Maamigili

Maamigili (މާމިގިލި) is one of the largest inhabited islands in South Ari Atoll and a gateway to one of the best places in the world to see whale sharks. It has its own airport, a busy harbour and a growing number of guesthouses and dive schools.

The island lies beside the South Ari Marine Protected Area, where whale sharks are found throughout the year along the outer reef. Snorkelling trips in search of them leave daily in good weather, and responsible guides keep a respectful distance and limit time with the animals. Manta cleaning stations, turtles on the reef flats and night dives with nurse sharks complete the marine experience. Show more

On land, Maamigili keeps the rhythm of a Maldivian local island, with a mosque, village lanes, a harbour full of fishing boats and a designated bikini beach facing the house reef. Sandbanks in the lagoon invite picnics, and the neighbouring island of Fenfushi, whose old coral stone Friday mosque is on the UNESCO tentative list, can be visited by boat.

Maamigili is reached by domestic flight from Malé or by speedboat, and transfers to nearby resorts and islands are short. Several days suit whale shark trips and diving. Sightings are never guaranteed and depend on weather and sea conditions, while the dry season from December to April usually brings the calmest water. Modest dress is expected and alcohol is not sold.