Manta Point (Lankanfinolhu),Maldives

• Large seasonal aggregations of reef manta rays (cleaning and feeding behavior)
• Shallow cleaning stations and nearby deeper channels for dive encounters
• Snorkeling opportunities with mantas for non-divers
• Colorful reef fish and coral patches surrounding the site

• Manta cleaning stations where wrasses remove parasites from mantas
• Often strong but predictable currents that concentrate planktonic food
• Good visibility (season-dependent) making for excellent underwater photography
• Proximity to Lankanfinolhu island and resort facilities for easy access

• Snorkeling with manta rays (guided trips highly recommended)
• Scuba diving: guided boat dives and drift dives near the cleaning stations
• Underwater photography and videography (use respectful practices)
• Boat trips from Malé or nearby resorts, often as half-day excursions

Peak season: May to November (southwest monsoon) when plankton increases and manta sightings are most reliable. Shoulder months: April and December can also produce good sightings. Note: mantas can be seen year-round but frequency drops in the northeast monsoon.

Tropical maritime climate: warm year-round. Typical sea surface temperatures range from 26–30°C (79–86°F). Southwest monsoon (wet season) brings more plankton and higher manta activity; expect occasional rain and variable winds.

There is no separate marine-park entry fee specifically for Manta Point, but visitors generally pay for boat transfers, snorkeling/dive trips, and resort day access where applicable. Dive operator pricing and schedules vary; most trips are half-day or full-day and operate on tide/current windows.

Access by speedboat from Malé or nearby resort islands (Lankanfinolhu is in North Malé Atoll). Nearest international gateway: Velana International Airport (MLE) on Hulhulé Island — typical transfer to resorts/boats is 20–60 minutes depending on operator. Sea conditions and currents can make transfers and in-water sessions moderately challenging for beginner swimmers.

If your goal is a manta encounter: plan at least 1–3 days in the North Malé Atoll to allow for multiple trips (sightings are weather and plankton-dependent). If diving multiple sites, 3–7 days is ideal.

Bring lightweight tropical clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, a sunhat, and a light rain jacket for sudden showers. For in-water activities: mask, snorkel, fins, reef-safe sunscreen, rashguard or thin wetsuit (1–3 mm) depending on tolerance to cool currents. Dive-certified visitors should bring dive certification and logbook.

Try Maldivian dishes such as mas huni (tuna with coconut), fish curries, and fresh seafood at resort restaurants. Souvenirs include local lacquerware, woven mats, coconut-based crafts, and small pearl jewelry. Note that alcohol availability depends on whether the island is a resort (usually available) or a local island (usually restricted).