Things To Do
in Manadhoo

Manadhoo is an inhabited island with conservative dress norms—wear modest clothing (cover shoulders and knees) in village areas; swimwear is appropriate only on resort beaches or designated tourist areas and sandbanks.

The Maldives is a Muslim country; be respectful during prayer times and Ramadan—avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight in Ramadan, and do not enter mosques unless you are Muslim and have permission.

Always ask permission before photographing people, especially women and families; some locals are shy about being photographed.

Greet people politely, remove shoes before entering homes, and accept hospitality with gratitude; public displays of affection are frowned upon on inhabited islands.

Tipping is not expected on local inhabited islands but is appreciated for exceptional service. Resorts and dive operators may include service charges; you can tip guides or crew directly in cash as a thank-you.

Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR) is the local currency but US dollars are widely accepted; credit cards are commonly accepted at resorts and many guesthouses, but small cafés, market stalls and local services often require cash. ATMs are uncommon on small islands—carry enough cash for daily expenses or arrange transfers that accept card payment in advance.

Expect sunnier, drier weather, calmer seas and excellent visibility for snorkeling and diving. This is peak tourist season—book transfers and guesthouse stays in advance. Temperatures are warm but trade winds provide pleasant breezes.

Higher chance of rain, stronger winds and choppier seas during the southwest monsoon; fewer tourists and lower prices make this a quieter time to visit. Surfing and big-fish fishing can be better during parts of this period; some boat schedules may be affected by weather.

The Maldives is flat—replace 'hiking' with scenic walks across sandbanks and small uninhabited motus for peaceful shoreline exploration and birdwatching.

Short nature walks around lagoon edges and mangrove patches (where present) provide opportunities to observe birdlife and coastal ecology.

The Maldives’ main international gateway at Malé; reach Manadhoo by domestic flight (seaplane or domestic plane) plus speedboat or by speedboat transfers from Malé depending on scheduling.

A domestic/international airport in Noonu Atoll offering quicker access to nearby islands; from Maafaru you can arrange a short speedboat transfer to Manadhoo or nearby islands.

Locally popular and commonly played on small pitches and beaches—community matches are social events.

Beach and court volleyball are frequent pastimes, often played by mixed-age groups in the evenings.

Both traditional and sport fishing are important culturally and recreationally; many visitors join fishing trips.

While Manadhoo itself is not a major surf break, the region has surf spots accessible by boat during certain seasons.

Vegetarian options exist but are limited on local islands; request vegetable curries, coconut-based dishes and rice. Communicate clearly in advance if you need strictly vegetarian meals—guesthouses and cafés can usually accommodate with notice.

Vegan choices are more limited due to dairy and fish in many dishes; simple plant-based dishes like coconut curry, steamed rice, fruits and vegetable sides are usually available if requested.

All food on local inhabited islands is halal in accordance with national customs; alcohol is not served on Manadhoo.

Bring necessary medications and communicate allergies ahead of time—cross-contamination with fish and coconut is common in local kitchens.