Dharavandhoo Island - a small island in the middle of a body of water
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Dharavandhoo Island

4.5
·78 reviews·, Maldives

Experience authentic Maldives on Dharavandhoo Island, known for its pristine beaches, vibrant reefs, and incredible manta ray encounters.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

May to November

Manta ray season

CrowdMedium
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Dharavandhoo Island - a small island in the middle of a body of water

Dharavandhoo Island

Best Time

May to November

Manta ray season

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience authentic Maldives on Dharavandhoo Island, known for its pristine beaches, vibrant reefs, and incredible manta ray encounters.

4.5
(78 reviews)

"A beautiful local island with wonderful people, good prices, and amazing excursions."

Vertical photo
TIP

✅ Book Registered Operators

Ensure your manta ray tours are with registered, safety-conscious operators for a responsible experience.

💰 Good Prices & Food

Expect reasonable prices for excursions and delicious local food. Great value for money.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hanifaru Bay Manta Rays

Hanifaru Bay Manta Rays

Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

Witness majestic manta rays and whale sharks in their natural feeding grounds. An unforgettable underwater spectacle.

Tranquil Bikini Beach

Tranquil Bikini Beach

North of Male

Enjoy quiet stretches of soft, white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Perfect for relaxation and soaking up the sun.

Vibrant Coral Reefs

Vibrant Coral Reefs

Surrounding Dharavandhoo

Explore a diverse underwater world teeming with colorful marine life. Ideal for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.

Breathtaking Sunsets

Breathtaking Sunsets

Western Horizon

Watch the sky transform into a canvas of vibrant colors. A perfect, serene end to your day.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace Local Charm

Dharavandhoo offers an authentic Maldivian experience away from luxury resorts. Engage with friendly locals and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. Remember to respect local customs, especially outside designated tourist areas.

Manta Ray Season & Operators

Mid-August is prime time for manta ray sightings in Hanifaru Bay. Book excursions with registered, safety-conscious operators to ensure a responsible and enjoyable experience.

Best Times

When
May to November
Why
Manta ray season
Crowd
Medium
When
Dry season (Dec-Apr)
Why
Sunny days, calm seas
Crowd
High
When
August
Why
Peak manta ray sightings
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Dharavandhoo Trip

✅ Book Registered Operators

Ensure your manta ray tours are with registered, safety-conscious operators for a responsible experience. Reddit

💰 Good Prices & Food

Expect reasonable prices for excursions and delicious local food. Great value for money. Reddit

reddit.com

Dharavandhoo - is it quiet?

reddit.com

Hanifaru Bay/ Dharavandhoo Maldives Recs? Full stay and dive package or accommodations and diving separately?

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Local Island

Wander through the small island, interact with locals, and experience authentic Maldivian life. Reddit

🤿 Snorkel & Dive

The surrounding reefs are rich with marine life, offering fantastic snorkeling and diving opportunities. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

✅ Book Registered Operators

Ensure your manta ray tours are with registered, safety-conscious operators for a responsible experience. Reddit

💰 Good Prices & Food

Expect reasonable prices for excursions and delicious local food. Great value for money. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Local Island

Wander through the small island, interact with locals, and experience authentic Maldivian life. Reddit

🤿 Snorkel & Dive

The surrounding reefs are rich with marine life, offering fantastic snorkeling and diving opportunities. Reddit

♻️ Be Mindful of Litter

Some areas may have litter. Be a responsible tourist and help keep the island clean. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(78 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Dharavandhoo Island is praised for its authentic local charm, pristine beaches, and incredible marine life, especially manta rays. Visitors appreciate the friendly people, good prices, and delicious food, offering a genuine Maldivian experience. However, some concerns include litter on the island and dying corals.

"The pristine beaches of this island offer a tranquil escape. Crystal-clear turquoise waters gently lap against the soft, white sand. Lush tropical vegetation provides a vibrant backdrop to the serene landscape. Colorful coral reefs teem with marine life, creating an underwater paradise for snorkelers and divers. The breathtaking sunsets paint the sky with a kaleidoscope of colors, leaving a lasting impression on all who visit."

samia iftikhar

"It's a beautiful local island located 110 km away from north of male. It has its own airport. Bikini beach is there which is very quiet. You can enjoy snorkeling, dolphin cruise, scuba diving and visiting sandbank is also amazing. Overall it's an wonderful Island."

Stella Philip

"A beautiful Island!

Pros:
-Wonderful people
-Good prices
-Delicious food
-Nice excursions and good diving instructors (BluWorld Dharavandoo)
-Very small with fewer tourists

Bad:
-Litter around the island
-Dumps of waste by the beaches
-Corals are gradually dying
-Noisy airport (4 flights per day I believe)
-Airport no fly zone for the Drone flyers

Overall, I will certainly come again. I love this local island. Hope it doesn't grow to the extent that tourism overtakes it all, just like some other islands."

Orlando Nelson

What People Like

Authentic local experience
Pristine beaches
Abundant marine life

What People Dislike

Island litter
Dying corals
Airport noise

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Dharavandhoo Island has its own airport (DRV) located 110 km north of Male. You can take domestic flights from Velana International Airport (MLE) in Male directly to Dharavandhoo. Alternatively, you can take a speedboat from Male or other nearby islands, though this can be a longer journey. Reddit

Yes, Dharavandhoo is accessible from Male via domestic flights which are the quickest option. Speedboat transfers are also available but take longer. Reddit

Domestic flights from Male to Dharavandhoo typically take around 30-40 minutes. Speedboat journeys can vary significantly depending on sea conditions and the specific route, often taking several hours. Reddit

While public ferries operate between some local islands, direct public ferry services from Male to Dharavandhoo are not common. Domestic flights and speedboats are the primary modes of transport. Reddit

Yes, Dharavandhoo has its own airport (DRV) and receives domestic flights from Velana International Airport (MLE) in Male. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Dharavandhoo is a local island, so there are no general entry tickets to the island itself. However, you will need to pay for accommodation in guesthouses or hotels. Excursions like dolphin cruises, snorkeling trips, and diving tours will have separate costs. Reddit

Attractions like Hanifaru Bay are natural sites and don't have fixed opening hours, but tours operate during daylight. Guesthouses and restaurants have their own operating hours. It's best to check with your accommodation or tour operator. Reddit

The bikini beach on Dharavandhoo is generally free to access for visitors staying on the island. Reddit

Excursion prices vary, but expect to pay around $50-$100 USD for activities like manta ray snorkeling trips or sandbank visits. Diving trips might be slightly more. Reddit

While Hanifaru Bay is a protected marine area, there isn't a direct entrance fee for snorkelers. However, tours to the bay will include costs for boat transport and guides. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Must-do activities include snorkeling or diving to see vibrant coral reefs and marine life, taking a dolphin cruise, visiting a sandbank, and experiencing the manta rays in Hanifaru Bay during the season. Reddit

Yes, Dharavandhoo is excellent for snorkeling. The surrounding reefs are teeming with diverse marine life, offering a colorful underwater spectacle. Reddit

Absolutely! Dharavandhoo is a gateway to Hanifaru Bay, a world-renowned spot for manta ray and whale shark sightings, especially from May to November. Reddit

Dharavandhoo is a local island, so you'll experience authentic Maldivian life. The people are known to be wonderful and welcoming. Remember to dress modestly when walking around the village. Reddit

Yes, Dharavandhoo is known for its quiet and tranquil atmosphere, offering a peaceful escape compared to more bustling tourist islands. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You'll find delicious local Maldivian cuisine, often featuring fresh seafood like fish curries and grilled fish. Many guesthouses and local restaurants offer a variety of dishes. Reddit

Yes, Dharavandhoo has several local restaurants and cafes serving Maldivian and some international dishes. Your guesthouse will likely offer meal plans as well. Reddit

While seafood is prominent, most local eateries can prepare vegetarian dishes upon request, often featuring rice, vegetables, and lentils. Reddit

Food prices on Dharavandhoo are generally reasonable, especially compared to resort islands. Expect to pay around $10-$20 USD per person for a meal at a local restaurant. Reddit

Most guesthouses on Dharavandhoo offer meal plans, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This is a convenient option for travelers. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of the pristine bikini beach, vibrant coral reefs during snorkeling, colorful sunsets, and the local island life. The underwater world is a photographer's dream. Reddit

No, drone flying is restricted in Dharavandhoo, especially near the airport. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone. Reddit

The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic light for landscape photography. Midday provides clear, bright light for underwater shots. Reddit

While dedicated photography tours might not be common, your excursion guides can often help you find the best spots and times for memorable photos. Reddit

A waterproof camera or action camera is highly recommended for underwater photography. A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a good zoom lens can be useful for wildlife. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Dharavandhoo offers a more relaxed and authentic family experience. The bikini beach provides a safe and quiet environment for children to play in the shallow, clear waters. Excursions like dolphin cruises are usually a hit with younger travelers, offering excitement without being too strenuous. Reddit

When choosing accommodation, look for guesthouses that offer family rooms or interconnecting options. Many guesthouses are family-run and can be accommodating. While the island is small, it's advisable to keep a close eye on children, especially near the water and during excursions. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Dharavandhoo is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking the Maldivian experience without the hefty price tag of resorts. Guesthouses offer significantly lower accommodation costs, and local restaurants provide delicious and affordable meals. Reddit

Excursions are also more reasonably priced here. You can enjoy snorkeling, sandbank trips, and dolphin watching at a fraction of the cost you'd find on private resort islands. Booking tours through your guesthouse or directly with local operators can often secure the best deals. Reddit

🐠 Dive & Snorkel Enthusiasts

For those passionate about underwater exploration, Dharavandhoo is a dream destination. Its proximity to the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve means access to some of the most biodiverse marine environments in the world. The island itself has accessible house reefs for snorkeling, and numerous dive sites are just a boat ride away. Reddit

Several dive centers operate on the island, offering PADI courses and guided dives for all levels. The chance to swim with manta rays and whale sharks in Hanifaru Bay is a major draw, but the reefs also boast an incredible array of colorful fish, turtles, and reef sharks. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Experiencing Marine Life: Manta Rays & Beyond

Dharavandhoo is a prime gateway to the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, renowned for its incredible marine biodiversity. The star attraction is undoubtedly Hanifaru Bay, a world-famous feeding ground for manta rays and whale sharks, particularly from May to November. Witnessing these gentle giants gracefully glide through the water is a truly awe-inspiring experience. Reddit

Beyond the mantas, the waters surrounding Dharavandhoo are home to vibrant coral reefs teeming with a kaleidoscope of fish, sea turtles, and other fascinating marine creatures. Whether you're a seasoned diver or a beginner snorkeler, the underwater world here offers endless exploration. Many local operators offer guided snorkeling and diving trips, ensuring you can safely discover the best spots. Reddit

Traveler Tip: Always choose registered tour operators who prioritize safety and environmental conservation. This ensures a responsible and enjoyable encounter with the marine life. Reddit

Authentic Maldivian Culture & Island Life

Unlike the resort islands, Dharavandhoo offers a genuine glimpse into local Maldivian life. As a populated island, you'll encounter friendly residents, traditional homes, and a slower pace of life. It's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture, interact with the community, and understand the everyday rhythms of the Maldives. Reddit

When exploring the village, it's important to be mindful of local customs. While designated bikini beaches are available for tourists to wear swimwear, it's respectful to dress modestly when walking through residential areas. This might include covering your shoulders and knees. Reddit

Community Insight: Many visitors appreciate the good prices and delicious food found on local islands like Dharavandhoo, making it a more budget-conscious yet equally rewarding experience compared to luxury resorts. Reddit

Navigating Dharavandhoo: Getting Around & Staying

Dharavandhoo is a small island, making it easily navigable on foot. You can explore the village, reach the bikini beach, and access local shops and restaurants without needing any special transport. The island's compact size contributes to its peaceful and laid-back atmosphere. Reddit

Accommodation on Dharavandhoo primarily consists of guesthouses and small hotels. These offer a more intimate and affordable alternative to the large resorts. Many guesthouses provide meal plans, making it convenient for travelers to enjoy local cuisine without having to search for dining options daily. Reddit

Traveler Advice: While the island is generally clean, some reviews mention litter around the island and waste by the beaches. Being a responsible tourist and disposing of your trash properly can help maintain the island's beauty. Reddit

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