Baa Atoll is particularly distinctive for two reasons: Its emphasis is on luxury ecotourism, and it's the home of a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. There are about eight resorts in the entire atoll, and all are five-star. They include Anantara Kihavah, which has an underwater nightclub, as well as Soneva Fushi, which was the first luxury resort in the Maldives and the pioneer of the luxury ecotourism concept in the country. The Baa Atoll resorts cooperate on environmental projects such as marine conservation and have successfully lobbied the government into changing legislation to protect local marine ecosystems.
Hanifaru Bay is the location where a world-famous natural phenomenon occurs each year, as vast quantities of manta rays and whale sharks aggregate to feed on microscopic zooplankton. Snorkeling excursions are available, and the number of visitors to Hanifaru is strictly regulated. The atoll is also notable for its lacquerware.
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