South Ari atoll

Alifu Dhaalu is the southern sector of Ari atoll. It features the best diving with whale sharks in the Maldives. However, beaches are also good, including different kinds of budget islands. It is worth to mention the local Dhigurah island - one of the best in all of the Maldives. Shore and seabed: sand. [edit]

Coordinates: 3.68349, 72.838147

See also: Best beaches in South Ari atoll

Hotels [edit]

In Alifu Dhaalu there is a great choice of luxury islands - especially in the budget segment. For example, just for US$300-400 per night, you can stay in a decent 4-5 star resort with a good beach, fully justifying complicated transfer.

As for the local islands, their choice is rather limited. But there is a superb island of Dhigurah with a gorgeous beach, allowing you to relax in the Maldives for the very low price - even in comparison with other inhabited islands.

How to get there [edit]

Fly to Male international airport (MLE). Then take one of the three major transfer options to your island:

1. Seaplane is the most luxury, but the most expensive option as well. The flight takes half an hour per way. The cost for the round trip is about US$400-500. Children of 2-11 years old have 50% discount. Infants travel free of charge. Please note, that sometimes you'll have to wait for your flight during few hours.

2. Public speedboat. The travel time is 1.5-2 hours per way. Ticket price is US$70-100 per person for the return.

3. Government ferry. Get to Mahibadhoo island by MTCC ferry - route 307. It takes 4 hours 15 minutes, ticket price is about US$5 per way:

- departure from Male at 9:00 on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday;

- departure from Mahibadhoo island at 10:30 on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday.

Next take ferry #308 or take ferry #302 (every day except Friday).

When to go [edit]

The best time to relax on the beaches of South Ari atoll is a dry season from January to April. As for the rainy season, it is good as well, but you will get a maximum of 2-3 sunny days per week.

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