Kaafu Atoll

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Kaafu Atoll encompasses North and South Malé Atolls, the heart of the Maldives. Home to the capital Malé and many popular local islands, it is the most accessible atoll and offers a rich blend of urban energy, traditional island life, and excellent water sports.

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Islands in Kaafu

K · Kaafu

Dhabidhoo

Dhabidhoo is a quiet island in South Malé Atoll with a small, friendly community and beautiful natural surroundings. The island's lagoon and beach are pristine, and its proximity to popular snorkelling and diving sites in South Malé Atoll makes it an excellent base for water activities.

2h public ferry from Malé $8-15FERRY
How to get there
K · Kaafu

Dhiffushi

Dhiffushi is a beautiful island in North Malé Atoll known for its stunning beach and excellent surfing. The island has a growing number of guesthouses catering to surf enthusiasts, along with beautiful snorkelling on its house reef, making it an ideal destination for active travellers.

1h public ferry or speedboat from Malé $15-25FERRY
How to get there
K · Kaafu

Gaafaru

Gaafaru is a small island in Kaafu Atoll at the northern end of the North Malé channel, famous for its multiple historic shipwrecks that have made it a bucket-list diving destination. The island's warm community, beautiful beaches, and exceptional wreck diving make it unique in the Maldives.

2h public ferry from Malé $10-20FERRY
How to get there
K · Kaafu

Gulhi

Gulhi is a small, picturesque island in South Malé Atoll known for its beautiful bikini beach, crystal-clear lagoon, and laid-back atmosphere. Just 30 minutes from Malé by speedboat, it offers an affordable and authentic Maldivian experience with excellent snorkelling right off the shore.

30min speedboat from Malé $25-35 per personSPEEDBOAT
How to get there
K · Kaafu

Guraidhoo

Guraidhoo is a charming island in South Malé Atoll with a beautiful bikini beach, vibrant house reef, and a warm local community. Its close proximity to Malé and affordable guesthouses make it a favourite first stop for budget-conscious travellers wanting an authentic Maldivian island experience.

30min speedboat from Malé $25-35SPEEDBOAT
How to get there
K · Kaafu

Himmafushi

Himmafushi is an island in North Malé Atoll accessible by ferry from Malé, known for its popular surf break and beautiful natural beach. The island's growing guesthouse scene makes it an accessible and affordable introduction to local island life for travellers arriving in the Maldives.

1h public ferry from Malé $10-20FERRY
How to get there
K · Kaafu

Hulhulé

Home to Velana International Airport (VIA), the primary gateway for all international flights to the Maldives. After landing, travellers take a 15-minute speedboat or ferry transfer to reach Malé or Hulhumalé.

15 minutesSPEEDBOAT
How to get there
K · Kaafu

Hulhumalé

A purpose-built modern island city on reclaimed land, directly connected to Velana International Airport by road and to Malé by regular ferry service. The Maldives' fastest-growing urban centre, featuring wide streets, apartment towers, and a long sandy beach.

20 minutesFERRY
How to get there
K · Kaafu

Huraa

Huraa is a picturesque island in North Malé Atoll, just 20 kilometres from the capital. The island is known for its traditional crafts, including beautiful handsewn lacework, and its warm community offers visitors an authentic local experience within easy reach of Malé and the airport.

45min public ferry from Malé $8-15FERRY
How to get there
K · Kaafu

Kaashidhoo

Kaashidhoo is a large, lush island in Kaafu Atoll known for its extensive farmland, beautiful beaches, and ancient Buddhist ruins. The island's unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance makes it a fascinating destination for travellers seeking both culture and nature.

3h public ferry from Malé $10-15FERRY
How to get there
K · Kaafu

Maafushi

Maafushi is one of the most developed and popular local islands in the Maldives, located in South Malé Atoll just 30 kilometres from the capital. The island boasts a wide range of guesthouses, water sports, a bikini beach, and excellent day-trip opportunities — making it the go-to local island destination.

30min speedboat or 45min public ferry from Malé $25-45SPEEDBOAT
How to get there
K · Kaafu

Malé

The vibrant capital of the Maldives and the country's main transport and commercial hub. Every international visitor passes through Malé — home to ferry terminals, speedboat jetties, government offices, markets, and the most diverse dining and shopping scene in the country.

How to get there
K · Kaafu

Thulusdhoo

Thulusdhoo is a popular island in North Malé Atoll, famous for its world-class surf break Coke's — one of the best right-hand barrel waves in the Indian Ocean. Beyond surfing, the island offers beautiful beaches, a Coca-Cola bottling factory, and an authentic local community just an hour from Malé.

1h public ferry or 30min speedboat from Malé $20-40FERRY
How to get there
K · Kaafu

Vilingili

A quiet residential suburb of Malé, known locally as ViliMalé. Just a 5-minute ferry from the capital, it offers a more peaceful alternative with parks, guesthouses, and a relaxed community atmosphere.

5 minutesFERRY
How to get there

Hotels & Guesthouses in Kaafu

No active hotels or guesthouses in this atoll yet.