Best Things To Do in the Northern Atolls

From turtles and whale sharks to vibrant corals and schools of tropical fish, experience an enchanting world beneath the surface.

Snorkel with manta rays at Hanifaru Bay or catch a glimpse of spectacular dolphins in Baa Atoll during a splendid sunset cruise. The Maldives' Northern Atolls have a reputation for breathtaking water exploration due to their coral beds brimming with majestic marine life.

Each resort will have a number of aquatic sports on offer – kitesurfing, waterboarding, jet skis, paddleboarding, diving, you name it the Maldives has it all. You might find some treasure hidden by the Pirates of the Indian Ocean while you spend your day at sea!

Your boat will depart just before sunset for a local reef. Afterwards, the crew will teach you how to handle your fishing gear correctly. Whether you want to hunt for your delicious dinner by hand under the starry sky or dive into the nocturnal kingdom of fish surrounded by flamboyant coral, it's up to you!

This island in the Lhaviyani atoll is famous among Maldivians for housing the tomb of the Arab leader Sheikh Najeebul Habashee, erected on the very spot where he died. On trips from the Kanuhura or Atmosphere Kanifushi resorts you can visit the tomb, potter through the village and visit a local café for your first taste of the buttery sea cucumber (a creature that is not a vegetable). The sale of these strange creatures around the world is one of the island's main sources of income.

Take a cruise to the hidden gem of Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Hanimaadhoo Island. Bikini Beach offers pearly white sand surrounded by palm trees and green foliage, just a 5-minute walk from the village. Sun loungers, parasols, bottled water and seating areas are also provided by the host daily. Kayak in the turquoise lagoons or dive in the rainbow-coloured corals, home to thousands of aquatic residents, including dolphins! Check out the local bars, restaurants and the village's fishing facilities, or head over to Nana's kitchen for a delicious ice cream dessert.

To the north-west of Noonu atoll, an ancient prayer hall known as "Maabadhige Haitha" is the country's most important collection of Buddhist remains, but it is a real mystery. The Norwegian explorer who discovered it claimed that it belonged to the Redin, a red-haired people whose mythical origins are unknown. Visit the site, see what the inhabitants of the nearby village have to say and visit the museum to decide for yourself which story is more likely.

Half an hour’s dhoni ride from the Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru in Baa, Kudarikilu is home to a small fishing village, a mosque over a century old and a small museum set up by an enterprising local chief. Spend a day in the life of a Maldivian villager here, strolling the village, checking out the museum and cooling off with sai (tea) in a local café.

This was one of the homes of a much-loved Maldivian hero, Mohamed Thakurufaanu. In 1558, the Portuguese invaded the Maldives, resulting in the death of their sultan. Mohamed, his brothers and his crew set sail to defeat the conquerors of the archipelago. The band of fighters fought alongside Mohamed for 8 years until they reached the capital Malé, where the Portuguese rulers were defeated. Mohamed then became a courageous sultan until his death in 1585. This historic and cultural site, with its coconut lamps and wooden sculptures, is located in Haa Alifu atoll.

The best thing about the capital of the Lhaviyani atoll is undoubtedly its sense of community. Roads lined with small shops are dotted with alleyways where locals gather, gossip, play cards and enjoy life the island way. Guided tours of the island include a look at the nearby tuna factory, the village school and many small shops.