Nestled in the Northern Atolls of the Maldives lies Haa Dhaalu Atoll, also known by its Maldivian name of South Thilahunmathee. The wide channels and shallower thilas and reefs make diving in Haa Dhaalu Atoll perfect for beginners. That being said, there is also more than enough variety to keep more advanced divers happy too! With its pristine reefs, stunning reef system and abundance of marine life (both large and small), there is something to please everyone!

Haa Dhaalu Atoll’s location in the Northern Atolls means that it enjoys a drier climate than its southern cousins. The weather year-round rarely dips lower than 26 degrees and peak at in the low 30s. The water temperature is classic of the tropics, with temperatures comfortably staying in the high 20s, meaning that a shortie wetsuit is usually enough to keep you warm. 

Between the months of November and May is the dry (and high) season. The winds are low, the seas are calm, the rain is minimal and the visibility is excellent. The only downside to this is that the prices sometimes rise due to increased demand on the resorts.

Between June and November is the monsoon season. This is a bit of a misnomer as it just means that there are more frequent rain showers - but it’s still perfect for a diving holiday. The only exception to this is that some diving may be suspended during June due to choppy seas. The prices come down slightly and the islands are relaxed leading to a more laid back vibe. The large plankton blooms during this time also bring in large pelagic life like manta rays and whale sharks!
 

Diving in Haa Dhaalu Atoll is accessible for all. Because of its underwater topography, it makes it perfect for beginner diving courses. To benefit from one of these, have a look at the local dive resorts and dive centres. Most big resorts have access to a dive centre but if you’re unsure, check before you travel. 

For the more advanced diver, there are other myriad delights in store. The dive sites go deep enough to explore drop-offs and overhangs to satisfy even the toughest customer. A fantastic advanced level dive site is Heaven and Hell which promises dramatic coral formations. A good option for an experienced diver might be a liveaboard. Many require a certain number of dives or certification level but they are a fantastic way to see all the dive sites and the atoll at large. If you plan on doing a lot of dives, it may also be the most cost-effective choice.
 

The marine life in Haa Dhaalu Atoll is classically Maldivian. Schooling fusiliers and groups of hunting trevally and tuna out in the blue are only the start of it. If you’re into macro hunting on the reefs, you will not be disappointed. Big pelagic life is present all over the Northern Atolls. At certain dive sites, mantas may be seen during the monsoon season. All year-round, you can see large tuna, schools of fish and reef sharks - there is no hunting for the interesting life here, it will find you!

Heaven and Hell is the perfect dive site for advanced divers and it features some of the best coral formations in the whole of the Maldives. If you keep an eye on the blue, you might also spot a manta ray! As the currents can be strong, it is important that you are comfortable with these conditions. It’s often important to do fast descents as well so if this is something you are uncomfortable with, it may not be the site for you. 

The Cathedral is a dive site that can be catered to multiple levels. The reef starts at 10m and drops down to 30m where you can find the stunning “cathedral”. The overhang gives a stunning backdrop to a beautiful dive site. Check the nooks and crannies for nudibranch or gaze into the blue to look for sharks and tuna. 

Theefarido Thila is a large strip of rock that is protected from the strong north-south current. This calm environment leads to stunning coral formations. Red sea fans intersperse a mixture of brightly coloured sponges and tiny coloured nudibranchs nestle alongside lobsters and shrimp in the rock fissures. The blue also offers schooling yellow snappers and darting fusiliers.