
Atoll
Vaavu Atoll
Vaavu Atoll is one of the Maldives' administrative atolls (code V), comprising 5 inhabited islands. Its administrative capital is Felidhoo.
- Administrative code
- V
- Inhabited islands
- 5
About Vaavu Atoll
Discover Vaavu Atoll
Vaavu Atoll, officially known as Felidhu Atoll, stands as one of the most unspoiled and naturally beautiful atolls in the Maldives archipelago. Comprising 19 islands (only 5 inhabited), this atoll offers visitors an authentic Maldivian experience with its pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and traditional island life.
Renowned among divers worldwide, Vaavu Atoll boasts some of the most spectacular dive sites in the Maldives, including the legendary Fotteyo Kandu channel and the famous Alimatha Jetty night dive where nurse sharks and stingrays gather in large numbers.
World-Class Diving in Vaavu Atoll
Widely regarded as the best channel dive in Maldives, featuring dramatic overhangs, caves, and abundant pelagic life including gray reef sharks, eagle rays, and large schools of fish.
Depth: 10-40m | Level: Advanced | Current: Strong
Iconic night dive where dozens of nurse sharks and stingrays gather to feed under the jetty lights, offering one of the most unique diving experiences in the Maldives.
Depth: 5-15m | Level: All levels | Visibility: Excellent
Unforgettable Experiences in Vaavu Atoll
Visit traditional Maldivian fishing villages and uninhabited islands to experience authentic local culture and pristine beaches.
Explore vibrant coral gardens and encounter tropical fish, turtles, and reef sharks in crystal-clear waters.
Witness playful spinner dolphins at sunset while enjoying breathtaking views of the Maldivian horizon.
Traveling to Vaavu Atoll
Vaavu Atoll is conveniently accessible from Velana International Airport (MLE) via:
Most resorts arrange private transfers, while guesthouses typically use scheduled speedboat services.
Vaavu Atoll's Pristine Islands
Vaavu Atoll Island Highlights
Vaavu Atoll's Pristine Islands
Ideal Time to Experience Vaavu Atoll
The optimal time to visit Vaavu Atoll is during the dry northeast monsoon season from December to April, when conditions are perfect for diving and water activities:
For underwater photographers, January-March offers the clearest waters and best marine life encounters.
Explore Vaavu Atoll's Islands
Vaavu Atoll exceeded all our expectations! The diving at Fotteyo Kandu was absolutely breathtaking - we saw multiple gray reef sharks, a school of eagle rays, and the healthiest coral formations we've ever encountered. Our resort (Alimatha Aquatic) was perfect for divers with its house reef and excellent dive center.
The night dive at Alimatha Jetty was the highlight of our Maldives trip - swimming with dozens of nurse sharks and stingrays under the lights was an unforgettable experience. Vaavu offers a more authentic Maldivian experience compared to the more developed atolls.
Visitor Experiences
Vaavu Atoll exceeded all our expectations! The diving at Fotteyo Kandu was absolutely breathtaking - we saw multiple gray reef sharks, a school of eagle rays, and the healthiest coral formations we've ever encountered. Our resort (Alimatha Aquatic) was perfect for divers with its house reef and excellent dive center.
The night dive at Alimatha Jetty was the highlight of our Maldives trip - swimming with dozens of nurse sharks and stingrays under the lights was an unforgettable experience. Vaavu offers a more authentic Maldivian experience compared to the more developed atolls.
Islands in Vaavu Atoll
- Felidhoo

Felidhoo is an inhabited island in Vaavu Atoll, Maldives.
- Fulidhoo

Fulidhoo is an inhabited island in Vaavu Atoll, Maldives.
- Keyodhoo

Keyodhoo is an inhabited island in Vaavu Atoll, Maldives.
- Rakeedhoo

Rakeedhoo is an inhabited island in Vaavu Atoll, Maldives.
- Thinadhoo

Thinadhoo is an inhabited island in Vaavu Atoll, Maldives.
Resorts in Vaavu Atoll
Private island resorts, each its own destination.
- Cinnamon Velifushi Island Resort Maldives
Velifushi5★From $400 / night
- Cocogiri Island Resort Maldives
VashugiriFrom $540 / night
- Nakai Alimathaa Island Resort Maldives
AlimathaFrom $320 / night
- NAKAI Dhiggiri Island Resort Maldives
DhiggiriFrom $310 / night
Guesthouses & Hotels in Vaavu Atoll
Stays on real local islands, inside their communities.
- Island Break Fulidhoo Maldives
FulidhooFrom $65 / night
- Mantha view Hotel Maldives
KeyodhooFrom $40 / night
Activities in Vaavu Atoll
- Vaavu Atoll Excursion
ExcursionHulhumalé9 hrFrom USD 150
Explore other Maldives atolls →
Destination content on this page is drawn from MTG’s own previously published Maldives guide.
