Himmafushi Island, Kaafu Atoll | Things To Do, Best Time To Visit, Food

Himmafushi Island, Maldives Overview

Himmafushi Island in Kaafu Atoll is one of Maldives’ still developing tourist islands. A visit to the island guarantees a glimpse into traditional life in the Maldives. Its main is lined with souvenirs like carved rosewood manta rays and dolphins and coral headstones while the entire island can be explored on foot in less than an hour. It’s a popular spot for dolphin watching and diving.

The famous surfing spot on the island is the Jailbreak, named after its location behind a former prison. This reeling right hand point offers fast barrel sections for the advanced surfer. Another famous surf are the Sultans that can go up to 8 feet in height. For diving, you can check out the Lankan Manta Point site that is only 15 minutes from Himmafushi Island. On the mainland, the lack of tourists assure a private beach experience although you’ll need to be conservatively dressed in these parts. At just 16.5 kilometres from Male, Himmafushi Island is easily accessible by daily speedboats.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Himmafushi Island will entirely depend upon the purpose of your visit. For instance, if one is going to surf then the best time is between March and October, with the peak surfing seasons being between June and August.

The best weather on the island is between January and March, with March being the perfect month to visit for the perfect blend of surf and sand. It is also advisable to double-check for the dates of Ramadan since many of the local food joints will be shut during the day.

Tips

The country has strict laws regarding the consumption of alcohol, which applies to Himmafushi Island as well; therefore there is no liquor available on the island.
Bikinis or any kind of provocative swimwear is not permitted on the beaches and one has to dress respecting the local traditions and customs of the country.
There are no ATMs available on the island so it is better to carry the local currency. Many shops also accept USD as valid payment.
One can pay by card at the guest house, but they will be charging an additional 4% fees as processing charges.
Wear comfortable footwear and clothing since the best way to explore the island is on foot.
Carry lots of sunblock and water to stay hydrated and safe from the heat.

Things to Do

Himmafushi is a paradise for surfers, but, there are also a lot of other options which are available apart from surfing which will surely leave one with a memorable experience.

Surfing:
Himmafushi Island is well known for its amazing surfing options which attract visitors from far and wide as an idyllic surfing spot. One of the best surfing spots is ‘Jailbreak’ which is situated right behind the prison, thus the name. One will find more challenging waves at ‘Sultan’ which is a swell spot for all advanced surfers. On the other hand, ‘Ninjas’ and ‘Honkeys’ are better suited for beginners who are looking to try out their hand in surfing.

Average Cost: MDR 100 to MDR 200

Chill by the beach and sand back:
The tourist beach on the island is the best place to have a chill time, get some tan and have fun in the sand for a relaxing time on your vacation.

Head out the perfect sand backs which are the ideal spot for a picnic with the family on a warm sunny day, set in the middle of the beautiful blue ocean and clicking some memorable pictures in the picturesque location.

Average Cost: Free of cost for the beach, MDR 300 to MDR 350 for a sandbank trip

Snorkelling/Diving:
One can embark on an adventurous journey of exploring the wonders of the ocean on a snorkelling or diving adventure. Explore the local reefs and swim beside the turtles and school of fish, who knows you may even find Nemo!

Average Cost: MDR 1000 to MDR 1200 (for scuba diving), MDR 300 MDR 350 (for snorkelling)
Tip: For diving and snorkelling options it is better to collaborate with a local dive operator for a safe and fun-filled experience.

Average Cost: MDR 1400 to MDR 1500

Dolphin-Watching:
The ocean is home to many dolphins, which are fun creatures who are always up for an awesome show of aerial acrobatics. Although it is not a guarantee that one may spot the dolphins, the journey still makes for a thrilling ride in the waters.

Average cost: MDR 450 to MDR 500

Food and Restaurants at Himmafushi Island

There are some great restaurants where on the island where one can get a taste of the local food along with some delicious international cuisines for the ultimate food experience.

Oevaru: This is a newly opened restaurant on the island which has some amazing food options coupled with excellent service. The restaurant also accepts payments by card which is definitely a plus point.
New Point Café: The café has a cute ambiance which makes it perfect to grab a quick evening snack while enjoying some amazing and freshly brewed coffee.
Anmadey Café: The café is a great place to try some authentic local seafood dishes on the island. The portions are big and satisfying with the best dish on the menu being the tuna fish rice. Near the café is an open air deck which is a great place to enjoy the ocean views or have a fun time with your group.
Bun Me: Bun Me is a great place to grab a quick sandwich, enjoy your coffee or relish in some delicious ice-creams.

How To Reach Himmafushi Island

Himmafushi Island is located towards the north of the capital city of Male and the journey by boat will take approximately 30 to 45 minutes. One can board the public ferry which operates from Male at 3:00 PM. However, the ferry will not be available on Fridays so one might have to arrange for private transportation from the hotel, but remember that this will cost much more than the public ferry.

However, if one is on the lookout for a faster option to reach Himmafushi Island then opt for the local speedboat which is a balance of cost and time and the journey will take around 20 minutes. A more luxurious option is the private speedboat which turns out to be more convenient if traveling in a group taking approximately 20 minutes to reach the island.