Maafilaafushi Island

Maldivian island within coral atolls

A small Maldivian island at 5.36°N, 73.42°E, Maafilaafushi offers beaches, coral reefs and snorkeling; many such islands host resorts or guesthouses with boat transfers to dive sites.

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A Maldivian marine aims during marksmanship training with U.S. Marines assigned to U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific Jan. 20, 2014, as part of a noncommissioned officer development program on the island 140120-M-BO337-020.jpg
A Maldivian marine practices shooting positions after a class given by U.S. Marines assigned to Marine Corps Forces, Pacific on the island of Maafilaafushi, Maldives, Jan. 19, 2014 140119-M-BO337-017.jpg
A Maldivian marine, front, runs with a U.S. Marine assigned to U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific during physical training Jan. 18, 2014, as part of a noncommissioned officer development program on the island 140118-M-BO337-009.jpg
A Maldivian marine, right, critiques fellow Maldivian marines during marksmanship training with U.S. Marines assigned to U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific Jan. 20, 2014, as part of a noncommissioned officer 140120-M-BO337-012.jpg
A. K. Antony laying the foundation stone of the Composite Maritime Training Academy of Maldives, at Maafilaafushi Island, to be built with Indian assistance.jpg
Maldivian marines listen during a class conducted by U.S. Marines assigned to U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific Jan. 20, 2014, as part of a noncommissioned officer development program on the island 140120-M-BO337-016.jpg

Maafilaafushi at a Glance#

How to Get to Maafilaafushi#

Maafilaafushi is reached by seaplane or speedboat transfers from Malé International Airport (Velana International), depending on distance. Visitors should arrange transfers through resorts or local guesthouses; public ferry services exist for inhabited local islands but schedules can be limited.

Tips for Visiting Maafilaafushi#

  • Respect local rules for resorts - many Maldives islands are private and require advance permission or booking through a resort.
  • Bring reef-safe sunscreen and follow local guidance for marine protection.

Best Time to Visit Maafilaafushi#

Best time: November-April for best weather and sea conditions.

Dry season (northeast monsoon)
November-April · 25-31°C
Calmer seas and sunnier skies - the peak tourist season and best time for diving.
Wet season (southwest monsoon)
May-October · 25-31°C
Hotter, wetter, and windier - good for lower prices but heavier swells and rain.

Weather & Climate near Maafilaafushi#

Climate
Air Quality: AQI 52 Moderate
Temperature & Rainfall
Temperature Range
31°
Warmest Month
25°
Coldest Month