Kinolhas Island Map

Raa Kinolhas Island Maldives

Raa Kinolhas is an inhabited island in the Raa Atoll of the Maldives, offering a peaceful retreat for those seeking an authentic Maldivian experience. While it may not be as developed as some other tourist hotspots, Kinolhas provides a glimpse into traditional island life, surrounded by natural beauty and tranquility.

Packages

Hotels

Transfers

Activities

Location and Geography

Kinolhas is situated in the Raa Atoll in the northern part of the Maldives, approximately 170 kilometers north of Malé, the capital. The island is known for its stunning white sandy beaches and turquoise waters.
The island is relatively small, making it easy to explore on foot, with the main attractions being its natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere.

Population and Community

The population of Kinolhas is small, with an estimated 300 to 400 residents. The community is tightly knit, and the residents are known for their warm hospitality.
The islanders primarily engage in fishing, which is a major part of the local economy, and some residents also work in agriculture, cultivating fruits and vegetables for local consumption.

Key Highlights and Attractions

1. Pristine Beaches
- Kinolhas is home to some of the most beautiful white sandy beaches in the Raa Atoll. The untouched nature of these beaches makes them ideal for relaxation and unwinding in a peaceful environment.
- The calm, crystal-clear waters surrounding the island are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, offering a chance to explore the vibrant marine life.

2. Traditional Maldivian Culture
- The island offers visitors a chance to experience authentic Maldivian culture. The locals continue to follow traditional customs and practices, such as pole-and-line fishing and craftsmanship.
- Cultural tours on the island allow visitors to interact with the residents, learn about their way of life, and enjoy traditional Maldivian dishes.

3. Marine Life and Snorkeling
- The coral reefs around Kinolhas are rich in marine biodiversity. The shallow waters around the island are perfect for snorkeling, where visitors can encounter a variety of colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures.
- Scuba diving excursions to nearby dive sites are also available, where visitors can explore the vibrant underwater world of the Raa Atoll.

Things to Do in Kinolhas

1. Snorkeling and Diving
- The clear waters around Kinolhas make it an ideal destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. The island’s surrounding coral reefs are home to an array of marine species, offering a fantastic underwater experience.
- Snorkeling trips can be arranged to explore the shallow reefs, while diving excursions take visitors to deeper waters with more diverse marine life.

2. Fishing Trips
- Fishing is a key part of life on Kinolhas, and visitors have the opportunity to join fishing trips with local fishermen. You can learn the traditional pole-and-line fishing technique, which is still widely practiced on the island.
- Night fishing is another popular activity for tourists, offering a unique experience of catching fish under the stars.

3. Beach Picnics and Relaxation
- Visitors can spend their days relaxing on the island’s quiet beaches, enjoying the natural beauty and serenity of the surroundings. Beach picnics and barbecues can also be arranged for a more immersive island experience.

4. Cultural Interaction
- A visit to Kinolhas offers the chance to engage with the local community and learn about their traditions. Cultural tours include visits to local homes, interaction with artisans, and the opportunity to taste authentic Maldivian cuisine.

Facilities and Infrastructure

1. Accommodation
- Kinolhas is primarily a local island, so guesthouses are the main form of accommodation for visitors. These guesthouses provide a comfortable and affordable stay, offering a more intimate experience than large resorts.
2. Healthcare
- The island has a health center that provides basic medical services to the residents and visitors. For more advanced healthcare, people often travel to nearby islands or to Malé.
3. Education
- There is a school on Kinolhas that offers education to the local children. The school provides primary and secondary education, helping the younger generation of the island develop their knowledge and skills.
4. Transportation
- Kinolhas is accessible by speedboat from Ifuru Airport or Dharavandhoo Airport, which are the nearest domestic airports. Regular ferry services also connect the island to other islands in the Raa Atoll and to Malé.

How to Get to Kinolhas

By Air: The nearest domestic airports are Ifuru Airport and Dharavandhoo Airport, which are reachable from Malé via domestic flights. From the airports, visitors can take a speedboat to Kinolhas.
By Sea: Regular ferry services and speedboat transfers connect Kinolhas to other islands in the Raa Atoll and to the capital, Malé.