Ari, with its thin ring-shaped atolls rising from the deep blue waters of the Indian Ocean, is recognized as one of the best atolls in the Maldives for snorkeling. Most of the 82 islands composing Ari atoll offer shallow turquoise lagoons and dramatic coral walls, accessible only a few swim fins kicks from shore. Thousands of reef fish, sea turtles, clownfish in their anemone, reef sharks, spotted eagle rays and manta rays, and some of the most colorful angelfish species on earth are commonly sighted while snorkeling the atoll.
The Ari Atoll is a large oval lagoon scattered with islands and reefs, some 30 minutes by plane from Malé, the capital. Made up of 82 islands, only 36 of which are inhabited and 26 are “resort islands”, this is one of the biggest of the 22 atolls in the Maldives. The Ari atoll is the second most visited in the country, after the Malé atoll.
Along with the Baa Atoll, it is the most famous atoll in the Maldives for the quality of the sea bed and the variety of its underwater life. It is particularly renowned as the best place in the archipelago for seeing whale sharks.
If you want to snorkel in the Ari Atoll, you will need to stay (for the day or longer) on one of the many islands (or resort islands) in the lagoon. Among the most renowned for snorkeling are Maafushivaru, Vilamendhoo, Bathala, Velidhu, Kandolhu, or Mirihi. The southern tip of Ari Atoll, known as Whale Shark Point, is one of the best spots to swim with whale sharks year-round (and with manta rays, in season).
Almost all the snorkeling spots in the Maldives are in the small atolls, often adjoining an island and always surrounded by a circular coral reef, with the outer slope the more interesting one to explore.
The coral, which rises to the surface of the water, literally “drops” towards the ocean depths in a wealth of colors and shapes. The outer slopes of the atolls are open onto the ocean and are a chance to see underwater life from the reef and the deep sea.
During your excursions, you will come across manta rays, blacktip reef sharks, clownfish in their anemones, angelfish, green sea turtles, and hawksbill sea turtles, and shoals of hundreds of surgeonfish… In all, 70 species of coral and over 700 species of fish await you in the Maldives reefs.
In the Maldives, the year is divided into two seasons determined by the monsoons. The north-eastern monsoon, from December to April, corresponds to the dry season.
This is the best period for snorkeling because the sunshine is exceptional, but it also corresponds to the peak tourist season (high visitor numbers and high prices).
The south-western monsoon, from May to November, corresponds to the rainy season. Rains and storms are brief but intense and are sometimes accompanied by very strong winds.
All through the year, average temperatures vary between 79 and 93°F (26 and 34°C), with more heat in the dry season.
With a water temperature permanently around 82°F (28°C), the Maldives has ideal conditions for snorkeling all year-round.
South Ari Atoll, 00200 Himandhoo , Maldives
Sandy white shores and crystal-clear lagoons, a luxurious beach escape in Maldives’ South Ari Atoll. It boasts a beautiful infinity pool, free Wi-Fi and a pampering spa. The over-water Uspa by Constance features relaxing body massage and a yoga pavilion. For a good workout, there is a gym. The charming beach provides afternoons of beach volleyball and diving.
Snorkeling spots nearby
Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa, 20187 Dhangethi, Maldives
Every room at this resort is air conditioned and is fitted with a flat-screen TV. Certain rooms feature views of the sea or the garden. All rooms include a private bathroom. You can play tennis, table tennis and billiards at this resort, and the area is popular for snorkelling.
450+ spots have already been featured on Snorkeling Report thanks to people like you. Share your favorite snorkeling spot and help us cover the world map. Your contribution will help the snorkeling community find new sites and enjoy the underwater world!
ADD A SPOT
Whale Shark Point, reachable from all islands of South Ari Atoll, is one of the best spots to swim with these giants.
Frequently sighted at reef in all spots, including Velidhu Island and Moofushi Island
Found in almost all reef spots; look for the sea anemones
Common on the reef drop offs, for instance in Moofushi Island
Periodic sightings throughout the archipelago, for instance in Velidhu Island. Common in season at Whale Shark Point.
Present on all spots
Common on reef slopes
One of the most beautiful fish of the Maldives; occasionally sighted in Velidhu Island
Commonly sighted on all spots; frequently observed in large schools, for example in Velidhu island
On all spots
Resort island with reef drop off, sharks, rays and turtles
Level: Resort nearby
Open sea area visited by whale sharks and manta rays
Level:
Resort island with reef drop off and turtles
Reef drop off with colorful fish
Level: Free shore access
You must be logged in to post a comment.
