Guraidhoo Island, Kaafu Atoll, Maldives | Snorkelling, Diving

Guraidhoo Island, Maldives Overview

Guraidhoo Island in the Kafu Atoll is a bliss for the ones escaping the crowd into the serenity of nature. Inhabited only since 1970, the island, its colourful houses occupying around 1700 people and coral chunks make it a beautiful place to be at. Walking the sandy streets of the island one can find a fantastical semi-bikini beach and an adventurous seasonal surf beach.

Guraidhoo Island is known for the water activities, mainly surfing followed by turtle and dolphin snorkelling and diving. To reach the pictureque island, one can travel via ferry from Male at very reasonable rates. There are also speedboats charging USD30 per person that operate from Male to and Guraidhoo Island. Note, no ferry service is available on Fridays while the speedboat remains in function. Visit Guraidhoo Island for it has an easy reach and an unmatchable experience to offer.

Things to Do

Snorkelling/Diving:
A snorkel or a dive trip will take you on a journey where one will be left mesmerized with the wonders of the underwaters. The reefs are beautiful and abundant with some of the most awesome marine life. Have the time of your life as you swim beside turtles, stingrays, and other marine life.

Cost: MDR 1500 to 2000

Dolphin Cruises
Embark on an amazing cruise where one experiences the beauty of the sunset in the most natural way possible. Occasionally, there is also the possibility to catch a glimpse of a school of dolphins playing in the warmth of the evening sun.

Cost: MDR 2000 to 2500

Fishing:
Guraidhoo Island is famous for the various fishing excursions that it offers to those who are on the lookout to spend a relaxing day and test out their fishing skills and abilities. The water is rich with marine life and there are many options for fishing for both beginners as well as professional fishing enthusiasts. The fishing tour operators also offer options for fishing during the morning or by sunset.

Cost: MDR 1200 to 1500

Water Sports:
The shallow lagoon at Guraidhoo Island makes for the perfect spot to build up the excitement and enjoy the water sports. All this makes for an ideal setting for some amazing and fun-filled activities like kayaking, paddle boarding, banana boat ride, or jet skiing.

Cost: MDR 90 to 1300

Best Time to Visit

The average temperature in Guraidhoo Island will rarely vary and the temperature is hot and humid almost throughout the year. April is the hottest month, so we advise that one visits Guraidhoo Island between July and October for the best experience.

Where to Eat

There are many great places on the island where one can try out some authentic food. It is a feast for non-vegetarians owing to the amazing seafood options, but, there is also a lot of options for vegetarians.

Amore- The Island Café, is a great place for vegetarian noodles and pizzas and offers tasty food at reasonable rates.
The Island Bite is a decent place for afternoon tea or coffee and to munch on some crunchy snacks.
Ocean Retreat Restaurant is a great place for some luxury dining and everything from the preparation to the presentation of the food is wonderful.
Sufuraa Restaurant is a great place to relax with friends while enjoying some amazing snacks and coffee in a calming environment.

Tips

If one is planning on going for a fishing tour or water sports package, it is better to enquire the rates from the hotel first to bag a good deal.
Check the intensity of the waves at the beach before taking a swim, since some beaches have very high waves which are not ideal for swimming.
Carry lots of water and sunblock to save one from the scorching heat of the sun and to remain hydrated.

How To Reach Guraidhoo Island

One can reach Guraidhoo Island by the public ferry which operates from Male on all days except on Fridays.
If one boards the ferry at 2:30 PM it will take one directly to Guraidhoo Island, whereas if one board the 3:00 PM ferry it will pass through Gulhi and Mafushi before reaching Guraidhoo Island.
There are also options to book a private or shared speedboat from Male.
The speedboats operate on all days but it is imperative to book in advance. However, the speedboat ride will cost more than the public ferry.