Gulhi

Gulhi is a tiny island that, despite its size, leaves a lasting impression on visitors. It was traditionally known for its boat-building industry, but today its main draw is the spectacular bikini beach in the north. The water there is so clear and calm that it's often compared to a giant swimming pool, and the famous wooden ocean swing is a favorite spot for social media photos. The island is convenient for travelers seeking an intimate and quiet atmosphere. Due to its small size, you can walk around the entire island in less than 15 minutes. Nevertheless, Gulhi gives excellent surfing opportunities at nearby breaks and fantastic snorkeling excursions to the surrounding coral gardens. Accommodations in Gulhi are mostly family-run guesthouses that provide a very personal feel. There are several appealing cafes offering fresh juices and Maldivian snacks like Hedhikaa. The journey from Malé takes only about 20-30 minutes by speedboat. The best time to visit is from December to May, when the sun is strongest and the sea is calm.

Nearby cities

Malé

The densely populated capital of the Maldives, known for its colorful buildings and historic mosques.

Fuvahmulah

A unique island city with freshwater lakes and exceptionally diverse vegetation.

Kulhudhuffushi

The economic heart of the northern part of the Maldives, famous for its mangroves.

Thinadhoo

A historically significant city in the Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, which developed strongly after its destruction in 1962.

Naifaru

The capital of the Lhaviyani Atoll, famous for its traditional boat building and high density.

Hulhumalé

An artificial island near Malé, built to relieve the population pressure of the capital.

Dhidhdhoo

The administrative center of the Haa Alif Atoll, serving as an important hub in the far north.

Maafushi

An island in the Kaafu Atoll, considered the pioneer of local guesthouse tourism in the Maldives.

Villingili

The capital of the Gaafu Alif Atoll, known for its educational institutions and as a regional center.

Funadhoo

A growing island city in the Shaviyani Atoll with long sandy beaches and modern infrastructure.

Eydhafushi

The capital of the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, known for its sustainable development.

Mahibadhoo

A dynamic city in the Alif Dhaal Atoll, serving as an administrative and educational center.

Thulusdhoo

The administrative capital of the Kaafu Atoll, famous for a beverage factory that uses desalinated water.

Guraidhoo

A densely populated island in the Kaafu Atoll with strong maritime traditions.

Fonadhoo

An elongated island connected by causeways to neighboring islands in the Laamu Atoll.

Nature

Guraidhoo Channel Marine Area

A protected marine area at a channel entrance in South Malé Atoll.

Vilimale Coral Restoration Site

A center for community-based coral restoration on Vilimale island.

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Thanburudhoo Marine Point

This marine area around the uninhabited island of Thanburudhoo is a biodiversity hotspot.

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Gaafaru Reef Protection Zone

The extensive reef system around Gaafaru is protected for its marine biodiversity.

Kaashidhoo Wetland Area

Kaashidhoo is famous for its fertile soil and ecologically important wetlands.

Kani Corner Marine Site

A vibrant marine site in Lhaviyani Atoll known for its steep drop-offs and coral gardens.

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Fushifaru Thila Marine Reserve

This protected area is world-renowned as a cleaning station for manta rays.

Madivaru Hammerhead Point

This deep-sea area near Rasdhoo is one of the world's best locations to see scalloped hammerhead sharks in their natural environment.