As Maldives’ newest urban island, Hulhumalé Maldives blends city planning with tropical charm, making Hulhumalé Island a surprisingly appealing pivot for travellers. Expanded since 2024 into a modern community, this well‑zoned island offers everything from sunlit beaches to parks, eateries, and water-sport access, all within a short hop from the airport.
Also, with more than 150,000 hotel visitors throughout 2024 making Haujulmalé their home, the transit zone is slowly shifting towards becoming a tourist destination. The island is flexible, cheap, loaded with opportunity, and silent: whether chasing sandy sunrise at Hulhumalé Beach, cultural walks through Hulhumalé sightseeing attractions, or a base for activities in Hulhumalé.
Where is Hulhumalé located and what makes it stand out?
With only six kilometers distance through the Hulhumalé Causeway, the island in the Maldives, Hulhumalé, is considered to be very near Velana International Airport. The island was reclaimed and expanded for city purposes with the intention of decongesting Malé, which now provides for modern roads, green areas, and a myriad of tourist attractions in the area. With local stores, cafes, and good local transportation, you might well feel more integrated than isolated.
7 Top Things to Do in Hulhumalé
1. Hulhumalé Beach & Waterfront Calm
Glide into soft white sand, protected by a reef a few meters out. Hulhumalé Beach is best enjoyed early morning or late afternoon. Bikinis aren’t allowed outside designated tourist zones, so keep attire modest yet comfortable.
2. Get Moving at Hulhumalé Central Park
This lush green heart of the island is perfect for jogging, cycling, or a sunset picnic. The park’s pond, large lawn areas, and shaded benches make it the go‑to greenery spot in Hulhumalé Island.
3. Watersports and Diving Thrills
Local dive centres such as Ocean Junkies and Dive Club Maldives serve Hulhumalé Island with scuba dives, equipment rental, and guided trips to reefs like Banana Reef and Victory Wreck. Jet skis, kayaking, and parasailing are also widely available on Hulhumalé Island.
4. Market & Local Flavors
Near Centro Mall and Ferry Terminal Park, you’ll find local market stalls selling fresh produce, handmade crafts, and snacks. The beachfront cafés, including The Sea House and Family Room, offer a mix of local and international fare, complete with sea views and local hospitality.
5. Culture & Religious Landmarks
Visit the elegant Hulhumalé Grand Mosque (Masjid Al Sheikh Qasim bin Al‑Thani), a modern white-domed sanctuary that holds 1,500 worshippers. Its design and community significance make it a standout among Hulhumalé tourist attractions.
6. Day Excursions
Consider a quick trip to Malé for the Old Friday Mosque, National Museum, or fish market. Nearby islands like Himmafushi offer surf breaks and reef snorkelling, easily accessible via daily speedboats from Hulhumalé Island, Maldives.
7. Sunset Cruises & Marine Life Tours
Discover dolphins or enjoy a sunset cruise departing from the beach club. The golden sky over the lagoon is one of the most meditative things to do in Hulhumalé.
Why Choose Hulhumalé Island?
Compared to other local islands like Maafushi, Hulhumalé Island feels more developed, and decidedly more flexible if your travel includes transit, work, or local exploration. It offers a balanced mix of urban amenities and beach relaxation, ideal for first-time Maldives travellers or those on tighter budgets.
Planner’s Sidebar: Stats & Practical Tips
- Visitors in 2024: 150,000+ stayed overnight on Hulhumalé Maldives (local tourism data)
- Cost per day: USD 60–100 including guesthouse, meals, beach time, light activities
- Best time to visit: December to April, for dry skies and calmer seas.
Make Plans Concierge, Your Local Island Ally
Our Make Plans service plugin can arrange:
- Airport pickups and guesthouse reservations in Hulhumalé, Maldives
- Guided tours to Hulhumalé tourist attractions or day-trips to nearby islands
- Water sport bookings, kayaks, dives, cruises, without extra fees or fuss
We specialize in shaping itineraries that feel effortless, quietly curated, not sold.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which is better for tourists, Maafushi or Hulhumalé Island?
For affordable resort experiences, Maafushi wins. But for transit convenience, local life, and flexibility, Hulhumalé Island is a smart choice.
2. How do you travel from Velana International Airport to Hulhumalé?
Taxi or shuttle through the causeway, just 10 minutes. Cost around USD 5–10.
3. Is Hulhumalé Island worth including in your Maldives itinerary?
Absolutely, especially for ease of arrival/departure and access to urban facilities paired with beach time.
4. How safe is it to stay in Hulhumalé for tourists?
Very safe. The island is planned, regularly patrolled, and English is widely spoken.
5. What are the top things to do in Hulhumalé Island?
Beach walks, kayaking, central park strolls, dive shops, café visits, sunset cruises, and local shopping.
6. Is alcohol available for tourists in Hulhumalé?
Alcohol is not sold on the island itself. Public beaches and guesthouses don’t serve it, so only resorts or foreign-registered sites supply alcohol legally.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re settling in post-arrival, day-tripping from Malé, or splitting time between resort enclaves and island life, Hulhumalé Island Maldives offers versatility and soul. It’s where beach, built world, and urban life seamlessly intersect, without missing the laid-back energy that makes the Maldives feel like home.
Want a ready-made itinerary for things to do in Hulhumalé or insider tips for island hopping? Make Plans is here to craft your ideal start to Maldives, no sales pressure, just thoughtful guidance.
References & Citations
- Holidify – Hulhumalé sightseeing & beach guide Holidify
- TravelTriangle – 9 Best Things To Do In Hulhumalé (Jan 2025)
- My Maldives Guide – Water sports and dive centers My Maldives Guide
- TravelTomTom, Gems.Travel – Hulhumalé activities & beach details Gems Travel
- Wikipedia – Hulhumalé Grand Mosque stats