Best hotels and places to stay in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll
Why visit?
Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll in Maldives offers a breathtaking tropical paradise for tourists seeking a serene getaway. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine white sandy beaches, and vibrant coral reefs, this atoll is a haven for beach lovers and scuba diving enthusiasts alike.
Where to stay?
Villingili Island: Located in the northern region of Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, Villingili Island is a popular choice for tourists seeking luxurious accommodations and a wide range of recreational activities. With its lush vegetation and stunning views of the Indian Ocean, Villingili Island offers a tranquil and secluded retreat. Visitors can enjoy water sports, spa treatments, and fine dining experiences at the islands upscale resorts.
Thinadhoo Island: Located in the southern region of Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, Thinadhoo Island is a charming destination for travelers seeking a more authentic Maldivian experience. This local island provides a glimpse into the everyday life of the Maldivian people, and visitors can explore its bustling markets and interact with friendly locals. Thinadhoo Island also offers affordable guesthouses and budget-friendly accommodations for those on a tighter budget.
Kooddoo Island: Situated in the central region of Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, Kooddoo Island boasts a perfect balance between luxury and affordability. It is home to the domestic airport of the atoll, making it easily accessible for tourists. Kooddoo Island offers a range of accommodation options, from high-end resorts to guesthouses, providing something for every traveler. Visitors can indulge in water sports, explore nearby uninhabited islands, and enjoy the tranquility of the islands pristine beaches.
What is the price per hotel room per night?
3-star hotels: The average price per night is around $150 to $250.
4-star hotels: The average price per night is around $250 to $450.
5-star hotels: The average price per night is around $450 to $800.
Best value for money:
Crystal Sands Hotel: Located on Thinadhoo Island, Crystal Sands Hotel offers comfortable accommodation at an affordable price. With its spacious rooms, friendly staff, and convenient location near the beach, this hotel provides excellent value for money. Guests can also enjoy activities such as snorkeling, fishing, and island hopping, making it a perfect choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Arena Beach Hotel: Situated on Maamendhoo Island, Arena Beach Hotel offers a great balance between affordability and quality. With its well-appointed rooms, beautiful swimming pool, and direct access to a private beach, guests can enjoy a peaceful and relaxing stay. The hotel also offers various recreational activities, including water sports and excursions, ensuring a memorable experience for guests without breaking the bank.
Raffles Maldives Meradhoo Resort: For travelers seeking a luxurious experience at a reasonable price, Raffles Maldives Meradhoo Resort on Meradhoo Island is an excellent choice. This 5-star resort offers exquisite overwater and beachfront villas, each with its own private pool. Guests can indulge in world-class dining options, rejuvenate at the spa, and partake in various water activities such as diving and snorkeling, ensuring an unforgettable vacation without compromising on quality.
Best kid-friendly hotels:
Equator Village Resort: Located on Gan Island, Equator Village Resort offers a family-friendly atmosphere and a range of facilities for children. With its spacious rooms and a kids club providing supervised activities, parents can relax while their little ones are entertained. The resort also offers a swimming pool, playground, and easy access to the beach, ensuring a fun-filled vacation for the whole family.
Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort: Situated on Konotta Island, Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort caters to families with children of all ages. The resort offers spacious and interconnected villas, providing ample space for families to stay together comfortably. Kids can enjoy the Coral Kids Club, which offers a variety of activities, while parents can indulge in spa treatments or engage in adventurous water activities such as snorkeling and diving.
Best hotels for a romantic getaway:
Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa: Nestled on Hadahaa Island, Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa is an idyllic retreat for couples seeking a romantic escape. With its secluded and pristine surroundings, guests can enjoy privacy and tranquility. The resort offers luxurious villas, private plunge pools, and impeccable service. Couples can embark on a romantic sunset cruise, indulge in a couples spa treatment, or savor a candlelit dinner on the beach, creating cherished memories.
Shangri-Las Villingili Resort & Spa: Set on Villingili Island, Shangri-Las Villingili Resort & Spa offers a romantic ambiance with its lush vegetation and stunning ocean views. The resort features elegant villas with private pools and outdoor showers, providing an intimate setting for couples. Guests can enjoy a leisurely bike ride around the island, unwind at the spa, or embark on a sunset yacht cruise, immersing themselves in an enchanting romantic experience.
Best for location:
Dravida Hotel: Located in the heart of Thinadhoo Island, Dravida Hotel offers easy access to the islands attractions, restaurants, and shops. Guests can explore the local culture and immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the island. The hotel also provides comfortable accommodation and friendly service, ensuring a convenient and enjoyable stay.
Ayada Maldives: Situated on Maguhdhuvaa Island, Ayada Maldives offers a prime beachfront location with stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Guests can enjoy direct access to the beach, indulge in water sports activities, or simply relax by the pool while soaking up the tropical sun. The resort also provides luxurious villas, excellent dining options, and a range of spa treatments, ensuring a memorable stay in a picturesque setting.
Kooddoo Maldives Resort: Located on Kooddoo Island, Kooddoo Maldives Resort offers a strategic location, just a short distance from the airport. Guests can easily reach the resort via a domestic flight, saving valuable travel time. The resort itself provides comfortable accommodation, a pristine beach, and a range of recreational activities, ensuring a convenient and enjoyable stay for guests.
Best for a short city break:
Luxury Beach Residence: Situated on Thinadhoo Island, Luxury Beach Residence offers a convenient location close to the islands amenities and attractions. With its spacious rooms, modern amenities, and easy access to the beach, guests can enjoy a comfortable and relaxing stay. The residence also offers a rooftop terrace with panoramic views, allowing guests to unwind and soak in the islands beauty.
Rahaa Retreat: Located on Villingili Island, Rahaa Retreat provides a peaceful and serene environment for a short city break. The retreat offers spacious rooms with modern furnishings, a tranquil garden, and a terrace. Guests can explore the islands vibrant surroundings, relax by the pool, or enjoy a leisurely walk along the pristine beach.
