Rasdhoo Atoll,Maldives

• Rasdhoo Island (the inhabited island) — local community life, cafés (tea shops), small shops and guesthouses.
• Rasdhoo Madivaru (Madivaru) dive site — renowned for cleaning stations and frequent large pelagics such as manta rays and reef sharks.
• House reefs and snorkeling spots — easy shore snorkeling with colorful corals, turtles and reef fish.
• Sandbanks and lagoons — picturesque sandbanks ideal for day trips, picnics and photography.
• Diving centers and liveaboard access — gateway to many Ari Atoll dive sites and popular liveaboard itineraries.

• Clear water visibility (often excellent in the dry season)
• Healthy coral gardens and channels attracting pelagic species
• Accessible dive sites suitable for both beginners (guided snorkel) and experienced divers (drift and channel dives)
• Compact, walkable inhabited island offering a genuine local experience rather than a private-resort environment

• Scuba diving (day trips and liveaboards to explore Ari Atoll sites)
• Snorkeling with reef fish, turtles and occasional manta/whale shark sightings
• Island-hopping and sandbank picnics
• Fishing trips (sunset, night or local-style handline fishing)
• Local cultural visits — tea shops, mosques (observe modest dress) and small markets
• Sunset cruises and dolphin-spotting trips

• Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha — major national/religious celebrations observed across inhabited islands.
• National holidays such as Independence Day and Republic Day — may include local events.
• Local island events tied to fishing seasons or community gatherings (dates vary by year).

November to April (dry season): calmer seas, better visibility and more reliable weather for diving and transfers. The southwest monsoon (May–October) brings more rain, rougher seas and stronger currents—still good for some diving/surfing but conditions vary.

Tropical maritime climate: temperatures typically range 26–31°C (79–88°F) year-round. High humidity with a marked wet (monsoon) and dry season. Short, heavy tropical showers possible even in the dry season.

Nearest international gateway: Velana International Airport (Malé). Connectivity:

• Speedboat: Regular speedboat transfers operate between Malé and Rasdhoo (journey approximately 1.5–3 hours depending on operator and type of boat).
• Public ferry: Available on some days — cheaper but slower; schedules change seasonally.
• Liveaboards: Many itineraries include Rasdhoo as a stop; convenient for divers. No airport on Rasdhoo island; seaplane transfers are uncommon for this short distance.

2–4 days for a relaxed stay with 1–2 days of diving/snorkeling; longer (5–7 days) if combining with liveaboard trips or island-hopping across Ari Atoll.

Lightweight, breathable clothing for the day. Modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered) when visiting local island areas and mosques. Reef-safe sunscreen, swimwear, rash guard, snorkel mask (if you prefer), quick-dry towel, waterproof bag and a light rain jacket for occasional showers.

Try Maldivian specialties such as mas huni (shredded smoked tuna with coconut), garudhiya (clear fish soup) and local fish curries. Small island cafés offer tea, snacks and fresh local food. Souvenirs: locally made handicrafts, woven mats, lacquered items, spices and small textiles; shells and photos from sandbank trips make popular keepsakes (avoid removing coral or protected items).