The Maldives is one of the world’s most famous and beautiful vacation destinations. It is famous for its beautiful white sand beaches, turquoise water, and breathtaking underwater world. Vacationing in the Maldives involves staying in luxurious water villas or beach bungalows, which are above $1000 per night. But there are some other budget options for experiencing this Maldivian vacation, and one of them is this beautiful, pristine, and tranquil island called Dhigurah Island, locally called ‘Dhivehi’, meaning “Long Island.”
Dhigurah Island is located in southern Ari Atoll, 96.8 km southwest of Male. As its name suggests, it’s a long island stretching 4 km and 300 meters wide (at its widest part). The narrow part ends with a beautiful sandbank. It’s a perfect island to experience the Maldivians’ vibe on a budget. In this travel guide, I will explain everything that you need to know before getting to this island.
Why Choose Dhigurah?
Dhigurah Island is an ideal option for both adventure and relaxation on a budget. In addition, you can interact with local culture and traditions. I went to Dhigurah Island on a family trip, and here I will explain why I chose this island.
- Sandbank: One of the main reasons to choose Dhigurah is its gorgeous white sandbank and turquoise waters all around it. It’s a perfect place for walking in the sand and swimming in the shallow water.
- Whale Shark Tours: This island is famous for Whale Shark Tours. South Ari Atoll is known for Whale Sharks. If you want to swim with Whale Sharks, this is the place.
- Longest Bikini Beach: Dhigurah has one of the longest Bikini Beaches in the Maldives. It is never crowded, which is another reason why I chose this island.
- Affordability: Travelling from Male to Dhigurah is cheaper than most other islands. There are many affordable hotels and restaurants on this island.
- Tropical Forest Walk: Half of Dhigurah’s southern part is a tropical forest. A trail runs from your hotel to the sandbank, perfect for a nature walk.
Getting to Dhigurah
Visa requirement
Maldives Visa is free and on arrival for almost all nationals if you have the documents-
- Valid Passport. (Travelers with an extended validity in their passports are not allowed to enter).
- Confirmed return ticket, hotel or resort reservations, and
- Sufficient funds to support the stay.
- Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate, if applicable
All travellers must complete and submit the ‘Traveller Declaration’ (IMUGA) form within 96 hours before arriving in the Maldives.
Arriving in Male
To enter the Maldives, you have to fly into the Velana International Airport, which is in Male, the only gateway to the Maldives. Direct internal flights are available to Male from different important cities. As the transportation from Male to Dhigurah island leaves at a specific time, I would recommend you schedule your flight time accordingly; otherwise, you will have to wait for a long time in the airport.
From Male to Dhigurah
There are different options for travelling from Male to Dhigurah.
By SpeedBoat
The best way to get to Dhigurah is by public speedboat from Male International Airport. It takes almost 2 hours to reach the island and costs $65 per person one way. The speedboats from Male to Dhigurah operate twice daily, 11 am and 4:15 pm (on Friday, it is 10 am and 4:15 pm). From Dhigurah to Male, it departs at 6:30 am and 1 pm. These speedboats are significant and have enough space for storing luggage. It also has a toilet on board. The journey will be bumpy in rough weather, so keep it in your mind.
By Domestic Flight
The easiest and fastest way to Dhigurah is by domestic flight from Male to the airport on Maamigili Island nearby. It costs around $200 one way and takes only 30 minutes. There are 3 to 4 flights daily on this route. From Maamigili Island, it is a 20-minute speed boat ride to Dhigurah, and the cost is included in the air ticket.
By SeaPlane
You can also take a seaplane to get to Dhigurah Island. From Male to the nearby LUX resort, it takes around 30 minutes but will cost you around $260 per person. From LUX resort, it’s only a 10-minute speed boat ride, which is included in the plane ticket. When the sea is rough, these two air routes are the only options to get to Dhigurah.
By Local Ferry
There is another way to get to Dhigurah, which is by local ferry. It is the cheapest but slowest option. It takes around 7 hours to reach and costs $8 one way. You cannot confirm a ferry ticket online, so you have to buy it at the ferry counter or ask your hotel to purchase it for you. But remember that ferry schedules are often changed or cancelled due to bad weather.
After arriving at Dhigurah Island, hotel or guesthouse staff might receive you with a tuk-tuk to carry your luggage from the harbour. So contact your hotel or guesthouse prior to your arrival. Otherwise, you can also walk to your hotel or guesthouse, as this island is pretty small. However, remember that the road is sandy, and if you are carrying a trolley bag, it will be a bit tough.
Where to Stay
After 2010, when tourists were allowed in local islands, plenty of hotels and guest houses were constructed here in Dhigurah. From budget to luxury, all hotels and guest houses are available here and within an affordable price range. Here is a list of luxury and budget hotels/guest houses for you.
Luxury Hotels and Guest Houses in Dhigurah
Some luxury hotels in Dhigurah provide comfort and superior facilities, such as sea-view rooms with balconies, a quality in-house restaurant, and a swimming pool. My picks from these luxury hotels are.
Atollkey Beach Villa
Atollkey Beach Villa offers luxurious seafront villas in Dhigurah, blending simplicity, comfort, and natural beauty. It has a stunning sea view from the room and a nice sitting area in front of the hotel, but the bikini beach is a bit far. The rent per night is around $160.
White Sand Dhigurah
White Sand Dhigurah is a beautiful guest house full of luxury amenities. Some selected rooms have sea-view balconies, and there is a beautiful rooftop open-air restaurant. It is very close to Bikini Beach. The rent per night is around $150.
Unwind Dhigurah
Unwind Dhigurah is the closest guest house to Bikini Beach. Its interior is beautiful and gives a homely atmosphere. Some selected rooms have balconies. The guest house also has a swimming pool. The rent per night is around $150.
Athiri Beach Maldives
Athiri Beach is a unique guest house with 16 spacious sea-view rooms on two floors. All rooms are well equipped with modern amenities. This guest house operates its own PADI 5-star dive centre. The rent per night is around $150.
Dhiguveli Maldives
Dhiguveli Maldives Hotel is very close to the bikini beach. It has three types of rooms, all with king-size beds and private balconies. The rent per night is $140.
Budget Hotels and Guest Houses in Dhigurah
There are some budget hotels and guest houses on Dhigurah Island. They are also comfortable and well-equipped with basic amenities, but they’re pretty decent considering the budget. Here are some recommendations.
Dhigurah Tourist Hotel
Dhigurah Tourist Hotel is about 400 meters from the bikini beach. Its rooms are equipped with all basic amenities, and the rent per night is around $85.
Dhigurah Beach Inn
Dhigurah Beach Inn is a seafront guest house with a private beach area. It is about 400 meters from Bikini Beach. The rent is $90 per night.
Dhigurah Dhonveli Boutique
This boutique guesthouse is about 500 meters from the bikini beach. All rooms are equipped with basic amenities. It also has an open-air bathroom for guests in each room. The rent per night is around $70.
Beach Lily Dhigurah
This guest house is the closest budget guesthouse to the bikini beach, only 200 meters away. The rooms are pretty small and do not have balconies, but with this price and location, it is quite good. The per-night rent is $90.
Things to Do in Dhigurah
The list of things to do in Dhigurah is not short, and I promise it won’t disappoint you. Here is the list of things to do in Dhigurah.
Whale Shark Spotting
The main attraction of Dhigurah Island is its reputation for being the location where the gentle giant of the ocean, the Whale Sharks, can be seen all year round. So take a Whale Shark Safari and have the incredible adventure of swimming alongside this magnificent creature. But remember that it is not 100% guaranteed that you will see any Whale Shark on your safari tour. This safari typically lasts for 3 hours, and you may see 1 or 2 Whale Sharks in this safari. It will cost $80 per person and for children (6 to 12 years) $50.
Snorkeling in Dhigurah
Dhigurah has a long bikini beach with stunning crystal-clear water that is perfect for snorkelling. There is a snorkelling spot halfway to the Bikini Beach known as Turtle Reef, where you can snorkel, swim with baby sharks and sea turtles, and explore the beautiful coral reef and underwater world. You can also enrol for a Manta safari for $75 per person or a Reef Snorkel trip for $50 per person, swimming with Manta Ray and exploring stunning underwater worlds.
Diving in Dhigurah
Dhigurah is also well known as one of the best diving spots in the Maldives. It offers excellent conditions and opportunities for diving. There are more than 30 diving spots that can be found on Dhigurah Island, giving a chance to explore a school of fishes, sea turtles, octopuses, different varieties of corals, Manta rays, and the water giant Whale Shark. The most popular diving sites near Dhigurah are Manta Point, Broken Rock, Kuda Rah Thila, Five Rocks, and Maamigili Beru. There are some diving packages for both expert and beginner divers.
- Single dive with all equipment costs around $85 per person.
- Dive Package 10 with all equipment costs around $800 per person.
- Dive Package 20 with all equipment costs around $1500 per person.
- Discover Scuba Diving costs around $150 per person.
- Open Water Diver Certificate costs around $550 per person.
- Advanced Open Water Diver Certificate costs around $500 per person.
Sunset Fishing
Fishing has been the main occupation in the Maldives for centuries, so it’s a nation of fishermen. So, there is an opportunity to have the same experience by availing yourself of a sunset fishing package. It will cost around $61 per person for 1.5 to 2 hours. In this package, you will go fishing before sunset in a good spot by a reef, and the boat crew will show you everything. At dinner, you will be served fish BBQ that you caught.
Resort Excursion
Though you are staying on a local island, you can also have the opportunity to experience the Private Island life without staying there by taking a day tour to any nearby 5-star Private Island Resorts. It will cost you around $130; you can visit nearby resorts like Amaya Kuda Rah, Centara Grand Island, Vakarufalhi, or Vilamendhoo. This package includes a return trip to the private island, swimming pool access, a buffet lunch, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, evening snacks, etc.
Water Sports
You can enjoy different types of water sports on Dhigurah Island, including riding a banana boat, fun boat, parasailing, kite surfing, windsurfing, kayaking, jet skiing and more. Almost every hotel and guest house offers this adventure sport.
BIkini Beach and Sandbank Strolls
Dhigurah Island has one of the longest bikini beaches in the Maldives, stretching more than 2 km, and at the end, there is a beautiful sandbank. This Bikini Beach is not crowded like it is on Maafushi Island; in fact, you will get a vibe like a private beach. So you can walk along the white sand beach, swim and snorkel, grab some snacks, and enjoy the sunset. The sandbank at the end of the beach is just breathtaking; it’s worth walking 45 minutes to get there. In low tide, you can walk along the sandbank to the next resort island, LUX South Ari Atoll. Otherwise, you can walk or swim in the shallow water on the sandbank.
Walking around the Island
After spending time on the beach, take a walk around the island and explore the local life. Local people on this island are very friendly; they wave and smile at you everywhere you go. The friendliness and hospitality you will have here won’t get it on any other island. Walking along the main street watching boys playing football, locals hanging out, and people rushing on scooters will feel wonderful. There are some souvenir shops alongside the street; you can repurchase some souvenirs back home as a memory.
You can also visit my other blog on Things to Do in The Maldives.
Where to Eat
The Food in Dhigurah satisfied me in every restaurant I went to. Almost every hotel and guesthouse has its own restaurant where you get complimentary breakfast and can order lunch or dinner. They will serve your meal with fresh fish. My recommendations for restaurants are:
Malaveli Restaurant
This is an in-house restaurant of the Dhiguveli Maldives Hotel, located on the rooftop. During the day, you have a beautiful panoramic view of the blue ocean and the island. They serve a wide variety of dishes, from seafood and Indian food to burgers, pizza, and local dishes.
Hermit’s
This is also an in-house restaurant of the boutique hotel Bliss Dhigurah. It is the most fancy restaurant on the island. They serve fresh seafood and local dishes. The food is delicious, but the price is slightly higher than other restaurants.
Bonthi Restaurant
Bothani is a nice and cosy restaurant on Dhigurah Island. They serve delicious food, from local dishes to seafood. The food is comparatively cheap and affordable here.
Absolute Thai
Another in-house restaurant in Atolkey Beach Villa is Absolute Thai Restaurant. This restaurant is on a rooftop and has a fantastic view of the open ocean. They serve tasty Thai and Asian cuisine.
When is the best time to visit Dhigurah
There is no good time or bad time to travel to Dhigurah; it’s an all-year-round location. However, the peak season is the dry season, which is from January to March, when the sky is clear and the ocean is calm. This season has a little shower, which is suitable for snorkelling, diving, and other water sports.
The off-peak season is the wet season, which is from May to November. It usually rains, and the ocean is rough in this season. But showers don’t last more than 2 hours in a day, and the rest of the day remains dry or cloudy. Airfare and Hotel rent are comparatively cheap in this season.
Eco-Conscious Travel
Dhigurah Island is a shining example of eco-conscious travel, combining its breathtaking natural beauty with sustainable tourism practices. The island is deeply invested in preserving its marine ecosystem, particularly its vibrant coral reefs, which are vital for biodiversity and coastal protection. Community-driven coral reef restoration programs, supported by local NGOs and dive centres, aim to combat the impacts of bleaching and overfishing, ensuring a thriving underwater habitat. Educational initiatives help visitors and locals to understand the importance of reef conservation, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship.
Dhigurah’s commitment to sustainability extends to its innovative efforts in reducing plastic waste. Many local businesses and guesthouses have embraced eco-friendly practices, such as offering reusable water bottles, promoting biodegradable packaging, and organizing regular beach clean-ups to combat plastic pollution. These initiatives align with the Maldives’ vision of achieving a single-use plastic-free environment.
Tips for Tourists for Responsible Travel
- To minimize single-use plastic, use a reusable water bottle, straw, and shopping bag.
- Refill water bottles at designated stations or ask accommodations about water refilling options.
- Choose products with minimal or biodegradable packaging.
- Pack reusable items like cutlery and a coffee cup to avoid disposable alternatives.
- Separate trash and dispose of it responsibly, recycling where possible.
- Avoid touching or stepping on coral reefs, as they are delicate and take decades to recover from damage.
- Do not feed marine animals, as it disrupts their natural diet and behaviour.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen to prevent chemicals from harming marine ecosystems.
- Stay in locally-owned accommodations and eat at community-run restaurants to directly benefit residents.
- Purchase handmade souvenirs from local artisans rather than imported goods.
- Engage in tours or activities run by local guides to deepen cultural understanding and support the local economy.
- Learn about and respect local customs, dress codes, and traditions.
FAQs
1. Where is Dhigurah Island located?
Dhigurah Island is located in the South Ari Atoll of the Maldives, approximately 96 kilometres (60 miles) from Malé, the capital city.
2. How do I get to Dhigurah Island?
You can reach Dhigurah by domestic flight to Maamigili Airport, followed by a short speedboat ride. Alternatively, there are direct speedboat services from Malé.
3. What is the best time to visit Dhigurah?
The ideal time is from January to March, during the dry season when the weather is sunny and marine life is abundant for snorkelling and diving.
4. What activities can I enjoy on Dhigurah Island?
- Snorkelling and diving with whale sharks and manta rays.
- Exploring coral reefs and vibrant marine life.
- Sandbank excursions, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
- Cultural tours and local Maldivian cuisine experiences.
5. Is Dhigurah suitable for eco-conscious travellers?
Yes, Dhigurah is known for sustainable tourism initiatives, including coral reef conservation, plastic reduction campaigns, and eco-friendly accommodations.
6. Are there any restrictions on marine life interactions?
Yes, ensure respectful behaviour, such as keeping a safe distance from marine animals, not touching corals, and not feeding wildlife.
7. What types of accommodations are available in Dhigurah?
The island offers a mix of eco-friendly guesthouses and boutique accommodations, often run by locals, to provide an authentic experience.
8. Are there dining options on the island?
Yes, Dhigurah has several restaurants and cafés serving fresh seafood, Maldivian dishes, and international cuisine, often with locally sourced ingredients.
9. What should I pack for my trip to Dhigurah?
- Lightweight, breathable clothing and beachwear.
- Reef-safe sunscreen and reusable water bottles.
- Snorkeling or diving gear, if preferred.
- Sandals or water shoes for exploring.
10. Are there any cultural norms I should be aware of?
Yes, Dhigurah is a local island with traditional Maldivian culture. Dress modestly when outside resort areas, particularly in the village. Swimwear is acceptable on designated bikini beaches.
11. How can I support conservation efforts while visiting?
- Participate in reef restoration or beach clean-up activities.
- Avoid single-use plastics and use eco-friendly products.
- Book eco-conscious tours and accommodations.
12. Is Dhigurah family-friendly?
Yes, the calm beaches, rich marine life, and family-friendly activities make Dhigurah an excellent destination for travellers of all ages.
13. Is Dhigurah Island expensive to visit?
Dhigurah is more budget-friendly than private resort islands, offering affordable guesthouses and reasonably priced local dining options.
14. Do I need a visa to visit Dhigurah Island?
Tourists travelling to the Maldives receive a free 30-day visa on arrival, provided they have valid travel documents and proof of accommodation.
15. Can I use credit cards on the island?
Most guesthouses and some restaurants accept credit cards, but it’s advisable to carry some cash in Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR) for small purchases and local services.
16. Are there ATMs on Dhigurah Island?
There is an ATM on Dhigurah Island, but it doesn’t always work, so it would be a good idea to withdraw some cash from Malé.
17. Is internet access available in Dhigurah?
Yes, most guesthouses and cafés offer free Wi-Fi. However, speeds may vary, so consider purchasing a local SIM card with a data plan for reliable connectivity.
18. Can I drink alcohol in Dhigurah?
No, Dhigurah is a local island, and alcohol is prohibited. However, you can visit nearby resort islands or safari boats, where alcohol is allowed.
19. Are there medical facilities on the island?
Dhigurah has a small health centre for minor medical needs. For serious medical emergencies, the nearest hospital is in Maamigili or Malé.
20. What marine life can I expect to see?
Dhigurah is famous for its encounters with whale sharks, manta rays, sea turtles, reef sharks, and a vibrant array of tropical fish.
21. Are there specific diving spots near Dhigurah?
Yes, Dhigurah is near some of the Maldives’ best dive sites, including Maamigili Beyru, Kudarah Thila, and Broken Rock, offering diverse underwater experiences.
22. Is Dhigurah Island safe for solo travellers?
Yes, Dhigurah is considered safe. It has a welcoming local community and supportive guesthouse staff. Solo travellers often find it easy to meet like-minded visitors.
23. How long is Dhigurah Island?
Dhigurah is one of the longest islands in the Maldives, stretching approximately 4 kilometres. It is surrounded by lush vegetation and sandy beaches.
24. What is the local language spoken in Dhigurah?
The local language is Dhivehi, but English is widely spoken, especially in guesthouses and tourism-related services.
25. Are there specific festivals or events to experience in Dhigurah?
Travellers can enjoy local cultural events, including Eid celebrations, traditional Maldivian music, and dance performances.
26. What are the transportation options in Dhigurah?
Dhigurah is small, and most places are accessible on foot or by bicycle. Guesthouses often provide free or rental bicycles for exploring.
27. Can I arrange private excursions?
Yes, many guesthouses and dive centres organize private excursions, including snorkelling, sandbank trips, and sunset cruises.
28. How eco-friendly are Dhigurah’s accommodations?
Many guesthouses emphasize sustainability, using solar power, minimizing waste, and supporting local environmental initiatives.
29. Is it possible to visit Dhigurah on a day trip?
While possible, it’s best to stay overnight to fully experience the island’s charm, including its long beach, marine life, and eco-friendly activities.
30. Are there any cultural landmarks or sites to visit?
Dhigurah is more about natural beauty than cultural landmarks, but visitors can explore the village to learn about local Maldivian culture and traditions.
Conclusion
Dhigurah Island offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, vibrant marine life, and sustainable tourism, making it a must-visit destination for any traveller. From diving with whale sharks to exploring coral reefs and supporting local initiatives, every experience on this serene island promotes harmony with nature. Whether you are seeking adventure or relaxation, Dhigurah allows you to connect deeply with the environment and local culture. A trip to Dhigurah is more than a vacation—it’s a commitment to responsible and meaningful travel.
