This artificial island near Malé has white-sand beaches, modern housing, and tree-lined streets. Built in 2004 on reclaimed land, it's a planned city that helps reduce population pressure.
Hulhumalé, a man-made island in the Maldives’ North Malé Atoll, blends modern city planning with oceanfront living. Built to solve overcrowding and prepare for sea level rise, this engineered island includes white sand beaches such as Hulhumale Beach, shaded walking paths, and Central Park’s palm trees. You’ll find it linked to Velana International Airport by a 2 km bridge, making it a convenient spot to stay before catching ferries to other islands. Swim in clear lagoons, watch cargo boats unload at the harbor, or try fried yams at street-side cafes. Many streets face north-south to catch sea breezes, reducing the need for air conditioning.
Transportation to Hulhumalé
Take a taxi across Sinamalé Bridge from Velana International Airport—the ride takes 10 minutes and costs around $6. Public buses run every half-hour from the airport’s main terminal until 11 PM, charging $1 per ride. If you’re coming from Malé city, board the public ferry at Hulhumalé Terminal near the fish market; tickets cost $0.50. The island has clear road signs in English, and ride-hailing apps work for taxis. Late-night arrivals should book transfers in advance, as buses stop after midnight.
Swimming and Ocean Exploration
Hulhumalé Beach on the west side has gentle waves and sandbanks visible at low tide. Wear a T-shirt or rash guard over swimwear here since it’s a public beach shared with locals. Rent snorkels from shops near the marina to see angelfish and starfish in shallow reefs. Join a half-day boat tour to dive sites like Kuda Huraa, where coral formations start 10 meters below the surface. For independent trips, hire a kayak in the morning when winds are lightest. Dolphin-watching tours depart daily at 4 PM from the main jetty.
City Layout and Public Areas
Hulhumalé’s streets form a grid shaded by angled buildings and neem trees. Central Park covers 14 acres with basketball courts, outdoor exercise equipment, and food carts selling fresh juice. In Phase 2, the newer part of the island, wider sidewalks and modern apartments stand out. Free electric buses run every 20 minutes between the ferry terminal, hospital, and airport. Most government buildings have solar roofs, and the entire island sits 2 meters above sea level—higher than Malé’s 1-meter elevation.
Daily Life and Customs
Buy skipjack tuna and papaya at Hulhumalé Market, open daily except Fridays until noon. Visit the 17th-century Hukuru Miskiy mosque in Malé, a 15-minute drive away, to see detailed coral stone carvings. Cover shoulders and knees when entering local shops or residential areas. During Ramadan, many restaurants open only after sunset, but hotel cafes serve meals all day. Friday mornings feel quiet as most residents attend mosque services until midday.
Accommodation Options
Most guesthouses and hotels sit within 5 minutes of the beach. Choose upper-floor rooms for views of cargo ships docking or seaplanes taking off. Budget options include basic rooms with AC and mini-fridges, while mid-range hotels often have rooftop pools. Newer buildings near the ferry terminal offer quick access to Malé-bound boats. Eat breakfast at bakeries selling egg roti or evening snacks like bajiya (spiced fish pastries) from street vendors.
Helpful Advice
Bring biodegradable sunscreen to protect coral reefs when snorkeling. Refill water bottles at filtered stations in parks and ferry terminals—the tap water is drinkable. Use the Hulhumalé Transit app to track bus times between the airport and key stops like Central Park. On Fridays, ferry schedules change due to prayer times, so confirm departure slots in advance. For a half-day excursion, hire a boat captain at the marina to visit Rasfannu sandbank or the surfing waves near Thulusdhoo Island.
