Baa Kendhoo Island Map

Baa Kendhoo Island Maldives

Baa Kendhoo is a charming, tranquil island located within the Baa Atoll, Maldives. Known for its unique cultural heritage and beautiful natural surroundings, Kendhoo offers travelers a more traditional Maldivian experience, complete with opportunities to explore historic sites and pristine marine ecosystems. The island is a good fit for those seeking a quieter and more culturally immersive Maldivian holiday.

Packages

Hotels

Transfers

Activities

Location and Geography

- Kendhoo is situated in the northern part of the Baa Atoll, approximately 125 kilometers northwest of Malé. The island’s scenic landscapes include white-sand beaches, clear blue lagoons, and lush greenery. Kendhoo lies within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, which helps protect the vibrant marine life and coral reefs surrounding the island.

Population and Community

With a small, close-knit community, Kendhoo’s population consists mainly of local Maldivians who are engaged in fishing, small businesses, and tourism-related activities. The small size of the community contributes to a peaceful atmosphere and a more personalized travel experience for visitors.

Things to Do in Baa Kendhoo

Snorkeling and Diving: As part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the waters around Kendhoo are teeming with diverse marine life, including various fish species, coral formations, and occasional sightings of larger sea creatures. The island’s clear waters and accessible reefs make it ideal for snorkeling and diving.
Historical Exploration: Kendhoo is known for its old mosque, the Kendhoo Friday Mosque, which is an important historical site. Visitors can explore this mosque and appreciate its architecture, which reflects traditional Maldivian craftsmanship.
Fishing Excursions: Fishing is a major livelihood on Kendhoo, and tourists can experience the island’s fishing culture through organized fishing trips. Local fishermen guide these tours, often sharing traditional fishing techniques.
Beach Activities: Kendhoo’s beaches are perfect for sunbathing, beach walks, and relaxing. Its peaceful setting offers an ideal escape for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the Maldives in a quiet, unspoiled environment.

Key Highlights

Kendhoo Friday Mosque: This historic mosque is one of the oldest in the Baa Atoll and is made from coral stone with intricate woodwork. The mosque is a cultural and architectural highlight of Kendhoo, showcasing the island’s rich history.
UNESCO Biosphere Reserve: Being within the Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve, Kendhoo is near famous snorkeling spots such as Hanifaru Bay, where manta rays congregate seasonally. The biosphere reserve also means that the area is highly protected, preserving its natural beauty and biodiversity.
Hanifaru Bay: Although not directly on Kendhoo, Hanifaru Bay is accessible from the island and is one of the Maldives’ most renowned marine sites. Visitors can take day trips to Hanifaru Bay during manta ray season.

Facilities and Infrastructure

Health Center: Kendhoo has a health center that provides basic medical services to residents and visitors alike. For advanced care, people typically travel to larger islands or Malé.
School: The island has a school that serves local students, covering primary education levels.
Shops: Kendhoo has a few local shops where visitors can purchase essentials, snacks, and local products.
Restaurants and Cafés: While limited, Kendhoo offers local eateries where visitors can enjoy traditional Maldivian meals. Freshly caught seafood and local specialties are common.
Internet Access: Internet access is available on the island, primarily through guesthouses and local SIM cards, allowing visitors to stay connected.

How to Get to Baa Kendhoo

Nearest Airport: Dharavandhoo Airport in Baa Atoll is the closest domestic airport, with flights connecting to Malé International Airport. From Dharavandhoo, Kendhoo can be reached by speedboat.
Speedboat Services: Regular speedboat services connect Kendhoo with Malé and nearby islands. Many guesthouses offer transportation assistance for their guests.