Solo Island Retreat: Discovering Dhigurah in the Maldives

Beneath the Surface: Discovering Dhigurah's Aquatic Treasures

As the sun began its ascent, painting the sky with hues of pink and orange, I knew today would be special. It was Day 2 of my solo retreat in Dhigurah, and I was eager to explore the underwater wonders that this Maldivian paradise held. The promise of swimming with turtles, witnessing coral restoration, and venturing into the famed South Ari Marine Park (SAMPa) filled me with anticipation. It felt like stepping back into my childhood in the Seychelles, where the ocean was my playground and every day was a new adventure.



My day started with a hearty breakfast at Aveli Restaurant. The gentle sea breeze and the aroma of freshly baked bread and tropical fruits set the perfect tone for the adventures ahead. I savored a delightful fusion of European and Maldivian flavors, fueling up for a day of snorkeling and exploration. The staff were incredibly welcoming, making me feel right at home – a testament to the warm hospitality that Dhigurah is known for. I made a mental note to try and replicate some of the dishes when I return to Bonn, perhaps Hans would appreciate a taste of the islands.

The ocean stirs the heart, inspires the imagination and brings eternal joy to the soul.

With my snorkeling gear in tow, I made my way to Turtle Reef, a renowned spot just a short walk from the main beach. The crystal-clear waters beckoned, promising an encounter with the gentle giants of the sea. As I slipped beneath the surface, I was immediately greeted by a kaleidoscope of colors. Schools of vibrant fish darted among the coral formations, creating a mesmerizing underwater dance. And then, there they were – sea turtles, graceful and serene, gliding effortlessly through the water. I watched in awe as they munched on sea grass, their ancient eyes seemingly unfazed by my presence. It was a truly magical experience, one that reminded me of the simple joys of island life back in Anse Boileau. The reef was teeming with life; I even spotted a small reef shark in the distance, adding an extra thrill to the experience. I spent a good hour exploring the reef, each moment more captivating than the last. The visibility was excellent, allowing me to fully appreciate the intricate beauty of the coral and the diverse marine life it sheltered. It was exactly the kind of immersive experience I had been craving, a chance to reconnect with the ocean and feel the pulse of nature.


Explore Turtle Reef: A Snorkeler's Paradise in Dhigurah with Vibrant Marine Life and Stunning Coral Reefs.

Next on my itinerary was the Coral Mission, a coral reef plantation dedicated to restoring and preserving these vital ecosystems. I was eager to learn about their efforts and witness firsthand the work being done to rehabilitate damaged reefs. The Coral Mission operates by creating coral nurseries where coral fragments can grow and thrive in a protected environment. These fragments are collected from various locations around the Maldives, where reef damage from snorkelers, divers, and construction work is common. The dead portions are removed, and the living fragments are then affixed to handmade PVC pipe structures within the nursery.


Immerse yourself in marine conservation at Coral Mission, a unique attraction dedicated to coral reef restoration and vibrant underwater exploration in Dhigurah.

As I listened to the marine biologist explain the process, I was struck by the dedication and passion of the team. They were not just planting corals; they were nurturing hope for the future of our oceans. I even had the opportunity to participate in the planting process, carefully attaching a coral fragment to a designated structure. It was a small act, but it felt incredibly meaningful. Contributing to the restoration of these underwater gardens was a rewarding experience, connecting me even further to the natural beauty of Dhigurah. I thought about how wonderful it would be to bring Hans here; he would be fascinated by the science behind the project. I made a mental note to research similar initiatives closer to home, perhaps something we could support in the Rhine River.



After a morning of underwater exploration and conservation efforts, it was time for lunch. I headed to Reef Restaurant, known for its diverse buffet offerings and stunning views. The restaurant was buzzing with activity, a mix of tourists and locals enjoying the midday meal. I indulged in a variety of dishes, savoring the fresh seafood and local delicacies. The flavors were vibrant and authentic, a true reflection of Maldivian cuisine. As I ate, I gazed out at the turquoise waters, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience this island paradise.


Experience the best of local and international cuisine at Reef Restaurant in Dhigurah – a buffet paradise for every traveler.

In the afternoon, I set out to explore the South Ari Marine Park (SAMPa), a protected area renowned for its whale shark sightings. I joined a guided tour, eager to encounter these gentle giants in their natural habitat. As our boat cruised through the azure waters, the excitement was palpable. The guide shared fascinating facts about whale sharks, their behavior, and the importance of conservation efforts. SAMPA, declared by the Maldivian government in June 2009, is the largest protected area in the Maldives, encompassing 42 km² of coral reef habitat. The area was selected for protection because of its importance as a globally significant aggregation site for the whale shark *Rhincodon typus*. The MPA consists of a 42 km swathe of sea around the southern base of South Ari Atoll. The MPA extends to 1 km from the shoreline and runs from Rangali island (home to the Conrad Maldives resort) at its north western edge, round to the end of the local inhabited island of Dhigurah at its north eastern extremity.


Experience the vibrant marine life and stunning coral reefs at South Ari Marine Park, one of the Maldives' most beautiful nature preserves.

And then, a shout – Whale shark! – broke the silence. All eyes turned to the water, and there it was, a massive yet graceful creature gliding beneath the surface. We quickly donned our snorkeling gear and slipped into the water, careful to maintain a respectful distance. Swimming alongside a whale shark was an awe-inspiring experience. Its sheer size was humbling, yet its gentle demeanor put me at ease. I watched in amazement as it filtered plankton through its massive mouth, a silent giant in its underwater realm. It was a moment I would never forget, a testament to the incredible biodiversity of the Maldives.



As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the island, I decided to unwind at The Lagoon Bar. This charming bar is the perfect place for tourists looking to unwind and relax after a day of exploring the beautiful surroundings. Known for its laid-back ambiance, the Lagoon Bar features comfortable seating with stunning views of the shimmering ocean, making it an ideal spot to watch the sunset while sipping on a refreshing drink. Sipping on a tropical cocktail, I reflected on the day's adventures. From swimming with turtles to planting corals and encountering a whale shark, it had been a day filled with wonder and discovery. Dhigurah had exceeded my expectations, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and meaningful experiences. I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to reconnect with my island roots and rediscover the magic of the ocean.


Experience tropical paradise at The Lagoon Bar in Dhigurah, where breathtaking lagoon views meet refreshing drinks and a laid-back atmosphere.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore the Dhigurah west reef, the Coral garden, and 5 rocks (oceanholic). I'm also hoping to pick up a souvenir at the Sting Ray Souvenir Shop.


For dinner, I treated myself to a culinary delight at Umami, a restaurant specializing in blending traditional Maldivian flavors with contemporary cooking techniques. The ambiance was warm and inviting, the perfect setting for a solo celebration of a day well spent. The attentive staff enhanced my dining experience with personalized service, making me feel like a valued guest. I savored every bite, appreciating the artistry and passion that went into each dish. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


Experience the perfect blend of local Maldivian flavors and international cuisine at Umami in Dhigurah.

Back in my guesthouse, as I journaled about my day, I felt a profound sense of peace and contentment. Dhigurah had cast its spell on me, reminding me of the beauty and simplicity of island life. As I drifted off to sleep, I dreamt of turtles, corals, and whale sharks, eager to see what tomorrow would bring.