Islands destinationMaldives islandsIndian ocean
Last updated on 03/25/2026 at 10:15 PM
A tropical paradise island among the thousands of islands in the Maldives
"Arriving in the Maldives and flying over the atolls is a moment of pure emotion."
A chain of islands
The Maldives — literally a chain of islands — are located in the Indian ocean, southwest off the southern tip of India and the island of Sri Lanka. The entire atoll system stretches over more than 500 miles from north to south and about 80 miles from east to west.
The Maldives, a chain of islands
A true hidden paradise in the heart of the Indian ocean, the Maldives consist of more than 1,200 small coral islands across 26 atolls, of which only around 200 are inhabited.
- Addu Atoll – Located in the south, famous for spectacular diving and peaceful lagoons.
- Ari Atoll – Known for its abundant coral reefs and whale shark sightings.
- Baa Atoll – A UNESCO biosphere reserve, perfect for snorkeling and manta rays.
- Faadhippolhu Atoll – Small, quiet islands with white sand beaches and diving spots.
- Felidhoo Atoll – Ideal for authentic stays on less crowded islands.
- Fuvahmulah Atoll – A unique single-island atoll, excellent for shark watching and deep diving.
- Hadhdhunmathi Atoll – Large, wild atoll, perfect for explorers and diving enthusiasts.
- Ihavandhippolhu Atoll – Northern atoll with pristine beaches and turquoise lagoons.
- Kaashidhoo Atoll – Small atoll with local villages and good snorkeling spots.
- Kolhumadulu Atoll – Known for clear waters and untouched coral reefs.
- Maamakunudhoo Atoll – Isolated and peaceful, ideal for divers seeking tranquility.
- North Maalhosmadulu Atoll – Northern atoll with diverse coral reefs and luxury resort islands.
- Maalhosmadulu Atoll – Central atoll, a paradise for diving enthusiasts and idyllic beaches.
- South Maalhosmadulu Atoll – Southern atoll, preserved with turquoise lagoons and deserted beaches.
- Malé Atoll – Near the capital, easily accessible and full of water activities.
- North Miladhunmadulu Atoll – Great destination for diving and marine life observation.
- South Miladhunmadulu Atoll – Ideal for diving trips and relaxation on secluded beaches.
- Mulaku Atoll – Less crowded atoll with beautiful snorkeling lagoons.
- Nilandhe Atoll – White sand beaches and spectacular diving sites.
- Rasdhoo Atoll – Small popular atoll with lively diving spots.
- Thiladhunmathi Atoll – Northern atoll with rich reefs and spectacular snorkeling spots.
- Thoddoo Atoll – Known for beaches and small local islands.
- Toddoo Atoll – Perfect for quiet stays and a variety of water activities.
- Vaadhoo Atoll – Famous for clear waters and colorful snorkeling spots.
- Vattaru Atoll – Small, isolated atoll offering calm and natural beauty.
- Wattaru Atoll – Wild atoll, perfect for divers looking to escape the crowds.
More than 80 islands have turned to tourism, transforming themselves into true resort islands.
Access to the atoll is made by passing through the channels in the coral reef, marking the entrance into calmer, shallower waters.
The Maldives with its 'resort islands'
The Maldives with its white sand beachesA paradise for scuba diving and leisure
The Maldives are a paradise for snorkeling, scuba diving, water sports, and simply relaxing in the sun.
The Maldives with its white sand beaches and palm trees in the background
The Maldives and the richness of its marine lifeThe islands of the Maldives are undoubtedly among the most popular scuba diving destinations in the world. With their crystal-clear waters and lush coral reefs, they offer a true paradise for divers. You can observe an impressive variety of marine life, including
sharks, manta rays and
sea turtles. Underwater visibility is excellent, allowing you to fully enjoy every dive.
How to get there ?
International flights
The Maldives are mainly accessible via Velana International Airport in Malé, located on Hulhulé island. Several airlines offer direct or connecting flights from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. From the airport, it is possible to reach the different atolls and resorts via domestic flights, seaplanes, or speedboat transfers.
The runway of Malé International Airport (Velana International Airport), on Hulhulé island ©
Mariohagen |
Dreamstime.comTransfers to islands and atolls
Once you arrive in Malé, most resort hotels on the islands arrange transfers from the airport. Options include speedboats for nearby islands and seaplanes for more distant atolls. These transfers often offer stunning aerial views of turquoise lagoons and atolls, providing your first glimpse of Maldivian paradise.
The marine species from Maldives
Blueface angelfish
(Pomacanthus xanthometopon)
Eastern triangle butterflyfish
(Chaetodon baronessa)
Graeffe's sea cucumber
(Pearsonothuria graeffei)
Maldive anemonefish
(Amphiprion nigripes)
Moorish idol
(Zanclus cornutus)
Tropical flounder
(Bothus mancus)
Whale shark
(Rhincodon typus)
Yellowspotted trevally
(Carangoides fulvoguttatus)
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