Understanding the atolls

An atoll is a ring of coral reef enclosing a lagoon — and the Maldives is essentially a double chain of them running north to south. You do not need to learn all 26, but recognising the handful below will instantly tell you what a resort's location means for your trip.

North & South Malé Atoll

Home to the airport and the capital. Because resorts here are a short speedboat ride away, this is the easiest, most affordable area to reach, and it suits short trips and late arrivals. It includes long-standing classics with excellent house reefs.

Ari Atoll (North & South)

One of the most popular diving and snorkelling regions. South Ari is famous for year-round whale sharks. Expect a good spread of price points, from lively all-inclusive islands to refined hideaways, usually reached by seaplane or a short domestic flight.

Baa Atoll

A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and the address of Hanifaru Bay, where manta rays gather in the green season. Baa leans upscale — think barefoot luxury and design-led resorts — and is reached by seaplane.

Noonu & Raa Atolls

Quieter, northern atolls that have become a hub for ultra-luxury private-island resorts. If seclusion and top-tier service are the goal, this is prime territory.

Laamu & the far south

Remote and uncrowded, reached by domestic flight. Laamu is known for surf breaks and a single, sustainability-focused resort per island feel. Choose the south for genuine quiet and a sense of being far from everywhere.