Welcome to Fehendhoo: A Tranquil Hideaway in Baa Atoll
Fehendhoo is part of the Baa Atoll, located approximately 100 kilometers northwest of Malé. This serene, sparsely populated island is renowned for its untouched natural beauty, lush vegetation, and crystal-clear waters. Surrounded by vibrant coral reefs and calm lagoons, Fehendhoo offers a peaceful escape ideal for snorkeling, beachcombing, and connecting with nature.
- The island is small and walkable, providing an intimate and serene environment.
- Other nearby islands: Goidhoo, Fulhadhoo.
- Nearby resorts: Soneva Fushi, Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas.
Getting to Fehendhoo
Fehendhoo, nestled in the Baa Atoll, is accessible via several transportation options from Malé and Velana International Airport:
1. Shared Speedboat
Duration: Approximately 2 to 2.5 hours from Malé.
Frequency: Scheduled departures multiple times a week; schedules may vary.
Cost: Around $65 USD per person, one way.
Booking: Recommended to book in advance through guesthouses or local operators.Three Hearts Guesthouse, Fulhadhoo
2. Domestic Flight + Speedboat
Route: Fly from Velana International Airport to Dharavandhoo Airport (~20 minutes), followed by a speedboat to Fehendhoo (~40 minutes).
Cost: Flight prices vary; speedboat transfer costs approximately $150–$200 USD.
Booking: Coordinate with your accommodation for seamless transfers.
3. Public Ferry
Duration: Approximately 8 hours from Malé.
Frequency: Limited schedules; operates a few times a week.
Cost: Budget-friendly option; exact fares vary.
Booking: Tickets must be purchased in person at the ferry terminal.
Note: Transportation schedules are subject to change due to weather conditions and other factors. It’s advisable to confirm timings and availability in advance.
Top Things to Do in Fehendhoo
Explore Untouched Nature: Wander through dense island vegetation and discover the natural tranquility of one of Maldives’ least inhabited islands.
Snorkel the Pristine Lagoon: Dive into shallow turquoise waters teeming with colorful fish and coral right off the beach.
Visit Hanifaru Bay (by Excursion): Take a guided trip to this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve to witness manta rays and whale sharks during the season (June–October).
Relax on Secluded Beaches: Enjoy true solitude on powdery white sands with barely anyone around—perfect for reading, meditating, or simply unwinding.
Kayak or Paddleboard in Calm Waters: Rent a kayak or SUP and glide through peaceful lagoons surrounded by mangroves and crystal-clear seas.
Connect with Local Culture: Enjoy warm hospitality, learn about traditional island life, and try local Maldivian dishes prepared by small guesthouses.
Water Sports and Dive Centers in Fehendhoo
1. Fehendhoo Stay Excursions
Services Offered: Snorkeling trips, sandbank visits, dolphin cruises, kayaking, SUP
Why Choose Them?: Managed by local hosts, these small-scale tours offer an intimate and authentic way to explore Baa Atoll’s marine beauty. Trips are flexible and can be customized.
Notable Snorkel Spots: House reef, Maalhos reef, and coral gardens near Fulhadhoo
2. Nearby Dive Centers (via Guesthouse Arrangement)
Since Fehendhoo doesn’t have an on-island dive center, most scuba diving is arranged through partnerships with dive operators based in Goidhoo or Fulhadhoo (typically a 10–15 minute boat ride away).
Services Offered: PADI dive courses, daily dive trips, Hanifaru Bay excursions (seasonal)
Notable Dive Sites: Hanifaru Bay, Dhonfanu Thila, Angafaru, Coral Garden
3. Self-Paddle Adventures
Many guesthouses provide complimentary kayaks and paddleboards for guests to explore Fehendhoo’s peaceful lagoons and nearby sandbanks independently.
Where to Stay: Accommodation Options
Fehendhoo offers a range of stays to suit every traveler—from cozy, budget-friendly guesthouses to peaceful boutique retreats, making it an ideal spot to relax and connect with nature.
Hotels
1. Island Luxury Fehendhoo
Island Luxury features a private beach area. With a garden, the 2-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom.
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2. Sky Village
Sky Village offers accommodation with air conditioning and access to a garden. This beachfront property offers access to a balcony.
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3. Isla Retreat
Isla Retreat features a garden, shared lounge, a terrace and restaurant.
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Guest Houses
1. Atholhu Beach Club
Atholhu Beach Club features an outdoor swimming pool, garden, a restaurant and bar in Fehendhoo.
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2. Tropical Tree
With garden views, Tropical Tree has a restaurant, full-day security, bar, garden, children’s playground and picnic area.
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3. Cove Fehendhoo
Cove Fehendhoo is a spacious villa comes with 3 separate bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen with a dining area and dishwasher, and a living room with a flat-screen TV.
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Sustainable Travel and Eco-Friendly Initiatives
Fehendhoo is one of the least populated islands in Baa Atoll, and its natural, untouched beauty is a key part of its charm. The local community and guesthouses have embraced a low-impact, sustainable approach to tourism. Many accommodations are built with minimal environmental disruption, and initiatives like reef-friendly snorkeling, plastic reduction, and beach clean-ups are actively encouraged.
Best Time to Visit Fehendhoo
The ideal time to visit Fehendhoo is from November to April, when the weather is dry, sunny, and perfect for beach days and snorkeling. For those hoping to see manta rays or whale sharks in Hanifaru Bay (accessible by excursion), the June to October period is best, though this overlaps with the southwest monsoon and brings occasional showers.
Local Etiquette: What You Should Know
Fehendhoo is a small, local island with deep-rooted cultural values. Respecting these customs helps travelers connect with the community in a positive way.
Dress Modestly: Swimwear is fine at the Bikini Beach, but modest clothing is expected in the village and public areas.
Respect Islamic Traditions: Especially during Ramadan, be mindful of local religious practices.
Friendly Greetings: Saying “As-salamu alaykum” is a warm and respectful way to greet locals.
Conclusion: Your Peaceful Island Escape
Fehendhoo is ideal for travelers seeking serenity, natural beauty, and genuine local experiences. With its lush environment, laid-back vibe, and commitment to sustainability, the island invites you to slow down, explore mindfully, and connect deeply with both nature and culture.
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