Dhawa Ihuru has been honoured as one of the Best House Reefs in the Maldives in Travel + Leisure Asia’s Luxury Awards 2025, a distinction that acknowledges both the resort’s rich marine biodiversity and its enduring commitment to ocean conservation. Known as a haven for divers, the house reef surrounding Dhawa Ihuru attracts global attention for its thriving population of reef sharks, turtles, eagle rays, and vibrant coral communities.
The recognition not only highlights the beauty of the reef but also celebrates over 20 years of marine conservation and restoration efforts led by the resort. Since the establishment of the Banyan Group’s Marine Lab in 2004—the first resort-based marine research and conservation centre in the Maldives—Dhawa Ihuru has prioritised sustainability, ecological education, and guest engagement in environmental stewardship.
Guests have long been invited to participate in the resort’s conservation efforts through a variety of immersive activities. These include coral planting, reef monitoring in partnership with on-site biologists, turtle identification and tracking, sustainability workshops, and community-based marine education programmes. Such initiatives help restore delicate reef ecosystems while fostering a culture of shared environmental responsibility among visitors.
General Manager Elias Pertoft, who also oversees Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, reflected on the achievement as a milestone in a decades-long vision. “This recognition is a reflection of our long-standing commitment to marine protection. What began as a vision nearly three decades ago has evolved into a living legacy of conservation,” he said. Marine Lab Manager Nick added, “By involving guests in hands-on biodiversity programs, we aim to educate and inspire, building a global community of ocean stewards.”
In celebration of this recognition and the reef’s vibrant marine life, Dhawa Ihuru will host the Rannamaari Dive Fest on 24 July 2025. The full-day event, running from 10AM to 10PM, will bring together ocean lovers to explore and honour the island’s underwater wonders and cultural heritage. Named after the legendary Rannamaari shipwreck, the festival will include underwater treasure hunts, marine talks, conservation activities with resident biologists, and a range of island experiences such as Maldivian cooking classes, craft workshops, wellness sessions, and a sunset cocktail celebration followed by a beachfront DJ night.
With this accolade, Dhawa Ihuru continues to position itself as a leader in sustainable tourism—inviting guests not just to visit, but to contribute to the protection and celebration of the Maldives’ extraordinary marine environments.