Fihalhohi Island Travel Guide: A Serene Maldives Getaway with House Reefs

Tucked in the South Malé Atoll, Fihalhohi Island offers everything you dream of when you think “Maldives” — turquoise lagoons, swaying palms, white sand beaches, and colorful coral gardens just steps from your room.
 

Unlike ultra-luxury islands, Fihalhohi is accessible, laid-back, and perfect for couples, solo travelers, and even families seeking an island escape without breaking the bank. As your guide, let me take you through everything you need to know about this little slice of paradise.

📍 Where Is Fihalhohi Island?

Atoll: South Malé Atoll

Distance from Malé Airport: ~28 kilometers

Travel Time: ~45 minutes by speedboat

Fihalhohi is a single-resort island, meaning the entire island is run by one resort — the Fihalhohi Island Resort — creating a tranquil, all-inclusive experience.

🌤️ Best Time to Visit Fihalhohi Island

💡 Tip: January to March is best for underwater visibility and marine life activity.

🚤 How to Get to Fihalhohi Island

Getting to Fihalhohi is simple:

Speedboat Transfer (booked through the resort)

~45 minutes from Velana International Airport (MLE)

Boats run daily and are well coordinated with international arrivals

🏝️ Why Visit Fihalhohi Island?

Fihalhohi offers the perfect balance of affordability and paradise:

Beautiful house reef for snorkeling

Overwater and beachfront villas

Spa services, beach bars, and local excursions

Friendly, multilingual staff and easy-going vibe

It’s great for honeymooners, couples, and travelers wanting a scenic retreat without the formality of five-star ultra-luxury.

🐠 Top Things to Do on Fihalhohi Island

1. Snorkel the House Reef

One of Fihalhohi’s crown jewels is its thriving house reef, just meters from the beach. You can spot:

Sea turtles

Blacktip reef sharks

Butterflyfish, angelfish, and parrotfish

Healthy coral formations

🐢 The reef encircles much of the island, so you can explore different sections at various times of day.

2. Relax on the Beach

Fihalhohi’s beaches are as tranquil as they come:

Soft, white sand

Crystal-clear shallow water

Hammocks and loungers shaded by palm trees

No crowds — perfect for a digital detox

📸 Don’t miss the picture-perfect sandbank-like tip on the southern side of the island.

3. Scuba Diving Adventures

Whether you're a beginner or seasoned diver, Fihalhohi’s dive center (Ocean Venture Dive School) offers access to:

PADI courses

Dive trips to nearby sites like Kandooma Thila, Cocoa Corner, and Kuda Giri

Night diving and shark spotting

🦈 Manta rays and even whale sharks may be spotted during the right season.

4. Sunset Cruises & Dolphin Watching

Set sail in a traditional Maldivian dhoni boat and enjoy:

Sunset views over the Indian Ocean

Pods of playful dolphins

Optional champagne and light bites on board

⛵ Great for honeymooners and photographers.

5. Spa Treatments by the Sea

The island’s Huvandhumaa Spa is tucked into a lush corner and offers:

Traditional Maldivian massages

Aromatherapy & deep tissue treatments

Couple packages in garden or sea-facing rooms

💆 Ideal for unwinding after a day in the sun or underwater.

🛌 Where to Stay: Fihalhohi Island Resort

Fihalhohi Island Resort is the only accommodation on the island and offers four main room types:

1. Classic Room

Garden-facing, cozy and affordable

Perfect for solo travelers or short stays

2. Comfort Room

Located closer to the beach

Great balance of comfort and value

3. Premium Room

Modern interiors, beach access

Ideal for couples and families

4. Water Bungalows

Set over the lagoon with steps into the sea

Private decks, sunrise or sunset views

Ultimate Maldivian dream stay 🌅

All rooms have air conditioning, Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, and eco-conscious amenities.

🍽️ Dining on the Island

The resort operates a main restaurant and several bars:

Main Buffet Restaurant

International and Maldivian dishes

Fresh seafood nights, BBQs, themed cuisine

Vegetarian and Halal-friendly options

Blue Lagoon Bar

Overwater bar with drinks, snacks, and live music on occasion

Beach Hut Café

Ice cream, cold drinks, and cocktails by the beach

🥥 Don’t miss the fresh coconut offered in the mornings!

🛍️ What to Buy on Fihalhohi

While small, the island has a gift shop that sells:

Handcrafted souvenirs

Maldivian sarongs (feyli)

Organic coconut oil

Local snacks and spices

💡 Prices are fair, and shopping here supports the local economy.

📸 Best Photo Spots on Fihalhohi

Sunrise overwater bungalows

Palm-lined walkways

Snorkeling selfies with turtles

Aerial drone shots of the reef edge

Pro tip: Pack a GoPro or underwater camera to capture coral life!

🧭 Sample 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival & check-in

Sunset walk on the beach

Dinner buffet & live music

Day 2

Morning snorkel

Afternoon spa treatment

Sunset cruise

Dinner at Blue Lagoon Bar

Day 3

Dive trip or island tour

Relax at the beach

Departure

💡 Insider Tips for Fihalhohi Visitors

Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life

Snorkel gear is available, but bring your own for best fit

Modest swimwear not required, but respectful clothing is recommended in shared areas

Wi-Fi is decent but not suitable for remote work — unplug and relax

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service

🌍 Why Visit Fihalhohi Island?

Fihalhohi is where you find balance — between affordability and beauty, relaxation and adventure, isolation and access.

You don’t have to spend thousands to experience the true Maldivian dream. With snorkeling right off the beach, warm hospitality, and tranquil scenery, Fihalhohi invites you to connect — with nature, with yourself, and with the ocean.