Gaafu Dhaalu and Alifu
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Positives
- Atoll pass perfection
- Fewer charter boats
- Calm water cruising
- Great fishing and scenery
Negatives
- Stormy winter seas
- Growing springtime crowds
- Long transfers
- Expensive
Gaafu Dhaalu and Alifu surf travel guide
Gaafu Dhaalu (South Huvadhoo) and Gaafu Alifu (North Huvadhoo) has an exposed south and east-facing coastline, boasting a dozen good passes, in a 2 hr cruising zone. Maldivian pioneer, Tony Hussein, discovered the areas potential in 1973, keeping it to himself until the first charters began in 1993. A short flight from crowded Malé drops surfers in this beautiful, undeveloped, secluded zone with a good choice of rights or lefts.
Surf spots in Gaafu Dhaalu and Alifu
Research the 12 surf breaks in Gaafu Dhaalu and Alifu and discover what spots suit the current conditions.
Break lowdown
We’ve collated the wave data giving you a unique insight into the 12 breaks in Gaafu Dhaalu and Alifu.
When to go
Surf and weather statistics to help plan your surf trip to Gaafu Dhaalu and Alifu
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Library
Helpful surf travel videos and articles featuring Gaafu Dhaalu and Alifu.
Travel Information
General
- Current Time
- Tourists
- 1,484,000
- Population
- 540,544
- Tourist Info
- Tourist Info
Security
Health
Money
- Currency
- MVR
- Exchange rate
- $1 = 12.800 MVR MVR
Cost of living
Communication
- Dialing in
- +960
- Dialing out
- 00
- Language
- Dhivehi, English, Arabic
Electricity
- Plug Type
- dg
Visas
Every country in the world gets a free 30 day tourist visa on arrival.
Getting There
Free 30d visa on arrival. Male is a medium-priced ticket from Europe and SE Asia. Connections at the airport for inter-atoll flights or board vessel for long voyage south. Maldivian fly from Male to Kaadedhdhoo, 5 times per week (1h10min, $188 r/t), no charge for boards but 20kg total baggage weight and 7ft length limit applies – pack light! Superb, scenic flight!
Getting Around
From Kaadedhdhoo airport, the charter boats (and resorts) will pick you up. Having a dhoni and a dingy will allow groups to split up and surf different breaks with ease.
Accommodation
All mod cons aboard a handful of safari boats including the original Horizon II and Anloran, booked through all the big agents (Atoll Travel, Maldivesurf, Perfect Wave, Waterways, etc). Ayada resort sits a mile from Two Ways but prices are around $800/d. One guesthouse in Blue Bowls around $90/d; speedboat transfers being an obvious extra at 500usd both ways. Food is varied as long as it is fish!
Activities
Typical boat trip culture of insane fishing, great snorkelling (no tanks available), surf vids and board games. Vaadhoo and Gadhdhoo offer telecom services and village scenery.
Hazards & hassles
At Oº latitude, your worst enemy is the sun. Cover up and use waterproof sunscreen that protects you and the coral. Keep well hydrated and treat coral cuts carefully. Horrendous tidal currents rip through the passes. No alcohol, pornography, drugs, fishing rods or spear guns are allowed at customs.
Handy Hints
Bring two shortboards and reef equipment. Names are confusing - Gaafu Dhaalu is South Huvadhoo. Some boats have WIFI onboard now, buy a local card and 3G key at Malé airport for a reliable connection. GSM 99% coverage!
Due to global pandemic, Visas, Getting There, Getting Around or Accommodation information and pricing may have changed. Always check Government Travel Advice before travelling.