Overview
Banana Reef holds a special place in Maldives diving history as the country's first officially protected marine area. Named for its distinctive curved shape resembling a banana, this reef has been a must-visit site since tourism began in the 1970s.
The reef stretches about 300 meters and features dramatic cliffs, overhangs, and caves teeming with marine life. The eastern side drops steeply to 30m with impressive coral formations, while the western side offers gentler slopes perfect for newer divers.
Photo Gallery
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Marine Life Highlights
Napoleon Wrasse
Friendly giants approach divers - some have been visiting this reef for decades.
Very CommonMoray Eels
Giant morays peer out from caves and crevices throughout the reef.
Very CommonBannerfish
Schools of longfin bannerfish hover along the reef walls.
CommonWhitetip Reef Sharks
Often resting under overhangs during the day.
CommonDive Details
Best Time
Year-round. Northeast monsoon (Dec-Apr) offers best visibility.
Current
Mild to moderate. Protected location means calmer conditions.
Depth Range
5-30m. Perfect multi-level dive profile available.
Visibility
15-30m typically. Can exceed 40m in dry season.