Listly by Joanna James
As one of the country's best-known diving hotspots, Banana Reef is a hotbed of activity all year round. Here are ten activities visitors can experience in and around the area during an excursion.
Tipped to be one of the finest scuba diving and snorkelling hotspots in all of the Maldives, the best things to do near Banana Reef are enjoy these explorative activities. The rich coral reef is not only a popular feeding ground for countless marine species but an underwater wonderland for avid divers. Those who prefer to stay close to the shore can sign up for a snorkelling expedition near Banana Reef instead as the protected marine region is especially abound with reef fish.
The area around Banana Reef is also ideal for a boating excursion as travellers can witness the beauty of the reef area while gliding across the ocean's surface. Relaxing and enjoyable, a boat tour near Banana Reef is also the best way to wind down after a day of sightseeing.
Although it is one of the country's lesser-known sacred spaces, the Hulhumale Mosque is no less impressive in terms of both appearances as well as its significance as an Islamic place of worship.
Water sports enthusiasts will find that the region surrounding banana reef is served by countless local tour operators that offer a variety of water sports packages in addition to scuba diving and snorkelling adventures. Whether it's parasailing, windsurfing or stand up paddling, there are plenty of water-bound activities to enjoy near Banana Reef.
Maldives 5 star resorts the likes of Adaaran Prestige Vadoo among countless others are not only located near the iconic reef but also offer travellers the chance to rejuvenate with a host of spa therapies. Explore the gamut of therapeutic treatments available at nearby spas to really immerse yourself in a true Maldivian treat.
Shopaholics wondering how to make of their excursion to Banana Reef will find a shopping spree at Centro Mall is just what the doctor ordered. While it may not compare to some of the shopping spaces in Male, the venue offers tourists a plethora of options when it comes to consumer goods.
The Ocean Junkies Dive Centre is not the only diving school located within close range of Banana Reef and the many institutions in the area offer those interested in picking up the sport to secure certification and explore the underwater landscapes of the reef and other dive sites around the Maldives.
Wave riders heading out to Banana Reef can enjoy the best of both worlds by signing up for a Shaka Life Surfing Tour. The wind and water conditions around the area are perfect for surfers with experience.
Hulhumale Beach is the ideal pit-stop for those in search of a scenic beach near Banana Reef as the coast and the calm waters are suited for swimming activities.
Culture buffs touring the vicinity, on the other hand, can drop by the Old Friday Mosque, the country's oldest place of worship built for those of the Islamic faith.