#rasdhoohappy is a way of life
Rasdhoo accommodates around 1000 locals and covers an area of roughly .23 square km. Although a small island located north of Malé, it is the administrative center of North Ari Atoll. The capital of Alif Alif Atoll, Rasdhoo’s main village, occupies the majority of the island. However, considerable vegetation also carpets the island, providing ample green cover for the tropical heat. Being surrounded by spectacular marine life makes it a preferred spot for diving enthusiasts. Consequently, diving is a popular activity, and there are as many as eight diving schools in Rasdhoo. The island has a small and clean beach as well. Given its role as an administrative center, all basic amenities are available on the island. There are grocery and hardware stores where one can pick daily essentials. A couple of souvenir shops sell local handmade crafts and gift items. It also has a hospital and a post office, and a local bank with an ATM facility that dispenses only Rufiyaa. Most stores and guesthouses accept USD but give change only in the local currency as well. It is thus a good idea to exchange some money in Malé but no worries if you forget to do that as most major credit cards are accepted on the island, although with a surcharge at some points of sale.
things to do in rasdhoo
While diving in Rasdhoo is the island’s main attraction, numerous other activities keep tourists occupied. Whether you enjoy relaxing at the beach, snorkeling, night fishing with locals, or feeding reef sharks, Rasdhoo offers a lot of fun family activities. Also, a simple walk through the island presents a wonderful opportunity to meet the inhabitants and familiarize oneself with local traditions. You'll find everyone the locals are very friendly and welcoming.
scuba diving
Diving is the most popular activity on Rasdhoo. Dive centers on the island offer day trips as well as certification classes. Her are some popular dive sites:
Madivaru – This site harbors enchantingly diverse underwater life and topography. Eventually, you’ll come across every type of marine life found in the Maldives here. One can discover guitar sharks, dolphins, schools of eagle rays, turtles, mantas, barracudas, and garden eels. With the top half of the reef starting at 15m, it is among the most famous dive spots in the Maldives.
Fan Reef – A favorite among underwater photographers, Fan Reef has coral overhangs and large bays. A perfect spot for beginners, it further gives access to wonderful aquatic life at shallow depths. There are serval bays in the reef where one can find sharks like the white-tip, leopard, and black-tip.
Hammerhead Point – Reserved for advanced divers; early morning dives are common at the famous Hammerhead Point. Visible at a depth of 30m, hammerheads are temperamental, so one does need a little luck to view them. Nevertheless, the site offers a plethora of marine life, including mantas and other shark species.
Bikini beach & house reef
Although a mere 100m long, Bikini Beach in Rasdhoo offers a calm and clean space for beach bums. With the inviting waters on one side, a canopy of trees borders the sandy beach on the other. The conveniently placed beach beds provide a comfortable area to lounge.
The house reef, located a kilometer away, is easily accessible from the shore. It gives unmatched insight into the colorful sea life of the Maldives. The fluctuating current means one has to find the right opportunity to get into the water. An experienced guide will make the experience safe and more enjoyable.
dolphin cruise
A dolphin cruise is a popular boat trip in the Maldives for those who do not prefer diving. These gentle giants gather at a spot between Rasdhoo and Thoddoo every evening. Most guesthouses and dive centers offer sunset cruises for dolphin watching. These playful marine creatures often swim alongside the boats, rising above the water and disappearing into its depths. While the dolphins swim very close to the boats, it is advisable not to touch them.
day trip to a resort
A day trip to a nearby resort is an opportunity to experience the luxurious side of life in the archipelago. A chance to pamper yourself, it provides a budget-friendly option to partake in various activities on a private retreat. There are two resorts near Rasdhoo ideal for a day trip. The resort day pass at Ellaydhoo by Cinnamon and Nika Island costs between $100 and $120. It includes the use of their facilities as well as food and drinks.
Watersports
The dive centers on Rasdhoo offer an array of watersports to customers looking for an adrenaline rush. Both motorized and non-motorized activities are part of the offerings. One can kayak, jet ski, ride a catamaran, wakeboard or take a banana boat ride into the vast open waters.
explore the island
Lush vegetation, pristine crystal-clear water, abundant marine wildlife and gorgeous sunsets make Rasdhoo an amazing place to explore. Make sure you take a few leisurely strolls and enjoy the scenery as well as the peace and tranquility found in paradise on Earth.