Hanifaru Bay

A protected bay in a UNESCO biosphere reserve where hundreds of manta rays gather to feed.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps

Time needed: Half a day
Entry: Paid (permit/excursion)
Best time: June–November
Area: Baa Atoll

Hundreds of mantas feeding together in season.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Hanifaru Bay, Baa Atoll, Maldives

Access: Visits are by licensed excursion only, from Baa Atoll resorts.
Rules: Snorkelling only (no scuba), limited time slots and visitor numbers.
Season: Mantas gather mainly during the southwest monsoon.

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The story of Hanifaru Bay

Hanifaru Bay is a small, funnel-shaped bay where plankton is trapped by currents during the southwest monsoon. When the plankton peaks, hundreds of manta rays — and sometimes whale sharks — arrive to feed.

Baa Atoll was declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2011, and Hanifaru is strictly protected.

Best time to visit

Best season

June to November, peaking around August–October.

Best time of day

Depends on tides; follow the ranger schedule.

No guarantee

Sightings depend on plankton.

Tips before you go

June to November; book with a ranger.
Stay at a Baa Atoll resort that offers "manta alert" trips.
Follow the rangers' rules strictly.

Best hotels near Hanifaru Bay

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru

Resort with marine research centre.

See prices

Soneva Fushi

Barefoot luxury island resort.

See prices

All hotels near Hanifaru Bay

What's around Hanifaru Bay

Baa Atoll resortsBase for trips.
DharavandhooLocal island near Hanifaru.
SandbanksPicnic trips.
Marine discovery centreAt some resorts.

Questions travellers ask

When can I see mantas at Hanifaru?

June to November.

Can I scuba dive there?

No, snorkelling only.

Is Baa Atoll a UNESCO site?

Yes, a biosphere reserve.