Hulhumalé

Hulhumalé (ހުޅުމާލެ) is a modern island city in Kaafu Atoll, created by land reclamation on the reef next to the airport island of Hulhulé. Planned to relieve crowded Malé, it has grown into a district of wide streets, parks, apartment blocks, shops and a long beach on its eastern shore.

The island is known above all for its convenience. Guesthouses and hotels lie within minutes of Velana International Airport, which makes Hulhumalé a popular stop for a first or last night in the Maldives. The beachfront promenade, lined with palms, cafés and restaurants, is the social centre in the evening, and Central Park and the waterfront offer space for walks, cycling and children's play. Show more

The long sandy beach and calm lagoon are good for swimming, and water sports and snorkelling trips can be arranged along the shore. Excursions to sandbanks, nearby reefs and dolphin areas start from the harbour, and the Sinamalé bridge links Hulhumalé with Malé, where the markets and old mosques can be explored.

Buses and taxis connect the district with the airport and the capital in a short time. One or two nights suit most travellers. As an inhabited area, Hulhumalé follows local customs, so modest dress is expected away from the beach and alcohol is not sold, while the dry season from December to April brings the calmest seas.