{"id":3790,"date":"2022-09-30T08:15:12","date_gmt":"2022-09-30T08:15:12","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/maldives-paradise.com\/?p=3790"},"modified":"2025-10-09T14:57:11","modified_gmt":"2025-10-09T14:57:11","slug":"gaafaru-island-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/maldives-paradise.com\/en_us\/2022\/09\/gaafaru-island-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Gaafaru island guide"},"content":{"rendered":"

The Maldives is an archipelago<\/strong> with nearly 1,192 islands<\/strong> and 3.14% of the planet\u2019s coral reefs<\/strong>. Home to white sand beaches<\/strong>, crystalline blue waters, and swaying palms, the country offers tourists an unmatched opportunity to explore nature and marine life. Divided into public<\/strong> and private islands<\/strong>, Maldives is now an ideal destination for both luxurious and budget trips.<\/p>\n

In 2009, the authorities opened public islands<\/strong> for international guests. Tourists can now easily plan cheaper stays on inhabited islands where they can immerse themselves in the Maldivian lifestyle<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Gaafaru<\/strong> is one such destination. A true hidden gem<\/strong> of an inhabited island, in Gaafaru, you\u2019ll get to connect with locals<\/strong> and learn about regional customs<\/strong> while enjoying a secluded holiday<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\"sandbank<\/p>\n

About Gaafaru<\/h2>\n

Gaafaru is a Maldivian public island still under the radar of most tourists<\/strong>. Situated 62.03 Km north of the Mal\u00e9<\/strong>, the island is relatively easier to reach and thus favors budget-friendly travelers<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Gaafaru\u2019s area spans 0.163 Km\u00b2<\/strong>, and the island has about 1400 inhabitants. Most locals earn from fishing<\/strong>; however, tourism<\/strong> is gaining prominence lately.<\/p>\n

Surrounded by a reef<\/strong> and 30 meters deep lagoon<\/strong>, Gaafaru lies on the eastern side of the Kaafu Atoll<\/strong>. The island\u2019s \u201cBurulu Falhu<\/strong>\u201d lagoon is the second largest in the Maldives<\/strong>, famous for its turtle population.<\/p>\n

Embedded in a tiny atoll of the same name, Gaafaru is famously known as the \u2018jewel of the Kaafu atoll.\u2019<\/strong> That\u2019s because Gaafaru\u2019s position in the group of islands resembles a pendant in a necklace.<\/p>\n

Regarded as one of the cleanest islands<\/strong>, Gaafaru is an ideal spot for travelers wanting to enjoy quality beach time<\/strong> as well as marine flora and fauna. Given the island\u2019s scarce population<\/strong>, it is a suitable option for visitors looking to experience authentic Maldivian culture<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Gaafaru island<\/h2>\n

Painted in bold, quirky shades like lilac, orange, and blue, most homes on this island are vibrant<\/strong> in appearance. Moreover, Gaafaru is in close proximity to two sandbanks<\/strong>, where you can go during the day for a private lunch and a swim<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Unlike some of the more isolated inhabited islands, Gaafaru has all the necessary facilities<\/strong>. For tourists, Blue Haven Boutique and 4S Art are shops<\/strong> from where you can pick up locally made souvenirs. The island also has a couple of general stores<\/strong> selling daily household items.<\/p>\n

Additionally, the is a school<\/strong>, health center<\/strong>, pharmacy<\/strong>, youth club, playground<\/strong>, futsal field, and a children\u2019s park<\/strong> in Gaafaru.<\/p>\n

You won\u2019t find an ATM<\/strong> at present on the island. Some places accept credit cards, but it is best to carry cash<\/strong>, either USD or Maldivian Rufiyaa. A few guesthouses in Gaafaru offer money-changing services<\/strong>. However, you\u2019ll get a better conversion rate at Velana International Airport upon arrival.<\/p>\n

\"Maldivian<\/p>\n

How to reach Gaafaru<\/h2>\n

As with most islands near Mal\u00e9, there are two main transport options to visit Gaafaru. Whether you choose public or private transportation<\/strong> depends primarily on your budget and how much time you have on hand.<\/p>\n

Shared speedboat<\/h3>\n

Vella Express and Dream Speed are the speedboat options currently, charging $35 per passenger. The journey from Mal\u00e9 to Gaafaru takes roughly 60 to 75 minutes<\/strong>. Usually, the boat leaves from jetty six around 3:30 every day except Fridays. The speedboat from Gaafaru to Mal\u00e9 leaves the island at 7:30 AM.<\/p>\n

Private speedboat<\/h3>\n

Private speed boats<\/strong> are available for guests wishing to travel on their schedule. The fare is around $200<\/strong> ($100 per person for two people and $50 per person for four people) for the 75-minute journey. If you must travel during rough weather conditions, the price can go up to $500 one way.<\/p>\n

Public ferry<\/h3>\n

The cheapest option to reach Gaafaru<\/strong> is by MTCC ferry. One side trip cost only $5. However, the duration of the journey increases to over three hours<\/strong>. While ferries are larger and thus travel slower, it is not the best option if you get seasick quickly. The ferries leave Mal\u00e9 ferry port on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays at 11:00 AM. The return ferry is available only on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, sailing from Gaafaru at 9:00 AM.<\/p>\n

Transportation around Gaafaru<\/h2>\n

Gaafaru is a tiny island best spanned on foot<\/strong>. Tourists don\u2019t need to look for rental bikes or motorcycles and can easily cover the local area by walking<\/strong>. Moreover, entirely covered in sand, the place does not have motorable roads.<\/p>\n

Distance from one side to the other is less than a kilometer-long walk<\/strong> and will take about 15-20 minutes<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\"Turtle<\/p>\n

Things to do in Gaafaru<\/h2>\n

Gaafaru is suitable for people looking to stray away from crowds<\/strong> while enjoying the best of island life. Things to do in Gaafaru include classic Maldivian excursions <\/strong>with some truly exclusive options<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Snorkel with turtles<\/h3>\n

For beginners, snorkeling is an excellent way to swim on the water\u2019s surface and observe aquatic life<\/strong>. When snorkeling in Gaafaru, you\u2019re more than likely to come across sea turtles<\/strong> near the house reef, located a short boat ride from the shore. When in the water, do remember to maintain a safe distance<\/strong> from any turtle or fish families spotted nearby.<\/p>\n

Go fish<\/h3>\n

Gaafaru is predominantly a fishing island<\/strong> and offers multiple opportunities for guests to partake in the local heritage and tradition<\/strong>. In fact, you\u2019ll find that many locals set up a barbeque on the road<\/strong> outside their homes after a good day\u2019s catch.<\/p>\n

The best part about visiting a public island is the chance to mingle with locals. Gaafaru residents are welcoming<\/strong> and happy to share information about their island. They are forthcoming when disclosing techniques for cooking fish the island way<\/strong>. Furthermore, tourists can book a fishing tour <\/strong>with a beach barbeque<\/strong> of their own through most guesthouses in Gaafaru.<\/p>\n

Take a dolphin cruise<\/h3>\n

Among the fun things to do in Gaafaru with family is taking a dolphin cruise<\/strong>. Tourists can go on a boat ride for a laidback cruise and watch dolphins perform an exciting show. For a more romantic visual experience<\/strong>, opt for the hour-long sunset cruise<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\"Wreck<\/p>\n

Enjoy wreck diving<\/h3>\n

Gaafaru has several shipwrecks in its vicinity<\/strong>, making it one of the best places to go scuba diving in the Maldives. If coming to the island solely for diving, the best time is from January to May<\/strong>, when the current is weak<\/strong>, and there is good underwater visibility<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Must-visit wreck dives near Gaafaru are;<\/strong><\/p>\n

The SS Seagull<\/strong> is the most famous wreck near the island, located on the atoll\u2019s eastern edge. The 1000-ton steamship<\/strong> was apparently on its way to India in 1879<\/strong> when it went down. Today you can see the anchor at about 6 meters on the top of the reef. The rest of the ship is lying at about 30 meters.<\/p>\n

Lady Christine<\/strong> and Erlangen are two more wrecks you can visit comfortably while staying in Gaafaru. The former is a wreck of a survey vessel<\/strong> from 1974<\/strong>. At the same time, Erlangen<\/strong> gets its name from the city of the ship\u2019s origin in Germany. The vessel was sailing from Colombo when it met its fate. Divers will find its parts scattered from 5 meters down to 40 meters<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Relax on the Bikini Beach<\/h3>\n

The island has two beaches; South Beach<\/strong> and Gaafaru Beach<\/strong>. Being a Muslim country, the public guidelines direct tourists to keep themselves covered while enjoying Gaafaru Beach.<\/p>\n

Guests looking to don swimwear can head towards South Beach, also known as Bikini Beach<\/strong>. Solely meant for tourists, you can indulge in water sports like canoeing<\/strong>, riding a banana boat<\/strong>, and jet skiing<\/strong> here.<\/p>\n

Unlike Maafushi, the beach in Gaafaru is a secluded paradise<\/strong> with next to no tourists. Additionally, a few loungers and thatched umbrellas<\/strong> on the sand help save you from the sun.<\/p>\n

\"Food<\/p>\n

Places to eat in Gaafaru<\/h2>\n

Even though it is a tiny island, Gaafaru has several places where tourists can grab full-course meals or snacks<\/strong>. There are both standalone<\/strong> and guesthouse restaurants<\/strong> in Gaafaru.<\/p>\n

AMICO The Island Kitchen<\/h3>\n

Located towards the center of the island, AMICO is at a 300m distance from Gaafaru Beach<\/strong>. The establishment serves continental and Maldivian food<\/strong>, from burgers and fried fish to mas huni and roshi, a combination of tuna and grated coconut served with plain flour flatbread. The restaurant has indoor seating<\/strong>. However, dotted with several plants, the alfresco courtyard <\/strong>has a charming rustic cottage feel.<\/p>\n

Island Deck<\/h3>\n

The cafe happens to be one of the highest buildings in Gaafaru<\/strong>. Guests can enter the seating area by climbing up the metal staircase<\/strong> and enjoying scenic views<\/strong> of the entire island. Furthermore, guests can enjoy regular BBQ nights<\/strong>, and access paid wi-fi<\/strong>. Island Deck accepts credit cards, thus making it easier for tourists facing a cash shortage.<\/p>\n

Panama Cafe<\/h3>\n

Highlighted with bright red brick decor<\/strong>, Panama Cafe offers a restful ambiance for tourists. Operating from 6 to 12 AM, the place serves an assortment of snacks<\/strong>, soft drinks, and beverages<\/strong> like tea and coffee. Guests can sit back, watch television<\/strong> in the main seating area, and even charge their electronic devices.<\/p>\n

The Slice Gaafaru<\/h3>\n

Located close to Gaafaru Beach<\/strong>, The Slice is an air-conditioned dine-in restaurant <\/strong>serving starters, beverages, and wholesome meals. Their Indian menu includes gravy dishes like Chicken Masala<\/strong> and Fish Masala<\/strong> with rice entrees like Chicken Biryani and Jeera Rice. Moreover, guests can order various pizzas, mocktails, shakes, and desserts.<\/p>\n

Reef Caf\u00e9<\/h3>\n

Near Gaafaru\u2019s futsal field, Reef Cafe is a small establishment<\/strong> operating from 5:30 to 12:30 AM. The restaurant\u2019s d\u00e9cor is all wooden, from the ceiling to the walls and furniture. Reef Cafe has both ground-level<\/strong> and first-floor seating<\/strong>. The latter offers lovely views of the surroundings<\/strong>. Reef Cafe is best known for its Maldivian short eats and continental fares like club sandwiches<\/strong> and French fries<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\"Guesthouse<\/p>\n

Best hotels and guesthouses in Gaafaru<\/h2>\n

To gain an on-arrival visa in the Maldives, travelers must show proof of stay<\/strong> made in advance. When visiting a public island, you can book a room in one of the guesthouses.<\/p>\n

Although guesthouses started opening on islands more than a decade ago, Gaafaru joined the tourism bandwagon much later<\/strong>. Now, there are a few guesthouses and pocket-friendly hotels in Gaafaru, promising relaxed and convenient accommodations<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Gaafaru View Inn<\/h3>\n

A stay at Gaafaru View Inn is one of the best options for budget travelers in the Maldives<\/strong>. The guesthouse is only two minutes from Bikini Beach<\/strong>, near one of the most impressive lagoons in the country. Offering complimentary breakfast<\/strong> and wi-fi<\/strong> services to all guests, Gaafaru View Inn is a well-known establishment and a top choice for travelers<\/strong> visiting the island. The Inn has several room choices, ranging from family to double<\/strong> and triple<\/strong> bedrooms. The place further provides free cots for kids<\/strong> below three years and an extra bed for kids<\/strong> between 4 to 11 years. Additionally, tourists can avail benefits of toiletries, currency exchange services<\/strong>, and ironing amenities.<\/p>\n

Mariana Inn<\/h3>\n

Located within a minute\u2019s distance from Gaafaru Beach, Mariana Inn is a 3-star guesthouse<\/strong> with basic amenities like daily housekeeping, 24-hour room service<\/strong>, and free wi-fi<\/strong>. Here, guests can book a cozy air-conditioned deluxe double<\/strong>, deluxe triple, honeymoon double, or quadruple family room. Mariana Inn also provides airport transfers<\/strong> from 3:30 PM to 7 AM at an additional cost. Marina Inn is especially known for its generous breakfast<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Old Town Inn<\/h3>\n

Old Town Inn is a wheelchair-accessible property with clean family rooms<\/strong>, a shared lounge<\/strong>, and a garden<\/strong>. Designed with minimalist wooden decor<\/strong>, rooms include facilities like a safety deposit box, linens, air-conditioner<\/strong>, flatscreen TVs<\/strong>, refrigerator, and tea\/ coffee maker. This guesthouse in Gaafaru also has an in-house restaurant<\/strong> that accepts outside guests. The friendly staff at Old Town Inn helps tourists plan outdoor recreation<\/strong> activities such as boating, fishing, canoeing, snorkeling, and diving.<\/p>\n

Landmark Inn<\/h3>\n

Located in the center of Gaafaru<\/strong>, Landmark Inn is a 4-star property<\/strong>, close to all major attractions and a 2-minute walk from both beaches<\/strong>. Even though the check-in time is noon, guests can request a different time based on their arrival at the island. The rooms are simple<\/strong>, with only the necessary furniture. Some have a small sitting area<\/strong> outside. Breakfast at Landmark Inn is special, with several options, including continental and Asian halal meals.<\/p>\n

Mirian Sky Hotel<\/h3>\n

Established in 2016<\/strong>, Mirian Sky includes a restaurant, eight cozy rooms<\/strong>, and two balconies with a beach view. The rooms come with flatscreen TVs<\/strong>, air-conditioners<\/strong>, beds with side tables, and en-suite bathrooms<\/strong>. The island\u2019s Bikini Beach is a couple of minutes away from here. Tourists can further contact the owners for services like travel<\/strong>, proposal dinners<\/strong>, wedding celebrations<\/strong>, and birthday parties<\/strong>. Since the hotel has an on-site restaurant<\/strong>, guests can indulge in Maldivian and intercontinental meals or have a BBQ dinner on the beach<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

N.B.:<\/strong> All information is correct as of the post-publication date, and prices are subject to change.<\/em><\/p>\n

The post Gaafaru island guide first appeared on Love The Maldives.<\/p>\n

Check availability at Mirian Sky Hotel<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

The Maldives is an archipelago with nearly 1,192 islands and 3.14% of the planet\u2019s coral reefs. Home to white sand beaches, crystalline blue waters, and swaying palms, the country offers tourists an unmatched opportunity to […]<\/a><\/div>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":3793,"comment_status":"close","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[20],"tags":[163,270,162,268,269,161],"class_list":{"0":"post-3790","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-tips","8":"tag-diving-maldives","9":"tag-dolphin-tour-maldives","10":"tag-fishing-maldives","11":"tag-gaafaru-island","12":"tag-mirian-sky-hotel","13":"tag-snorkeling-maldives"},"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"http:\/\/maldives-paradise.com\/en_us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3790","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"http:\/\/maldives-paradise.com\/en_us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"http:\/\/maldives-paradise.com\/en_us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/maldives-paradise.com\/en_us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/maldives-paradise.com\/en_us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3790"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"http:\/\/maldives-paradise.com\/en_us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3790\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":43319,"href":"http:\/\/maldives-paradise.com\/en_us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3790\/revisions\/43319"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/maldives-paradise.com\/en_us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3793"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"http:\/\/maldives-paradise.com\/en_us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3790"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/maldives-paradise.com\/en_us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3790"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/maldives-paradise.com\/en_us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3790"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}