Thoddoo

Thoddoo is one of those islands that instantly wins you over. Peaceful, green, friendly, and surrounded by stunning turquoise water, this North Ari Atoll gem offers everything travellers love about the Maldives — beautiful beaches, great snorkeling, fresh local food, and affordable guesthouses that make it possible to enjoy paradise without the luxury-resort price tag.

As a travel agent who helps travellers design budget-friendly Maldives holidays every day, we can confidently say that Thoddoo is one of the best-value islands in the entire country. Whether you’re a couple, a family, a solo traveller, or a small group of friends, Thoddoo delivers everything you expect from a Maldives escape — crystal-clear lagoons, island hospitality, and peaceful beaches — at a fraction of resort prices.

This guide covers everything you need to know to plan your stay: how to get to Thoddoo, where to sleep, what to eat, things to do, diving, snorkeling, and insider tips to save money while enjoying a memorable Maldivian holiday.

What Makes Thoddoo Special?

Thoddoo stands out among Maldives local islands for three big reasons:

1. A famously beautiful Bikini Beach

Thoddoo’s main tourist beach is one of the best Bikini Beaches in the Maldives. Wide, perfectly sandy, and surrounded by lush tropical greenery, the beach offers plenty of space — even in peak season. Sunbeds, umbrellas, swings, and hammocks line parts of the shore, and the water is calm enough for all ages.

2. Fresh fruit everywhere — the “watermelon island”

Thoddoo is one of the Maldives’ main agricultural islands. You’ll pass banana plantations, papaya trees, watermelon farms, and passionfruit vines everywhere you walk. Many guesthouses offer fruit tastings or farm visits, and meals here are often fresher and healthier than on other islands.

3. Excellent budget-friendly stays

Thoddoo is well known for its high-quality, affordable guesthouses. Rooms are modern, clean, and comfortable, with many offering balconies, small gardens, in-house restaurants, and bicycle rentals. For travellers who want the Maldives beauty without spending resort-level money, Thoddoo is the perfect fit.

How to Get to Thoddoo (Speedboat, Ferry & Private Transfer)

Thoddoo is around 67 km from Malé, making it easily accessible from the airport.

1. Speedboat (fastest and most popular)

• Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes – 1 hour 30 minutes
• Price: Approx. USD 35–45 per person one-way
• Schedule:
  • Morning and afternoon departures daily
  • Advance booking recommended, especially October–April

Speedboats leave from Malé or the Airport, and most guesthouses arrange the transfer for you. This is the most convenient and reliable option.

2. Public Ferry (cheapest but slowest)

• Duration: 4–5 hours
• Price: Budget-friendly (usually USD 5–10)
• Frequency: Limited — normally a few times a week

The ferry is perfect for long-stay travellers or those wanting the cheapest transfer option, but not ideal if you have an early or late flight. Always double-check schedules, as public ferries do not run daily.

3. Private Speedboat Charter

• Duration: Around 60 minutes
• Price: USD 350–500+ depending on size
• Best for: Families, groups, late-night arrivals, or special occasions

If you want to arrive on your own schedule, a private charter is the fastest and easiest method.

Where to Stay in Thoddoo — Guesthouses, Prices & What to Expect

Thoddoo has dozens of boutique guesthouses and hotel-style stays ranging from budget to mid-range. Here’s what you can generally expect:

Typical guesthouse prices

• Budget rooms: USD 60–80 per night
• Mid-range: USD 90–120 per night
• Premium boutique stays: USD 130–180 per night

Rooms usually include:

• Air-conditioning
• Private bathrooms
• Wi-Fi
• Breakfast
• Daily housekeeping
• Bicycles or electric scooters for rent

Staying on Thoddoo feels like joining a friendly little island community. Hosts often go out of their way to help with excursions, transfers, local recommendations, and even fruit tasting.

Best Time to Visit Thoddoo

Thoddoo is beautiful year-round, but the most popular months with the best beach weather are:

• December to April (Dry season — calm seas, sunny skies)
• May to November (Lush green scenery, occasional showers, lower prices)

If you’re looking for the best combination of good weather, affordable stays, and fewer crowds, consider late April, early May, or late November.

Food & Dining in Thoddoo

Thoddoo has a surprisingly good food scene for a small island. Expect:

• Small cafés
• Local restaurants
• Juice bars
• In-house guesthouse dining

Meals are generally USD 8–15 per person, and portions are generous. Seafood lovers will enjoy fresh fish daily, often caught and prepared on the same day.

Vegetarians and vegans will also find plenty of options thanks to the island’s agriculture.

Costs: How Much Does a Thoddoo Holiday Really Cost?

Here’s a realistic budget for an affordable Maldives holiday in Thoddoo:

Daily cost per person (average budget traveller)

• Guesthouse with breakfast: USD 60–100
• Lunch & dinner: USD 15–25
• Activities: USD 20–40
• Transport: USD 35–45 (one-way speedboat)

Total per day: USD 80–140

This makes Thoddoo one of the best places in the Maldives for value-focused travellers.

Dress Code & Local Culture

Thoddoo is a local island, which means:

• Bikini swimwear is allowed only at the designated Bikini Beach, not around the rest of the island
• Clothing should cover shoulders and knees when walking in the village

The island is warm, friendly, and safe. Respecting local customs ensures a pleasant experience for both visitors and residents.

Recommended Length of Stay

To enjoy Thoddoo properly, plan for:

• 3 nights — enough for the beach + one activity
• 4–5 nights — ideal balance of relaxation and excursions
• 7+ nights — perfect for long stay holidays or slow travellers

Because food and accommodation are affordable, many travellers choose to stay longer.

Who Is Thoddoo Best For?

• Couples — quiet beaches, privacy, romantic sunsets
• Families — shallow water, safe island, friendly locals
• Solo travellers — relaxed vibe, affordable stays, great diving
• Budget travellers — resort-style beauty without resort prices
• Long-stay digital nomads — reliable Wi-Fi, peaceful environment

Tips for Booking Thoddoo Accommodation

Here’s how to choose the best place for your stay:

• Look for guesthouses near Bikini Beach — easier access, less walking in the heat
• Read recent reviews — focus on breakfast, cleanliness, and Wi-Fi
• Check transfer options — some guesthouses offer free or discounted transfers
• Ask about excursions — often cheaper when booked directly
• Look for included meals — half-board can be excellent value

We offer tailor-made holiday packages to Thoddoo Maldives.

Why Thoddoo Is Perfect for Affordable Maldives Holidays

Thoddoo combines everything people dream of when they picture the Maldives — clear lagoons, palm trees, charming island paths, delicious fresh food, and warm hospitality — but at a price that fits every budget. It’s the ideal island for travellers who want natural beauty, memorable experiences, and real value.

If you're planning a Maldives trip without resort rates, Thoddoo should be at the top of your list.

Ready to Plan Your Stay in Thoddoo?

Tell us your travel dates, budget, and preferred experiences — we can help you book guesthouse, secure transfers, and design the perfect Thoddoo holiday package.