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Guraidhoo is another small island located only 32 km away from the capital Male in South Male Atoll. Maafushi is 8 km nearby. The size of Guraidhoo is only 700х500. The island has a population of around 2,000 people and is a popular destination for tourists who are looking for a more local experience.
Now the island is occupied by 13 guest houses and the new ones are being under construction. Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is very close to the island. The distance between them is only 100 meters. However, you’ll not be able to get there- private area.
This island is a bit more picturesque than Maafushi and the atmosphere is more likable.
The public ferry transportation allows you to make a trip to Maafushi and Gulhi in the morning and come back after lunchtime.
The beach is relatively small, but it is very picturesque and offers visitors a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. The water is calm and clear, making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. The beach is also surrounded by lush green vegetation, adding to its natural beauty.
There are several amenities available on the beach, including sun loungers, umbrellas, and changing rooms. Visitors can also rent equipment for water sports such as snorkeling, diving, and surfing. The beach is also home to several restaurants and cafes where visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the beautiful views.
One of the unique features of Guraidhoo Beach is the opportunity to see baby sharks swimming in the shallow waters near the shore. These harmless creatures are a common sight in the area and add to the charm of the beach.
The beach itself is very clean and well-maintained as well as the island. On the opposite side of the island, you will find several places to watch the sunset. One is situated close to the police office.
The house reef near Guraidhoo is very small.
The house reef is known for its diverse marine life, with a variety of colorful fish, sea turtles, and other sea creatures living in the coral formations. The reef is also home to several species of sharks, including reef sharks and nurse sharks, which can be seen swimming in the area.
This island is connected by a footbridge with Guraidhoo. Lhosfushi is a deserted island that is designed specifically for tourists. The current is rather strong between the islands. On the island, you can sunbathe in a bikini but the entrance to the water is rather uncomfortable because of the dead corrals. The house reef is far from the island so guesthouses can organize cheap snorkeling trips to reach it.
From the surf part of the picnic island, you can see eagle rays! But the waves are high so you will not be able to swim there.
However, lots of surfers go on a trip to catch a wave here. The season is usually from May to November.
A snorkeling safari near Guraidhoo is a popular activity for visitors to the Maldives who want to explore the rich marine life of the region. The safari typically involves visiting several different snorkeling sites in the area and can last for a few hours or a full day.
During a snorkeling safari, visitors can explore the coral reefs and see a variety of marine life up close. The safari may include visits to different dive sites, each with its unique features and marine species. Snorkelers may see colorful fish, sea turtles, and even larger marine life such as reef sharks and manta rays.
The snorkeling safari may also include stops at sandbars and uninhabited islands, where visitors can relax on the beach, swim, and enjoy a picnic lunch. Some safaris even offer opportunities to see dolphins or whale sharks in the wild.
The snorkeling safari is usually led by an experienced guide who can provide information about marine life and the surrounding environment. Snorkeling equipment is typically provided, and visitors are advised to wear a wetsuit or rash guard to protect themselves from the sun and marine stings.
One of the most popular types of fishing in the Maldives is night fishing. Visitors can join a fishing excursion on a traditional Maldivian fishing boat known as a dhoni. The boat will take visitors to a spot where they can fish using traditional hand lines and hooks. The boat crew will assist visitors with fishing techniques and bait, and guests can expect to catch a variety of fish, including reef fish, snapper, and grouper.
Another popular type of fishing is big game fishing, which involves trolling the waters for larger fish such as tuna, wahoo, and marlin. Big game fishing excursions are typically led by experienced guides who are familiar with the best fishing spots and techniques. Visitors can expect to use specialized fishing equipment such as rods, reels, and lures.
Visitors can also try their hand at traditional line fishing, using a hand line and hook to catch smaller fish near the coral reefs. This type of fishing is a more relaxed and meditative activity, allowing visitors to enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the Maldives while waiting for a bite.
You can cook your catch in your hotel as well.
It’s possible to arrange a trip to small uninhabited islands that have equal natural beauty. A picnic island looks more natural than resort and you can have your own privacy as these islands are uninhabited. You can simply spend your day in the clear waters of these islands, swimming, snorkeling, beach games, and experience a barbecue on the beach.
Surfers heading to Guraidhoo will have direct access to the iconic Kandooma Right; located in front of Holiday Inn Kandooma. Attracting surfers from around the world, this fun, hollow right is one of the best breaks in the Maldives. The peak surf season between April – October.
The area offers a variety of waves suitable for surfers of different levels of experience, from beginner-friendly breaks to challenging waves for advanced surfers.
One of the most popular surf spots near Guraidhoo is known as the Tiger Stripes, located just a short boat ride from the island. The Tiger Stripes is a powerful, fast-breaking wave that is popular with experienced surfers looking for a challenge. The wave can get quite large, reaching up to 8 feet or more on the biggest days.
Another popular surf spot near Guraidhoo is called the Jailbreaks, which is located on the nearby island of Himmafushi. Jailbreaks is a long, fast wave that can be challenging but is also suitable for intermediate surfers. The wave is known for its consistent quality, making it a reliable option for surfers looking to catch some waves.
Other popular surf spots near Guraidhoo include the Ninjas, which is a mellow wave suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers, and the Cokes, which is a powerful wave that breaks over a shallow reef and is popular with advanced surfers.
Surfing in the Maldives is possible year-round, with the best waves typically occurring between April and October. Many guesthouses on Guraidhoo Island offer surf packages that include accommodation, transportation to the surf spots, and surfboard rentals.
Feel yourself boring on a local island? Go to a resort for a day trip and enjoy sunbath near the pool sipping cocktails. Opened for guests resorts:
– Biyadhoo,
– Adaaran Club Rannalhi,
– Fun Island,
– Anantara Veli;
– Fihalhohi;
– Sun Siyam Olhuveli;
– Taj Exotica;
– Adaaran Vadhoo
There are several popular dive sites near Guraidhoo, including the Kandooma Thila, which is a submerged pinnacle that is home to a variety of marine life, including schools of colorful fish, reef sharks, and rays. The Kandooma Thila dive site is suitable for both experienced and beginner divers, with depths ranging from 12 to 30 meters.
Another popular dive site near Guraidhoo is the Cocoa Corner, which is a site known for its strong currents and large pelagic species, such as manta rays and whale sharks. The site is suitable for experienced divers only, due to the challenging conditions.
Other popular dive sites near Guraidhoo include the Guraidhoo Corner, which is a site known for its large schools of fish and beautiful coral formations, and the Embudu Kandu, which is a site known for its dramatic underwater landscape and diverse marine life.
Diving near Guraidhoo is possible year-round, with the best visibility typically occurring between December and May.
In terms of infrastructure, Guraidhoo has all the basic facilities that residents and visitors need. There are several guesthouses, hotels, and restaurants on the island that cater to tourists, as well as local shops and markets where visitors can buy food and other essentials.
The island also has a small hospital and several pharmacies, providing medical care to residents and visitors in case of emergencies. There are also several mosques on the island, reflecting the predominant Muslim religion of the Maldives.
In terms of transportation, Guraidhoo can be reached by ferry or speedboat from the capital city of Male, which is located about 19 km away.
One of the most popular restaurants on Guraidhoo is the Sea La Vie restaurant, which is known for its delicious seafood dishes and beautiful ocean views. The restaurant offers a range of grilled fish, curries, and pasta dishes, along with refreshing drinks and desserts.
Another popular restaurant on the island is the Coral Garden Cafe, which serves a variety of Maldivian and international cuisine, including fresh seafood, rice dishes, and sandwiches. The restaurant also offers vegetarian and vegan options.
For those looking for a taste of local Maldivian cuisine, the Mymen Hotel restaurant is a great option. The restaurant serves traditional Maldivian dishes, such as fish curry, roshi (a type of flatbread), and mas huni (a dish made with shredded smoked fish, coconut, and chili).
Other restaurants and cafes on Guraidhoo include the Sizzlerz Cafe, which serves pizza, burgers, and sandwiches, and the Lemon Tree Cafe, which serves a variety of coffee drinks and pastries.
The ferry departs from Male every day.
14:30 — direct transfer from Male to Guraidhoo
15:00 — it goes through Male – Gulhi – Mafushi – Guraidhoo
It returns from Guraidhoo at 7:00 the next morning. Note that it ferry doesn’t run on Fridays.
Transfer on a speedboat
Male – Guraidhoo. Daily at 12:30, 15:30 and 22:30 from jetty #6 in Male.
Guraidhoo – Male at 7:00, 14:30, 21:30
The price is $35 per person one way.
The transfer on a charter speedboat
This trip to Guraidhoo will take 35 minutes and it’ll cost you $350 (one way but you can share it). The trip on a speedboat should be booked beforehand but not less than in 3 days.
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