Here is a list of top 12 Atolls in Maldives and their top islands:
1. North Male Atoll (Kaafu Atoll)
This atoll is closest to the capital city of Male and is home to many popular tourist resorts, making it a popular destination for travelers.- Malé: The capital and most populated island in the Maldives, known for its vibrant culture and beautiful beaches.
- Baros Island: A luxurious island resort offering pristine beaches, coral reefs, and a range of water activities.
- Vihamanaafushi: A popular tourist destination with stunning beaches and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.
- Paradise Island: A well-known resort island offering various recreational activities and stunning natural beauty.
- Hulhumale: An artificial island developed as a residential and tourist area known for its beautiful beaches and water sports.
2. South Male Atoll
Located south of North Male Atoll, this atoll is known for its beautiful dive sites and pristine beaches.- Maafushi: A budget-friendly island known for its guesthouses, water sports, and proximity to Male.
- Gulhi: A quiet, peaceful island with a beautiful beach and relaxed atmosphere.
- Biyadhoo Island: An idyllic island known for its fantastic diving spots and tranquil surroundings.
- Olhuveli: A luxurious island resort offering pristine beaches, over-water villas, and a range of water activities.
- Fihalhohi Island: A popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches and abundant marine life.
3. Ari Atoll (Alifu Atoll)
Ari Atoll is one of the largest atolls in the Maldives and is divided into two administrative divisions: North Ari Atoll (Alifu Alifu Atoll) and South Ari Atoll (Alifu Dhaalu Atoll). It is famous for its vibrant marine life, including whale sharks and manta rays.- Rangali Island: Home to luxurious resorts, beautiful beaches, and an underwater restaurant.
- Dhigurah: Known for its stunning beach, marine life, and popular diving spots, including the famous whale shark Point.
- Maamigili: A peaceful island with a beautiful beach and proximity to excellent diving and snorkeling spots.
- Omadhoo: A serene island with white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a quiet atmosphere.
- Mandhoo: An island is known for its agricultural activities, traditional Maldivian way of life, and beautiful lagoons.
4. Baa Atoll
Baa Atoll is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its abundant marine biodiversity, including coral reefs and diverse fish species. It is home to the famous Hanifaru Bay, a gathering site for manta rays and whale sharks.- Maalhos: A local island with beautiful beaches, a stunning lagoon, and proximity to Hanifaru Bay, a renowned manta ray hotspot.
- Dharavandhoo: An island with a domestic airport, beautiful beaches, and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. It is also a great island to explore Hanifaru Bay.
- Reethi Beach: A private island resort known for its natural beauty, tranquil surroundings, and abundant marine life.
- Kihaadhuffaru Island: A luxury island resort offering stunning beaches, over-water villas, and a range of water sports.
- Finolhu Kanifushi: A picturesque island resort is known for its turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and luxurious accommodations.
5. Vaavu Atoll
Vaavu Atoll is situated approximately 80 kilometers south of the capital city, Male and covers an area of about 30 square kilometers. Vaavu Atoll is renowned for its incredible underwater ecosystem, particularly famous for its thrilling shark encounters, including sightings of hammerhead sharks and leopard sharks. Diving enthusiasts can explore fascinating dive sites such as Alimatha Jetty and Fotteyo Kandu. The main inhabited island is Felidhoo, which provides a glimpse into the local Maldivian culture and way of life. Other islands like Keyodhoo, Fulidhoo, and Thinadhoo are known for their serene beaches, turquoise waters, and friendly local communities. One of the unique attractions of Vaavu Atoll is the mesmerizing bioluminescence phenomenon that occurs at night.- Fulidhoo: A small local island with beautiful beaches, a vibrant coral reef, and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Thinadhoo: The capital of Vaavu Atoll, offering a local Maldivian experience, beautiful beaches, and water activities.
- Alimatha Island: A private island resort known for its stunning beach, excellent diving spots, and a famous shark feeding area.
- Keyodhoo: An island with beautiful sandy beaches, clear waters, and opportunities for snorkeling and fishing.
- Vashugiri Island: A private island resort offering a serene atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and water sports facilities.
- Please note that these selections are based on general popularity and may vary depending on personal preferences and specific island developments.
6. Lhaviyani Atoll
Lhaviyani Atoll is located in the northern part of the Maldives and offers excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. It is known for its luxury resorts and beautiful sandy beaches.- Kanuhura: A private island resort is known for its pristine white sandy beaches, turquoise lagoons, and luxurious accommodations.
- Kuredu Island: A popular tourist destination offering a range of activities such as snorkeling, diving, and various water sports.
- Komandoo Island: An adult-only island resort with beautiful beaches, over-water villas, and a tranquil atmosphere.
- Hurawalhi Island: A luxury island resort known for its stunning coral reefs, underwater restaurant, and romantic ambiance.
- Naifaru: The capital of Lhaviyani Atoll, offering a glimpse into local Maldivian life, cultural experiences, and beautiful beaches
7. Noonu Atoll
Noonu Atoll is situated north of Lhaviyani Atoll and is known for its stunning natural beauty, including white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. It offers a tranquil and secluded setting for travelers seeking a peaceful getaway.- Velidhoo: A peaceful island with beautiful beaches, clear waters, and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Orivaru: An idyllic island known for its pristine beaches and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.
- Maalhendhoo: A local island with a charming village atmosphere, stunning beaches, and a lively coral reef.
- Landhoo: An island is known for its traditional Maldivian lifestyle, agricultural activities, and serene surroundings.
- Kendhikolhudhoo: A quiet island with beautiful white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back atmosphere.
8. Raa Atoll
Raa Atoll is located in the northern part of the Maldives and is known for its untouched natural beauty and pristine dive sites. It offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience compared to some of the more popular atolls.- Meedhoo: An island known for its historical significance, beautiful beaches, and a serene environment.
- Dhuvaafaru: A local island with stunning sandy beaches, excellent snorkeling spots, and a friendly community.
- Alifushi: A picturesque island with scenic beaches, clear waters, and water sports and fishing opportunities.
- Inguraidhoo: An island with beautiful beaches, lush greenery, and a tranquil atmosphere.
- Maakurandhoo: A peaceful island with pristine beaches, turquoise lagoons, and abundant marine life.
9. Haa Alif Atoll
Haa Alif Atoll is the northernmost atoll in the Maldives and is known for its unspoiled beauty and rich cultural heritage. It offers a glimpse into the traditional Maldivian way of life.- Utheemu: A historical island known for being the birthplace of Sultan Mohamed Thakurufaanu, a national hero.
- Kelaa: A beautiful island with stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a warm and welcoming local community.
- Dhidhoo: An island with scenic beaches, lush vegetation, and a peaceful environment.
- Hoarafushi: A local island with white sandy beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and a friendly atmosphere.
- Filladhoo: A tranquil island known for its natural beauty, pristine beaches, and opportunities for water activities.
10. Laamu Atoll
Located in the southern part of the archipelago, it offers pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and lush vegetation. The atoll boasts a handful of luxury resorts, providing travelers with a secluded and intimate escape.- Gan: The largest island in Laamu Atoll, known for its cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, and lush vegetation.
- Maandhoo: A picturesque island with stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and opportunities for diving and snorkeling.
- Isdhoo: An island known for its traditional Maldivian lifestyle, scenic beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Fonadhoo: A local island with beautiful sandy beaches, clear waters, and a friendly community.
- Kalhaidhoo: An island with stunning beaches, abundant marine life, and a peaceful environment.
11. South Ari Atoll
South Ari Atoll is renowned for its incredible marine biodiversity, making it a paradise for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. The atoll is famous for its all-year encounters with majestic whale sharks and manta rays.- Maamigili: A local island with beautiful beaches, clear waters, and proximity to popular diving and snorkeling spots.
- Dhigurah: Known for its long sandy beach and its location near the famous Hanifaru Bay, a renowned manta ray hotspot.
- Vilamendhoo Island: A picturesque island resort with stunning beaches, abundant marine life, and various water activities.
- Mirihi Island: A small private island known for its intimate atmosphere, pristine beaches, and excellent diving opportunities.
- Thoddoo: A local island famous for its agricultural activities, serene beaches, and availability of guesthouses for budget travelers.
12. Gnaviyani Atoll
Gnaviyani Atoll is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. This lesser-known atoll offers a serene and unspoiled paradise away from the crowds. The atoll also boasts exceptional snorkeling and diving spots, allowing visitors to discover vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.- Fuvahmulah: This unique island stands out in the Maldives with its diverse landscape, including freshwater lakes, wetlands, and pristine beaches. It offers excellent diving opportunities and is known for its rich biodiversity, including rare bird species and marine life.
- Faresmaathoda: A tranquil island with stunning beaches, turquoise lagoons, and a relaxed atmosphere. It is an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings.
- Kanduhulhudhoo: Known for its pristine beaches and abundant marine life, Kanduhulhudhoo offers excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. Visitors can explore colorful coral reefs, encounter tropical fish, and even spot majestic whale sharks.
- Hoadedhdhoo: A local island with a laid-back vibe, Hoadedhdhoo offers a glimpse into the authentic Maldivian way of life. Visitors can enjoy beautiful beaches, interact with friendly locals, and experience the cultural heritage of the Maldives.
- Kolamaafushi: An idyllic island known for its breathtaking beaches and turquoise waters. It provides an ideal setting for relaxation, beachcombing, and enjoying the stunning sunsets over the Indian Ocean.