Dive Sites

A UNESCO-protected bay where plankton-rich currents trigger cyclone feeding aggregations of 200+ manta rays. Strictly a snorkelling experience, accessible with licensed guides only. This is a strictly seasonal phenomenon, running from June to November — and during peak season, whale sharks join the mantas in one of the greatest marine spectacles on Earth.

An oval-shaped underwater pinnacle with a dramatic swim-through canyon at 16-25m. The current splits around the point, drawing in massive schools of fusiliers, yellow-lined snapper, and red-toothed triggerfish. Grey reef sharks patrol the deeper edges while manta rays visit the cleaning station in season.

Our house reef is a favourite for relaxed afternoon dives. A sloping reef wall with overhangs shelters nurse sharks, moray eels, and eagle rays, while easy island access makes it ideal for checkout and night dives. Strong currents bring abundant marine life, and during season, manta sightings here can rival even Hanifaru itself — with whale shark encounters a very real possibility too.

A pinnacle dive best done as a drift. Unique topography with caves, and overhangs to explore in search of octopus, reef sharks, batfish, and schools of oriental sweetlips. Manta rays visit the cleaning stations during the season.

A narrow curved thila connected to the main reef, just metres from Dharavandhoo island. Divided into two sections — the inside face shelters garden eels and gobies on sandy patches, while the outside atoll face features sea fans, scorpionfish, and blue-striped snappers.

Once known as the "birthplace of grey reef sharks" — this conservation area was a shelter for dozens of grey reef sharks and two-metre nurse sharks in its protected waters. Drift diving along the reef edge brings encounters with eagle rays, tuna, and walls of snapper.

Named for its spectacular soft coral coverage, Christmas Tree is a macro lover's paradise. Three prominent coral blocks rise from the sandy rubble bottom, riddled with overhangs and hidden corners teeming with marine life. Schooling trevallies sweep through in formation, adding a thrilling sense of movement to this richly textured dive site.

A dramatic pinnacle connected to Kihaa Resort's house reef by a natural reef-bridge, teeming with life at every depth. Grey reef sharks gather at dedicated cleaning stations, while large schools of eagle rays glide gracefully overhead. The depths are adorned with vibrant soft corals, and sleeping nurse sharks rest undisturbed along the reef. Look closer and you'll find sexy shrimps tucked among the coral.

A large thila with dramatic overhangs draped in soft corals and sea fans in every shade of red, orange, and purple. The go to dive for a shark dive. Napoleon wrasse are resident here, often approaching divers with curiosity. Eagle rays cruise the sandy channels between the reef blocks.