Ari Atoll, Maldives: Complete Travel Guide for Diving, Resorts & Island Adventures

Ari Atoll is subdivided into two administrative units (North Ari Atoll and South Ari Atoll), North Ari Atoll (Alif Alif) and South Ari Atoll (Alif Dhaal). It is home to 28 residential islands and over 40 luxury resort islands; it lies in the southwest of Male. 

The geological appearance of the atoll is oval and constitutes diverse marine ecosystems of the atoll, therefore rendering it the best point of dive for whale shark or manta ray sightseeing. It is also situated strategically in the Indian Ocean by ensuring that the most ideal diving sites in the Maldives are accessible at all times.

• High Season (December - April): The dry season is based on the optimal conditions and the lack of rainfall and good underwater visibility. This is the time of the year when diving lovers and high-end customers are in search of sure sunshine.
• Shoulder Season (May - November): The Wet season is accompanied by a few rain showers but much reduced prices. During this season, travellers with limited funds will be able to save 30-50% on accommodation.

Checkout: Best Time to Visit Maldives

• Whale Sharks: Year-round, peak visibility August-November
• Manta Rays: December-April and August-November  
• Sea Turtles: Year-round breeding season

Diving Sites in Ari Atoll, Maldives

Mushimasmingili Thila ranks among the most perfect locations in the world to go on a diving expedition, and it comprises grey reef sharks, colourful coral formations and Napoleon wrasse. Maaya Thila offers manta ray thrilling drift diving.

Snorkelling and Water Sports in Ari Atoll

In Ari Atoll, Maldives, some of the best tours and excursions in 2025 blend marine adventures with authentic island culture. Visitors can join whale shark snorkelling tours in shallow coral gardens, a must-do for spotting these gentle giants up close. For a more relaxing experience, sunset dolphin cruises with local guides offer magical views and a chance to see pods dancing in the waves. Cultural travellers will love traditional fishing experiences with Maldivian communities, where age-old techniques meet warm island hospitality. And for those seeking eco-friendly exploration, kayaking through mangrove channels reveals the natural beauty and hidden biodiversity of Ari Atoll from a unique perspective.

Cultural Experiences in Ari Atoll

Explore the traditional Maldivian culture in the form of cooking classes, where they cook traditional foods, such as Mas Huni and Garudhiya. Travel to the local islands to see the coral-stone mosques and have a real sense of the local community living.

• Overwater bungalows - with direct lagoon access
• Beach villas - surrounded by tropical vegetation  
• Water villas - with private decks and snorkelling access
• Guesthouses -  on local islands for budget travellers

From Malé International Airport:

• Seaplane transfers: 25-30 minutes, daylight operations only
• Speedboat connections: 90-120 minutes via domestic airport
• Domestic flights + speedboat: Fastest option for South Ari properties

Note - The cost of transfer is between 200-600 USD per person based on the resort location and mode of transportation.

• Luxury resorts: $2,000-5,000+
• Mid-range properties: $800-2,000  
• Guesthouse stays: $300-800
• Activities and excursions: $200-500
• Transfers: $200-600

• Reserve 3-6 months before the high season.
• Get reef-safe sunscreen to save the corals.
• Bring along money to pay for the resorts and tips.
• Respect local customs on inhabited islands with modest clothing

Ari Atoll is a marine biodiversity, a luxury accommodation, and a genuine cultural experience. If you want to dive like the champions of the world, have romantic dinners over the water, or want to spend money wisely, island-hopping, this Maldivian Eden can offer any of these to the traveller. Whether it is luxury resorts that come with personalised butlers or local guesthouses that can be connected to the community, Ari Atoll is a place where you can make your adventure in the Indian Ocean. Ready to explore Ari Atoll? Check out the best Maldives tour Packages at Pickyourtrail and create a personalised itinerary with unique deals in the resorts based on your budget and interests.