Snorkeling Lhaviyani Atoll

Lhaviyani Atoll (also known as Faadhippolhu Atoll) lies just north to North Malé Atoll. It is made of 54 islands, of which only 5 are inhabited and 5 are resort islands. On the inhabited islands, shore snorkeling can mostly be done 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.

When to go snorkeling Lhaviyani Atoll?

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 have ideal conditions for snorkeling all the year round.