The World's 12 Most Spectacular Coral Reefs: A Journey Through Underwater Paradise

4. Maldives Coral Reefs, Indian Ocean

Renowned for their immaculate beaches and opulent resorts, the 26 atoll archipelago known as the Maldives located in the Indian Ocean. Still, the underwater world is the one that really distinguishes this place. With over 250 types of coral sustaining a great wealth of marine life, the Maldives boasts some of the most varied and vivid coral reefs on earth. Year-round divers and snorkelers have great view from the warm, clean waves surrounding the islands, which also provide perfect conditions for coral development. The Maldivian reefs have one unusual characteristic: thilas, underwater pinnacles rising from the ocean floor but not breaking the surface. These structures provide striking underwater scenes and draw a great range of marine life. Divers can visit well-known locations include the protected marine region of Hanifaru Bay, which provides a feeding ground for big numbers of manta ray and whale sharks during specific seasons, or Maaya Thila, which is famed for its quantity of white tip reef sharks. With numerous resorts running coral regeneration initiatives to counteract the effects of climate change and coral bleaching, the Maldives is also leading front-stage in efforts at coral protection. Through these projects, visitors can learn about coral ecology and even assist in the planting of fresh coral fragments, therefore helping to preserve these essential ecosystems for next generations.