Baa Atoll
Baa Atoll is an administrative division of the Maldives located on the western side of the atoll chain. It comprises three separate natural atolls: southern Maalhosmadulu Atoll (42 km long and 32 km wide with 9 inhabited islands), Fasdūtherē Atoll (positioned between the two Maalhosmadulu Atolls and separated from north Maalhosmasdulu Atoll by Hani Kandu or Moresby Channel), and Goifulhafehendhu Atoll (known as Horsburgh Atoll in Admiralty charts).
The atoll contains 75 islands in total, with 13 inhabited islands housing over 11,000 people, 57 uninhabited islands, and 8 islands developed as resorts. In 2011, Baa Atoll was designated as a UNESCO biosphere reserve. It is renowned for its diverse dive spots, exotic fish life, and brilliant underwater landscapes. A notable attraction is Hanifaru Bay, which features one of the largest gatherings of Manta Rays in the world. The atoll is popular among snorkelers and scuba divers due to its numerous islands with reefs, vibrant coral growth, coral formations, and abundant fish life.
Inhabited Islands
Dharavandhoo
Dhonfanu
Eydhafushi
Fehendhoo
Fulhadhoo
Goidhoo
Hithaadhoo
Kamadhoo
Kendhoo
Kihaadhoo
Kudarikilu
Maalhos
Thulhaadhoo
Hanifaru Bay
Hanifaru Bay, located in Baa Atoll in the Maldives, is one of the world's most remarkable marine ecosystems. This small, horseshoe-shaped bay becomes a spectacular feeding ground for manta rays and whale sharks during the southwest monsoon season (typically from May to November). During this time, the lunar tide and monsoon currents trap plankton in the bay, creating a soup-like concentration of these microscopic organisms. This phenomenon attracts dozens of manta rays and sometimes whale sharks who perform an elegant feeding dance as they filter the plankton-rich water.
The bay is relatively small - approximately the size of a football field - which makes the congregation of these large marine creatures even more impressive. On peak days during the season, it's possible to see dozens of manta rays feeding simultaneously, creating one of nature's most spectacular shows.
