Ari Atoll
10 luxury resorts · seaplane from Male · 80km
The diving capital of the Maldives — over 100 dive sites and year-round whale shark encounters
About Ari Atoll
Ari Atoll is the undisputed diving capital of the Maldives. With over 100 recognised dive sites spread across North and South Ari Atoll, the waters here offer encounters with whale sharks, hammerhead sharks, thresher sharks, and manta rays on a near-daily basis. The western side of the atoll is particularly renowned for whale shark sightings — LUX South Ari Atoll has been instrumental in studying and protecting the whale shark population here. The atoll combines world-class diving with a wide range of resort options, from affordable 4-star properties to ultra-luxury hideaways.
Highlights
- 100+ dive sites
- Whale shark capital
- Year-round diving
- Diverse marine life
Marine Life
Best For
Getting to Ari Atoll
Ari Atoll is located approximately 80km from Velana International Airport in Male. Resorts in this atoll are reached by seaplane. Seaplane transfers operate during daylight hours only and take approximately 20-45 minutes depending on the resort.