Manta Point

Manta Point is not on any best-of-the-Maldives list (not to be confused with Manta Point in Nusa Penida, Indonesia). Divers from all over the globe come to view the gentle giants at this famed manta cleaning station. The reef itself is also wonderful, so there is something for everyone. Manta Point is one of the best dive sites in the Maldives.

The native name is Emas Thila, and the rays cluster around 15 to 30 meters (49-98ft) on the northwest side of the submerged island during the northeast monsoon season. The gently sloping reef gives up to a dramatic drop-off, although the action is at roughly 20m/65ft. Crevices, tunnels, and caverns in the reef hide a plethora of marine life.

Things to see: Divers can also see vivid soft corals, sea whips, dog-tooth tuna, Napoleon wrasse, sharks, and trevally in addition to mantas. On the reef, look for schools of sweetlips, red bass, masked bannerfish, and emperor fish. The odd turtle saunters by as well.