Maafushi Thila - South Malé Atoll

Maafushi Thila is a solid pinnacle dive in South Malé, a spot we often suggest for its reliable fish action. Drop down onto the reef and you’ll usually find clouds of Ternate chromis, reflecting the light like scattered jewels. Keep an eye out for the smaller stuff too, like the Palespot eviota darting among the corals, and the brightly patterned Bennett's pufferfish. If the current is mild, it's a relaxed drift, but even with a bit of flow, it’s a good chance to see larger schools of cardinalfish schooling near the shelter of the reef. We'd say it's a good choice for divers looking for a classic Maldivian thila experience without overwhelming currents.

Location
South Malé Atoll, Maldives, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
3.958439, 73.493256
Type
pinnacle

Marine Protected Area: K.Guraidhoo Kan'duolhi

Best Time to Dive in South Malé Atoll

The warmest water temperatures in South Malé Atoll occur in April, averaging 30.4°C. The coolest conditions are in January at 28.5°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.5°C
  • February: 28.8°C
  • March: 29.4°C
  • April: 30.4°C
  • May: 30.1°C
  • June: 29.6°C
  • July: 29.7°C
  • August: 29.6°C
  • September: 29.4°C
  • October: 29.3°C
  • November: 29.3°C
  • December: 29.0°C

Nearby Dive Sites in South Malé Atoll

Nearest Dive Centres to Maafushi Thila

Marine Life in South Malé Atoll

Home to 106 recorded species including 44 reef fish, 41 hard corals, 6 sea snails & nudibranchs, 4 seagrass & algae, 3 sharks & rays, 2 other.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Maafushi Thila

Based on average water temperature of 29.4°C, currents 19 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 29°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories