Gulhi Island (Updated 2026)

Nowadays we call them backpackers. Some locals said, that, during the peak seasons, the island hosted hundreds of tourists in local houses and tents on the beach.

Things to do in Gulhi

Bikini beach and house reef

There are several facilities available on the beaches of Gulhi, including public showers, changing rooms, and restrooms. There are two beaches on the island, south, and north. The north sands are incredibly stunning where you can lounge all day under a parasol shade, go swimming and house reef snorkeling, and have a food or drink at the beach restaurant! Bikini beach is the best and the most beautiful in the area. It is a quiet beach with almost no waves, with plenty of space to enjoy the water. There are sunbeds as well. The beaches in Gulhi are a major attraction and provide a perfect escape for those seeking relaxation and natural beauty. With pristine white sands, crystal clear waters, and a range of activities available, the beaches of Gulhi are a must-visit for anyone

Compared to Maafushi or Guraidhoo, Gulhi has a much better beach. Gulhi has several beaches that are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The main beach on the island is located on the east side and is a long, white-sand beach with crystal-clear water. The beach is lined with coconut palms and other tropical trees, providing shade and a picturesque backdrop. There is no close to swimming in the house reef. So you need to take safari snorkeling to see colorful fish and amazing coral gardens.

Snorkeling

Snorkeling is a popular activity on Gulhi, and the island is surrounded by beautiful coral reefs and abundant marine life. Gulhi is surrounded by several excellent snorkeling spots, including Coral Garden and Turtle Point. These spots are easily accessible from the beach and offer stunning underwater views of colorful coral formations, tropical fish, and sea turtles. It is important to practice snorkeling safety while exploring the underwater world around Gulhi. Be sure to wear a properly fitted snorkel mask, fins, and a flotation device if needed.

Also, be aware of the currents and tides, and avoid touching or disturbing marine life. The best time for snorkeling on Gulhi and throughout the Maldives is from November to April, when the weather is dry and the seas are calm. However, snorkeling is possible year-round on the island, and there are often opportunities to see different species of marine life during the offseason as well. With clear waters and a diverse array of marine species, the island offers a memorable snorkeling experience for visitors of all skill levels.

Fishing

There are several types of fishing available in Gulhi, including reef fishing, deep-sea fishing, and night fishing. Reef fishing is ideal for beginners and involves catching smaller fish around the coral reefs surrounding the island. Deep-sea fishing is more challenging and involves catching larger fish such as tuna, marlin, and sailfish in the deeper waters surrounding the island. Night fishing is a unique experience that involves fishing for reef fish using traditional Maldivian methods. There are several local tour operators in Gulhi that offer fishing tours to visitors.

These tours provide all the necessary fishing equipment, as well as experienced guides who know the best fishing spots around the island. Some tours also include a barbecue on the beach, where you can enjoy your freshly caught fish. The best time for fishing on Gulhi and throughout the Maldives is from November to April when the weather is dry and the seas are calm. However, fishing is possible year-round on the island, and there are often opportunities to catch fish during the offseason as well.

Dolphin Cruise

Pinner Dolphins are the commonest species, and they occur here in their tens of thousands. They have a regular daily routine to their lives, feeding offshore at night, coming into the atolls in the early morning, and leaving again for the open ocean in the late afternoon. It means you can easily find them during your cruise. While nothing with wildlife can be 100% guaranteed, you won't have a better chance to watch wild dolphins playing in their natural environment than right here in the Maldives.

Resort Day Visit

The full-day excursion offers you the possibility of sampling for yourself the unique beauty of resort life. Available resorts are Embudu Village, Holiday Inn Kandooma, Anantara Veli, Adaaran Vadoo.

Surfing

Gulhi is a popular destination for surfing in the Maldives. The island is located near several great surf spots, and there are several surf schools and rental shops on the island that cater to surfers. Gulhi is located near several excellent surf spots, including Coral Garden, Tiger Stripes, and Quarters. These surf spots offer a range of waves suitable for different skill levels, from beginner-friendly waves to more challenging breaks for experienced surfers. There are also several surf shops on Gulhi that offer surfboard rentals and other equipment for experienced surfers who want to explore the nearby surf spots on their own. he best time to go surfing on Gulhi is from April to October when the waves are typically larger and more consistent. However, surfing is possible year-round on the island, and there are often smaller waves suitable for beginners during the offseason.

Scuba Diving

There are several excellent scuba diving sites near Gulhi, offering a chance to explore the stunning coral reefs and marine life of the Maldives. There are several popular dive sites located within a short boat ride from Gulhi, including Kandooma Thila, Cocoa Thila, and Guraidhoo Corner. These sites offer a range of underwater landscapes, including coral gardens, steep walls, and overhangs, and are home to a diverse array of marine life, such as reef sharks, manta rays, and sea turtles. Several dive centers located in Gulhi offer scuba diving excursions to visitors. These centers provide experienced guides, quality diving equipment, and a range of courses, including beginner and advanced levels. T

he best time for diving around Gulhi and throughout the Maldives is from November to April, when the weather is dry and the seas are calm. However, diving is possible year-round on the island, and there are often opportunities to see different species of marine life during the offseason as well. Scuba diving near Gulhi is an unforgettable experience, offering a chance to explore the rich underwater world of the Maldives. With a range of dive sites available and experienced guides on hand, visitors can discover the beauty and diversity of the coral reefs and marine life of the Maldives.

Other activities

Water sports. Motorized and non-motorized water sports can be arranged upon request. Cruises. A romantic cruise with sunset dinner or dolphin watching in a special cruise boat. Picnic island visiting. Private excursion trips to nearby sandbanks and also to other inhabited picnic islands nearby can be arranged by request. Most of these trips are customized, and rates and charges depend on the services requested, and the duration of the trip.

Gulhi Infrastructure

The economy is based on fishing and boat building. Gulhi also has the oldest dockyard in the Maldives. Many boats use the dock facility in Gulhi island because of its proximity to the Malé and Velana International airport. Gulhi has several shops and services available to visitors, including souvenir shops, convenience stores, and pharmacies. Visitors can also find a range of dining options, from local cafes and restaurants to international cuisine. Gulhi has a small clinic that provides basic medical care to visitors and residents. In case of serious medical emergencies, patients may need to be transported to nearby hospitals on other islands. The other facilities include a few local shops where you can buy fruits, drinks, sweets, etc.; two PADI dive centers; a water sports center; a mosque; a pharmacy.

Where to eat in Gulhi

Lacocina. A lovely dining spot in Gulhi with a relaxed atmosphere and friendly service. The food feels fresh and homemade, while prices remain reasonable for the quality offered. With its welcoming ambiance and consistently good meals, it is a great choice for visitors staying on the island and well worth a visit.

Salt Harbour. A good spot for a quick snack, conveniently located by the harbor. The relaxed seating area offers pleasant sea breezes and views of daily island life, creating an enjoyable atmosphere. The menu features local dishes with varying spice levels alongside standard soft drinks. Its location makes it a convenient stop before or after a snorkeling trip, or while enjoying the sunset and watching nurse sharks glide through the water near the pier.

Hotel Fulhoi. A quiet and welcoming restaurant offering delicious food, attentive service, and excellent value. The hosts are knowledgeable about the menu and provide helpful recommendations, creating a warm and comfortable dining experience. The grilled reef fish is a standout dish—fresh, flavorful, and perfectly cooked, served with rice and fries. Combined with reasonable prices, clean facilities, and consistently high food quality across multiple visits, this is a restaurant well worth recommending.

BOAVA Seafood Restaurant. A cozy restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere and friendly service. The ceiling fans provide a welcome escape from the island heat, making the dining experience especially comfortable. The food is well prepared, with generous portions and great flavor. Dishes such as the tuna salad, chicken biryani, and chocolate milkshakes are particularly enjoyable. Combined with the pleasant ambiance and attentive service, it is a place many visitors would happily return to.

Dhilakani Cafe. A great place for local seafood dishes at reasonable prices. The food is flavorful and well prepared, making it a popular choice for repeat visits. The fish specialties are particularly noteworthy, including off-menu options that showcase the freshness and quality of the local catch. The owner is friendly and welcoming, adding a personal touch to the dining experience. One minor drawback is that flies can occasionally be an issue while eating outdoors, but the excellent food and warm hospitality make this a restaurant many visitors are happy to return to.

Benha Restaurant. A charming café with both indoor and outdoor seating, ideally located by the harbor with beautiful sunset views. Surrounded by trees, the setting feels refreshing and comfortable thanks to the natural shade and sea breeze. The menu offers flavorful breakfast, lunch, and drink options, all prepared to a high standard. Combined with outstanding service and a relaxing atmosphere, it is a wonderful place to dine and unwind while on the island.

La Vista café & bistro. A great addition to Gulhi's dining scene, offering well-prepared food at reasonable prices. The burgers are particularly enjoyable, and the overall quality of the dishes makes it an easy place to recommend. For the best experience, dine on the upper deck, where the elevated views add to the atmosphere. With good food, fair prices, and a pleasant setting, it is a worthwhile choice for anyone visiting Gulhi.

Transfer to Gulhi

Scheduled speedboat

Price is 25 USD - 30 USD per person one way. It has to be paid to the boat captain. Male-Gulhi: 8:30 am, 11:30 am (on Friday 10:30 am), 14:00 (on Friday 14:30), 16:30 Gulhi-Male: 8:00, 11:00 am, 14:00, 16:00

Private speedboat

Price Charged for the whole boat, 150 USD one-way.

Public ferry

Price is USD 3 per way per person Trip duration is 80 mins Male-Gulhi (Villingili Ferry Terminal) at 15:00 Gulhi-Male at 8:00 Please note that there are no ferry services on Fridays and Monday. Contact us to get a personal tour to the Maldives!