Dhigurah Island Travel Guide: Whale Sharks, White Sands & Local Life

Welcome to Dhigurah Island, one of the Maldives’ best-kept secrets. Unlike the ultra-exclusive resort islands, Dhigurah blends natural beauty, rich marine life, and authentic Maldivian culture with a down-to-earth atmosphere that adventurers and nature lovers will appreciate. Famous for its proximity to whale sharks, vibrant coral reefs, and kilometers of powdery beaches, this island is a dream for snorkeling, diving, and slow island living.
 

Let’s explore why Dhigurah is one of the top islands in the Maldives for travelers looking beyond the luxury stereotype—and into real, raw paradise.

📍 Where is Dhigurah Island?

Location: South Ari Atoll, Maldives

Length: Approximately 3 km

Nearest Airport: Villa International Airport (Maamigili – VAM)

Dhigurah (meaning "long island" in Dhivehi) is a narrow stretch of paradise, fringed by coconut palms and turquoise lagoons, known for being one of the best locations to spot whale sharks year-round.

🌤️ Best Time to Visit Dhigurah Island

✅ Whale sharks and manta rays can be spotted all year, especially in the nearby South Ari Marine Protected Area (MPA).

✈️ How to Get to Dhigurah Island

Option 1: Domestic Flight

Fly from Malé (Velana International Airport - MLE) to Maamigili Airport (VAM) – ~25 minutes

Speedboat from Maamigili to Dhigurah – ~20 minutes

Option 2: Speedboat from Malé

Daily scheduled speedboats – ~2 hours

Budget-friendly and scenic

Whichever option you choose, the journey to Dhigurah is accessible and well worth the effort.

🏝️ Top Things to Do on Dhigurah Island

1. Swim with Whale Sharks

Dhigurah is one of the best places on Earth to swim with these gentle giants. The nearby reef is part of the South Ari Atoll MPA, where whale sharks are spotted regularly.

Excursions available daily

No diving license required (snorkeling-friendly)

Ethical practices: observe, don’t touch

🐋 Tip: Go in the morning for better visibility.

2. Scuba Dive into Vibrant Coral Reefs

With dozens of dive sites within 30 minutes, Dhigurah is a diver’s paradise. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, you’ll find sites teeming with life.

Top dive sites:

Kuda Rah Thila – Coral-covered pinnacle with abundant fish

Broken Rock – A stunning canyon-style dive

Maamigili Beyru – Whale shark hot spot

Manta Point – For graceful manta encounters

🤿 Certified PADI dive centers offer full-day or half-day dive trips.

3. Enjoy the Endless Beach

Dhigurah has one of the longest natural beaches in the Maldives—a white sandy shoreline that stretches to a picture-perfect sandbank.

Ideal for beach walks, yoga, and sunset photos

No motorized traffic—perfect for peace seekers

Sandbank picnics and proposals are common

📸 Pro Tip: The end sandbank is especially beautiful at sunset.

4. Snorkel with Manta Rays, Turtles & Dolphins

Aside from whale sharks, the waters around Dhigurah host:

Manta rays

Reef sharks

Sea turtles

Spinner dolphins

🛥️ Many local guesthouses offer combo snorkel tours and island-hopping trips to neighboring islands.

5. Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Explore the lagoon at your own pace:

Paddle around the shallow reef areas

Kayak to the sandbank at low tide

Spot marine life in crystal-clear waters

💡 Rentals available at most guesthouses or water sports centers.

6. Experience Maldivian Culture

Dhigurah is a local inhabited island, not a resort. This means you can experience:

Traditional Maldivian food

Warm, local hospitality

Community festivals and celebrations

Island school visits

Respect the cultural norms: dress modestly in public areas (outside bikini beach).

🛌 Where to Stay on Dhigurah Island

Dhigurah offers a range of guesthouses and boutique hotels, combining comfort with local charm.

Top Accommodation Options:

Bliss Dhigurah – Stylish, mid-range hotel with rooftop dining, spa, and dive center

TME Retreats – Seaside rooms, close to the beach, with family-friendly vibes

White Sand Dhigurah – Cozy, clean, and well-reviewed by couples

Athiri Beach – Ocean-view rooms and excursions on demand

Boutique Beach All-Inclusive Diving Hotel – Dive-focused, eco-conscious, and quiet

Most stays include breakfast, snorkeling excursions, and bike rentals.

🍽️ Where to Eat on Dhigurah Island

Island food is a treat in itself. Most guesthouses have restaurants serving:

Grilled reef fish

Tuna curry with roshi (flatbread)

Fried coconut snacks

Fresh tropical fruit juices

International dishes for varied palates

🧡 Local Favorites:

Hermit's – Great for pizza, Maldivian curries, and smoothies

Long Beach Restaurant – A beachfront spot for seafood lovers

Cafe Aveli – Laid-back café with Western and local options

🛍️ What to Buy in Dhigurah

As a small local island, Dhigurah has limited shops, but you’ll find:

Handmade coconut crafts

Locally produced souvenirs

T-shirts, sarongs, and sun hats

Maldivian coconut oil and skincare

Support local businesses by shopping at island-run mini-marts and stalls.

📸 Best Photo Spots

The sandbank at sunrise or sunset

Whale shark swimming photos (taken by guides)

Aerial drone shots of the long island stretch

Hammocks over the lagoon

Colorful coral reefs while snorkeling

📅 Suggested 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Relaxation

Arrive in Dhigurah by speedboat

Check in and explore the village

Sunset walk to the sandbank

Day 2: Whale Sharks & Snorkeling

Early breakfast, then head out for whale shark tour

Afternoon snorkeling at manta point

Dinner by the beach under the stars

Day 3: Island Life & Diving

Optional dive trip to Broken Rock

Lunch with local fish curry

Free time kayaking or paddleboarding

Cultural walk and shopping before departure

🧭 Travel Tips for Dhigurah Island

Dress modestly outside bikini beach (shoulders and knees covered)

Bring reef-safe sunscreen

Wi-Fi is available, but not always fast—embrace the digital detox!

Cash (USD or Maldivian Rufiyaa) is preferred for small purchases

Respect the marine life—no touching or chasing!

🌍 Why Visit Dhigurah Island?

Dhigurah Island is proof that the Maldives isn’t just about luxury overwater bungalows. Here, you’ll find adventure, connection, culture, and sustainability—wrapped in a breathtaking tropical package.

Whether you’re swimming beside the largest fish in the ocean, walking barefoot along an endless beach, or sipping coconut water while watching the stars, Dhigurah invites you to truly experience the Maldives, not just observe it.