Dhawa Ihuru has been recognised among the Best House Reefs in the Maldives, celebrated by  Travel + Leisure Asia in its prestigious Luxury Awards 2025. A stylish escape for divers, the  resort’s house reef - teeming with reef sharks, turtles, eagle rays, and vibrant coral life -  continues to inspire travellers from around the world.  

More than an accolade, this award recognises two decades of dedicated marine  conservation, research, and coral restoration efforts that have transformed this reef into a  living model of sustainable tourism. 

Over Two Decades of Reef Conservation Excellence 

Since the foundation of the Banyan Group’s Marine Lab in 2004 - the Maldives’ first resort based conservation and research facility - Dhawa Ihuru has championed environmental  responsibility in action. The reef has benefited from long-term coral preservation projects and  community education initiatives that involve guests in every step of the journey. 

Guests are encouraged to take part in biodiversity conservation, including: 

 Coral planting and reef regeneration 

 Reef monitoring with our biologists 

 Turtle identification and tracking 

 Sustainability workshops and marine talks 

 Community engagement programmes 

These initiatives not only restore fragile ecosystems but also foster awareness and shared  responsibility among travellers. 

“This recognition is a reflection of our long-standing commitment to marine protection,” says Elias  Pertoft, General Manager of Dhawa Ihuru and Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru. “What began as a vision  nearly three decades ago has evolved into a living legacy of conservation. We are proud to continue  nurturing one of the Maldives’ most biodiverse reefs—not only for our guests, but for future generations.” 

Nick, Marine Lab Manager, adds: “Over the past 20 years, our immersive marine biodiversity  programs, including hands-on conservation activities, offer educational and inspiring experiences. By  involving guests, we are enriching their stay while fostering a global community of marine stewards who  share the responsibility to protect our oceans.”

From Recognition to Celebration - Rannamaari Dive Fest 2025 

To celebrate this recognition and Dhawa Ihuru’s thriving marine ecosystem, travellers are  invited to the Rannamaari Dive Fest on 24 July 2025, a full-day celebration from 10AM to 10PM,  to experience the vibrant rhythm of island life above and below the surface, from stylish  beachfront villas and spa rituals to Maldivian authentic cuisine and local artisan crafts.  Inspired by the legendary Rannamaari shipwreck, the event highlights: 

 Underwater treasure hunts for both divers and non-divers 

 Marine conservation talks and activation activities with resident marine biologists  from Our Marine Lab 

 Other vibrant and engaging island activities, such as arts & crafts with Maldivian  artist, Maldivian cooking class, DIY Wellbeing workshop, and kids' corners 

 Sunset cocktail celebration at Velavani Bar, beachfront DJ night, and more 

Join us this July to celebrate, explore, and protect one of the Maldives’ most vibrant house reefs  - where every dive and discovery helps preserve the magic beneath the surface.