Chickens surf break
Experience one of the world's best left-hand barrels at Chickens surf break in the Maldives. Fast, hollow, and incredibly long rides await.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Prime surf season
Chickens surf break
Best Time
Prime surf season

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience one of the world's best left-hand barrels at Chickens surf break in the Maldives. Fast, hollow, and incredibly long rides await.
"This is a real wave garden, a perfect left hand located in North Male atoll."
Boat Transfer Essential
Arrange a 'dhoni' boat from Thulusdhoo beach for around $10/day to reach Chickens.
Fast & Hollow Wave
Chickens is known for its speed and hollow sections, especially on the first point.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Legendary Left Barrel
Chickens Break
Experience one of the longest and most exhilarating left-hand barrels in the Maldives. It's a surfer's paradise!

Crystal Clear Waters
Chickens Break
Surf in warm, turquoise waters with incredible visibility. The water temperature is consistently around 28°C.
Thulusdhoo Island Hub
Thulusdhoo Island
Base yourself on Thulusdhoo, the surf hub, for easy access to Chickens and other famous breaks like Cokes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time for Waves
Getting to Chickens
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Boat Transfer Essential
Arrange a 'dhoni' boat from Thulusdhoo beach for around $10/day to reach Chickens.
Fast & Hollow Wave
Chickens is known for its speed and hollow sections, especially on the first point.
Left-Hand Perfection
This break offers one of the world's top left-hand waves, a true wave garden.
Surf Hub Access
Stay on Thulusdhoo for easy access to Chickens, Cokes, and other surf spots.
Tips
from all over the internet
Boat Transfer Essential
Arrange a 'dhoni' boat from Thulusdhoo beach for around $10/day to reach Chickens.
Fast & Hollow Wave
Chickens is known for its speed and hollow sections, especially on the first point.
Left-Hand Perfection
This break offers one of the world's top left-hand waves, a true wave garden.
Surf Hub Access
Stay on Thulusdhoo for easy access to Chickens, Cokes, and other surf spots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Chickens surf break, calling it a 'perfect left' and a 'wave garden' with crystal-clear, warm waters. The long, fun barrels are a major draw for experienced surfers. However, some note that it can get crowded, and access requires a boat trip from Thulusdhoo.
"Perfect left, very long and fun. With crystal water at 28 degrees celsius. You will have to take a small boat “dhoni” in thulusdhoo beach for 10$ day."
FerLL
"Chicken just a perfect left hand located in North Male atoll
This is a real wave garden"
Jean Christophe LE BORGNE
"Beautiful left very long"
yassine Mohamed Bouallou
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Chickens surf break is located in the North Malé Atoll. The most convenient way to access it is by taking a local boat, often called a 'dhoni,' from Thulusdhoo Island. Many resorts and surf camps on Thulusdhoo can arrange these boat trips for you, which typically cost around $10 per day.
For surfers, local boats ('dhonis') are the primary mode of transport between surf breaks. If you're staying on an island like Thulusdhoo, you can easily arrange daily trips to various spots, including Chickens, Jails, Sultans, and Honkeys.
While you can travel from Malé to Thulusdhoo by ferry or speedboat, it's more common for surfers to base themselves on Thulusdhoo and arrange local boat transfers directly to Chickens. This offers more flexibility for surf sessions.
Public ferries connect Malé to Thulusdhoo, but they are less frequent and slower than speedboats. For dedicated surf trips, arranging private boat transfers from Thulusdhoo is the most efficient method.
Boat rides from Thulusdhoo to Chickens are generally short, often under 30 minutes, depending on sea conditions. This allows for multiple surf sessions throughout the day.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no specific 'tickets' required to surf at Chickens. However, you will need to pay for boat transfers from Thulusdhoo Island to reach the break. These boat trips are typically arranged on a daily basis.
The primary cost associated with surfing Chickens is the boat transfer fee from Thulusdhoo. Some resorts might include this in their surf packages.
Boat transfers typically operate during daylight hours, aligning with optimal surfing conditions. It's best to coordinate with your boat operator or resort for specific timings.
While you can book accommodation and surf packages in advance, individual surf passes aren't typically sold. Boat transfers are usually arranged locally upon arrival or through your accommodation.
Chickens is a world-class surf break, so it's best suited for experienced surfers. While there are no formal restrictions, the wave's speed and power can be challenging for beginners.
🎫 🏄 Surfing Experience
Chickens is renowned for its incredibly long, fast, and hollow left-hand barrels. It's considered one of the best lefts in the Maldives, offering a thrilling ride for experienced surfers.
Due to its speed and powerful barrels, Chickens is generally recommended for intermediate to advanced surfers. Beginners might find it more suitable to explore other breaks or take lessons on calmer waters.
Chickens can get crowded, especially during peak season and when the swell is good. It's advisable to go early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds.
The water at Chickens surf break is consistently warm, typically around 28 degrees Celsius (82 degrees Fahrenheit), making for comfortable surfing year-round.
While sharks are present in Maldivian waters, encounters at popular surf breaks like Chickens are rare. The presence of sharks is often mentioned, but it doesn't typically deter surfers.
📸 📸 Photography & Videography
The best vantage points for photography are often from the boat, offering a clear view of the wave's performance. Some accommodations on nearby islands might also provide elevated views.
Many surf resorts and local operators in the Maldives offer surf photography services. It's advisable to inquire with your accommodation or local surf guides about hiring a photographer.
You can capture stunning shots of surfers riding long, hollow barrels with the backdrop of the crystal-clear Maldivian ocean. The consistent left-handers provide ample opportunities for action photography.
Drone usage in the Maldives can be subject to regulations. It's essential to check with local authorities or your resort regarding any restrictions on drone operation before flying.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer, golden hues. Midday sun can be harsh, but the clear water still provides good visibility.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many resorts in the Maldives cater to families with kids, offering activities beyond surfing. You can arrange for boat trips to explore other islands, enjoy snorkeling in protected lagoons, or simply relax on the beautiful beaches. Look for accommodations that offer kids' clubs or family-oriented excursions to ensure everyone has a fantastic time.
🏄 Advanced Surfers
To maximize your experience, consider staying on Thulusdhoo Island for easy boat access to Chickens and other nearby breaks like Cokes. Booking surf packages that include boat transfers and potentially guiding services can help you score the best conditions. Be prepared for crowds during peak season and aim for early morning or late afternoon sessions.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for local surf camps or guesthouses that offer basic but comfortable accommodation. Packing your own surf wax and essential gear can also help reduce costs. While Chickens is a premium surf spot, exploring other less-hyped breaks accessible from Thulusdhoo might offer a more budget-friendly surf experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Anatomy of Chickens Break
This break is a magnet for surfers seeking a challenging and rewarding experience. Its consistent performance makes it a top-tier destination for those looking to push their limits and enjoy world-class surfing. The crystal-clear, warm waters add to the overall appeal, making every session a memorable one.
Access to Chickens is typically via boat from nearby islands, most notably Thulusdhoo. This accessibility, combined with the wave's quality, has cemented Chickens' reputation as a must-visit spot for surf enthusiasts traveling to the Maldives.
Surfing Culture on Thulusdhoo Island
The island has a vibrant local surf culture, with many residents involved in the surf tourism industry, from boat operators to surf instructors. This local connection means visitors can often get insider tips on the best conditions and enjoy a more authentic Maldivian surf experience. Many guesthouses and beach houses are located right on the beachfront, offering direct access to Bikini Beach and a short paddle to Cokes.
For those looking to experience multiple breaks, Thulusdhoo offers regular surf trips. This allows surfers to chase the best conditions across different spots, ensuring they make the most of their time in this surf paradise. The community on Thulusdhoo is known for being friendly and welcoming to fellow surfers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit