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The Maldives atolls explained: choosing where to stay

Our 188 resorts are spread over 20 atolls. The most resorts are in North Malé Atoll (41), South Malé Atoll (22), Raa Atoll (19) and South Ari Atoll (19).

The Maldives is made up of 26 natural atolls, rings of coral reef enclosing lagoons and islands. For travellers, the atoll you choose decides how long your transfer takes, what marine life you are likely to see and how many other resorts are nearby.

Close to Malé

North and South Malé Atolls are the quickest to reach, mostly by speedboat. They suit short stays and late arrivals. North Malé Atoll has 41 resorts in our collection and South Malé Atoll has 22.

Ari and Baa for marine life

South Ari Atoll is known for whale sharks, and Baa Atoll is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with manta rays at Hanifaru Bay in season.

Further north and south

Atolls such as Noonu, Raa, Lhaviyani and Shaviyani in the north, and Gaafu Alifu, Gaafu Dhaalu and Addu in the south, are reached by seaplane or domestic flight and feel more remote.

Resorts by atoll

AtollResorts
North Malé Atoll41
South Malé Atoll22
Raa Atoll19
South Ari Atoll19
Baa Atoll17
Lhaviyani Atoll12
North Ari Atoll11
Dhaalu Atoll9
Noonu Atoll8
Gaafu Alifu Atoll7
Vaavu Atoll5
Addu Atoll3
Meemu Atoll3
Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll2
Haa Alifu Atoll2
Haa Dhaalu Atoll2
Shaviyani Atoll2
Laamu Atoll2
Thaa Atoll1
Faafu Atoll1
Gnaviyani Atoll0

Plan your stay