Welcome to Dhigurah, Maldives: The Whale Shark Capital of the World
Dhigurah is part of the Alif Dhaal Atoll, located approximately 96 kilometers southwest of Malé. The island is known for its natural beauty, rich marine biodiversity, and friendly local community.
- The island is small and walkable, providing an intimate and serene environment.
- Other nearby islands: Omadhoo, Maamigili, Dhangethi.
- Nearby resorts: LUX* South Ari Atoll, Amaya Kuda Rah.
Getting to Dhigurah
Shared Speedboat
Schedule: Daily departures at around 10:30 AM or 11:00 AM
Duration: ~2 hours
Cost: ~$70–80 USD per person
Booking: Through guesthouses or agents
Departure Point: Jetty near airport or Hulhumalé
Domestic Flight + Speedboat
Route: Malé to Maamigili (Villa Airport) + 15-minute speedboat
Duration: ~20 min flight + 15 min transfer
Cost: ~$110–150 USD one-way
Booking: Via guesthouses or domestic airline websites
Private Speedboat
Ideal For: Luxury travelers or private groups
Duration: ~2.5 to 3.5 hours
Cost: ~$800–1,200 USD per trip
Booking: Coordinate with your accommodation
Top Things to Do in Dhigurah
Swim with Whale Sharks
Join a guided tour to snorkel or dive with these gentle giants, found year-round near Dhigurah.Explore the Long Beach
Walk along Dhigurah’s endless white sandy beach—the island is one of the longest in the Maldives.Sunset Kayaking
Paddle along calm waters during golden hour for a peaceful and scenic experience.Snorkel the House Reef
Spot turtles, rays, and vibrant reef fish right off the beach.Join a Local Cooking Class
Learn to prepare traditional Maldivian dishes with local hosts.
Water Sports and Dive Centers in Dhigurah
1. Dhigurah Divers
Why Choose Dhigurah Divers? Specializes in ethical whale shark diving with small group sizes.
Services: Whale shark safaris, reef diving, PADI courses.
Notable Dive Sites: Kuda Rah Thila, Maamigili Beyru, Dhigurah Thila.
2. Adventure Watersports Dhigurah
Why Choose Adventure Watersports? Fun-focused operator with experienced local guides.
Services: Jet skiing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding.
Notable Dive Sites: Lagoon areas around Dhigurah suitable for water sports.
3. TME Retreats Dive & Water Sports
Why Choose TME Retreats? Hotel-based dive center offering personalized services.
Services: PADI dive courses, whale shark excursions, snorkeling.
Notable Dive Sites: Dhigurah House Reef, Broken Rock, Manta Point.
Where to Stay: Accommodation Options
Dhigurah offers a range of stays to suit all budgets and styles — from luxury retreats to budget-friendly guesthouses, perfect for a relaxing island escape.
Hotels
1. Dhigurah Tourist Hotel
Dhigurah Tourist Hotel is offering accommodation in Dhigurah. Each accommodation at the 3-star hotel has island views, and guests can enjoy access to free bikes and to a garden.
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2. Dhiguveli Maldives
Facing the seafront, Dhiguveli Maldives offers 3-star accommodation in Dhigurah and has a private beach area, garden and terrace.
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3. Sands Grand Hotel
Sands Grand Hotel is situated 100 metres from Dhigurah North West Beach.
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Guest Houses
1. Dhiguveli Breeze
Set 100 metres in North West Beach, Dhiguveli Breeze offers 3-star accommodation with a garden, a shared lounge and a restaurant.
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2. The Wave Dhigurah
The Wave Dhigurah offers air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony. There is a private entrance at the guest house for the convenience of those who stay.
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3. Dhigurah Beach Inn
Dhigurah Beach Inn offers beachfront accommodation 90 metres from Dhigurah North West Beach and provides various facilities, such as a private beach area and a garden.
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Sustainable Travel and Eco-Friendly Initiatives
Dhigurah is a model for sustainable tourism in the Maldives. With its proximity to whale shark territory, the island emphasizes marine conservation and eco-responsible travel. Many guesthouses and dive centers work closely with organizations like the Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme (MWSRP) to protect these gentle giants. Initiatives on the island include reef-safe sunscreen promotion, single-use plastic reduction, coral planting projects, and regular beach cleanups. Travelers are encouraged to support environmentally responsible tours and accommodations that respect marine life and local ecosystems.
Best Time to Visit Dhigurah
The best time to visit Dhigurah is December to April, during the dry season. Expect sunny skies, calm seas, and great visibility for diving and snorkeling. However, Dhigurah is uniquely positioned in South Ari Atoll, where whale sharks can be spotted year-round, making it a top destination even during the wetter May to November season — especially for divers and marine wildlife enthusiasts looking for fewer crowds and active sea life.
Local Etiquette: What You Should Know
Dhigurah is a local island with deep-rooted traditions and a friendly, tight-knit community. Respecting cultural norms helps foster positive interactions:
Dress Modestly: Swimwear is only allowed on the designated Bikini Beach. In the village, modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is appreciated.
Respect Prayer Times: As a Muslim community, daily prayers and religious observances are important. During Ramadan, avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours.
Be Mindful of the Environment: Don’t touch or chase marine life, especially whale sharks and mantas. Responsible snorkeling and diving ensure future visitors can enjoy the same beauty.
Conclusion: Your Whale Shark Paradise with Local Soul
Dhigurah blends unspoiled nature with heartfelt hospitality. From swimming with whale sharks and manta rays to strolling along one of the longest natural sandbanks in the Maldives, the island is a haven for ocean lovers. With its focus on sustainability, community-based tourism, and unforgettable marine encounters, Dhigurah offers an authentic and enriching Maldivian escape — perfect for divers, eco-travelers, and those looking to connect deeply with island life.
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