Maafushi Island

Overview

Maafushi is one of the local islands closest to Malé and in recent years has become the first choice for backpackers and budget travellers wanting the Maldives' blue water. The island has several dive centres offering good-value snorkelling trips, shark feeding and sandbank picnics. The lagoon is crystal clear and you can swim straight off the shore with rays and reef fish, making it an affordable alternative to the luxury resorts.

History

Maafushi is one of the inhabited local islands of the Maldives, where everyday Maldivian life continues rather than resort tourism. Guesthouses opened on local islands from around 2009, when the government relaxed rules that had confined tourists to resort islands, turning Maafushi into the pioneer of budget tourism in the country.

Highlights

• •Snorkelling in the blue lagoon
• •Shark feeding
• •Picnics on a sandbank

Practical tips

• •Bikini beaches are designated, so dress modestly elsewhere on the island
• •Book trips through your guesthouse for the best prices

Practical information

Best time

November to April

Tickets

Accommodation is relatively affordable

Opening hours

Open all day

Local food

Tuna dishes, coconut curry and tropical fruit

Getting around

Reached by speedboat or seaplane; resort islands are covered on foot and by buggy

Visa

Chinese citizens may enter visa-free for stays of up to 30 days, with return tickets, hotel bookings and proof of sufficient funds required.

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