The reefs in the Maldivian islands are so pristine that you don't have to swim far from shore to find yourself in close proximity to colorful coral fish, sea turtles, reef sharks, or rays. Snorkeling is available to anyone who can swim.

It can be said that classic snorkeling is suitable throughout the year, but certain periods are better. The most suitable period for snorkeling is from January to April, when the weather is usually best and the water is clearest. From May to September, the weather is less predictable and the probability of storms is higher. Manta season in the Maldivian islands peaks from August to November. October and November are calmer, but visibility often decreases as plankton is most abundant during this period.

Every island resort provides its guests with the opportunity to borrow snorkeling equipment. In case you plan to spend most of your vacation snorkeling, we recommend bringing your own snorkeling equipment. Resort diving centers offer various courses that help beginners learn to snorkel. Willing instructors are happy to advise tourists on which locations are best for observing the colorful underwater world. Visitors with sensitive skin should wear a t-shirt when snorkeling to prevent skin burns. Less skilled swimmers should not forget a life jacket.

There are a large number of diving centers in the Maldives archipelago where it is possible to complete diving courses ending with a PADI certificate. Diving centers offer an introductory lesson that helps guests decide whether they feel confident enough to continue training. For those who don't have time to complete the full course, some diving centers offer an introductory course (theoretical and practical), which consists of four lessons of training in shallow water (sometimes in the resort pool) and diving on the reef. When diving, it is possible to spot giant manta rays, sea turtles, many species of harmless sharks, or moray eels. Another popular activity is night diving. Corals open at night and spread their colored tentacles, while lobsters, shrimp and other nocturnal species leave their holes to search for food. Maldivian waters come alive at night and phosphorescent plankton illuminates the ocean.