Thulusdhoo Island Maldives – Budget & Surfing Guide

Thulusdhoo Island is located in the Kaafu Atoll of the Maldives. The island is best visited due to its proximity to the main international airport of the nation, Velana International Airport (MLE). This coastal paradise is well-known for its strategic position among the popular surf breaks and neighbouring local islands, thereby combining convenient access with an authentic tropical escape. 

The island of Thulusdhoo is located around 28 kilometres from Male. Once you arrive in Male, you have two options to get to Thulusdhoo Island: the speedboat or the local ferry. The journey offers a glimpse into the beauty of the Maldives beyond its luxury resorts.

1. Speedboat Transfer

The speedboat is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Thulusdhoo Island from Male. The transfer takes around 20-40 minutes to reach the island, and it operates daily, except on Fridays. 

• Prices: ₹2,200–3,200 per person (~MVR 380–540) per person each way.

2. Local Ferry 

The local passenger ferry is the cheapest and most convenient way to get to Thulusdhoo Island from Male. The ferry service operates on Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, and it takes 90–120 minutes depending on sea conditions to reach the island. 

• Prices: ₹260 (~MVR 45) per person

Thulusdhoo beaches are known for their soft white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and relaxed local-island vibe. Unlike the resort islands, these beaches feel natural and uncrowded, with gentle waves lapping the shore and palm trees providing pockets of shade.

• Bikini Beach: Thulusdhoo has a designated bikini beach where swimwear is allowed. The beach is spread with palm trees, and the waters surrounding the shores offer calm swimming conditions, vibrant marine life and stunning sunset views.
• Dream Beach: This is a scenic, quieter beach located to the west of the harbour, great for relaxing and enjoying views of the sea.
• Sunset Beach: As the name suggests, this beach area is ideal for sunset watching.
• Burugaa Beach: This beach is less-visited and offers a more secluded atmosphere.

The island is a paradise for adventure and nature lovers. Here, one can enjoy a range of activities like surfing, snorkelling and scuba diving. We recommend you book your activities early through our Maldives tour packages if travelling during the peak season. 

1. Surfing in Thulusdhoo Island

This island has some of the best surfing spots, which attract surfers from all over the world. The Cokes and Chickens are the two main surf breaks that produce fast and powerful waves. 

• Best For: Intermediate and advanced surfers
• Best Time: The surf season runs from April to October, and the best time to surf is in the morning or the evening.

2. Snorkelling Around Thulusdhoo Island

A coral reef surrounds Thulusdhoo. The clear turquoise waters reveal vibrant coral gardens teeming with tropical fish, playful turtles, rays, and sharks.

• Best For: Beginners and experienced snorkellers.
• Best Time: The snorkelling season runs all year round, and the best time to snorkel is in the morning or the afternoon.

3. Scuba Diving Near Thulusdhoo Island

Thulusdhoo Island is also a great destination for diving. The island combines vibrant marine life with crystal-clear waters and thrilling underwater landscapes. The best dive sites present some of the most amazing creatures of the ocean, such as manta rays, dolphins, and moray eels. 

• Best For: Suitable for all levels.
• Best Time: The diving season runs all year round, but the best time to dive is from November to May.

4. Night Fishing with Local Fishermen

Fishing is a popular and traditional activity on Thulusdhoo Island. A night fishing trip on a traditional boat (Dhoni), accompanied by experienced local fishermen, is the most authentic way to explore this Maldivian island. These traditional dhoni boats are used for line fishing.

• Best For: Suitable for everyone.
• Best Time: The fishing trips are usually done in the morning or the evening.

5. Sandbank Excursions from Thulusdhoo

A sandbank excursion is a must-do activity on Thulusdhoo Island. Asdu Sand Bank, Chikana Sand Bank and Infinity Sand Bank are some of the best in the list, which features fine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water, that they seem to be unreal.

• Best For: Couples, families, and nature lovers looking to experience the Maldives at its most serene and picturesque.
• Best Time: The fishing trips are usually done in the morning or the evening.

Note: One can book a sandbank excursion from one of the guesthouses or hotels on the island, and it costs around Rs. 1,800-2,700 per person.

The island is considered a paradise for surfers, as it offers a large number of world-class waves, with an excellent combination of lefts and rights. Here 

• The water around the island presents powerful, consistent reef breaks that attract surfers from around the world. 
• The iconic Cokes surf break is one of the most famous in the region. This surf features waves that can be handled by intermediate to advanced surfers.
• Thulusdhoo is very easy to reach from Male’s Velana International Airport. The region can be reached by a speedboat or a public ferry.
• Unlike private Maldivian resorts, Thulusdhoo boasts guesthouses and surf camps.

The dry season from November through April offers the most reliable weather to explore the island with minimal rainfall and calm seas. These months attract the highest tourist numbers along with higher accommodation prices. The best time to visit this coastal destination

• Best Season for Surfing: The peak surfing season, which runs from June through August, brings the most consistent waves attract surfers from around the world.
• Best Weather for Budget Travellers: The monsoon season, from May to October, brings higher humidity and occasional rainfall. However, the season also brings fewer crowds, lush scenery, and better travel deals.

Thulusdhoo has a wide variety of accommodation options that suit different tastes and budgets. Here, you can find everything from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels, and most accommodation options are located within walking distance of the beach.

1. Luxury Accommodations 

2. Mid-range Accommodation Options

3. Budget Hotels

NOTE: Accommodation prices vary depending on season and availability. So, check the prices before booking.

The Island’s rich cuisine reflects the influences of the Indian, Sri Lankan and Arabic cultures. The island has several restaurants and cafes that serve the local cuisine, as well as international dishes. 

Traditional Maldivian Food to Try in Thulusdhoo:

• Mas Huni: A traditional breakfast dish consisting of tuna, coconut, onion, chili and lime juice. This is served with roshi, a flatbread similar to roti. 
• Garudhiya: It is a staple dish that consists of a clear fish broth made from tuna, water, salt, and curry leaves.
• Bis Keemiya: A snack or a starter filled with cabbage, boiled egg, onion and curry powder. This savoury dish is influenced by the Sri Lankan samosa.
• Kulhi Boakibaa: A cake made from smoked tuna, coconut, rice, sugar and spices, and consumed as a dessert.

Best Restaurants and Cafes in Thulusdhoo Island:

Alcohol Rules on Thulusdhoo Island: One cannot buy or drink alcohol on this island, as it is banned under Maldivian Law.

Thulusdhoo Island in the Maldives is a surfing paradise and a budget-friendly alternative to the resort islands. The island offers a wide range of budget accommodations and a variety of activities and attractions for travellers who wish to explore this beautiful nation. Here, one can experience the local culture and lifestyle of the island, which illustrates the balance between the beauty and diversity of the island.