2025 Vihamanafushi Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in March)

As a travel blogger for Ctrip, I have been asked countless times: "Is Maldives only an island resort?" It was not until I visited the capital Male that I discovered that this "smallest capital in the world" actually hides such a rich cultural texture and urban life. It is like a delicate piece of amber, solidifying the millennium context of the Indian Ocean island civilization, and weaving a unique style between modernity and tradition. Today, I will take you to stroll around Male from a first-person perspective and unlock the hidden charm of this city. 1. Exploring the attractions: from the Sultanate to the city life 1. Sultan Park and the National Museum: a dialogue of civilizations across time and space Stepping into the green Sultan Park is like opening a door to the 16th century. This was once the royal garden of the Sultanate and now surrounds the National Museum of the Maldives. Inside the museum, the coral stone carved Buddha statues tell the story of the history of Buddhism that was once prevalent here, while the jewel-studded Sultan's crown and Arabic manuscripts bear witness to the influence of Islamic culture. What shocked me most was a restored "dhoni" - a traditional fishing boat made of wooden boards sewn together with coconut ropes, which is still a symbol of the wisdom of the Maldivian people to coexist with the ocean. 2. Friday Mosque: An epic of faith on coral stone Built in 1656, Friday Mosque (Hukuru Miskiy) is the oldest architectural wonder in Male. The entire mosque is made of coral stone, and each stone is carved with intricate Arabic patterns. When you take off your shoes and step into the prayer hall, the sunlight shines through the hollow window lattices onto the coconut fiber woven carpet, and the air is filled with the tranquility of agarwood. The tour guide told me that the coral stone walls here have survived hundreds of years of erosion by sea breezes and are still standing, making them “breathing buildings”. 3. Fish Market: A Boiling Ocean Feast The fish market at 5 a.m. is the most vibrant stage in Male. As soon as the fishing boats docked, tuna, swordfish and lobsters spread out like a rainbow. The fisherwoman wearing a headscarf raised her knife and cut the half-man-high tuna into neat pieces of sashimi in an instant. The air was filled with the smell of the sea and the aroma of coconut oil. The stall owner enthusiastically handed me a piece of freshly cut yellowfin tuna belly. The moment the fat melted on the tip of my tongue, I understood why the Maldivian people say "the ocean is a refrigerator." 4. Artificial beaches and breakwaters: a blue secret in the city Male is a land of precious metals, but the Rasfannu artificial beach has preserved a piece of blue for the citizens. In the evening, local families have picnics here, children chase the waves, and in the distance, there are teenagers fishing sitting on the breakwater. I followed a group of diving enthusiasts and set off from the pier here. After only a 15-minute boat ride, we dived into the "Turtle Channel" of the South Male Atoll. While swimming with green turtles, schools of fish surrounded us like a flowing river of stars. 2. Male’ on the tip of the tongue: from market snacks to creative fusion 1. Authentic flavor: the gift of the ocean and coconut trees Mas Huni: a national breakfast must-try! Tear the smoked tuna into shreds, mix with shredded coconut, onions, and peppers, wrap it in roti, and pair it with a cup of sweet milk tea (Sai). The salty and fresh taste and coconut aroma interweave to create the flavor of an island morning. The most classic version is from the time-honored Sea House Café. Garudhiya: The seemingly light fish soup actually holds a secret. Tuna bones are boiled for several hours, lemongrass and curry leaves are added, and lime juice is squeezed into the drink. It is served with rice and fried fish balls (Bis Keemiya). It is so delicious that you can't help but lick the bottom of the bowl. Hedhikaa: Fried food stalls can be found everywhere in the market. We recommend the "Gulha" - fried balls of coconut flour stuffed with tuna, which are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and can be eaten with mango sauce. The price of 1 rofia per piece is the best value for money. 2. Creative cuisine: a collision of tradition and modernity The Sea.Fire.Salt.Sky restaurant: Located in Kurumba Coconut Island Resort, the chef combines Maldivian lobster with Italian black truffles to create the original "Coconut Milk Lobster Risotto", which is served in coconut shells and sprinkled with smoked sea salt ground on site, giving it a full sense of ritual. Sushi Palace: I didn’t expect to encounter top-notch Japanese food in Male! The local black tuna sashimi is served with Turkish pomegranate seeds, and the wagyu sushi rolls are filled with pickled lemon peel, with amazing layers of taste (Note: Although Page 8 mentions that the restaurant is located in Istanbul, the Japanese fusion cuisine in Male is also worth trying). 3. Hotel recommendation: Sleep in the embrace of history and the ocean 1. Hulhule Island Hotel: A secret garden for those in transit It is only a 5-minute walk from the airport, but has an infinity pool facing the Indian Ocean. The sea view room I stayed in was equipped with soundproof glass, so it was as quiet as the deep sea even when planes were taking off and landing. The "Monsoon Mojito" at the rooftop bar is made with local mint and coconut wine. Watching the sunset sink into the sea level while being slightly tipsy, the layover time turned out to be an unexpected surprise. 2. Kurumba Maldives: The oldest luxury resort in Male Atoll 20 minutes by speedboat. The villa uses coconut wood and rattan furniture to create a colonial style, and the "starlight hammock" on the private beach is a popular check-in spot for internet celebrities. We especially recommend its "Ocean Butler Service" - a one-stop arrangement of snorkeling equipment, sunset fishing, and private sandbar picnics. 3. Somerset Inn Male: A literary haven in the city center Want to go deep into the city and pursue quality? This boutique hotel is my favorite. Located next to Chattanimah Ancient Street, the rooftop terrace offers a panoramic view of Sultan Park. The room is filled with shell paintings by local artists, and the "coconut candy making experience" every evening allows me to relive the fun of my childhood. 4. Travel Tips: The Right Way to Unlock Male’ Transportation: Motor vehicles other than bicycles are prohibited on Male’ Island, so walking is the best way to explore. Taxis have yellow license plates and the fare in the city is 15 Rufiyaa (about 1 US dollar), so be sure to have change. Cultural etiquette: You must wear long sleeves and long pants to enter the mosque, and women must wear a headscarf. Please smile and gesture before taking photos of locals. Most of them will cooperate enthusiastically. Shopping: The wooden dhoni models and coconut shell tableware on Chaandanee Magu Street are worth buying. Remember to bargain for half the price! The beauty of Male lies in the fact that it is neither a pure "tourist bonsai" nor a hasty transit station. When I was standing under the century-old banyan tree in Sultan Park, watching old people reciting the Koran in Arabic and children chasing rolling coconuts, I suddenly realized: this 2.5 square kilometer island has already turned the gifts of thousands of years of civilization and the ocean into a slightly intoxicating cocktail. Perhaps, this is the truest color of the Maldives.

| Maldives Dream Hotel Kurumba Maldives Hotel: Kurumba Maldives Hotel. Kurumba Maldives | Maldives Dream Hotel Kurumba Maldives 👑 Hotel: Kurumba Maldives 📍 Address: Kurumba Maldives, Maldives 💖 What kind of hotel is it? Kurumba Maldives is located on the beautiful Kurumba Maldives, the first hotel with a rich history and unique style. It is only a 10-minute ferry ride from Male Airport, making it convenient and fast. The hotel has a unique design, whether it is a luxury villa or a water villa, you can feel the strong holiday atmosphere. White sandy beaches and blue waters can be said to be a paradise. 🌟 Highlights · This resort has won multiple awards for its high ratings and excellent service, making it a perfect choice for couples and family vacations. · The hotel is well-equipped and luxurious, with more than 7 different styles of restaurants, each offering a variety of delicious dishes. 🛁 Experience · Here, the variety of food is absolutely beyond expectations, especially the breakfast and dinner at Vihamanaa Restaurant, which are not only delicious but also rich in variety. · For diving enthusiasts, this is an excellent location where you can snorkel and see the colorful underwater world, as well as marine life such as turtles and sharks. · The hotel provides attentive service and a warm and comfortable accommodation environment for guests. Special mention is made of the well-equipped rooms and very comfortable beds. · The hotel offers a variety of water activities and entertainment experiences, including sunset cruises and dolphin cruises, which are well worth a try. 🍽️ Food Recommendations · Thila Restaurant: Enjoy luxurious seafood and local Maldivian cuisine. · Kurumba Cafe: Offers all-day light meals and drinks, perfect for an afternoon break. · Kandu Bar: Here you can enjoy refreshing cocktails and beautiful sea views. · Hamakaze Restaurant: Specializes in Japanese cuisine, especially fresh sushi and sashimi. · Isola Restaurant: Offers Italian-style cuisine, allowing you to taste authentic Italian flavors in the Maldives. · Khing Thai Restaurant: Specializes in authentic Thai cuisine, a must-visit for Thai food lovers. 🌊 Nearby Activities · The waters near the resort are perfect for diving and snorkeling, and the colorful underwater world is waiting for you to explore. · Don't miss the sunset cruise and dolphin watching cruise, these activities not only allow you to enjoy the beautiful scenery, but also have the opportunity to get close to dolphins. · There are also many boutique shops and spas nearby, where you can enjoy a leisurely shopping and relaxing time. Kurumba Maldives not only offers an ultimate accommodation experience, but also a variety of activities and food options. Whether it is a honeymoon or a family vacation, it will not disappoint and is an ideal holiday destination. 🏝️🌊🌺

｜The perfect fusion of luxury and nature. 🌟 Hotel: Kurumba Maldives 📍 Address: Kurumba Coconut Island, Maldives 🏖️ Hotel Introduction Kuruumba Resort is located on the beautiful Kurumba Coconut Island and is one of the most famous resorts in the Maldives. This hotel is famous for its exquisite design and elegant decoration style. The architecture of carefully selected materials is integrated with nature, and every detail shows the pursuit of high quality. The spacious villas, comfortable water houses, and natural landscapes with singing birds and blooming flowers allow every guest to experience a unique holiday experience. It is especially recommended to book a room type above beach villa to experience a more private and luxurious accommodation. 🌺 Experience It only takes 10 minutes by ferry from the airport to the resort. The convenient transportation is a major attraction for tourists. The service here is meticulous, with a dedicated person cleaning the room every day to ensure a clean and comfortable environment. The resort offers a wealth of activities including snorkeling, dolphin and sunset discovery cruises, glass bottom boats, jet skiing and scuba diving, making for an unforgettable stay. I highly recommend Vihamna restaurant for its sumptuous breakfast and dinner, especially the Maldivian chicken curry and a variety of rich dishes, which taste great. 🍹 Facilities and Services The resort features several restaurants and bars, including Thila, Kurumba Café, Kandu Bar, Hamakaze, Isola and Khing Thai Restaurant, each offering unique dishes and dining experiences. The resort also has multiple swimming pools, a luxurious spa and a kids' club, providing a full range of services for guests of all ages. It is particularly worth mentioning that the resort’s staff are very friendly and professional. Whether it is room cleaning, dining services or activity arrangements, people can feel at home. 🌸 Recommended places nearby 1. Snorkel in the crystal clear waters and see beautiful coral reefs and various marine life, including sea turtles, manta rays, etc. 2. Take a dolphin and sunset cruise and enjoy a close encounter with nature. 3. Find excitement on jet skis and scuba diving and feel the power and charm of the sea. 4. Visit the various restaurants nearby to taste the food, especially the Maldivian curry chicken and various seafood dishes at Thila Restaurant, which are not to be missed. Kurumba Resort is not only a place to relax, but also a romantic paradise that makes people yearn for it. Whether it is a honeymoon, a family vacation or a gathering of friends, this place can provide the most complete facilities and the most considerate services, leaving every tourist with unforgettable memories. I look forward to visiting again next time and spending more wonderful time in this paradise where green and blue are intertwined.

🏝️Kurumba Maldives｜Island Leisure Time💆‍♀️💦 🏨🌴 Kurumba Maldives 📍🗺️ Located on Kurumba Island, just a 10-minute ferry ride from Male Airport, very convenient transportation~ 🌟I saw many foreign netizens strongly recommend it online before, and finally made up my mind to find out! This resort is really cost-effective, especially recommended for everyone to book at least a Beach Villa room type, you can book the two great restaurants Sangu and Thila, the beach scenery is as beautiful as a postcard, the food is really good👍 Especially breakfast, rich in variety, very satisfying. 🏝 Location: Kurumba Island, a great location near Male Airport. 🚤 Surrounding transportation: It is very convenient to take the ferry arranged by the hotel from Male Airport for about 10 minutes. 🏨 Decoration style: full of resort style! The tropical island style is fresh and quiet. 🛏 Check-in experience: The front desk reception was warm and thoughtful when we arrived, and the check-in was very smooth. We were also upgraded to a water villa for free, the room is directly facing the sea, the scenery is amazing! The facilities inside are complete, especially the comfortable big bed, I just want to lie on it and not get up~ 💡 Room layout: The room is spacious and bright, and the layout is very warm. The bathroom is large and luxurious, with a view of the white sandy beach outside. 👌 Hotel service: The staff is friendly and professional, the room is cleaned twice a day, and the service is meticulous. 🌊 My favorite place is the white sandy beach! You can take a walk in the morning and enjoy the beautiful sunset in the evening. When the tide is low, you can also see many turtles🐢 swimming leisurely. Snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, seeing all kinds of colorful fish and corals, is simply amazing, every day is like living in a postcard. During our stay at the hotel, we dined at the Vihamana restaurant almost every day, the food was not only delicious but also rich in variety, especially recommended for their breakfast. In addition, you must not miss the hotel's spa massage, the professional level is super high, and the body and mind are greatly relaxed. 🌟 Nearby recommendations - 🛥️ Experience the dolphin and sunset exploration cruise, definitely worth it~ - 🍽️ Restaurant recommendation: Thila's seafood, Kurumba Cafe's simple meals, and Isola's Italian flavors are all great! - 🏖️ If you are tired, you can go to the coffee shop next to the hotel, have a cup of coffee, watch the sea in a daze, and enjoy a leisurely and comfortable time. To sum up, this resort trip is really impeccable, whether it is the scenery of the island or the service of the hotel, everything is perfect. I will definitely come back to this beautiful place next time to continue this leisurely time! 🌊🏖️✨💫💦💆‍♀️

Our Maldives trip was nothing short of extraordinary—a dream destination brought to life with a group of close friends. From the moment we landed, the tropical breeze and turquoise waters set the tone for an unforgettable adventure. We stayed at a luxurious overwater villa, complete with glass floors that revealed the vibrant marine life below. Our days were filled with adrenaline and relaxation in equal measure. Morning dives brought us face-to-face with manta rays, reef sharks, and schools of colorful fish. Afternoons were for jet-skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding across the crystal-clear lagoons. For downtime, we lounged on white sandy beaches, sipping fresh coconut water while soaking in the stunning vistas. The island’s sunsets were a highlight—each evening painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, making for incredible photo ops and peaceful reflection. Food was another adventure. We feasted on fresh seafood—grilled lobsters, Maldivian curry, and tropical fruit platters. The nightlife was chill yet fun, with beach bonfires and live music that added to the island’s magic. A guys’ trip to the Maldives isn’t just about the luxury; it’s about the moments that bond friendships even tighter. Whether it was laughing over silly snorkeling mishaps, competing on jet skis, or simply sitting under a starlit sky, this trip was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. For anyone considering a group getaway, the Maldives is an ideal destination—it’s where the beauty of nature meets the thrill of exploration. Safe to say, this trip will remain etched in our memories forever.

Nurse Shark🦈 A swim in the shark pool - a strong fishy smell. When swimming on your back, the sharks will touch your body. Their skin is very smooth. Their tails will suddenly hit you hahahahaha 🩵Maldives (Maldives) travel guide 🌟I. Basic Information Language: Official language is Dhivehi, while English is widely used in tourism. Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR) is the official currency, but US dollars (USD) are widely accepted in tourist areas. Time zone: Maldives Standard Time is GMT+5, no daylight saving time. 🌟II. Transportation Information International flights: Domestic flights can be taken to Male International Airport Domestic transportation: There are three ways to get from Male to the resort island: 1. Seaplane: Suitable for islands far from Male, offering stunning ocean views, flight time about 30 minutes to 1 hour. 2. Domestic flights: Fly to major regional airports (e.g., Hanimaadhoo Airport or Gan Island Airport), then transfer by speedboat or seaplane to the resort. 3. Speedboat: Suitable for islands closer to Male, sailing time 20 minutes to 1 hour. 🌟III. Major Attractions 1. Male: Explore the cultural and historical attractions of the capital, such as the Male Mosque, Presidential Palace and Fish Market. 2. Banana Reef: Famous diving spot, known for its abundant marine life and coral reefs. 3. Hulhumale: Artificial island, with beautiful beaches and modern facilities. 4. Veligandu Island: Popular honeymoon island, known for its beautiful beaches and luxury resorts. 5. Ari Atoll: High-end resort area, offering world-class diving experiences. 🌟IV. Recommended Routes 💸Luxury trip (5-7 days): •D1-D2: Male city tour, exploring mosques and fish markets. •D3-D5: Travel to a luxury resort island (e.g., Veligandu Island), enjoy private beaches and water activities. •D6-D7: Participate in deep-sea fishing or relax. 💵Family trip (7-10 days): •D1-D2: Visit Male and nearby island Hulhumale. •D3-D5: Choose a family-friendly resort, such as Kurumba Maldives, experience snorkeling and dolphin cruises. •D6-D8: Participate in eco-tourism projects, relax and enjoy family time. ❤️‍🔥Honeymoon trip (5-7 days): •D1-D2: Enjoy a romantic ocean view dinner and nightlife in Male. •D3-D6: Stay in a private island resort, enjoy couples' SPA and private beach dinner. 📝‼️V. Precautions 1. Visa: Maldives implements a 30-day visa-on-arrival policy for most countries. 2. Weather and clothing: Tropical climate, recommended to bring light summer clothes, sunscreen and swimwear. 3. Power supply: Uses UK standard G-type sockets, recommended to bring a travel adapter. 4. Environmental awareness: Comply with environmental regulations, do not litter. 5. Health and safety: Limited medical resources, recommended to purchase travel insurance and pay attention to water activity safety

--- 📍Kurumba Maldives, North, Vihamanafushi, Kaafu Atoll, 08340, Maldives 🚤 Just a splash away from Male Airport, Kurumba Maldives is your beachfront ticket to paradise! Greeted with coconut ice cream, the hospitality here is as refreshing as the ocean breeze. 🍦 🏡 The villas are spotless sanctuaries with open-air bathrooms and colossal tubs. Slide open your door to a beach that whispers your name. 🛁🏖️ 🍽️ Though dining is a splurge, the 5-star flavors are worth every dime. Fill your days with water sports, spa bliss, and underwater adventures. 🏄‍♀️🧘‍♂️🐠 --- 🌟 Sunday Funday Alert! Stay on a Sunday and sip on free-flowing drinks for an hour. Cheers to that! 🥂 🌴 Dive into the deluxe bungalow life with Kurumba's beachy doorstep, spacious rooms, and choice of moonlit showers or sunny soaks in the tub. 🌙🛀 🍨 From the welcome treat to the unwavering service, Kurumba ensures your Maldivian dreams are just as you imagined. 🌅 #Maldives #MaldivesHotel #MaldivesTravel

🏝 Looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle, seeking a tranquil paradise? The Coconut Island Resort in the Maldives is the place of your dreams! Not only does it have a rich history, but it's also a modern-day holiday destination. Imagine, each cottage faces the sea, just ten steps away from the soft sandy beach, and a thirty-minute stroll around the island to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of nature. 🌟 Island highlights not to be missed: ⭐ Presidential-level service, the preferred choice of accommodation for multiple national leaders ⭐ A paradise for snorkeling enthusiasts, with a vibrant nightlife ⭐ Exciting water sports that let you soar freely between the blue sky and white clouds ⭐ A high-value choice with comprehensive and exquisite facilities 📅 Island information at a glance: Chinese name: Coconut Island Foreign name: Kurumba Maldives Nickname: Kurumba Island, Coconut Island Resort Location: North Malé Atoll Stars: 🌟🌟🌟🌟 Hotel Group: Kurumba Group Number of rooms: 180 Access to the island: Luxury speedboat Snorkeling rating: A-level Beach rating: A-level 🍽 A variety of dining experiences: 🍴 Vihamana Restaurant: Buffet-style meals to satisfy different tastes 🍖 Ocean Grill Restaurant: Beachside BBQ buffet, enjoy delicious food with a beautiful view 🍕 Golden Shell Pizzeria: Authentic Italian cuisine and selected wines 🍣 Han Teppanyaki Restaurant: A paradise for Japanese cuisine lovers 🥟 Ming Palace Chinese Restaurant: A wide variety of Chinese dishes with authentic flavors 🍹 Beach Bar & Neptune Coffee: The ideal place to enjoy a relaxing moment 🔄 Special note: This island only has beach villas and no water villas, making it the perfect destination for those seeking an original ecological experience and an economical choice. 📣 Now it's your turn! Have you been attracted by the Coconut Island of the Maldives? Come share your island dream, or tell us what activities you're most looking forward to experiencing here!

Lovely trip in Maldives !! Pemilihan resort menggunakan Trip.com memberikan saya pengalaman yang sangat berharga bersama keluarga . Keindahan laut yang sangat memukau seperti kristal membuatkan saya ingin kembali semula ke sana . Layanan resort amat memuaskna hati selama beberapa hari di sana . Pengangkutan pergi dan balik disediakan resort tanpa masalah ✌️