Gateway to whale shark encounters and marine wonders in the UNESCO-listed Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve
Located in the heart of Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Dharavandhoo Island has gained international recognition as one of the best places in the Maldives to encounter whale sharks. This unique island blends traditional Maldivian culture with well-developed tourism infrastructure, offering visitors comfortable accommodations alongside exceptional marine experiences.
What makes Dharavandhoo special is its privileged location near Hanifaru Bay, a marine protected area where manta rays and whale sharks gather in large numbers to feed. The island serves as the perfect base for exploring this underwater wonderland while enjoying authentic local hospitality. Unlike many remote islands, Dharavandhoo has embraced tourism while maintaining its cultural identity, creating a balanced experience for visitors.
Visitors to Dharavandhoo are drawn by its world-class marine life, comfortable guesthouses, and convenient access to both luxury resorts and untouched natural sites. The island's unique position as a marine life hotspot combined with its local character makes it an ideal destination for nature lovers seeking both adventure and cultural immersion.
Dharavandhoo Island is situated in the eastern part of Baa Atoll, approximately 120 kilometers northwest of Male. The island occupies a strategic position near Hanifaru Bay, one of the most famous marine protected areas in the Maldives known for its seasonal gatherings of manta rays and whale sharks.
Its location within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve provides exceptional access to pristine marine environments while offering convenient transportation links. Dharavandhoo's domestic airport makes it one of the most accessible local islands in the Maldives, with direct connections to Male and other atolls.
Dharavandhoo Island is world-renowned for its exceptional marine biodiversity, particularly its whale shark population and proximity to Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO-protected marine sanctuary.
This marine protected area is one of the world's largest manta ray feeding stations, where hundreds of mantas gather during the southwest monsoon (May-November) to feed on plankton-rich waters.
Dharavandhoo is one of the best places in the Maldives to encounter these gentle giants, with resident whale sharks frequently spotted in nearby waters throughout the year.
The island is surrounded by healthy coral reefs teeming with colorful fish, turtles, rays, and occasional reef sharks, offering spectacular snorkeling opportunities.
Numerous world-class dive sites are accessible from Dharavandhoo, including coral gardens, channels, and cleaning stations frequented by large pelagic species.
Dharavandhoo offers a range of comfortable guesthouses and small hotels that cater to divers, snorkelers, and marine life enthusiasts. The island's tourism infrastructure is more developed than many local islands, providing quality accommodations while maintaining authentic Maldivian hospitality.
Several guesthouses specialize in hosting divers and snorkelers, offering dive packages, equipment rental, and knowledgeable guides. These properties typically feature air-conditioned rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and dive center partnerships.
Price Range: $60-120 per night
Features: Dive packages, equipment storage, marine expert staff, excursion arrangements
Small boutique hotels offer upgraded amenities while maintaining local character. These properties often feature stylish decor, rooftop terraces, and personalized service catering to international travelers.
Price Range: $100-180 per night
Features: Enhanced amenities, stylish design, rooftop areas, premium services
Several properties offer direct beach access with private sun loungers and shaded areas. These accommodations provide the perfect balance of comfort and island atmosphere, just steps from the ocean.
Price Range: $80-150 per night
Features: Beach access, private sun areas, ocean views, relaxed atmosphere
Dharavandhoo offers exceptional marine activities centered around its world-class underwater environment, along with cultural experiences that showcase local island life.
Book your adventure to this unique island and encounter whale sharks, manta rays, and the incredible biodiversity of Baa Atoll's UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Plan Your TripThe easiest way to reach Dharavandhoo is by domestic flight from Male to Dharavandhoo Airport (30 minutes), followed by a short speedboat transfer. Seaplane transfers are available seasonally, while public ferry service operates weekly from Male (approximately 8 hours). Private speedboat transfers can also be arranged.
Whale sharks can be seen year-round in Dharavandhoo waters, with peak sightings from August to November. Manta rays are most abundant from May to November during the southwest monsoon, particularly in Hanifaru Bay. The best overall conditions for marine activities are typically from December to April.
No, many of Dharavandhoo's marine wonders can be experienced through snorkeling. The house reef offers excellent snorkeling directly from shore, and guided snorkel trips to Hanifaru Bay and whale shark areas are suitable for confident swimmers. For scuba diving, certification is required, but discover scuba programs are available for beginners.
Dharavandhoo's unique combination of factors sets it apart: its location within a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, reliable whale shark sightings year-round, proximity to Hanifaru Bay's manta ray gatherings, domestic airport access, and blend of local culture with well-developed tourism infrastructure. Few islands offer this combination of marine life access and convenience.
As a local inhabited island with a Muslim population, modest dress is required in public areas (shoulders and knees covered). Swimwear is only permitted at the designated "bikini beach." When visiting the mosque or religious sites, women should cover their heads. These requirements don't apply during water activities or at resort day visits.
