Baa Dharavandhoo Island Map

Baa Dharavandhoo Island Maldives

Baa Dharavandhoo is a beautiful island located in Baa Atoll, Maldives, renowned for its lush landscapes, vibrant marine life, and close proximity to the famous Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This island is a blend of local Maldivian culture and developing eco-tourism, offering visitors a variety of experiences, from diving with manta rays to exploring traditional island life. With a growing number of guesthouses and easy access to nearby resorts, Dharavandhoo is becoming a popular spot for travelers seeking an authentic, environmentally conscious Maldivian adventure.

Packages

Hotels

Transfers

Activities

Location and Geography

- Dharavandhoo is situated in the northern Baa Atoll, around 115 kilometers northwest of Malé, the Maldivian capital. The island’s tropical landscape is framed by white sandy beaches, coconut palms, and mangrove areas, making it a pristine paradise. Its location within the atoll is ideal for travelers looking to explore Baa Atoll’s marine life, with some of the best snorkeling and diving sites nearby.

Population and Community

Dharavandhoo is home to a small, friendly community of around 1,000 residents. The local population primarily engages in fishing, tourism, and crafts. In recent years, the growth of guesthouses and eco-tourism initiatives has introduced new economic opportunities for the island’s residents.

Things to Do in Baa Dharavandhoo

Snorkeling and Diving: Dharavandhoo is close to Hanifaru Bay, one of the world’s best spots to observe manta rays and whale sharks, especially from May to November. Many dive centers on the island offer guided trips to the bay and other nearby reefs.
Fishing Excursions: Fishing has long been a part of the local lifestyle. Tourists can join traditional fishing trips, experiencing local techniques and, often, enjoying a freshly grilled catch afterward.
Island Hopping: Dharavandhoo’s central location makes it ideal for island-hopping excursions to nearby uninhabited islands and luxurious resort islands, allowing visitors to experience different facets of Maldivian island life.
Cultural Experiences: The island’s locals are proud of their heritage and welcome visitors to join cultural tours, traditional dance performances, and Maldivian cuisine sampling events, providing insight into the local way of life.
Beach Relaxation: The island’s beaches, often less crowded than those on resort islands, are perfect for a day of sunbathing, picnicking, or simply taking in the serene ocean views.

Key Highlights

Hanifaru Bay: Located within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this bay is famous for its seasonal gatherings of manta rays and whale sharks.
Diving Sites: Apart from Hanifaru Bay, the waters around Dharavandhoo are home to several other rich dive sites with stunning coral reefs and a variety of marine species.
Local Maldivian Culture: With its growing eco-tourism, Dharavandhoo offers visitors the opportunity to interact closely with locals and engage in cultural activities, such as traditional music and crafts.

Facilities and Infrastructure

Health Center: Dharavandhoo has a health center offering basic medical services for residents and visitors.
School: The island has a school for primary and secondary education, serving the local community.
Shops and Markets: Small local shops provide essentials, and several souvenir shops sell traditional crafts and goods for visitors.
Restaurants and Cafes: Local eateries offer a variety of dishes, including fresh seafood, traditional Maldivian meals, and some international options.
Electricity and Internet: The island has reliable electricity and internet services, catering to both locals and tourists.

How to Get to Baa Dharavandhoo

Airport: Dharavandhoo Airport provides direct domestic flights to and from Malé, making it a convenient entry point to Baa Atoll. The airport also serves as a transfer hub for reaching nearby islands and resorts.
Ferries and Speedboats: Regular speedboat and ferry services connect Dharavandhoo to other islands within Baa Atoll, as well as the capital city. Many resorts and guesthouses offer airport pickup services.