Welcome to Ukulhas, A model island for eco-friendly travel in the Maldives
Ukulhas, part of the Alif Alif Atoll and located about 70 kilometers west of Malé, is celebrated for its pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and outstanding environmental practices. Known as one of the cleanest inhabited islands in the Maldives.
- The island is small and walkable, providing an intimate and serene environment.
- Other nearby islands: Rasdhoo, Mathiveri.
- Nearby resorts: Kuramathi Maldives, Veligandu Maldives Resort Island.
Getting to Ukulhas
Ukulhas is easily accessible from Malé and Velana International Airport, offering various travel options to suit your convenience and budget.
Public Ferry (MTCC Ferry 303)
Schedule: Departs Malé at 09:00, arriving in Ukulhas around 11:00.
Frequency: Operates Saturday through Thursday; no service on Fridays.
Cost: Approximately 30 MVR (~$2 USD).
Booking: Tickets available at the MTCC Ferry Terminal in Malé.
Shared Speedboat
Duration: Around 1 hour.
Frequency: Multiple daily departures from Malé and the airport.
Cost: Around $40–$45 USD per person.
Booking: Arranged through guesthouses or online platforms.
Private Speedboat
Ideal For: Groups or travelers preferring a more personalized journey.
Cost: Approximately $200–$250 USD per trip.
Booking: Coordinate with your accommodation or local operators.
Top Things to Do in Ukulhas
Ukulhas offers a blend of relaxation and adventure, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking both tranquility and excitement:
Snorkeling the House Reef: Explore the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life just off the island’s shores.
Manta Ray Excursions: Join guided tours to swim alongside majestic manta rays in their natural habitat.
Sandbank Picnics: Visit nearby uninhabited sandbanks for a secluded beach experience and enjoy a picnic amidst pristine surroundings.
Dolphin Watching: Embark on boat trips to spot playful dolphins in the surrounding waters.
Island Hopping: Explore neighboring islands to experience different local cultures and landscapes.
Relax on Bikini Beach: Unwind on the island’s designated bikini beach, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Local Cuisine: Savor traditional Maldivian dishes at local eateries, offering a taste of the island’s culinary heritage.
Water Sports & Dive Centers in Ukulhas
The island is a haven for marine enthusiasts, offering a range of diving and water sports activities amidst the vibrant ecosystems of North Ari Atoll.
1. Dive Ukulhas
Why Choose Them?
A premier PADI-certified dive center renowned for its professional instructors and commitment to safety.
Services Offered:
PADI courses (from beginner to advanced), fun dives, snorkeling trips, and equipment rentals.
Notable Dive Sites:
Maaya Thila – Famous for its rich marine life and night diving experiences.
Rasdhoo Madivaru – Known for encounters with hammerhead sharks.
Ukulhas Thila – A vibrant reef teeming with colorful corals and fish.
2. Murakabay Maldives
Why Choose Them?
A family-run, PADI-certified dive center offering personalized diving experiences and the only Nitrox facility on the island.
Services Offered:
PADI courses, Nitrox dives, snorkeling excursions, and coral restoration programs.
Notable Dive Sites:
Hafza Thila – Ideal for spotting grey reef sharks and schooling fish.
Fish Head – A renowned site with abundant marine biodiversity.
Ukulhas House Reef – Perfect for both beginners and experienced divers.
3. Ukulhas Water Sports
Why Choose Them?
Offers a variety of water sports activities suitable for all skill levels.
Services Offered:
Jet skiing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkeling equipment rentals.
Where to Stay: Accommodation Options
Ukulhas offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget and travel style—from cozy guesthouses to boutique stays—making it easy to relax and enjoy your island escape.
Hotels
1. Ukulhas Villa Oceanview Hotel & Spa
Ukulhas Villa Ocean View Hotel & Spa is set 70 metres from Ukulhas Beach. With free WiFi, this 3-star hotel has a garden and a bar.
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2. Ranthari Hotel and Spa Ukulhas Maldives
Facing the beachfront, Ranthari Hotel and Spa Ukulhas Maldives offers 4-star accommodation in Ukulhas and features an outdoor swimming pool, terrace and bar.
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3. Casaparadiso – Beach View
Facing the beachfront, Casaparadiso Beach View offers 3-star accommodation with a garden, terrace and restaurant.
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Guest Houses
1. Ostrov Beach
Ostrov Beach is a 3-star guest house offers modern accommodation, free WiFi throughout the property, as well as a terrace and a family-friendly restaurant.
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2. Shaviyani Retreat
Located within a few steps of Beach, Shaviyani Retreat features accommodation with seating area. This beachfront property offers access to darts.
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3. Island Home Inn
Island Home Inn is a sustainable guest house offering free WiFi, private beach area and garden.
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Sustainable Travel and Eco-Friendly Initiatives
It’s an island committed to preserving its pristine environment, with a focus on sustainability and eco-friendly tourism. The island’s guesthouses and tour operators emphasize eco-conscious practices, such as reducing plastic waste, promoting coral reef protection, and participating in beach clean-ups. Visitors are encouraged to support businesses that prioritize environmental responsibility and engage in local conservation efforts to help maintain Ukulhas’ natural beauty.
Best Time to Visit Ukulhas
The best time to visit is from December to April, during the dry season, when the weather is sunny and perfect for outdoor activities like beach days, diving, and water sports. While the rainy season (May to November) brings fewer crowds, it can be a great time for diving enthusiasts to spot pelagic species, with occasional rain showers and rougher seas.
Local Etiquette: What You Should Know
Ukulhas is a local inhabited island, and respecting the island’s cultural norms ensures a respectful visit:
Dress Modestly: Swimwear is permitted at the Bikini Beach, but modest clothing is expected elsewhere on the island.
Respect Religious Practices: As a Muslim community, island life follows Islamic customs, particularly during Ramadan.
Friendly Greetings: A simple “As-salamu alaykum” is warmly received by locals and a sign of respect.
Conclusion: Your Eco-Friendly Island Escape
Whether you’re snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, exploring local beaches, or immersing yourself in the island’s friendly atmosphere, Ukulhas offers a relaxing and enriching escape. Its commitment to sustainability, combined with its natural beauty and welcoming community, makes it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both adventure and authenticity in the Maldives.
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