Alifu Dhaalu Atoll

The Heart of Maldivian Diving - Luxury Meets Marine Wonder

Welcome to Alifu Dhaalu Atoll

Alifu Dhaalu Atoll, the southern part of Ari Atoll, is a diver's paradise renowned for its spectacular marine life and luxurious resorts. This central atoll offers some of the best opportunities in the Maldives to encounter whale sharks, manta rays, and vibrant coral reefs.

With its convenient location just west of Malé, Alifu Dhaalu combines easy accessibility with pristine natural beauty. The atoll features a mix of exclusive resort islands and traditional fishing villages, offering visitors both luxury and cultural experiences.

Atoll Highlights

  • Location: Central Maldives, west of Malé
  • Capital Island: Mahibadhoo
  • Total Islands: 56 (10 inhabited)
  • Famous For: Whale sharks, luxury resorts, diving
  • Transfer Time: 25 min by seaplane

Luxury Resorts in Alifu Dhaalu Atoll

Mirihi Island Resort

Mirihi Island Resort

Boutique luxury resort known for its excellent house reef and intimate atmosphere with just 39 villas.

Explore Resort
Diamonds Athuruga

Diamonds Athuruga

All-inclusive paradise with stunning overwater villas and exceptional diving facilities.

Explore Resort
Constance Moofushi

Constance Moofushi

Luxurious all-inclusive resort with contemporary design and world-class service.

Explore Resort

Exceptional Dive Sites in Alifu Dhaalu

Whale Shark Point

Whale Shark Point

One of the most reliable spots in the Maldives to encounter gentle whale sharks year-round.

Depth: 5-30m | Level: All levels | Season: Year-round

Manta Point

Manta Point

Cleaning station where majestic manta rays gather, especially from May to November.

Depth: 10-20m | Level: Beginner-Intermediate

Adventure & Relaxation Activities

Whale shark snorkeling

Whale Shark Snorkeling

Swim alongside these gentle giants in their natural habitat with expert guides.

Sunset cruise

Sunset Dolphin Cruises

Evening boat trips to spot playful spinner dolphins against breathtaking sunsets.

Spa treatment

Overwater Spa Experiences

Pamper yourself with luxurious treatments in overwater spa pavilions.

Traveling to Alifu Dhaalu Atoll

Transportation Options

Alifu Dhaalu Atoll is easily accessible from Velana International Airport (MLE):

  • Seaplane: 25-40 minutes direct to most resorts
  • Speedboat: 90 minutes from Malé to closer resorts
  • Domestic Flight: 20 minutes to Maamigili Airport + speedboat transfer

Most luxury resorts include seaplane transfers in their packages.

Seaplane to Alifu Dhaalu

Best Time to Visit Alifu Dhaalu Atoll

The ideal time to visit depends on your interests:

Water temperatures remain warm year-round (27-30°C), with visibility typically 20-40 meters.

Discover Alifu Dhaalu's Islands

Discover Other Maldives Atolls

Visitor Experiences

Share Your Alifu Dhaalu Experience

Sophie Williams
★★★★★ March 2023

Our stay at Mirihi Island Resort was absolute perfection! The house reef was incredible - we saw turtles, reef sharks, and countless colorful fish right from our villa. The whale shark snorkeling excursion was the highlight of our trip. The crew knew exactly where to find these gentle giants!

James & Emma Chen
★★★★☆ January 2023

Alifu Dhaalu's diving is world-class. We did 10 dives and saw mantas at Manta Point on every dive! The visibility was excellent and marine life abundant. Constance Moofushi was luxurious but we wish there were more dining options. Would still highly recommend for divers!