Fulidhoo Island: Vaavu Atoll’s Cultural Gem and Gateway to Shark Diving in the Maldives

Geographic Setting and Location

Fulidhoo is one of the inhabited islands of Vaavu Atoll, located about 57 kilometers south of Malé, the capital of the Maldives. It is the northernmost inhabited island of Vaavu and the closest to the capital, making it one of the most easily accessible local islands in the atoll. The island lies on the eastern rim of the atoll, surrounded by a beautiful lagoon and coral reefs teeming with marine life.

Size, Shape, and Landscape

The island measures approximately 675 meters in length and 200 meters in width, covering about 9.5 hectares. Despite its small size, Fulidhoo’s layout is organized, with sandy paths, shaded coconut palms, and houses painted in bright tropical colors. The beaches are powder-white and the lagoon is shallow and turquoise, creating postcard-perfect views from every angle.

Population and Community Life

Fulidhoo is home to around 450 residents. The community is friendly, close-knit, and deeply rooted in Maldivian traditions. Many locals are engaged in fishing, boat operations, and tourism. The pace of life is slow and peaceful, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into small-island Maldivian living.

Culture and Local Traditions

Fulidhoo is widely recognized as one of the most cultural islands in the Maldives. It is known for preserving Bodu Beru, the traditional Maldivian drumming and dance. Visitors can often witness live Bodu Beru performances by locals, especially during evenings or festivals. The island’s cultural identity is strong, reflected in its music, craftsmanship, and traditional Maldivian hospitality.

Tourism, Guesthouses, and Experiences

Fulidhoo is a popular local island tourism destination within Vaavu Atoll. It has around 15 guesthouses offering cozy accommodation options and locally guided tours. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, night diving with nurse sharks, sandbank visits, fishing trips, and cultural shows. The island has a bikini beach where guests can relax comfortably while respecting local customs.

Marine Life and Diving

Fulidhoo lies close to world-renowned dive sites such as Alimatha Jetty, famous for night dives with nurse sharks, and Fotteyo Kandu, one of the top channel dives in the Maldives. Divers can encounter grey reef sharks, eagle rays, turtles, schools of jacks, and colorful reef fish. Even snorkeling near the shore reveals abundant marine life due to the island’s healthy reef system.

Accessibility and Transfers

Fulidhoo is one of the most accessible inhabited islands in Vaavu Atoll. Speedboats from Malé operate daily, taking approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Scheduled ferries also connect Fulidhoo with the capital, though the journey takes longer. The short distance makes Fulidhoo ideal for short island getaways or day visits.

Infrastructure and Facilities

The island has a health post, mosque, school, shops, cafés, and small restaurants serving both Maldivian and international cuisine. Electricity, desalinated water, and internet services are available. Guesthouses typically provide bicycles, snorkeling gear, and organized excursions. The island council oversees waste management and community development.

Climate and Best Visiting Period

Fulidhoo enjoys a tropical monsoon climate with warm temperatures between 27°C and 32°C year-round. The dry season (November to April) features sunny skies and calm seas—ideal for diving, snorkeling, and beach relaxation. The wet season (May to October) brings occasional rain and stronger winds but fewer tourists, creating a quieter and greener atmosphere.

Why Visit Fulidhoo

Fulidhoo is perfect for travelers who seek a balance between culture and adventure. It combines authentic Maldivian traditions with modern guesthouse comforts. The island’s small size, warm community, and proximity to world-class dive sites make it one of the best islands in the Maldives for local island tourism and sustainable travel.