Well-developed and welcoming, Maafushi is located in the Maldives’ Kaafu Atoll, 16 miles (26 kilometers) away from the capital island of Malé. It’s become a popular spot for visitors seeking an alternative to the often unattainable luxury of the resort islands, thanks to its many guesthouses and bed-and-breakfasts. Things to do on Maafushi include snorkeling with whale sharks, diving shipwrecks, and getting a sense of Maldivian culture through the local cuisine. In the evening, watch the sunset into the sea and bask in the lingering heat of the day.
Whale sharks are a treasured sight in Maafushi, and the huge, gentle giants tend to congregate around the island from August to November. While this coincides with one of the Maldives’ main monsoon seasons (the wet, southwest monsoon runs from May to November), try to time your visit so you have a chance to try to spot the camouflage stripes and dots of the whale sharks. For good (i.e., dry) weather, the best time to visit Maafushi is from December to April.
Less than 1 mile (1.2 kilometers) long and only 0.16 miles (0.26 kilometers) wide, the only transport you need on Maafushi is your feet—and if you get tired of walking, you can always hop in the water and swim to your next destination! The island is connected to Malé via a frequent ferry service (although the boat doesn’t run on Fridays); the trip takes about 90 minutes.
For local flavors, head to Cafe Lupper on the east side of the island. Simple and comfortable, the spot serves up fresh grilled fish, tuna kothu roshi (sliced flatbread stir-fried with curried tuna), and fresh fruit juices. After lunch, you can stroll to Sunrise Beach (although be sure to respect the signage and dress appropriately for the local beach—no bikinis allowed.)
