Dhigurah Island
A long, slender local island in the Maldives, famed for its year-round whale shark encounters and pristine white-sand beaches.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Whale sharks are present
Dhigurah Island
Best Time
Whale sharks are present

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A long, slender local island in the Maldives, famed for its year-round whale shark encounters and pristine white-sand beaches.
"The most beautiful island I have visited in the Maldives, with breathtaking natural beauty and exceptionally friendly locals."
Budget Maldives Travel
Dhigurah is a local island, offering a more affordable Maldives experience than resorts. :moneybag:
Whale Shark Tours
Book tours for whale shark and manta ray sightings. They are a major draw! :whale2:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Whale Shark Encounters
South Ari Atoll
Swim alongside gentle giants in their natural habitat. A truly unforgettable marine wildlife experience.

Stunning Sandbank
Eastern tip of the island
An endless stretch of pristine white sand meeting turquoise waters. Perfect for photos and serene walks.
Long Beach Walks
Island perimeter
Nearly 4 km of uninterrupted white sand, ideal for leisurely strolls and soaking in the island's beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Budget-Friendly Maldives Escape
Respect Local Culture & Environment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Budget Maldives Travel
Dhigurah is a local island, offering a more affordable Maldives experience than resorts. :moneybag:
Whale Shark Tours
Book tours for whale shark and manta ray sightings. They are a major draw! :whale2:
Respect Dress Code
Dress modestly when walking through the village. Bikini beaches are designated. :womanintunic:
Pack Light
Most guesthouses provide essentials. Focus on swimwear and light clothing. :t-shirt:
Tips
from all over the internet
Budget Maldives Travel
Dhigurah is a local island, offering a more affordable Maldives experience than resorts. :moneybag:
Whale Shark Tours
Book tours for whale shark and manta ray sightings. They are a major draw! :whale2:
Respect Dress Code
Dress modestly when walking through the village. Bikini beaches are designated. :womanintunic:
Pack Light
Most guesthouses provide essentials. Focus on swimwear and light clothing. :t-shirt:
Stay Connected
Wi-Fi can be spotty. Consider a local SIM for better connectivity. :iphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Dhigurah is praised for its stunning natural beauty, particularly its long beaches and incredible marine life like whale sharks. However, concerns are rising about rapid development, construction, and environmental issues like litter, which some feel detract from the island's charm. While locals are generally friendly, some visitors note high prices and a less relaxing atmosphere compared to private resorts.
"Really beautiful but honestly not worth it coming here. Other islands are 90% as beautiful and way less expensive and friendlier."
Dave Manuel
"Nice beach.
Interior is really dirty :(
Internet in the hotel was really bad.
Prices really high too.
Transport with the speedy boat is not 25 dollar but 60 dollar each way.
They are building a lot of high new constructions. Not good.
Nice people.
Nice thai restaurant"
A H
"This is the most beautiful island I have visited in the Maldives. The shape of the island, and the colour of the sea, and the way whilst in the middle of the path, can see the sea from two separate ways. However mans greed is rapidly changing this island into another Maafushi. Construction on every corner. Constant felling, and lopping of the virgin jungle, will make animals homeless and displaced. This will cause death, and if animals survive, they will be forced to move to another destroyed island. Sewage being pumped into the sea via pipes running into the sea directly, from all the buildings/hotels/restaurants/residents, etc. Many locals on all local islands I have visited, (including this island), keep animals in cages/perches, mainly birds. Fish are kept in miniscule tanks. No room for the fish/birds/animals.
Westerners are not following the dress codes that are written all over the island, depicted with pictures. They are wandering the streets and beaches almost naked, some with a tiny bikini. Visiting restaurants in a bikini covered only in a sheer transparent cloth, or hardly any clothes. Local islands are not the place to do this. These types of tourists must go to the original types of Maldivian islands. A private resort. Tourists cannot expect to be treated nicely if they behave like on a resort. Local islands are just that, Local islands.
It's not at all relaxing to be on a local island as one is constantly being watched. Better to be on a private island where there is total freedom to wear whatever.
Maldives should never of changed the way tourism was initially. This was only one resort on one island, per island. Since Maafushi started the guesthouse scene, many other islands have followed suit. This has led to mass Construction, mass litter, Constant burning of rubbish (even more than previously), and an increase in hostile locals on local islands. Walking throughout the island along the beach and (what's left of) the jungle, I saw too much garbage everywhere. I mean everywhere. In the bushes, on the beach, tangled in the foliage. Household waste, bottles, tins, lots of family sized fridge/freezers, old vehicles and broken furniture. Locals on all
local islands just toss things anywhere. Even if they are eating or smoking, and there is a bin, they still toss it on the ground. Quite disgusting. I have been visiting the Maldives over several decades, but don't think I will be back. This government is allowing the whole country to be destroyed by cheap over tourism. Destroying nature just to build over everything. All the land reclamation happening is destroying things rapidly. Lots of islands have lost a vast portion of jungle. Its happening here the same as what I saw in Borneo and the Amazon so many decades ago.
The Maldives will be extinct even faster than anticipated, due to erosion from all the flora being eradicated. Then the extreme flooding from all the concrete, and lack of drainage.
Such a shame. This island would of been stunning if it were unihabited.
The real photos of Dhigurah now. See what the sandbank really looks like. Nothing like the Maldives tourist board shows.
Locals litter every single island they are on, then they blame the mess on the sea washing the litter in. The mess on each island is caused by locals and gets shifted back and forth across the islands, but it is still their litter. Why don't they just take responsibility? I watch them eat drink and smoke daily. They just toss all finished items on the ground. But, the worst thing is the burning. They are burning rubbish next to healthy plants/trees. These trees/plants are getting burned and killed. One day they will do this. It won't be rainy season. It will be dry season. They will cause a massive wildfire. And, with no one to help, they will raze the whole jungle and island to a cinder. The five star review is for how the island would be if it were unihabited and undamaged by man's greed. It was a naturally beautiful island, but day by day I see it being destroyed by raw sewage pumping into the sea, over construction, tourism"
Pied Piper
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Dhigurah from Malé by public ferry (cheapest but slowest) or speedboat. Speedboats take about 2 hours and cost around $60 USD per person one way.
Some guesthouses can arrange transfers for you.No, Dhigurah does not have its own airport. The nearest international airport is Velana International Airport (MLE) in Malé. From there, you'll need to take a ferry or speedboat.
For local islands like Dhigurah, speedboats are the most common and efficient way to travel between them, though they can be pricier than ferries. Ferries are a budget-friendly option but take significantly longer.
No, direct flights to Dhigurah are not possible. All international flights arrive at Velana International Airport (MLE) in Malé, from where you'll arrange onward travel to Dhigurah.
The speedboat journey from Malé to Dhigurah typically takes around 2 hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no specific entry tickets for Dhigurah Island itself, as it's a local inhabited island. However, you will need to pay for your transportation (ferry or speedboat) to get there.
The main beaches on Dhigurah are generally free to access. However, some areas might be designated as 'bikini beaches' for tourists, which are typically well-maintained.
Dhigurah Island is a local inhabited island, so it's accessible 24/7. However, shops and restaurants will have their own operating hours.
Yes, it's highly recommended to book whale shark and manta ray tours in advance, especially during peak season, through your guesthouse or local tour operators.
While there isn't a specific 'conservation fee' for the island, it's important to be a responsible tourist and avoid littering to help preserve its natural beauty.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Beyond whale shark encounters, you can enjoy long beach walks, snorkeling around coral reefs, visiting the stunning sandbank, and exploring the island's interior. Some visitors enjoy freediving.
Yes, Dhigurah is excellent for snorkeling and diving, with vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life, including whale sharks and manta rays year-round.
As a local island, modest dress is expected when walking through the village. Swimwear is acceptable on designated 'bikini beaches'.
While Dhigurah is gaining popularity, it's generally less crowded than some other local islands like Maafushi, offering a more serene experience, especially during the low season.
Dhigurah is famous for its whale shark population. You can also spot dolphins, manta rays, nurse sharks, and a variety of reef fish.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a mix of local Maldivian cuisine, fresh seafood, and some international options, including a well-regarded Thai restaurant.
Dhigurah has a growing number of restaurants and cafes catering to tourists, often attached to guesthouses or as standalone establishments.
Yes, tourists are welcome at local cafes and restaurants. It's a great way to experience authentic Maldivian flavors.
Prices can be higher than expected for a local island, with meals ranging from $10-$25 USD. Some reviews mention prices being high.
While seafood is prevalent, many places offer vegetarian and vegan options, often featuring curries, rice dishes, and fresh fruits.
📸 📸 Photography
The sandbank, the long white-sand beaches, and underwater shots with marine life (especially whale sharks) are prime photography locations.
Yes, with a good underwater camera or waterproof phone case, you can capture amazing shots. Tour operators often have guides who can help position you for the best photos.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden hour light for beach photography. Midday provides bright, clear turquoise water shots.
Generally, photography is allowed. However, be respectful when taking photos of locals and their homes. Always ask for permission if unsure.
A waterproof camera or action camera (like a GoPro) is ideal for underwater activities. A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for landscapes and village life.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting with children, be mindful of the local dress code outside of designated bikini beaches. Pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and light clothing. While the island offers a more rustic experience than a resort, the natural beauty and unique wildlife encounters make it a rewarding trip for families seeking an authentic island getaway.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize savings, consider traveling during the low season for potentially lower accommodation rates. Utilize the public ferry for transport if time is not a constraint, though speedboats are a popular and faster option. Be aware that while more affordable, some services like Wi-Fi might not be as robust as in resorts, and prices for food and activities can still add up, so budgeting is key.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Marine Life Encounters
When planning your marine encounters, it's advisable to book tours through your guesthouse or reputable local operators. These tours often include snorkeling gear and guidance from experienced spotters. Remember to choose operators who prioritize ethical wildlife viewing, maintaining a respectful distance and avoiding any actions that could disturb the animals. The vibrant coral reefs also offer fantastic snorkeling opportunities right off the shore or a short boat ride away, showcasing a kaleidoscope of tropical fish.
Local Island Charm vs. Development Concerns
This development trend is a common issue on many popular local islands as tourism grows. While it brings economic benefits, it also poses a threat to the very natural attractions that draw visitors. Some travelers feel that the island is rapidly changing, losing its untouched charm. It's important for visitors to be aware of these issues and to practice responsible tourism, minimizing their environmental footprint and respecting local customs. Despite these concerns, many still find Dhigurah to be a beautiful and worthwhile destination, especially for those seeking marine life encounters and a more budget-friendly Maldivian experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit