Maaya Thila

Maaya Thila's reputation is well-deserved since it is one of the most popular dives in the Maldives and frequently appears on global top-ten lists. The world-class pinnacle is alive with turtles, frogfish, and sharks. Combine jaw-dropping marine life with jaw-dropping geographical characteristics, and you have a good indication of what to anticipate. The reef itself is around 80m/252ft in circumference (small enough that divers may explore most of it in one dive, currents allowing) and begins at only 6m/20ft deep. The wall slopes down to around 30m/98ft depth, making it appropriate for both novice and expert divers.

Things to see: The white-tip reef sharks are the main attraction here. On a good day, up to 20 of these sharks might be found patrolling the reef. Grey reef sharks and the odd guitar shark are also seen circling the pinnacle in search of prey. Bring your camera since the caverns and overhangs on Maaya Thila are home to huge frogfish that may grow to be 30cm/11" long. Divers can also see Moorish idols, turtles, manta rays, triggerfish, barracuda, nudibranchs, and a variety of other sea creatures.