Maldives Tour Guide
Baa Atoll Maldives

Atoll

Baa Atoll

Baa Atoll is one of the Maldives' administrative atolls (code B), comprising 13 inhabited islands. Its administrative capital is Eydhafushi.

Administrative code
B
Inhabited islands
13

About Baa Atoll

Welcome to Baa Atoll

Baa Atoll is one of the Maldives' most celebrated destinations, designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2011 for its exceptional marine biodiversity. Located in the central western part of the Maldives, this atoll is home to Hanifaru Bay, one of the world's largest manta ray feeding destinations.

With its pristine coral reefs, vibrant marine life, and commitment to sustainable tourism, Baa Atoll offers visitors a perfect blend of luxury and environmental consciousness. The atoll features some of the Maldives' most exclusive eco-friendly resorts alongside traditional Maldivian island communities.

Best Dive Sites in Baa Atoll

World-famous marine protected area where hundreds of manta rays and whale sharks gather to feed on plankton between May and November.

Depth: 5-15m | Level: All levels | Best Time: May-November

Vibrant reef with stunning coral formations, home to reef sharks, eagle rays, and a diverse array of tropical fish species.

Depth: 10-30m | Level: Intermediate | Best Time: Year-round

Popular Activities in Baa Atoll

Experience the thrill of swimming alongside gentle giants at Hanifaru Bay, one of the world's largest manta ray feeding stations.

Visit traditional Maldivian islands like Eydhafushi and Thulhaadhoo to experience authentic culture and witness local craftsmanship.

Embark on a sunset cruise to spot playful spinner dolphins that frequently visit the waters around Baa Atoll.

Getting to Baa Atoll

Baa Atoll is located approximately 126 km northwest of Male' and can be reached by:

Most luxury resorts in Baa Atoll arrange seaplane transfers directly from Male' International Airport.

Best Time to Visit Baa Atoll

The best time to visit Baa Atoll depends on your interests:

For the ultimate Baa Atoll experience, visit between June and October when manta rays gather in large numbers at Hanifaru Bay.

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

In June 2011, Baa Atoll was designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, recognizing its exceptional biodiversity and the sustainable development practices implemented by local communities and resorts.

The reserve covers the entire atoll, including:

Visitors to Baa Atoll are encouraged to practice responsible tourism and follow guidelines to help preserve this unique ecosystem for future generations.

This protected marine area is world-famous for the spectacular natural phenomenon that occurs between May and November when hundreds of manta rays and whale sharks gather to feed on plankton.

Strict regulations are in place to protect this unique ecosystem, including limited visitor numbers and guided snorkeling only.

Baa Atoll Gallery

  • ba atoll maldives
  • baa atoll map

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Islands in Baa Atoll

  • Dharavandhoo Island, Maldives
    Dharavandhoo

    Dharavandhoo is an inhabited island in Baa Atoll, Maldives.

  • ba Dhonfanu island
    Dhonfanu

    Dhonfanu is an inhabited island in Baa Atoll, Maldives.

  • ba Eydhafushi island
    Eydhafushi

    Eydhafushi is an inhabited island in Baa Atoll, Maldives.

  • ba Fehendhoo island
    Fehendhoo

    Fehendhoo is an inhabited island in Baa Atoll, Maldives.

  • ba Fulhadhoo island
    Fulhadhoo

    Fulhadhoo is an inhabited island in Baa Atoll, Maldives.

  • ba goidhoo island
    Goidhoo

    Goidhoo is an inhabited island in Baa Atoll, Maldives.

  • ba Hithaadhoo island
    Hithaadhoo

    Hithaadhoo is an inhabited island in Baa Atoll, Maldives.

  • ba Kamadhoo island
    Kamadhoo

    Kamadhoo is an inhabited island in Baa Atoll, Maldives.

  • ba Kendhoo island
    Kendhoo

    Kendhoo is an inhabited island in Baa Atoll, Maldives.

  • ba Kihaadhoo island
    Kihaadhoo

    Kihaadhoo is an inhabited island in Baa Atoll, Maldives.

  • ba Kudarikilu island
    Kudarikilu

    Kudarikilu is an inhabited island in Baa Atoll, Maldives.

  • ba Maalhos island
    Maalhos

    Maalhos is an inhabited island in Baa Atoll, Maldives.

  • ba Thulhaadhoo island
    Thulhaadhoo

    Thulhaadhoo is an inhabited island in Baa Atoll, Maldives.

On Baa Atoll

  • hanifaru bay maldives
    Hanifaru Bay

    poi

    A UNESCO biosphere reserve in Baa Atoll, one of the world's best-known places to snorkel with manta rays and whale sharks.

Resorts in Baa Atoll

Private island resorts, each its own destination.

Fishing in Baa Atoll

Diving in Baa Atoll

Activities in Baa Atoll

Transfers in Baa Atoll

Packages featuring Baa Atoll

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Destination content on this page is drawn from MTG’s own previously published Maldives guide.