Dhigurah Island | Baa Atoll

Dhigurah Island is a beautiful, inhabited island located in the South Ari Atoll of the Maldives. Known for its long stretch of white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, Dhigurah is a popular destination for travelers looking for an authentic Maldivian experience, away from the luxury resorts and large tourist crowds. The island is well-known for its affordable guesthouses, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers who still want to enjoy the beauty and culture of the Maldives.

Location and Geography

Dhigurah is situated in the southern part of the South Ari Atoll, which is known for its diving sites and abundant marine life. The island is relatively small, about 1.5 kilometers long, with a width of around 200 meters. The island's landscape includes palm trees, sandy beaches, and lush vegetation, offering an ideal tropical island environment. Its surrounding waters are home to rich marine biodiversity, including coral reefs, and it's also located near popular dive sites that attract snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.

Population and Local Life

Dhigurah is an inhabited island with a population of approximately 1,000–1,500 people. The local community primarily engages in fishing, tourism, and agriculture. Unlike some of the luxury resorts in the Maldives, Dhigurah offers a glimpse into everyday life in the Maldives, with traditional Maldivian houses, small shops, and local eateries.

Fishing: Fishing plays an essential role in the local economy, with many residents still relying on traditional fishing methods, such as pole-and-line fishing.

Agriculture: Though not as prominent as fishing, the island has small-scale agriculture, with coconut palms being a common crop. Locals also grow fruits such as bananas, papayas, and vegetables.

Tourism: Tourism has been growing on Dhigurah, as more visitors are drawn to the island’s affordability and the opportunity to experience local Maldivian culture. Many visitors stay in guesthouses, which are a more budget-friendly option compared to luxury resorts.

Attractions and Activities

Dhigurah Island is known for its natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and various activities centered around its stunning beaches and marine life.

Beaches: The island boasts beautiful, pristine beaches, with the most notable being Dhigurah Beach, a long, white sand beach perfect for sunbathing and relaxing. The beach offers clear waters for swimming and is a fantastic spot for leisurely walks.

Snorkeling and Diving: Dhigurah is surrounded by vibrant coral reefs, making it an excellent destination for snorkeling and diving. The waters around the island are home to diverse marine life, including tropical fish, rays, and the possibility of encountering manta rays and whale sharks. The island is close to popular dive sites in South Ari Atoll, such as the Whale Shark Reef and Manta Point, where these magnificent creatures can be observed. Many local guesthouses and dive centers on the island offer guided snorkeling and diving tours.

Whale Shark Watching: One of the main attractions near Dhigurah is the opportunity to see whale sharks, the largest fish in the world. These gentle giants frequent the waters of South Ari Atoll, and Dhigurah is strategically located to offer excellent opportunities for whale shark sightings, either from a boat or while snorkeling. The island is part of the Whale Shark Marine Protected Area.

Excursions and Island Hopping: The island is well-connected to other islands in the South Ari Atoll, making it a good base for island hopping and exploring nearby uninhabited islands, sandbars, and resort islands. Guests can arrange excursions to visit other islands, go on sunset cruises, or enjoy picnic excursions on secluded beaches.

Fishing Trips: Since fishing is a central part of local life, guests can also enjoy traditional Maldivian fishing trips, either for big-game fishing or more relaxed night fishing excursions.

Dining and Cuisine

While Dhigurah doesn’t offer the wide range of dining options found in larger resort islands, the island has several local restaurants and cafes where visitors can enjoy traditional Maldivian food and international dishes.

Local Cuisine: Traditional Maldivian dishes are served in small eateries on the island. Common dishes include mas huni (a breakfast dish made with tuna, coconut, and flatbread), garudhiya (fish soup), and various curries and rice dishes, often made with fresh tuna or reef fish.

International Cuisine: Many guesthouses also offer international food options such as pizza, pasta, and grilled meats, catering to the diverse tastes of their guests.

Cafes and Bars: There are several cafes and bars on the island where visitors can enjoy a refreshing drink or light snacks, with views of the beach.

Accommodation

Dhigurah offers a range of guesthouses and small hotels, providing more affordable options compared to the high-end resorts in the Maldives. The guesthouses are typically family-run, offering a more personal and authentic experience for travelers. Most accommodations on the island are beachfront or within walking distance of the beach, providing easy access to the island’s main attractions.

Guesthouses: The guesthouses on Dhigurah provide basic yet comfortable accommodations, often including modern amenities like air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and access to excursions and activities.

Budget-Friendly: Dhigurah is considered one of the more affordable islands in the Maldives, making it an excellent choice for budget travelers who still want to experience the natural beauty of the Maldives without breaking the bank.

Accessibility and Transportation

Dhigurah is accessible from Malé International Airport via a domestic flight to Maamigili Airport, which is about 10 minutes by boat from the island. The domestic flight takes around 30 minutes, and boat transfers from Maamigili to Dhigurah are frequent.

Additionally, the island is well-connected by boat to other nearby islands in South Ari Atoll, allowing for easy travel to popular resorts, dive sites, and neighboring islands.

Sustainability and Conservation Efforts

Dhigurah, like many of the Maldives' local islands, faces environmental challenges such as rising sea levels, marine pollution, and coral reef degradation. However, there are efforts to promote sustainable tourism on the island. Many of the guesthouses and dive centers are involved in eco-tourism practices, such as:

Coral Restoration Projects: Some guesthouses participate in coral planting and other conservation activities aimed at restoring the health of the coral reefs around the island.

Waste Management: Local businesses and residents are encouraged to minimize plastic use and participate in recycling initiatives to keep the island clean and protect its natural environment.

Conclusion

Dhigurah Island offers an authentic and affordable Maldivian experience, with stunning beaches, rich marine life, and a friendly local community. The island's proximity to world-class dive sites, including those known for whale shark sightings, makes it an excellent destination for underwater enthusiasts. With its laid-back atmosphere, local culture, and budget-friendly accommodations, Dhigurah is perfect for travelers who want to explore the beauty of the Maldives without the luxury price tag. Whether you're snorkeling, diving, or simply relaxing on the beach, Dhigurah provides an unforgettable Maldivian experience.