Travel Guide Thoddoo

Thoodoo is the island in the Maldives that produces the most watermelons! They are usually planted to be ripe at the end of the month of Ramadan as the demand in Male is the highest. Located 67 km northwest of Malé and 20 km from Rasdhoo, the island is not attached to any atoll, which gives it a unique character. Large by Maldivian standards, it is about 2 km². One third of the island is devoted to housing, which accommodates 1,400 inhabitants, another third is devoted to agriculture, and the third is left to nature. With its large, pristine beaches, wild vegetation and space, the island will delight those who like to stroll around without passing too many people. Because of its size, you will find everything you need on the island: local hospitals, ATMs, cafes and restaurants... You will be able to learn about Maldivian gastronomy, which, as you will see, is not very varied. The food is reduced to tuna, coconut and rice. Two beaches are reserved for tourists. The first one is in the south of the island, 15 minutes walk from any construction. Rather small, it is however very clean and overlooks a small reef with little fish. The drop off is about 400 meters from the shore. The reef is much better preserved, but the currents can be dangerous. The second beach is located on the north-east side of the island, above the port. Smaller than the first one, it is equipped with deckchairs and hammocks. The reef is also closer, only 200 meters away by swimming, but it is less beautiful than the one on the south of the island. There are hardly any fish. Thoddoo Island is relatively undeveloped in terms of tourism. The locals devote themselves to agriculture and refuse to sell their land for yet another hotel. You will be able to discover the local life in all quietude. Important ruins of Buddhist temples have been discovered in Thoodoo. Explorers were amazed at the care taken with the statues that were secretly buried on the island during the country's conversion to Islam. These statues are on display in the museum in Male.