The Maldivian government has designated two large underwater pinnacles in the Kaafu Atoll - the Bodu Hithi Thila and the Okobe Thila – as marine protected areas.
The two popular dive sites were protected under the Environmental Preservation and Protection Act.
Upon being designated as protected areas, the following activities are banned at the site:
Visits, research and restoration and rehabilitation works are allowed in protected areas with necessary permits.
Bodu Hithi Thila
This 127.47-hector underwater pinnacle lies between Rasfari and Ulaanee in western Kaafu Atoll, and is home to one of the best manta cleaning stations in northern Kaafu Atoll.
Divers can expect to see manta rays from December to April, during the Northeast Monsoon. The area is also home to sharks, turtles and many colorful reef fish.
Okobe Thila
This 379.31-hector underwater pinnacle lies in eastern Kaafu Atoll.
Off this reef is a continuous line of ledges and overhangs which are covered with a thick layer of soft corals. On the north end of the reef is an outcrop with abundant fish life, including large groups of bluestripe snapper, oriental sweetlips and fusiliers. On the eastern side is a bigger outcrop where barracudas, Napoleon wrasses, big tuna and trevally can be found. The reef is also known for its excellent coral growth.
Both sites are popular among divers.