Fuvahmulah Atoll

Fuvahmulah (ފުވައްމުލަށް) in the south of the Maldives is a single island that forms an atoll of its own, without a surrounding lagoon. Rising straight from the deep ocean, it offers rare access to large marine life close to shore and a landscape unlike any other island in the country.

Fuvahmulah is famous among divers for regular encounters with tiger sharks, as well as thresher sharks, hammerheads, oceanic manta rays and, at times, whale sharks. Dives start just off the harbour, and the open ocean conditions call for experience. Dive centres follow guidelines to keep a respectful distance from the animals. Show more

On land, the island is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with two freshwater lakes, Bandaara Kilhi and Dhadimagi Kilhi, wetlands rich in birdlife, mango and pineapple groves and dense vegetation. Thoondu beach is known for its smooth white coral pebbles and, at times, for the shifting sands of Bissaaveli, where part of the beach moves offshore to form a lagoon. Old mosques and coral stone cemeteries recall the island's history, and a circuit road invites exploration by bicycle.

Fuvahmulah is reached by domestic flight from Malé. Several days to a week suit diving and island exploration. Sea conditions are often rough because there is no protecting lagoon, and the calmer months from December to April are generally better for diving. Modest dress is expected and alcohol is not sold.