Hanifaru Bay Maldives is one of the most magical places on earth to see manta rays up close which is tucked inside the UNESCO-protected Baa Atoll as this marine paradise draws hundreds of reef manta rays and even whale sharks during the right season which is known as the best place to see manta rays in Maldives.
Hanifaru Bay offers unforgettable snorkeling experiences while following strict rules that protect the ocean and its gentle giants as in this guide you’ll learn what makes Hanifaru Bay special, the best time to visit, how to get there, what permits you need and why it’s a must-see spot in the Maldives manta ray season.
You can have a look at our Maldives Tour Packages or Maldives Honeymoon Packages.
What is Hanifaru Bay in the Maldives?
- Hanifaru Bay Maldives is a marine protected area in Baa Atoll which is in the Maldives.
- It has been part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 2011.
- It is famous for manta ray aggregations in which hundreds of reef mantas come into the bay to feed when conditions are right. Whale sharks sometimes join.
So when people talk about hanifaru maldives or maldives hanifaru bay, they often mean this spectacular place to see manta rays maldives style, especially by snorkeling.
Why is Hanifaru Bay Maldives so special?
- The bay is shaped so currents bring plankton in during certain months and that plankton attracts manta rays.
- When the plankton is dense, manta rays feed at the surface which makes it ideal for snorkelers as you can see manta ray maldives up close but you must follow rules.
- Because thousands of mantas have been documented for years as hanifaru bay ranks among the best spots to view manta rays in Maldives and one of the best baa atoll manta rays.
When is the best time to visit Hanifaru Bay Maldives for manta rays?
- The Hanifaru bay Maldives manta season lasts approximately May to November, with best months between July to October.
- During that time, they happen more frequently around full moon and new moon days due to the fact that tides and lunar gravity assist in amplifying plankton blooms.
- The best time of year to see manta rays in Maldives (specifically in hanifaru bay Maldives) is mid-monsoon season (June, July, August, sometimes into September/October).
How to get to Hanifaru Bay Maldives
- First fly into Velana International Airport (MLE) near Malé.
- Then take a domestic flight or seaplane to Dharavandhoo Island (Dharavandhoo Airport, Baa Atoll).
- From Dharavandhoo, you use taxi boats to reach Hanifaru Bay Maldives.
- Many resorts in Baa Atoll arrange this for you. If you stay in Dharavandhoo local island, you’re very close.
Rules and Permits: What you must do to snorkel with manta rays in Hanifaru Bay Maldives
Because hanifaru bay Maldives is fragile, there are strict rules to protect the manta rays. This is also what many websites leave out or only partially cover. Filling that gap:
| Rule / Requirement | Details |
| Snorkeling only | Diving is prohibited inside Hanifaru bay Maldives. You can snorkel with gear only. |
| Visitor permit (token) | You must buy a token (about US$20-30) from the Hanifaru Visitor Centre on Dharavandhoo (or operator does). That gives you 45 minutes in the bay. |
| Guide required | You must have a licensed guide, approved by the Baa Atoll Conservation Fund or Biosphere Reserve. |
| Distance rules | Minimum 3 metres from the head of a manta, 4 metres from the tail. Don’t obstruct its path. |
| No flash photography | Flash, underwater lights, motorised devices (scooters etc) are banned inside. |
| Limit on visitors & boats | Only a few boats allowed at a time (≈ 5 official boats), and a cap on the number of people at any one time in the bay. |
These rules ensure that hanifaru bay maldives remain healthy and mantas keep coming.
What to Expect: Wildlife, Depth, Views
- You will see reef manta rays (Mobula alfredi) most often. Whale sharks sometimes show up.
- Water depth is shallow near the surface in feeding zones (most activity near top). No need for deep diving.
- Visibility can vary depending on plankton; during manta season waters are nutrient-rich, sometimes less clear but full of life.
Cost & Staying Options
- Permits cost ~ US$20-30 per person when outside operator packages are excluded. This fee supports the Baa Atoll Conservation Fund.
- Excursion cost (from resorts or guesthouses) depends on distance and luxury; could be ~$80-300+ USD per trip including transfer.
- Accommodation choices: stay on local islands like Dharavandhoo (cheaper, more local vibe) or in resorts in Baa Atoll (luxury, convenience). Resorts often include manta-snorkel trips.
Best Place to See Manta Rays in Maldives & Why Hanifaru Bay is Top Pick
- There are several mantaray hotspots in the Maldives, but hanifaru bay ranks among the very top because of the reliability and volume of mantas during the right season.
- Compared to other atolls, Baa Atoll manta rays congregate more densely here, making hanifaru bay Maldives manta snorkeling the “big show.”
- Under the family keywords: if someone searches for the best place to see manta rays in Maldives, hanifaru bay maldives must come up.
When (What Time of Day) & Good Practical Tips
- Best time of day: mid-morning to early afternoon (approximately 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM) tends to be best because plankton is more active, light is good.
- Book in advance: Permits and tours get booked up, particularly during peak season months of Baa Atoll manta season.
- Moon phase is a help: full moon & new moon days are likely to provide better views.
- Weather & sea: Seas can be slightly more choppy during monsoon, short rains, but otherwise tolerable. The water is still warm (~26-29°C).
FAQs — Answering Common Questions
- Can I dive in Hanifaru Bay Maldives?
No, diving is not allowed in hanifaru bay maldives for manta rays and snorkeling alone is possible. - Is every day good for seeing mantas in Hanifaru bay Maldives?
No, Sightings depend on season, tides, moon phase and plankton bloom as even in peak months there is no guarantee but chances are high between June-October. - Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
You should be comfortable in open water and able to follow your guide as most snorkeling is at the surface but currents can be present. - How many mantas might I see?
On average during peak yes: dozens; during big aggregation events possibly hundreds. - What about whale sharks?
They appear sometimes. They are less common than mantas in hanifaru bay Maldives but do join during feeding season. - Is there a limit on visitor numbers per day?
Yes. To lower disturbance, Hanifaru bay Maldives allows only limited entries, boats, and time per visit.
Conclusion: Why Hanifaru Bay Maldives Should Be on Your Bucket List
Hanifaru Bay Maldives is more than just a snorkeling spot as it is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to swim alongside hundreds of manta rays in their natural world as from May to November especially between July and October this bay in Baa Atoll becomes the stage for one of the most incredible underwater gatherings on the planet.
With clear rules, permits and guided tours you not only enjoy the best manta ray experience in Maldives but also help protect this fragile ecosystem and if you are looking for the best place to see manta rays in Maldives then Hanifaru Bay stands at the very top so plan well, choose the right season and you will take home memories that last forever.
You can have a look at our Maldives Tour Packages or Maldives Honeymoon Packages.
