North Malé Atoll
The most accessible atoll with iconic luxury resorts minutes from the airport.
About This Atoll
North Malé Atoll — Complete Guide
Home to the capital Male and some of the most accessible luxury resorts in the Maldives. North Male Atoll offers a blend of convenience and tropical splendor, with many properties reachable by a short speedboat ride from Velana International Airport. World-class house reefs, vibrant dive sites like Banana Reef and HP Reef, and a wide range of accommodation styles make this the most popular atoll for first-time visitors.
Why Visit North Malé Atoll
Fun Fact
Banana Reef, discovered in 1972, was the first dive site ever explored in the Maldives and is still rated among the world's top 10 dive sites.
Best Time to Visit
November to April
The northeast monsoon (Nov-Apr) brings calm seas and best visibility. May-Oct sees more rain but excellent manta sightings on the eastern side.
North Malé Atoll at a Glance
Total Islands
50
Inhabited Islands
8
Resort Islands
27
Transfer
Speedboat (15-60 min)
Distance from Airport
0-32 km
Best Time to Visit
November to April
The northeast monsoon (Nov-Apr) brings calm seas and best visibility. May-Oct sees more rain but excellent manta sightings on the eastern side.
Famous Dive Sites
- Banana Reef
- HP Reef
- Manta Point
- Lankan Caves
- Nassimo Thila
Marine Highlights
- Manta rays at Manta Point
- Napoleon wrasse at HP Reef
- Soft coral gardens at Lankan Caves
Notable Resorts
- One&Only Reethi Rah
- Gili Lankanfushi
- Baros Maldives
- Huvafen Fushi
Accommodation Collection
All 25 Properties in North Malé Atoll
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