The Maldives is known for white sand beaches, coral reefs, clear warm waters, numerous scuba diving sites and rich marine life. Protected areas include the Hanifaru Bay Marine Protected Area, the South Ari Marine Protected Area, and 93 protected areas in total. Solo diving is forbidden, and divers must show evidence of certification and recent experience. Other rules include tourist and boat limits, SCUBA and fishing bans, scheduled alternation of entrance days between liveaboards and resort boats, and speed limits. Diving is best from December to April, with May to November also good. Tiger sharks and whale sharks are resident, and reef manta rays are seen from May to December. Hawksbill turtles, oceanic manta rays, pelagic thresher sharks, reef fish and whitetip reef sharks are occasionally seen.
- Known for
- White sand beaches, coral reefs, clear warm waters, numerous scuba diving sites and rich marine life
- Protected area
- Hanifaru Bay Marine Protected Area
- Rules
- Solo diving is forbidden in the Maldives, and divers must show evidence of certification and recent experience