Baa Atoll

Baa Atoll (ބާ) is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and one of the most important marine areas in the Maldives. Its reefs, islands and lagoons are protected for their remarkable biodiversity, and the atoll combines luxury resorts with inhabited islands such as Dharavandhoo, Maalhos and Thulhaadhoo.

Baa is best known for Hanifaru Bay, a small protected reef bay where plankton concentrates during the southwest monsoon. At these times, large numbers of manta rays gather to feed, sometimes joined by whale sharks, creating one of the most remarkable marine spectacles in the world. Access to the bay is regulated to protect the animals, and snorkelling is allowed only with licensed guides. Show more

Elsewhere, the atoll's house reefs and dive sites such as Dhigali Haa and Dhonfanu Thila offer turtles, reef sharks and colourful coral, and sandbanks such as Fulhadhoo's long white spit invite picnics. Island culture remains strong, from bodu beru drumming to the traditional lacquer work of Thulhaadhoo, where artisans decorate wooden boxes and vases.

Baa is reached by seaplane from Malé or by domestic flight to Dharavandhoo followed by a boat ride. Several days to a week suit a stay. Manta activity peaks roughly from May to November, while the dry season from December to April brings calmer seas. On inhabited islands, modest dress is expected and alcohol is not sold.