Maafushi: An Affordable Hidden Gem in the Maldives

Maafushi is one of the islands in the Kaafu Atoll, Maldives, home to a vibrant population of over 4,000 people. In recent years, it has become a hotspot for tourists, thanks to its unique hospitality and the wealth of experiences it offers.

     Bird's-eye view of Maafushi: a tropical paradise waiting to be explored/ Photo: Mihaaru News

Getting There

Reaching Maafushi is easy! It’s just a 56-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport, covering a distance of 25 km. Traveling by speedboat is quick and efficient, taking only four minutes to reach the next location, with fares starting at approximately two dollars.

Once you arrive at Male Island, you can take a taxi to Jetty 1 or hop on the ‘Maafushi Ferry.’ The taxi ride costs about two dollars and takes around ten minutes to get to the ferry point. From there, the ferry service to Maafushi costs approximately three dollars per person.


A Growing Tourist Destination

Every year, Maafushi welcomes a diverse array of tourists from around the world, establishing itself as one of the most famous local islands in the Maldives. Tourism is a major driver of the local economy, with over 50 guesthouses ranging from 1-star to 5-star accommodations. 

These guesthouses are known for their cleanliness and affordability, making Maafushi an ideal destination for all types of travelers—from solo adventurers to honeymooners. The warm and friendly locals add to the charm of the island, making visitors feel right at home. Plus, there are safaris nearby, which is an added bonus for those seeking adventure.


                         Making memories in Maafushi: Photo credit:WaywardWayfarer.com

Snorkeling Adventures

Snorkeling is an experience you must not miss while in Maafushi. Guests frequently rave about the snorkeling opportunities available, ranking them at the top of their lists. You can choose solo snorkeling or join a group excursion—most hotels offer private trips, whether you want to swim with turtles or sharks. Prices vary based on the package you choose, and if you prefer to snorkel independently, you can purchase gear from various tourist shops scattered across the island.

One popular snorkeling destination is Maavilai, located 1.7 km from Maafushi. This coral garden tour lasts about one hour, where you can expect to see stunning corals, rays, turtles, moray eels, and various types of reef fish. If you’re lucky, you might even encounter a leopard shark. The excursion price is just $12.

               Discovering the vibrant underwater world of Maafushi/ Photo: /ourglobaltrek.com

 Free Snorkeling on the House Reef

For those looking for a budget-friendly option, free snorkeling is available at Maafushi's house reef. There are two notable reefs around the island: one near the northwestern tip (Bikini Beach) and another along the eastern shore, where you can spot reef white-tip sharks. The house reef lies about 30-50 meters from the tourist beach, providing easy access from the sandy area for swimming. Don’t hesitate to ask your hotel for a free mask and snorkel, along with safety information.

Excursions and Highlights

Numerous excellent snorkeling spots surround Maafushi, and you can organize a tour to any of them, usually lasting about an hour. Here are a few must-visit locations:

  • Keyodhoo/Wavu Shipwreck: Don’t miss the chance to snorkel in this famous underwater shipwreck located near Keyodhoo Island. Believed to be of Indonesian origin, the Wavu shipwreck arrived at the atoll a few years ago and is one of the most popular spots for snorkeling in the entire country.

  •                 Unveiling the mysteries of the Wavu shipwreck: A diver's paradise!





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