Nestled in the Indian Ocean's heart, the Maldives isn't just a dream vacation destination known for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life; it's an archipelago of 26 atolls. These atolls, ring-shaped chains of coral islands and sandbars surrounding lagoons, stretch from Ihavandhippolhu Atoll in the north to Addu Atoll in the south. While Huvadhu Atoll boasts the largest size, Faafu Atoll holds the most islands. Each atoll offers a distinct charm, from the bustling North Malé Atoll to the serene Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve celebrated for conservation.
Explore our Maldives Atolls List and Maps to discover your perfect tropical escape. Luxurious resorts cater to every indulgence at each atoll, from overwater villas with breathtaking ocean views to world-class spas and fine dining. Whether you seek aquatic adventures or beachside tranquility, the Maldives atolls promise an unforgettable paradise vacation.
North Male Atoll - Most Developed & Accessible Atoll, Best for Diving
North Male Atoll is a picturesque and captivating destination in the Maldives, known for North Male Atoll in the Maldives is a top destination for diving and surfing. Renowned for its vibrant coral reefs, abundant marine life, and thrilling dive sites, North Male Atoll is a diver's paradise. Manta Point, a famous cleaning station, attracts countless divers seeking to witness these graceful creatures. The atoll boasts a wide range of luxury resorts, with over 30 options, offering everything from overwater bungalows to private villas. Being the closest atoll to the airport, North Male Atoll offers easy access to the Maldives. Learn more about North Male Atoll Resorts >>
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South Male Atoll - A Diver’s Paradise with More Serene Atmosphere
While it shares the same stunning beauty as its northern Male Atoll, it offers a more serene and secluded atmosphere. Renowned for its exceptional dive sites, South Male Atoll is a haven for underwater enthusiasts. Thrilling drift dives, vibrant coral reefs, and encounters with a diverse range of marine life await. Discover a selection of over 20 luxurious resorts, offering world-class amenities, overwater bungalows, and impeccable service. Learn more about South Male Atoll Resorts >>
Recommended Resorts in South Male Atoll:
Ari Atoll - Best Place to Watch Whale Sharks & Hammerhead Sharks
Ari Atoll in the Maldives is known for its natural beauty, marine life, and activities for water sports enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies. It is divided administratively into two parts: North and South Ari Atoll. During special seasons, plankton-rich waters flowing through channels into the atoll attract pelagic species, drawing divers from all over the world. South Ari remains one of the best places in the world to watch whale sharks, which patrol the outer reef year-round, while some parts of North Ari Atoll are favorite habitats for hammerhead sharks. Learn more about Raa Atoll Resorts >>
Recommended Resorts in Thaa Atoll:
Baa Atoll - UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve for Manta Rays & Coral Reefs
Baa Atoll is located in the northwest of Male and is renowned for its exceptional marine biodiversity, luxurious resorts, and unspoiled natural beauty. As the world's first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Maldives, Baa Atoll boasts an incredible array of marine life, including colorful coral reefs, vibrant fish, graceful manta rays, and majestic whale sharks. Learn more about Baa Atoll Resorts >>
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Raa Atoll - An Unatpped Paradise for World-class Diving
Raa Atoll, also known as North Maalhosmadulu Atoll, is located north of Baa Atoll. Renowned for its exceptional dive sites, Raa Atoll is a haven for underwater enthusiasts. Thrilling drift dives, vibrant coral reefs, and encounters with diverse marine life await. Indulge in the comfort and luxury of world-class resorts, with approximately 20 options available. Learn more about Raa Atoll Resorts >>
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Dhaalu Atoll - Lesser-known Paradise for Unspoiled Natural Beauty & White Sandy Beaches
Dhaalu Atoll, also known as Nilande Atoll South or Southern Nilandhe Atoll, is a secluded atoll in the Maldives known for its natural beauty and tranquility. It offers a selection of high-end accommodations providing exceptional comfort and service. If you prefer a quieter and more secluded vacation, Dhaalu Atoll is an ideal choice. Learn more about Baa Atoll Resorts >>
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Gaafu Alifu Atoll - Maldives’ Untouched Paradise
As part of the largest natural atoll in the world, Gaafu Alif has 82 islands and is revered for its diverse marine habitats. Located a little far away from Male, the capital of the Maldives, Gaafu Alifu Atoll is a relatively unexplored gem in the Maldives, offering pristine natural beauty, thriving marine life, and a serene atmosphere. Learn more about Gaafu Alifu Atoll Resorts >>
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Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll - World-class Diving for Diver’s Dream
Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, also known as South Huvadhoo Atoll, is a southern Maldives paradise known for its pristine natural beauty, exceptional diving, and tranquil atmosphere. The Coral Gardens, Overhangs, and Thilas make it one of the best diving locations in the Maldives. Expect to encounter breathtaking coral formations, abundant marine life including sharks, manta rays, and turtles, and explore thrilling underwater topography.
Recommended Resorts in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll:
Haa Alifu Atoll - The Northernmost Atoll & Tranquil Atmosphere
Officially known as North Thiladhunmathi Atoll, Haa Alifu is the most northern Atoll in the Maldives. It's home to 43 lush tropical islands, with 14 of them inhabited, making it the third-largest atoll in the Maldives in terms of both land area and population. Haa Alifu Atoll boasts stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation. Its remote location ensures a tranquil and undisturbed environment.
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Laamu Atoll - Vibrant Culture, Unspoiled Reefs & Vivid Wetlands
Laamu Atoll in the Maldives is known for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unspoiled reefs. It's located in the central group of atolls in the deep south of the Maldives and is less popular with tourists than other atolls. The Six Senses Laamu has a well-preserved ecological environment due to its distance from Malé, and the service is excellent. Laamu also boasts world-class surf spots.
Recommended Resorts in Laamu Atoll:
Lhaviyani Atoll - Crystal-clear lagoons & Famous for World Class Diving
Lhaviyani Atoll is situated in the northern part of the Maldives archipelago. It's a relatively small atoll, offering a more intimate and secluded experience compared to its busier southern counterparts. Learn more about Lhaviyani Atoll Resorts >>
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Noonu - An Untouched Paradise for Thrilling Diving
Noonu Atoll, also known as Miladhunmadulu Dhekunuburi, is nestled in the northern part of the Maldives archipelago. Noonu Atoll is a haven for nature enthusiasts and divers. It boasts pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a rich marine ecosystem. Learn more about Noonu Atoll Resorts >>
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Shaviyani Atoll - A Northern Paradise & Luxury Retreats
Shaviyani Atoll, also known as Milladunmadulu Uthuruburi, is situated in the northern part of the Maldives archipelago. Shaviyani Atoll is perfect for travelers who crave an escape from the crowds and a genuine Maldivian experience. It offers a pristine and unspoiled environment for relaxation and adventure.
Recommended Resorts in Shaviyani Atoll:
Vaavu Atoll - An Undiscovered Gem in the Central Part
Vaavu Atoll is located in the central part of the Maldives archipelago. Experience thrilling underwater adventures and catch big-game fish. Indulge in relaxation and rejuvenation at luxurious resorts. Learn more about Vaavu Atoll Resorts >>
Recommended Resorts in Vaavu Atoll:
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Adaaran Club Rannalhi, Maldives
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