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South Ari Atoll

MALDIVES DESTINATION

South Ari Atoll

Whale shark capital of the Maldives — adventure meets luxury

South Ari Atoll is the Maldives' most celebrated destination for whale shark encounters. The gentle giants frequent these waters year-round, making it one of the few places on earth where sightings are near-guaranteed. But the atoll is more than just whale sharks — its dive sites rank among the country's best, its resorts span every tier from ultra-luxury to excellent value, and its lagoons are postcard-perfect. A seaplane flight of around 25 minutes from Malé brings you to an atoll that perfectly balances marine adventure with resort luxury. Whether you're an experienced diver chasing pelagics or a honeymooner who wants a whale shark swim as a highlight, South Ari is hard to beat.

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Curated Resorts

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Maldives' original Platinum Plus all-inclusiveWhale shark sightings from the beachWater sports and excursions includedSpa treatments and diving in Platinum Plus

Key Features

Resorts in South Ari Atoll

Lily Beach Resort & Spa

Lily Beach Resort & Spa

Huvahendhoo, Alifu Dhaalu Atoll· seaplane · 30 minutes from Velana International Airport by seaplane

Lily Beach Resort & Spa on Huvahendhoo Island in South Ari Atoll is the Maldives' original Platinum Plus all-inclusive specialist, bundling premium accommodation, gourmet dining, water sports, spa treatments, and excursions into one unbeatable package. The resort's 125 beachfront and overwater villas cater to couples and families seeking a stress-free, value-maximising luxury escape in the heart of South Ari — one of the most biodiverse atolls in the archipelago. Regular whale shark sightings just off the island shore make it a bucket-list destination for ocean lovers.

  • — Maldives' original Platinum Plus all-inclusive
  • — Whale shark sightings from the beach
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