Island Directory
1,200 islands across 26 atolls — from resort paradises to bustling local islands
Featured Local Islands
The best local islands for guesthouse travellers
Maafushi
26km from airport
The guesthouse capital of the Maldives, Maafushi is the most visited local island. An active fishing community with white sand bikini beach, excellent diving schools, and dozens of guesthouses.
Thulusdhoo
35km from airport
Famous for Coke's surf break — one of the best right-hand barrels in the Indian Ocean. Home to the Coca-Cola bottling plant and a tight-knit surfing community.
Guraidhoo
38km from airport
A quiet, photogenic local island with a beautiful long sandbank and a top-rated house reef for snorkelling. Relaxed pace and excellent snorkelling.
Ukulhas
72km from airport
An eco-certified island with meticulous beach cleaning traditions. Lush coral reef, excellent snorkelling from the beach, and a protected turtle nesting area.
Rasdhoo
68km from airport
Gateway to North Ari Atoll. Famous for hammerhead shark diving at Rasdhoo Madivaru at dawn — a bucket-list experience for serious divers.