Thila is an excellent dive site for that. It’s known for offering memorable nocturnal experiences, so don’t miss out on it. When the night comes calling, the underwater world of Maaya Thila bursts with life. It’s lively during the day too, with white-tip sharks, turtles, and even moray eels gliding by. But those who have dived here at night have magical tales to tell. Under the moonlight, the corals seem to change colour, and here and there, you see various marine creatures lurking by. It’s as magical and even mystical as it gets.

Banana Reef

This is another popular dive spot in the Maldives, and yes, it’s shaped like a banana – hence the name Banana Reef. It’s located in the North Male Atoll and boasts rich biodiversity. What kind of fish will you encounter here? Moray eels and groupers are frequent sights, but there are reef sharks as well. Banana Reef isn’t the best place if you’re just starting out. The currents can be a bit strong and unpredictable, which is sure to entice advanced divers.