10 Incredible Sharks & Rays to Spot in the Maldives
The Maldives is a dream destination for divers and ocean lovers — a place where turquoise waters hide some of the richest marine biodiversity on the planet. Among the thousands of species thriving in these warm, crystal-clear seas, sharks and rays are undoubtedly the showstoppers.
Whether you’re an experienced diver or simply snorkeling along the reefs, spotting these majestic creatures up close is an unforgettable experience. Here are 10 of the most iconic sharks and rays you should look out for when exploring the Maldives.
1. Whale Sharks 🐋
The whale shark — the largest fish in the ocean — is one of the Maldives’ most famous residents. These gentle giants can grow up to 12 meters and are often spotted cruising slowly through plankton-rich waters. The best part? They are completely harmless to humans. If you’re lucky enough to swim alongside one, the sheer size and beauty of its distinctive spotted pattern will leave you in awe.
Best spots: South Ari Atoll, Baa Atoll, Gaafu Alif Atoll
2. Manta Rays 🪸
Watching a manta ray glide effortlessly through the water is nothing short of magical. The Maldives is one of the best places in the world to see them — especially at cleaning stations, where mantas gather to let small reef fish remove parasites. Night dives with feeding mantas are equally mesmerizing, as they loop and swirl around divers under soft beams of light.
Best spots: Hanifaru Bay, North Male Atoll, Addu Atoll
3. Grey Reef Sharks 🦈
Encountering a grey reef shark is always thrilling. Sleek, powerful, and bold, these sharks are often seen patrolling channels and drop-offs in groups. While they may appear curious and confident, they rarely pose a threat unless provoked. Watching them glide with such authority over the reefs is a breathtaking sight.
Best spots: Vaavu Atoll channels, Rasdhoo Atoll, Fuvahmulah
4. Tiger Sharks 🐯
One of the ocean’s top predators, the tiger shark is named after the dark vertical stripes along its body. Growing up to 5 meters, these impressive hunters are known to eat almost anything — from fish and turtles to, occasionally, unusual objects they find drifting at sea. While powerful, tiger sharks are generally calm around divers and encounters are both safe and unforgettable.
Best spot: Fuvahmulah Island (Maldives’ tiger shark capital)
5. Blacktip Reef Sharks ⚫️
One of the most commonly spotted sharks in the Maldives, blacktip reef sharks are instantly recognizable by the black markings on their fins. They’re small, agile, and often found in shallow lagoons and coral reefs, making them a favorite among snorkelers. Curious but cautious, they usually keep a comfortable distance while gliding gracefully through the water.
Best spots: North Male Atoll, Ari Atoll, Baa Atoll
6. Zebra Sharks 🦓
With their spotted patterns, zebra sharks are often mistaken for leopard sharks. During the day, they rest quietly on sandy bottoms, making them easy to approach for divers. But at night, they transform into active hunters, squeezing into crevices to search for food. These slow-moving, gentle creatures are perfect subjects for underwater photography.
Best spots: Lhaviyani Atoll, Ari Atoll, Meemu Atoll
7. Guitar Sharks 🎸 (Actually a Ray!)
Despite their name, guitar sharks are technically rays, not sharks. Their flat bodies and long, pointed snouts make them stand out instantly. Unfortunately, they’re now classified as endangered due to declining populations, so spotting one is a rare and special experience.
Best spots: Vaavu Atoll, Laamu Atoll
8. Mobula Rays ✨
Known as the “mini mantas”, mobula rays are smaller but just as captivating. These agile rays are famous for their acrobatic leaps out of the water — scientists still aren’t entirely sure why they do it, but it’s a spectacular sight! They gather in large schools around plankton-rich waters, making them easier to spot when conditions are right.
Best spots: Baa Atoll, Raa Atoll, Addu Atoll
9. Eagle Rays 🪽
With their elegant spotted wings and long whip-like tails, eagle rays are a true photographer’s dream. These rays often glide gracefully above the reef, occasionally leaping out of the water. Each eagle ray has a unique pattern of spots, much like a fingerprint, making every encounter special.
Best spots: South Ari Atoll, Vaavu Atoll, Dhaalu Atoll
10. Nurse Sharks 😴
Nicknamed the “sleeping sharks”, nurse sharks are docile bottom-dwellers that spend much of their day resting in groups. At night, however, they become active hunters. Their calm nature allows divers to get incredibly close, making them a favorite for night dives and underwater photography.
Best spots: Alimatha Night Dive (Vaavu Atoll), Ari Atoll
Dive Into Adventure in the Maldives 🌊
From gentle giants like whale sharks and manta rays to thrilling encounters with tiger and grey reef sharks, the Maldives offers some of the most unforgettable marine experiences on Earth. Whether you’re a diver, snorkeler, or simply an ocean enthusiast, this is your chance to witness one of nature’s greatest spectacles up close.
Tip: The best way to maximize your chances of spotting these incredible creatures is by joining a liveaboard or diving with a reputable center.
