Considered one of the top snorkeling destination in the Maldives, Lhaviyani Atoll’s underwater world is something you don't want to miss. Located just north to Malé Atolls, it hosts some stunning and pristine snorkeling spots. From reef sharks, eagle rays and sea turtles sightings, to displays of coral in crystal-clear water just under the surface, there’s so much to experience when snorkeling Lhaviyani.
Lhaviyani Atoll (also known as Faadhippolhu Atoll) lies just north to North Malé Atoll. It is made up of 54 islands, of which only 5 are inhabited and 5 are resort islands.
On the inhabited islands, shore snorkeling can be done mostly in Olhuvelifushi (fringed by a lagoon on its southern side) and Kurendhoo.
The 5 resort islands, bordered by lagoons and/or house reefs, are all great for snorkeling.
With its 2km-long white sand beach, Kuredu is certainly the most popular resort island on the atoll.
Fringed by reef drop-offs, it offers some of the best shore snorkeling in Lhaviyani.
Kuredu is also the main departure point for boat snorkeling tours to Fahigili, a wonderful reef lying less than 2km from Kuredu’s coast.
The Maldives hosts an incredible diversity of sea life, with more than 2000 species of fish, ranging from colorful reef fish to pelagic fish, such as whale sharks.
Lhaviyani Atoll, in particular, is a top spot for snorkeling with sea turtles, rays, and sharks in shallow water.
In the Maldives, the year is divided into two seasons determined by the monsoons. The northeastern 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 southwestern 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.
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On all spots, abundant in Kuredu
On all spots, on both reef flats and reef drop offs
On all spots
On reef drop offs
Resort island with reef drop off, sharks, rays and turtles
Level: Resort nearby
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