Maldives Reef Magic Recognised at Machchafushi Island Resort

Saturday 28th of June 2025

Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa, The Centara Collection, has been named among the Best House Reefs in the Maldives by the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2025. Located in South Ari Atoll, the resort is home to one of the most vibrant and accessible house reefs in the region, making it a favourite for both snorkelers and divers.

The reef, which is nearly five times the size of the island itself, surrounds a scenic lagoon and offers a stunning underwater world just a few metres from the shore. Gently sloping to depths of 15 to 20 metres before flattening into a sandy seabed, the reef features a standout attraction—a shipwreck lying around 30 metres from the top of the reef. This sunken site is now home to species such as glassfish, stonefish, and nurse sharks.

Marine biodiversity is a key highlight here. Rare coral species including Acropora granulosa and Acropora latistella grow on and around the wreck. The reef also features bright coral gardens filled with Blue Coral and Staghorn Coral, creating a colourful and lively underwater scene.

Guests often encounter seven resident nurse sharks, white tip reef sharks, lemon sharks, black tip sharks, leopard sharks, and rays. Black Blotched Stingrays, known for their calm nature and large size, are frequently spotted near feeding zones and shallow reef areas, sometimes interacting gently with snorkelers.

Sustainability remains central to the resort’s values. The team is actively involved in coral protection, reef conservation, and restoration projects. Guests are also encouraged to learn about the reef’s ecosystem and the importance of its preservation.

Machchafushi Island Resort continues to offer a unique underwater experience where nature, adventure, and conservation come together in one unforgettable setting.