South Ari Marine Park (SAMPA)

Declared in 2009, the South Ari Marine Park stretches approximately 42 km along the southern fringe of Ari Atoll, from Rangali to Dhigurah. The park protects critical habitats for whale sharks, reef manta rays, and diverse coral communities. Warm currents from the open ocean bring rich plankton blooms, supporting year-round sightings of these gentle giants. It is one of the Maldives’ most famous marine sanctuaries and a vital site for ongoing marine conservation efforts.