Everything You Need to Know About Dhaalu Atoll: The Ultimate Travel Guide
If you’re searching for the perfect mix of luxury, serenity, and adventure, look no further than Dhaalu Atoll in the Maldives. 🌊 With pristine lagoons, untouched reefs, and a growing lineup of luxury resorts, Dhaalu is becoming a favorite for both honeymooners and experience-seekers alike.
Let’s explore why Dhaalu Atoll deserves a spot on your Maldives itinerary.
📍 Where is Dhaalu Atoll?
Dhaalu Atoll, also known as South Nilandhe Atoll, is located in the central-south part of the Maldives, about 150 km southwest of Malé. It comprises 46 islands, 7 of which are inhabited, and many are now home to ultra-luxury resorts.
- ✈️ Easily accessible via domestic flight or seaplane
- Known for its deep lagoons, rich history, and vibrant marine life
🌟 Why Visit Dhaalu Atoll?
- 🛥️ Home to some of the Maldives’ most innovative resorts
- 🐠 Unspoiled coral reefs and dive sites for underwater exploration
- 🧘♀️ Perfect for wellness retreats, honeymoons, and quiet getaways
- 🐢 Great chance to spot turtles, manta rays, and dolphins
- 🏖️ Wide sandy beaches, ideal for families and couples alike
Dhaalu Atoll is a blend of barefoot luxury and authentic island life.
🛎️ Best Resorts in Dhaalu Atoll
1. St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort
- 🏆 One of the most luxurious resorts in the Maldives
- Iconic whale bar, private villas, and world-class butler service
- Perfect for high-end honeymoons and elite travelers
2. Niyama Private Islands Maldives
- 🏝️ Sprawled over two islands – Chill & Play
- Underwater nightclub, surfable waves, and a family-friendly vibe
- Great for couples, solo travelers, and families
3. Kandima Maldives
- 💃 A fun, lifestyle-oriented resort with affordable luxury
- Longest pool in the Maldives, art classes, and vibrant atmosphere
- Ideal for social travelers, digital nomads, and wellness lovers
4. Angsana Velavaru
- 🌊 Unique “InOcean” villas built entirely over water
- Family-friendly resort with a strong focus on marine conservation
🐠 Top Things to Do in Dhaalu Atoll
🤿 1. Scuba Diving & Snorkeling
- Discover untouched dive sites teeming with fish, coral, and reef sharks
- Top dive spots include Lohis, Kandima Thila, and Dhiggaru Kandu
🐬 2. Dolphin & Manta Watching
- Frequent sightings of spinner dolphins and manta rays, especially from November to April
🧘 3. Wellness & Spa Treatments
- Resorts like St. Regis and Niyama offer luxurious overwater spas, yoga sessions, and holistic healing
🏄♀️ 4. Surfing
- Some islands in Dhaalu receive seasonal surf breaks, a rare gem in the Maldives!
🏝️ 5. Island Hopping & Cultural Visits
- Explore local life on inhabited islands like Rinbudhoo (famous for silvercraft) or Kudahuvadhoo (known for mysterious historical mounds called hawittas)
🌤️ Best Time to Visit Dhaalu Atoll
- Dry Season (Nov – Apr): Best for sunbathing, snorkeling, diving, and marine sightings
- Wet Season (May – Oct): Fewer tourists, lush greenery, and occasional tropical rain
🌡️ Temperatures remain consistent between 27°C and 31°C (80–88°F) all year round.
🛫 How to Get to Dhaalu Atoll
- Fly into Velana International Airport (Malé)
- From there, you have two main options:
- 🛩️ Seaplane: 45–60 minutes (most luxurious and scenic)
- 🛬 Domestic flight to Dhaalu Airport or Kudahuvadhoo Airport, followed by a short speedboat transfer to your resort
Most resorts arrange all transfers for a seamless arrival.
💼 Travel Tips for Dhaalu Atoll
- 🎒 Pack light — island life is casual and comfortable
- 🧴 Bring reef-safe sunscreen and bug spray
- 📷 Don’t forget a GoPro or waterproof camera
- 👕 Dress modestly when visiting local islands
- 🛍️ Support local artisans by purchasing handcrafted souvenirs on inhabited islands
🌅 Final Thoughts
Dhaalu Atoll is a place where modern luxury meets ancient charm, offering everything from underwater adventures to spa indulgence and authentic island culture.
Whether you’re diving with mantas, sipping cocktails on a sandbank, or simply enjoying the view from your overwater villa — Dhaalu promises unforgettable moments in paradise. ✨🌴