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Goidhoo Island: A Tranquil Escape in Baa Atoll

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Discover Goidhoo Island: Pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and authentic Maldivian culture in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Goidhoo Island, nestled in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offers an authentic Maldivian experience away from the bustling tourist crowds. Known for its pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and strong community bonds, Goidhoo provides a peaceful retreat with opportunities for cultural immersion and natural exploration.

A brief summary to Goidhoo

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Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Goidhoo.

  • Visit the bikini beach on the south side of the island for swimming, as seaweed can be prevalent in other areas.
  • Bring snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant house reef and diverse marine life.
  • Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting local villages and religious sites.
  • Try local dishes at small eateries for an authentic taste of Maldivian cuisine.
  • There is no ATM on Goidhoo, so bring enough cash for your stay.

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Getting There

  • Speedboat

    The most common way to reach Goidhoo is by speedboat from Malé. Upon arrival at Malé International Airport (MLE), you can take a public speedboat from the Readily ship terminal. The speedboat journey takes approximately 1.45 to 2 hours, depending on the weather. Public speedboats depart from Malé at 9 am on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays and return from Goidhoo at 1:30 pm on the same days. A one-way ticket costs approximately $30-50. Alternatively, you can book a private speedboat for around $900-$1000.

  • Domestic Flight and Speedboat

    Another option is to take a domestic flight from Malé to Dharavandhoo Airport (DRV), followed by a speedboat transfer to Goidhoo. Flights operate daily and take about 25 minutes, costing around $95 one way. From Dharavandhoo Airport, a speedboat to Goidhoo takes approximately 40 minutes and costs $150-$200 to rent. Booking flights through your guesthouse may be cheaper.

  • Ferry

    A public ferry travels weekly from Male to Goidhoo, and the journey takes approximately 12 hours. From the Goidhoo harbor, it is a short walk to anywhere on the island. The ferry, route 206, also connects Goidhoo with Eydhafushi. Ferry schedules and updated prices can be found on the Moovit app.

Discover more about Goidhoo

Goidhoo Island, part of the Baa Atoll, presents a unique blend of natural beauty and traditional Maldivian culture. Unlike many commercialized islands, Goidhoo retains its authentic charm, offering visitors a glimpse into the local way of life. The island is approximately 100 km northwest of Malé and is separated from the main Baa Atoll by a 10 km wide channel.The island itself is relatively large, measuring 2.2 km by 1.8 km, and is home to freshwater lakes, a rarity in the Maldives. According to local legend, in the late 19th century, a freed slave named Salaama settled on the island, marking the beginning of its recent inhabitation. Today, the island has a small population of around 600 residents who maintain strong community bonds and a traditional way of life centered around fishing, small-scale agriculture, and handicrafts.Visitors to Goidhoo can explore the island's pristine beaches, snorkel in the vibrant house reef, and discover the unique marine life, including turtles, rays, and sharks. The island is also known for its large amphibian crabs, which can be seen near the lakes. For a cultural experience, visitors can explore traditional Maldivian houses built with coral stone and visit the Goidhoo Mosque, a historic site recognized by the Maldivian government. Goidhoo offers a tranquil escape where you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty and authentic culture of the Maldives.
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