Vaadhoo: The Sea of Stars
Witness the magical 'Sea of Stars' on Vaadhoo Island, Maldives, where bioluminescent plankton create a breathtaking display of natural light.
Vaadhoo Island in the Maldives is world-renowned for its breathtaking 'Sea of Stars' phenomenon, where the shoreline glows with bioluminescent plankton, creating a magical, otherworldly experience. This tiny island offers a unique opportunity to witness nature's light show.
A brief summary to Sea of Stars
- Vaadhoo, MV
Local tips
- Visit during the wet season (May-November) for the best chance to witness the bioluminescence, with September and October often being peak months.
- Go on a night with a new moon for the darkest skies, enhancing the visibility of the glowing plankton.
- Consider staying at a nearby resort and taking a day trip to Vaadhoo, as lodging options on the island are limited.
- Respect the environment by avoiding excessive disturbance of the sand and water, helping to preserve this fragile ecosystem.
Getting There
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Air Travel & Speedboat
Most international visitors arrive at Velana International Airport (MLE) near Malé. From there, connect via a domestic flight to a closer airport like Kaadedhdhoo Airport (KDM). Several airlines offer these flights. Upon arrival at the domestic airport, a pre-booked speedboat transfer is necessary to reach Vaadhoo Island. The speedboat ride typically takes around 35 minutes. **Costs:** * Domestic Flight (MLE to KDM): $150 - $300 USD per person * Speedboat Transfer (KDM to Vaadhoo): $50 - $150 USD per person (pre-booked)
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Ferry & Local Transport
Alternatively, budget-conscious travelers can take a public ferry from Malé to a nearby island and then arrange local transport to Vaadhoo. This option involves multiple transfers and significantly longer travel times. From the airport take the ferry to Male. From Male you can take a ferry to Maavarulu Airport, and then book a RTL ferry from Maavarulu Island to Vaadhoo. **Costs:** * Airport Ferry to Male: MVR 30-60 (approx. $2 - $4 USD) * Public Ferry (Malé to nearby island): MVR 30 - MVR 60 (approx. $2 - $4 USD) for a 5-hour journey * Local Transport (from nearby island to Vaadhoo): Negotiable, but expect to pay around MVR 100-300 (approx. $7 - $20 USD).
Discover more about Sea of Stars
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Redhan Beach
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Unmissable attractions to see
Tourism Zone
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Vaadhoo Performance Stage
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Kinbi Maizan
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Vaadhoo
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Photoluminescence beach
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Maadu Beach
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Essential places to dine
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Dhimala
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3AZ STORE
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Big Jersey
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Faithful
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