Renowned for its 8 to 12 feet astounding waves and for having seven atolls (Mahidbadhoo, Felidhoo, Niladhoo ,Muli, Kudahuvadhoo, Veymandoo, Punadhoo) Southern Atoll is fondly called Baa, a magnet for beachcombers, surfers and tourists who just want to get away from Maldives' humdrum capital Malé.
Largely unexplored and speckled with 75 islands (13 of them are inhabited), Southern Atolls' spanning seascape gives a new meaning to the word "discovery." Die-hard surfers are amazed with its fantastic waves while beachcombers marvel at its stunning beaches and waters.
Southern Atolls is not all about the sea. Mahibadhoo, the capital of Alif Dhall Atoll, is home to the Masgid al-Ihsan Mosque and humble settlements for the locals whose livelihood is derived from weaving handicrafts, building boats and fishing. A football ground in the area invites children (even adults) to spend an afternoon playing soccer. Another island worth a visit is the Thulhaadhoo, the only island in Maldives doing lacquer work.
Visitors who are into eco-related activities can allot a day trip to the Maalhosmadulhu Atoll. The area is blessed with exemplary flora and fauna, including a system of mangroves and the unusual faru reef, a ring-shaped reef formation unique to the Maldives. The uninhibited Olhugiri, on the other hand, teems with natural vegetation, providing a sanctuary to the great frigate bird endemic in the island. Other than the opportunity of bird watching, visitors can also get the chance to see hawksbill turtles laying their eggs on the sand.