Maafushi
Maldives · Kaafu Atoll · 2 m
Description
Maafushi (މާފުށި) is considered a pioneer of independent tourism in the Maldives and became a forerunner of affordable travel with the country’s first registered guesthouse on an inhabited island. The roughly 1.3 kilometer long island is now known for its many guesthouses, restaurants, dive schools and excursion operators. A designated bikini beach allows visitors to swim in regular swimwear, while modest clothing is expected elsewhere. Maafushi is lively and densely built, yet offers an authentic glimpse into everyday life in a Maldivian community. Numerous excursions head to sandbanks, reefs, dolphins and whale sharks. Alcohol is available only on boats and floating bars offshore.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 3 to 6 days (optimal 4 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: December – April
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Bikini beach
- Guesthouses and budget travel on a local island
- Sandbank and snorkelling day trips
- Resort day passes in the Kaafu Atoll
- Nurse sharks and stingrays at the jetty
- Local cafés and Maldivian home cooking
- Dolphin cruises at sunset
- Whale shark and manta excursions(Day trip)
- Water sports on the lagoon side
- Diving courses and the local dive schools
Getting there
- Nearest airports:
- MLE
- Seaport:
- Reachable by ship or ferry