Dhigurah, Maldives

Bring water and sun protection as there are no shops on that side of the island.

Expect to pay high prices for drinks; a can of Coke Zero costs $4 plus tax.

For a budget-friendly experience, consider half-board options instead of all-inclusive, as the latter has limited food variety.

You can exchange money easily at the airport, but be cautious of the rates.

Accommodation can be more expensive here, so plan your budget accordingly.

Eating out can add up, but we enjoyed every meal, including local dishes like Malian Curry.

Be aware that there is no alcohol available on the island, which might affect your dining experience.

Maldivian cuisine is underrated; don't miss trying fresh fish dishes like mass huni and spicy tuna curry.

Local tuk tuks are available for about $10 per person if you prefer not to walk.

There are only two boats per day to Dhigurah, so plan your arrival accordingly.

Make sure to bring water when walking to the sandbank, as it can be quite a trek.

Walking to the end of the island takes about 30 minutes; you can choose between the beach or a jungle path, with the jungle route being preferable.

You can only wear bikinis on Bikini Beach; elsewhere on the island, modest swimwear is required.

Alcohol is strictly prohibited on the Maldivian Islands, so respect local culture and only wear swimsuits on bikini beaches.

Make sure to fill out the declaration form upon landing to avoid issues.

Even snorkelers can enjoy swimming alongside these gentle giants, as they glide through shallow waters.

It's very close to the whale shark tours, costing just $70 per person.

Expect a warm welcome with complimentary drinks and towels upon arrival, making your stay feel luxurious even at lower prices.

Expect beautiful long white beaches that offer more privacy than smaller local islands.

Dhigurah offers plenty of space to walk around, making it easy to explore the island.

Explore small local shops for snacks or souvenirs and enjoy wandering the quiet streets to see local life.

Local guest houses often provide excellent service, as many staff members have experience working in resorts.

Finding a private beach here is quite easy, which enhances the feeling of seclusion.

From December to April, the waters are rich in plankton, attracting whale sharks, making it the best time to visit.

Accommodation prices vary significantly; you can find options as low as $38 a night on some islands.

Accommodation on local islands can be significantly cheaper than resorts, with options available from as low as $24 per night.

The hotel Akiri Dhigurah is well-rated and offers excursions, with rooms priced around $116 per night including breakfast.