Mangrove reserve
A protected mangrove swamp in the north of the island is home to resting birds and crabs. Quiet visits and kayaking are possible with your guesthouse.
LOCAL ISLAND GUIDE · NORTH MALÉ ATOLL
Huraa, mangroves and royal history
Mangroves, history and a car-free village. Best for culture, bird life, kayaking through mangroves and surf-season visits.
AtollKaafu (North Malé Atoll)
From MaléAbout 20 km north-east, around 30 minutes by speedboat
Island sizeAbout 850 m by 300 m, around 1,650 residents
Best forCulture, mangroves, a quiet local stay
ABOUT THE ISLAND
Huraa in a few words
Huraa is a small, flat island with no cars, close to Malé yet quiet. It is known in Maldivian history as the home of the last royal dynasty to rule the country, founded here in the eighteenth century, and the island still takes pride in its heritage.
It is one of the more peaceful islands near the capital, and the north of the island has a protected mangrove area that makes it different from most inhabited islands.
FAMOUS FOR
What Huraa is known for
Royal history
Huraa is linked to the last royal dynasty of the Maldives. Locals are happy to share the story of the island and its families.
Surf season
Visitors come in the surf season (roughly May to October) to reach breaks in North Malé Atoll by boat. Check with us which break suits your level.
A car-free village
The island is about 850 metres long, so you can walk or cycle everywhere. Many guesthouses lend bicycles.
HOW TO GET THERE
Reaching Huraa
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 or the airport take roughly 30 minutes. A public ferry also runs between Malé and Huraa, taking about an hour and a half, usually in the afternoon, and it does not run on Fridays.
Fridays and late arrivals are best handled by private or shared speedboat, which we book to match your flight.
- Swimwear is only for the bikini beach near the visitor area. Elsewhere dress modestly and swim in light clothing.
- Topless sunbathing is not allowed.
- Alcohol is not sold on the island.
- Friday is the prayer day, with shops and cafés closing for part of it.
GOOD TO KNOW
Before you go
- Shade is limited, so bring a hat and sun protection for walking around the island.
- There are a few small shops, but bring cash for them.
- Land reclamation plans have been discussed for the island, so the landscape may change over time.
- It works well as a short stay or an easy first night on a longer island trip.
Planning a trip to Huraa?
Tell us your dates and who is travelling. We reply on WhatsApp with options, transfers and a clear plan.
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