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Published on March 11, 2026

Alimatha Island Guide: Diving, Water Sports & Resorts

Nestled in the pristine Vaavu Atoll,Alimatha Island is a gem in the Maldives, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and exceptional recreational opportunities. This comprehensive guide will help you discover everything this breathtaking destination has to offer, from exhilarating dives to relaxing resort stays.

Where is Alimatha Island and How to Get There?

Alimatha Island is situated in the Vaavu Atoll, also known as the Felidhoo Atoll, one of the more untouched and less crowded atolls in the Maldives. Its location offers a sense of seclusion and pristine natural beauty.

Access to Alimatha Island is primarily via speedboat or seaplane from Velana International Airport (MLE) near Malé. Speedboat transfers typically take around 90-120 minutes, offering scenic views of the Maldivian seascape. Seaplane transfers are quicker, often under an hour, providing a breathtaking aerial perspective of the scattered atolls.

Why Alimatha Island Stands Out

Alimatha offers a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation, making it a favorite among diverse travelers. It's particularly celebrated for its:

  • Spectacular Diving and Snorkeling:The Vaavu Atoll is famous for its healthy reefs, rich biodiversity, and thrilling drift dives.
  • Variety of Water Sports:Beyond diving, guests can enjoy a wide array of activities, from canoeing to windsurfing.
  • Exclusive Resort Experience:Home to the Alimatha Aquatic Resort, the island provides a comfortable and all-inclusive holiday atmosphere.
  • Pristine Environment:Being in a less developed atoll, the surrounding waters and islands retain much of their natural, untouched charm.

Diving into the Deep Blue: Alimatha's Underwater World

For many, diving is the primary draw to Alimatha Island, and for good reason. The Vaavu Atoll is a diver's paradise, boasting an incredible array of marine life and diverse dive sites.

Premier Dive Sites Around Alimatha

The atoll's channels and thilas (underwater pinnacles) create perfect conditions for thrilling drift dives and encounters with large pelagic species. Some notable dive sites in the vicinity include:

  • Alimatha House Reef:Easily accessible from the resort, the house reef is teeming with colorful fish, reef sharks, and rays, perfect for both beginners and experienced divers.
  • Fotteyo Kandu:Often hailed as one of the best dive sites in the Maldives, Fotteyo Kandu is a channel dive known for its dramatic overhangs, caves, and vibrant soft corals. Divers can expect to see grey reef sharks, eagle rays, tuna, and schools of fusiliers.
  • Miyaru Kandu:Another renowned channel dive, "Miyaru" meaning shark in Dhivehi, lives up to its name with frequent sightings of grey reef sharks, white-tip reef sharks, and sometimes hammerheads.
  • Banana Reef:While a bit further, the famous Banana Reef, one of the oldest and most popular dive sites in the Maldives, might be accessible on longer excursions, known for its vibrant corals and diverse fish population.

Marine Life Encounters

Divers around Alimatha Island can anticipate breathtaking encounters with a variety of marine creatures. Expect to see:

  • Sharks:Grey reef sharks, white-tip reef sharks, nurse sharks, and occasional hammerheads.
  • Rays:Eagle rays, manta rays (seasonal), and stingrays.
  • Turtles:Hawksbill and green sea turtles.
  • Large Pelagics:Tuna, barracuda, and jacks often patrol the channels.
  • Reef Fish:An explosion of color with parrotfish, snapper, groupers, angelfish, butterflyfish, and many more.
Fun Fact:The Maldives is home to approximately 5% of the world's reefs, and these reefs are home to 1,100 species of fish, 5 species of sea turtles, 21 species of whales and dolphins, and 187 species of corals.

Dive Centers and Courses

The Alimatha Aquatic Resort hosts a professional PADI-certified dive center, offering courses for all levels, from introductory dives for beginners to advanced certifications and specialty courses. Equipment rental, guided dives, and night dives are readily available, ensuring a safe and memorable underwater experience.

Beyond the Dive: Water Sports and Island Activities

While diving is a highlight,Alimatha Island offers a plethora of activities both on and off the water to keep every guest entertained.

Snorkeling Adventures

The island's house reef is easily accessible for snorkelers, offering an immediate glimpse into the vibrant underwater world. Equipment can be rented from the resort, and guided snorkeling trips to nearby reefs are also popular.

Thrilling Water Sports

The calm, clear lagoons surrounding Alimatha are perfect for a variety of water sports:

  • Windsurfing and Catamaran Sailing:Take advantage of the gentle Maldivian breezes.
  • Canoeing and Kayaking:Explore the tranquil waters at your own pace.
  • Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP):A popular way to glide over the clear shallows.
  • Jet Skiing and Parasailing:For those seeking a more adrenaline-fueled experience.

Excursions and Island Hopping

The resort also arranges various excursions, allowing guests to explore the wider Vaavu Atoll:

  • Island Hopping:Visit local inhabited islands like Maafushi(a well-known local island experience) or other nearby islands to experience local culture.
  • Sunset Cruises:Enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the Indian Ocean, often accompanied by dolphin sightings.
  • Night Fishing:A traditional Maldivian experience, trying your hand at catching dinner under the stars.
  • Dolphin Watching:Head out to sea to witness pods of playful dolphins.

Your Stay at Alimatha: The Alimatha Aquatic Resort

The entire Alimatha Island is home to the Alimatha Aquatic Resort, an all-inclusive property designed to offer guests a comfortable and memorable Maldivian holiday experience.

Accommodation Options

The resort offers a range of accommodation types to suit different preferences and budgets:

  • Beach Bungalows:Nestled amidst lush vegetation, these bungalows offer direct access to the pristine white sands.
  • Overwater Bungalows:Perched directly over the lagoon, these provide stunning ocean views and direct access to the water, a quintessential Maldivian experience.
  • Garden Villas:Set back slightly, offering a more private and secluded feel within the island's greenery.

Dining and Facilities

The resort's main restaurant serves a buffet of international and local cuisine, catering to diverse palates. There are also bars for refreshing drinks and snacks throughout the day. Other facilities typically include a spa for relaxation and wellness, a swimming pool, and sports facilities like tennis courts and a gym.

Tip:While Alimatha is a resort island, consider exploring other popular resort islands in the Maldives like Veligandu Island or Kuredu for future trips, each offering unique experiences. For ultimate luxury, islands like COMO Cocoa Island or Baros Island might appeal.

Best Time to Visit Alimatha Island

The Maldives enjoys a tropical climate with two main seasons:

  • Dry Season (November to April):This is generally considered the best time to visit, with abundant sunshine, calm seas, and lower humidity. Ideal for diving and water sports.
  • Wet Season (May to October):Characterized by higher humidity and a greater chance of rain, though showers are often short-lived. Prices might be lower during this period, and marine life, particularly manta rays and whale sharks, can be more prevalent in certain atolls.

For diving enthusiasts, the dry season offers the best visibility, but the wet season can bring exciting encounters with larger pelagics, though weather can be more unpredictable.

Practical Tips for Your Alimatha Adventure

  • Pack Light:Focus on swimwear, light clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, and a hat.
  • Stay Hydrated:The tropical sun is intense; drink plenty of water.
  • Respect Local Culture:While resort islands are relaxed, remember the Maldives is a Muslim country. When visiting local islands, dress modestly.
  • Underwater Camera:Essential for capturing the incredible marine life.
  • Travel Insurance:Always recommended for international travel, especially for water sports activities.

Conclusion: Your Maldivian Paradise Awaits

Alimatha Island truly embodies the dream Maldivian escape. With its unparalleled diving opportunities, a wide array of water sports, and the comfortable Alimatha Aquatic Resort, it offers an unforgettable blend of adventure and relaxation. Whether you're a seasoned diver seeking thrilling encounters or a couple looking for a serene retreat, Alimatha promises an idyllic tropical experience.