Maarehaa Kandu - Vaavu Atoll

Palomo is one of those sites we always recommend for new divers, or anyone who just wants to take it slow and really *see* things. At a maximum of 10 metres, you get tons of bottom time, which is perfect for spotting the smaller stuff. We’ve spent whole dives just watching the blennies bobbing their heads out of the sand, especially the Banded and Delalande types. The mix of sandy patches and coral bommies is what makes Palomo so productive. Look closely in the sand for those tiny Eyed Flounder, almost invisible until they twitch. We often find juvenile Bonnethead Sharks cruising the shallows here, a real thrill in such a mellow spot. For those learning to dive, or just brushing up skills, it’s ideal – calm, clear enough for easy navigation, and packed with enough life to keep things interesting without feeling overwhelming. You’ll see plenty of Spotted Trunkfish and Caesar Grunts, and the Fringed Filefish are always a delight to watch as they drift lazily. It’s our pick for a relaxed, critter-focused dive where you can truly slow down.

Location
Vaavu Atoll, Maldives, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
0.457200, 73.568700
Type
reef

Best Time to Dive in Vaavu Atoll

The warmest water temperatures in Vaavu Atoll occur in April, averaging 30.5°C. The coolest conditions are in January at 28.7°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.7°C
  • February: 28.9°C
  • March: 29.4°C
  • April: 30.5°C
  • May: 30.1°C
  • June: 29.9°C
  • July: 29.8°C
  • August: 29.9°C
  • September: 29.8°C
  • October: 29.3°C
  • November: 29.3°C
  • December: 29.2°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Vaavu Atoll

Nearest Dive Centres to Maarehaa Kandu

Marine Life in Vaavu Atoll

Home to 53 recorded species including 20 reef fish, 9 hard corals, 8 seagrass & algae, 4 sharks & rays, 4 crabs & lobsters, 3 octopus & squid.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Maarehaa Kandu

Based on average water temperature of 29.6°C, currents 19 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 30°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