The beach
Gulhi's bikini beach has white sand, shallow water and palm shade, and is often described as one of the nicest beaches in South Malé Atoll. There are no lifeguards, so take care beyond the shallows.
LOCAL ISLAND GUIDE · SOUTH MALÉ ATOLL
Gulhi, a small island with a big beach
A tiny fishing village with a great beach. Best for relaxing beach days, snorkelling, a quiet and affordable local island.
AtollKaafu (South Malé Atoll)
From MaléAbout 20 km south, around 30 to 60 minutes by boat
Island sizeUnder half a kilometre across, about 1,000 residents
Best forBeach, snorkelling, quiet days
ABOUT THE ISLAND
Gulhi in a few words
Gulhi is a very small island, only a few minutes' walk from one side to the other, with a long tradition of fishing and boat building. Visitors come for its beach and the calm village feel.
It sits next to busier Maafushi, so it is often chosen by people who want the same easy access to Malé with a quieter setting.
FAMOUS FOR
What Gulhi is known for
Snorkelling
Reef and turtle spots around the island are good for snorkelling, with the best visibility usually between November and April.
Diving and surf nearby
South Malé has well-known dive sites within a short boat ride, and there are surf spots for experienced surfers from around April to October. Ask us what suits you.
Fishing village life
Fishing trips, beach barbecues and walks through the island show the village life that gave Gulhi its character.
HOW TO GET THERE
Reaching Gulhi
Ferry and speedboat times change by season and by day. Share your flight and we confirm the right transfer for your dates.
Speedboats from Malé usually take between 30 and 60 minutes depending on the boat. A public ferry also runs from the Villingili terminal in Malé, taking roughly an hour and a quarter, but only on certain days (not Fridays).
Late flights can miss the last scheduled boat, so for evening arrivals we usually arrange a private speedboat from the airport.
- Wear swimwear only at the bikini beach. Cover shoulders and knees in the village.
- No bars or alcohol on the island.
- Ask permission before photographing local people.
- Friday is the prayer day, with shops and cafés closing for part of it.
GOOD TO KNOW
Before you go
- Gulhi is quiet and not a party destination.
- Bring cash. There is an ATM, but many places only take cash.
- There is a small clinic for basic needs, and serious cases go to Malé.
- The dry season is roughly November to April, with May, June and October being quieter months.
Planning a trip to Gulhi?
Tell us your dates and who is travelling. We reply on WhatsApp with options, transfers and a clear plan.
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