Fish Head in the Maldives – Dive Site and Nearby Resorts

Fish Head, also known as Mushimasmingali Thila, is one of the most beautiful dive sites in Ari Atoll. It’s not just a diving spot but a true underwater theater where turtles, reef sharks, schools of barracuda, giant trevally, tuna, and countless exotic fish take center stage. With sunlight filtering through the water, every dive feels like a first encounter with the ocean. And nothing complements this experience better than staying at luxurious resorts nearby.

Constance Halaveli

Constance Halaveli

From a bird’s-eye view, Halaveli Island resembles a crescent lost in the ocean. Constance Halaveli Resort is the embodiment of the Maldivian dream: white sand, turquoise lagoon, luxurious villas, and absolute seclusion. Here, it’s easy to lose track of time, immersed in tranquility and the sound of waves.

Staying at Halaveli is always more than just a vacation. Expect spacious overwater villas with private pools, wooden terraces, and direct access to the ocean. Or perhaps you prefer the tropical garden ambiance of secluded beach villas? Whichever you choose, comfort and privacy are guaranteed.

Constance Halaveli

The resort’s restaurants offer world-class cuisine: fresh seafood, signature cocktails, an award-winning wine list with hundreds of labels, and candlelit beach dinners. Breakfast with an ocean view, as the morning sun paints the water golden, is a highlight. Afterward, relax by the pool, indulge in spa treatments, or dive. Fish Head is just minutes away by boat, with dives organized by professional instructors.

Constance Halaveli

Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon

On a secluded islet in Ari Atoll, the 4-star Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon blends authentic Maldivian charm with high-end comfort. Surrounded by picturesque reefs, this resort is a magnet for divers and snorkelers—step outside your villa, and the underwater world begins. Guests come here to escape the hustle, immerse in the ocean’s calm, and embrace the tranquil rhythm of tropical paradise.

Rooms are designed in a minimalist style. Choose cozy standard rooms nestled among palms, or opt for beach or overwater bungalows. Coral-toned interiors, natural wood, and sea breezes create a relaxed, cozy atmosphere.

Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon

Dining at Ellaidhoo is diverse: Madi Restaurant offers lavish buffets with international and Maldivian dishes, while The Junction serves beloved à la carte specialties.

For active travelers, the resort offers a dive center with professional instructors and a coral reef among the region’s best. Enjoy sunset cruises, excursions to Hangnaameedhoo Island, snorkeling, fishing, or poolside relaxation. The idyllic Chavana Spa is perfect for unwinding.

Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon

Safari Island Resort & Spa

At Safari Island, you step into a tropical dream: turquoise lagoon, emerald greenery, and white sand greet you upon arrival. Located in North Ari Atoll, this resort is crafted for those seeking seclusion, romance, and proximity to the underwater world. Time flows slowly and carefree here.

The hotel offers several bungalow types: Water Bungalows with private terraces over the lagoon, Beach Bungalows by the shore, and Semi-Water Bungalows with direct access to both lagoon and beach. Interiors feature warm tones, high palm-leaf roofs, and open verandas, enhancing the connection to nature.

Safari Island Resort & Spa

Guests can savor international and regional cuisine at Lagoon Restaurant with ocean views, or enjoy cocktails and light snacks at the pier bar while watching a vibrant sunset.

Safari is a fantastic choice for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts: famous dive sites, including Fish Head, are just 12 minutes away by boat. Joy Dive Maldives offers daily and night dives. For relaxation, there’s a spa, while active travelers can enjoy water and land sports, private boat safaris, or island excursions.

Safari Island Resort & Spa

Kandolhu Maldives

Kandolhu Maldives is a 5-star resort combining sophistication and natural beauty. This small, nearly circular island, surrounded by a coral reef, is ideal for romantic getaways.

With just 30 villas, each is designed with refined taste. Ocean Pool Villas feature private pools and panoramic ocean views, while Beach Villas are nestled in tropical greenery with spacious open-air garden bathrooms. Interiors blend modern design with natural materials.

Kandolhu Maldives

Dining at Kandolhu stands out: despite the island’s size, it boasts five restaurants, from Japanese Teppanyaki to Mediterranean cuisine, offering a culinary journey every day.

The house reef is steps from the villas, and iconic dive sites, including Fish Head, are nearby. The dive center offers courses and private dives. Guests can also enjoy sunset cruises, water sports, or private spa sessions.

Kandolhu Maldives

Sandies Bathala Resort

In the eastern part of North Ari Atoll, the 4-star Sandies Bathala Resort offers unpretentious beauty, a friendly atmosphere, and comfort in the heart of the ocean. Accommodation includes Beach Bungalows and Water Villas, with clean lines, natural materials, and light tones creating harmony with nature.

The Island Gallery Restaurant delights with daily buffets blending Mediterranean and Maldivian traditions, while cocktails at the cozy bar under palm trees add the perfect touch to a Maldivian evening.

Sandies Bathala Resort

The resort’s pride is its stunning house reef, home to grey reef sharks, nurse sharks, manta rays, eagle rays, and more. The Werner Lau Dive Center organizes trips to famous dive sites, including Fish Head. After an active day, relax with a massage at Mvula Spa, stroll along the shore, or gaze at the starry Maldivian sky in complete silence.

Sandies Bathala Resort

Diamonds Athuruga Beach & Water Villas

A 5-star resort in South Ari Atoll, Diamonds Athuruga exudes effortless serenity. White sand, tropical aromas, swaying palms, and warm staff smiles create an atmosphere where time seems to vanish.

Accommodation at Diamonds Athuruga is about harmony, style, and seclusion. Spacious beach and water villas feature terraces with breathtaking views. Italian-inspired interiors—white fabrics, natural wood, transparency, and light—offer freedom and airiness.

Diamonds Athuruga Beach & Water Villas

The main restaurant serves international cuisine with Italian and Asian accents, while Thari Over Water Restaurant offers fusion cuisine and European and Asian à la carte dishes.

The resort is perfect for diving and snorkeling: the house reef starts at the shore, and Fish Head is just minutes away by boat. Diamonds Athuruga features a PADI dive center, water sports, sunset cruises, and the rejuvenating Serena Spa.

Diamonds Athuruga Beach & Water Villas