By GR Aug 18

Many people often view the Maldives as an exclusive destination, recognizing it for its overwater bungalows and luxurious resorts. However, my recent trip to Dhigurah Island revealed that this tropical paradise can be surprisingly affordable without missing out on the quintessential Maldivian experience.

Choosing Dhigurah Island

Dhigurah Island stood out to me as it offers an authentic taste of the Maldives without the hefty price tag. Dhigurah is a budget-friendly island in the Maldives, offering a less commercialized experience. It's perfect for travelers who want to enjoy the natural beauty of the Maldives without spending too much money.

Where I Stayed

When it came to accommodations, I sought out something affordable yet comfortable. After some research, I decided on TME Retreats Dhigurah. This lovely guesthouse has cozy rooms, friendly staff, and a relaxing atmosphere, all at an affordable price. It's on the beach, so I can swim in the clear water every morning, just a few steps from my room.

Another excellent option I considered was Bliss Dhigurah, a boutique hotel that also boasts a 4-star rating. I relaxed on the rooftop terrace at sunset after a fun day of snorkeling. It’s truly a rejuvenating experience, whether you’re going with a loved one or traveling by yourself.

For those seeking a slightly more upscale yet still affordable option, Athiri Beach Dhigurah is worth considering. This beachfront hotel offers spacious rooms with stunning ocean views and also has a 4-star rating. The restaurant offers tasty local and international food, so you can enjoy a great meal without going far.

Getting There

Traveling to Dhigurah Island is relatively easy. I flew into Malé, the capital of the Maldives, which is well-connected to major cities worldwide. From there, I took a domestic flight to Maamigili, a nearby island with an airport. The flight was quick—about 20 minutes—and affordable, perfect for sticking to a budget.

Once I arrived at Maamigili, I hopped on a speedboat that took me directly to Dhigurah in less than 30 minutes. The journey was smooth and gave me my first glimpse of the stunning atolls that make up the Maldives.

For those looking to save even more, there’s also the option of taking a public ferry from Malé. Although it’s a slower and less direct route, it’s the most cost-effective way to reach Dhigurah Island. The ferry ride is a special experience where you can travel with locals and enjoy the pretty views along the journey.

What I Did on Dhigurah Island

Dhigurah Island is a long, narrow stretch of land known for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. It’s also famous for being one of the best spots in the Maldives to see whale sharks. I had a great experience snorkeling with gentle giants. It was a unique adventure that didn’t cost much money.

Besides snorkeling, I spent my days exploring the island on foot. Dhigurah is a small island you can walk around. I enjoyed exploring the village and seeing how people live their daily lives in the Maldives. The locals were friendly, and I even tried some traditional Maldivian dishes at a small, family-run café.

One of my favorite activities was simply relaxing on the beach. The island’s long sandbank is perfect for sunbathing, and I often had the entire stretch of beach to myself. Dhigurah has dive centers for exploring coral reefs and marine life at a good price. Great for diving enthusiasts.

Yoga Retreat (Thoddoo Island): If you yearn for more social and/or spiritual connection, then head over to Thoddoo Island, which is rich in physical and spiritual practices. There are a few good yoga retreats and hotels that unite common minded yogis in a welcoming venue. I personally like this 8-day wellness and yoga retreat hosted by Viktoria Fetisova.

Dining on a Budget

Eating out in the Maldives doesn’t have to be expensive, and Dhigurah Island offers several budget-friendly options. I loved eating at local restaurants like Hermit’s and Absolute Maldives.

They served fresh seafood and traditional meals. The prices were good too. Both of these places have excellent ratings and provide a great atmosphere to enjoy a meal without overspending.

Bliss Dhigurah and Athiri Beach Dhigurah have restaurants. They offer a variety of local and international dishes. There is food for everyone to enjoy. And since my stay included breakfast, I could start each day without worrying about the cost of my first meal.

Final Thoughts

Visiting Dhigurah Island was one of the best travel decisions I’ve made. It allowed me to experience the Maldives without the high costs typically associated with this destination. The island's stunning scenery, friendly locals, and affordable places to stay and things to do made my trip unforgettable.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or even a family, Dhigurah Island offers something for everyone. It proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy a piece of paradise in the Maldives.