Before visiting the Maldives, I struggled to find information about the local islands, but I knew that I would like to spend at least part of our trip outside of resorts to get a real feel for life in the Maldives. We decided to go ahead and make a booking based on the accommodation that was available online. The place we were heading to? Fulidhoo.
After spending our first day at a beautiful resort, I was excited to head to the next island and find out what life on a local island was like. I wasn’t sure what to expect of Fulidhoo… Would it be busy? Were the beaches nice? Would I need to be fully covered at all times? (The Maldives is a muslim country, if you were not aware).
The journey from Male on a Dhoni (a local ferry) was quite long and not enjoyable for me, as the water was a little rough and I’m not a big fan of boats in general. However, when we arrived on Fulidhoo I was so blown away by the island’s beauty, that I forgot I ever felt sea sick. The water was incredible, such a vibrant blue and we spotted stingrays when stepping onto the jetty.
What surprised me the most, is how small the island is. At around 600 meters long, Fulidhoo does not have any roads – our luggage was transported to our guesthouse using a wheelbarrow!
We were given tour of the island which comprises one main street with two restaurants, a few small convenience stores and a brightly painted mosque. 
The best part of the island is the beaches. They are so tranquil with the most amazing water I’ve ever seen. There were never more than a few people on ‘bikini beach’ which is, as you may have guessed by the name, a beach where tourists are free to wear swimwear. Many times we had it to ourselves, spending the majority of our time swimming or snorkelling – checking out all of the colourful tropical fish. We often spotted a heron hunting for fish near the shore.
Meeting locals from the island was another highlight of staying outside of a resort, everybody we encountered was friendly and welcoming. Especially the staff at our guesthouse – Thundi Guest House, who could not have been more helpful and have a wealth of knowledge about their country.
I fell in love with this island, it’s not often that you find a slice of paradise that you can enjoy all to yourself. In the Maldives, you can.
Useful Information
- Ferries do not run to Fulidhoo every day from Male. Check with your guesthouse which days they run, otherwise you can take a private speedboat – but this will cost significantly more.
- Be prepared to eat fish for every meal. Okay, not every meal. But don’t be shocked when most of the time your food options include fish. I guess it’s not surprising, given that 99% of the country is comprised of water.
Are the Maldives one of your dream destinations? It definitely was mine.
Do you recommend any hotels? I’m planning a trip to the Maldives for my 40th birthday March 2017… And I’m a little overwhelmed by the options! They all look so wonderful.
Thanks for sharing! I can’t wait!!!
Author
Hi Jamie,
It depends if you’re looking to stay on a resort, explore a local island or a combination of the two – like I did.
If you’re looking to stay at a resort I really enjoyed Centara Ras Fushi, it had everything you could ask for and is not too far from the airport. (I’m actually going to be posting a review soon, so if you’re subscribed you’ll get an email telling you when it’s up).
Or if you’re considering a local island, I recommend Thundi Guest House mentioned above. It’s located on a very tiny but totally beautiful island and although quite minimalist the accommodation was great.
Also there are a LOT of 5* resorts if that is what you’re looking for, it all depends on the kind of trip you want and your budget. I’m sure you’ll have a great time wherever you stay – it’s the Maldives after all!
~Gemma
Did you notice that on the 1 or 2 restaurants the prices are different for tourists – like most noodle/rice plates, they charge $1-1.5 to locals, they charge $5-6 for tourists.
Author
Hi Kash,
I didn’t really pay too much attention to that. It’s probably true, but I also don’t mind paying a bit extra! It’s an incredibly small island and it’s good to support their economy in return for being able to visit 🙂
~Gemma
Hi Gemma,
I am planning a trip to the Maldives in April 2017. I am looking at going to Maafushi and Fulidhoo. I am looking st getting the ferry from maafushi to fulidhoo on Saturday. If I then get the ferry back on Monday from fulidhoo to Male, is that enough time on Fulidhoo? One full day and Saturday afternoon and Monday morning before the ferry? Thanks so much, can’t wait to explore this beautiful country!