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Top three dive sites near Maafushivaru

Being set in a remote location of the Maldives — in the southern region of the Ari Atoll archipelago — diving experiences near Maafushivaru bring forth wonderful tales with a mere plunge into the aquatic realm below. Thirty dive sites accessible by Dhoni provide expansive options on varying tiers of difficulty and qualification, offering the best of the thriving marine ecosystems in the Maldives.
The dive team at Maafushivaru shares their top three recommendations (please note that for all three dive sites, a check dive is required).
Kudarah Thila
A marine protected dive site for Advanced Open Water divers only, the Kudarah Thila is reachable in 25 minutes from Maafushivaru and comprises a small ‘thila’ (pinnacle) that could be circled twice in one dive. The reef top is 12 to 14 metres, declining into 30 plus meters on the side. Expect large overhangs with sea fans, massive schools of blue striped snappers and red snappers, grey reef sharks if lucky, and if very lucky even lemon sharks! It is a fantastic dive site for everyone who loves big fish sightings, but also for macro lovers as there are good chances of seeing small critters like nudibranchs or shrimps. The corals at this ‘thila’ are outstanding, as it has one of the best reef tops in South Ari atoll.
Maamigili Beyru
This is part of the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA) and one of the main spots near the resort to see whale sharks. This dive site is for beginners and for experienced divers (minimum requirement of Open Water Certification) and can be reached in an hour. Briefly described as a simple wall dive beginning around seven to 12 metres on the reef top and dropping down in a slope to 30 plus meters, where divers from Maafushivaru usually dive it around 15 metres.
Fantastic coral life, mainly hard corals, can be found here, while there is a high chance of seeing whale sharks, the gentle giants of the ocean. There is always a chance to see schools of mobulas, eagle rays, napoleons, grey reef sharks and sometimes even dolphins. Besides that, it is also one of the main macro spots (ghost pipefish, nudibranchs, flatworms, etc.).
Manta Block
This dive site is a cleaning station for reef mantas and can be reached within 45 minutes. Maafushivaru’s dive centre does this dive site as part of its half-day manta trips (two tank dives). Open Water and Advanced Divers will both love this site, as when the mantas get cleaned at this dive site all you have to do is relax and watch them! Reef hooks are provided if there is current, so divers do not have to move at all for an hour and can just enjoy these huge rays swimming close over their head. If you are very lucky, there will be more manta rays on a close by reef; so after the dive you can directly go snorkelling with them before heading for the second dive of the day.
Set in the picturesque atoll of Ari and accessible by a scenic seaplane flying over the breathtaking archipelago of Maldives and its mysterious atoll formations, Maafushivaru is an island that charms guests with its dazzling turquoise lagoon, knitted with lush flora and wide sandy beaches. A stone’s throw away is Lonubo, its very own desert island, all set to provide couples with an intimate island experience.
The resort offers a choice of three distinct villas. Beach Villas sit on the postcard perfect beach with views out to the sea, while the chic Water Villas offer panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Families or friends travelling together will find the Pool Villas ideal as they come with two separate villas with a shared private pool. All villas are fine-tuned with hints of modern architecture and design.
Maafushivaru’s main restaurant overlooks the lagoon and offers a buffet of international and local flavours. 135° East is a contemporary Teppanyaki and Sushi restaurant with its own overwater pavilion. The Library Lounge coffee shop serves a range of tea and specialty coffees. There is also bar and a wine chiller.
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Game on! Upcoming Meyyafushi unveils Maldives’ first overwater padel court

Get ready for a unique sporting experience in paradise! Meyyafushi Maldives, the highly anticipated new resort from the owners and operators of Fushifaru Maldives, has teased an extraordinary amenity on its social media channels: an overwater padel tennis court. Set to open in October 2025, Meyyafushi Maldives is already generating buzz, and this innovative addition is sure to elevate its appeal.
Building on the established success of Fushifaru Maldives, known for its intimate atmosphere and stunning natural beauty in Lhaviyani Atoll, Meyyafushi Maldives promises a similar commitment to exceptional hospitality and unforgettable experiences. While details about the new resort have been gradually unfolding, the recent reveal of the overwater padel tennis court marks a significant and exciting development.
Padel tennis, a popular racquet sport that combines elements of tennis, squash, and badminton, is gaining traction globally. However, Meyyafushi Maldives is taking the game to a whole new level – literally. Imagine the thrill of a friendly (or perhaps a fiercely competitive!) match with the breathtaking backdrop of the turquoise Maldivian waters stretching out beneath the court. The social media post showcasing the court hints at a truly exceptional spot to engage in some active fun with loved ones while soaking in the unparalleled scenery.

This pioneering amenity underscores Meyyafushi Maldives’ dedication to offering distinctive and memorable experiences for its guests. It signals a resort that is not only focused on relaxation and natural beauty but also on providing unique and engaging activities. The overwater padel tennis court is poised to become a signature feature, attracting sports enthusiasts and those seeking novel ways to enjoy their Maldivian getaway.
As Meyyafushi Maldives gears up for its October 2025 opening, the introduction of the first overwater padel tennis court in the Maldives adds another compelling reason to anticipate its arrival. This innovative amenity promises a memorable and picturesque sporting experience, further solidifying the resort’s position as a noteworthy addition to the Maldivian hospitality landscape.
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Ifuru Island Maldives takes part in Burunu Boma sport fishing tournament

Ifuru Island Maldives has announced its participation in the inaugural Burunu Boma Sport Fishing Tournament, taking place from 2 to 4 May 2025. Organized by the Visit Maldives Club (VMC), this premier event aims to position the Maldives as a leading destination for sustainable sport fishing.
As one of the select resorts competing in this prestigious tournament, Team Ifuru Maldives will showcase its commitment to marine conservation and responsible tourism. The competition emphasizes “catch and release” practices, aligning with global efforts to preserve marine biodiversity.
Participants will target species such as marlin, sailfish, mahi-mahi, yellowfin tuna, wahoo, swordfish, and bigeye tuna, with a grand prize of USD 25,000 awarded to the top-performing team. The event also features live entertainment and a festive atmosphere, celebrating the Maldives’ rich fishing heritage.
“We are thrilled to be part of Burunu Boma and to represent Ifuru Island Maldives in this landmark event,” said Marcel Sawyer, General Manager at Ifuru Island Maldives. “Our participation underscores our dedication to sustainable practices and our passion for the ocean that surrounds us.”
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Sirru Fen Fushi to host ‘One Ocean, One Breath’ with Freedive Maldives to mark World Oceans Day

Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort, invites ocean lovers and adventure seekers to a purposeful World Oceans Day celebration in partnership with Freedive Maldives, Guinness World Record Holder for the Most People Performing Static Apnea held last October 2022.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of one of the largest natural lagoons and house reefs in the Maldives, the event promises a deep connection to the ocean through expert-led PADI Freediving courses, ranging from basic to advanced levels. Participants will have the opportunity to earn their freediving certification, explore Sirru’s 9-kilometer-long house reef, and admire vibrant marine biodiversity, including manta ray cleaning stations, nurse shark points, flourishing coral gardens, and turtle habitats, home to 93 resident turtles and 11 successful hatchings this year alone.
“Our house reef, one of the longest and most vibrant in the Maldives, is a sanctuary for marine life and a symbol of our deep commitment to ocean conservation,” said Lukasz Prendke, General Manager of Sirru Fen Fushi. “We are honoured to collaborate with Freedive Maldives in celebrating World Oceans Day, not only to offer our guests an unforgettable underwater journey, but also to empower local talents and inspire our community to protect what lies beneath the surface.”
The initiative aligns with the resort’s ongoing sustainability commitments, including regular lagoon cleaning programs and support for local marine conservation efforts. This collaboration further emphasizes a shared mission to preserve the Maldives’ rich underwater heritage and engage the local community in meaningful environmental action.
In a broader commitment to sustainable tourism, Freedive Maldives has also signed a partnership agreement with the Baa Atoll Council to host another record-breaking freediving event in October 2025, coinciding with World Tourism Day, reinforcing Baa Atoll’s position as a leader in eco-conscious marine tourism.
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