Rasdhoo Island

Rasdhoo Island is a fascinating destination in the Maldives, offering a mix of natural beauty, local culture, and exciting activities. Here’s a more detailed look at what makes Rasdhoo special.

Overview of Rasdhoo Island

Rasdhoo is the capital of Alif Alif Atoll and is located about 58 km west of Malé, the capital of the Maldives. The island is relatively small, measuring approximately 575 meters in length and 400 meters in width, but it is rich in experiences. It is home to around 1,000 locals and serves as an administrative center for the atoll.

Getting to Rasdhoo

There are several ways to reach Rasdhoo from Malé:

• Public Ferry: The most affordable option, costing around $4 per adult, but it takes about 3 hours.

• Speedboat: A faster and more convenient option, taking 1 to 1.5 hours, with a cost of approximately $35-$40.

• Seaplane: The most luxurious and quickest way, taking 15 minutes, but it is significantly more expensive at around $280.

Things to Do in Rasdhoo

1. Snorkeling & Diving

Rasdhoo is famous for its house reef, where you can spot black and white tip reef sharks, manta rays, turtles, and schools of fish. There are eight diving schools on the island, making it a great place for both beginners and experienced divers.

2. Bikini Beach

A designated beach where tourists can relax and enjoy the sun. Since Rasdhoo is a local island, bikinis are only allowed in this specific area.

3. Sandbank Excursions

A short boat ride takes you to a picturesque sandbank, perfect for photography and relaxation. If you stay until dark, you might see crabs emerging from their holes.

4. Sunset Dolphin Trips

Witness dolphins in their natural habitat while enjoying a beautiful Maldivian sunset. This is a must-do activity for nature lovers.

5. Night Fishing & BBQ

Experience traditional Maldivian fishing and enjoy a fresh seafood barbecue. This is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

6. Water Sports

You can enjoy activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. Some guesthouses offer free equipment rentals for kayaking and snorkeling.

7. Local Maldivian Cuisine

Try authentic Maldivian dishes at local restaurants like Bamboo Hut, which serves delicious kottu roshi (a chopped flatbread dish with vegetables and meat).

8. Rooftop Dining

Since Rasdhoo is a local island, alcohol is not available. However, you can enjoy mocktails and Indian cuisine at Club Gabbiano, a rooftop restaurant with stunning beach views.

Infrastructure & Facilities

Rasdhoo has guesthouses, restaurants, grocery stores, souvenir shops, a hospital, a post office, and a bank. The local bank provides an ATM, but it only dispenses Maldivian Rufiyaa. Most stores and guesthouses accept USD, but change is given in the local currency.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Rasdhoo is between November and April, when the weather is dry and sunny. The monsoon season, from May to October, brings more rain but also offers great diving conditions.