Capital / urban island
Hulhumalé
Modern reclaimed city island next to the airport
Kaafu (K)
6 km from Malé
Pop. 53,193 (2022)
4 km²
Nearest airportVelana International (MLE)
From Malé airport≈10 min by road
Population53,193
Bikini beachNo
ATMYes
HealthcareHospital
Mobile data5G
Hulhumalé is a planned city built on reclaimed land a few minutes from the airport. Wide streets, a long public beach and plenty of cafés make it a popular first or last night in the Maldives.
Hulhumalé had 53,193 residents in 2022 and is the fastest-growing part of the capital region.
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Known for
- Long public beach with a beachfront promenade of cafés
- Minutes from Velana International Airport
- Central Park and its relaxed, modern feel
What to expect
- Perfect for transit nights before or after a flight
- Modest dress on the public beach — there is no bikini beach
- Plenty of supermarkets, ATMs and restaurants
Stays
0 listedNo listings of this type listed on Hulhumalé yet. Own one? List it free.
No operators listed yet. Most guest houses arrange trips for their guests. Run excursions here? List your service.
10 minutes by taxi or public bus from Velana International Airport.
Private speedboat from Airport / nearby islands
10 MIN
Any time
Connected by road.
Operator: Taxi or bus
Schedules are indicative and change with the season. Confirm with the operator or your host.
Food
0 listedNo restaurants listed yet. Most guest houses serve meals. Run a café here? List it free.
Island guide
Facilities · rules · accessFacilities
ATMYES
HospitalYES
PharmacyYES
Police stationYES
ShopsYES
5G mobile dataYES
Bikini beachNO
Local regulations
- Dress modestly in the village: cover shoulders and knees (men and women).
- Bikinis and swimwear only on the designated bikini beach, on excursions and on resort day trips.
- Alcohol and pork are not permitted on local islands — don't bring them in your luggage.
- Public displays of affection are frowned upon; be respectful near mosques and during prayer times.
- Flying drones requires a permit from the Maldives Civil Aviation Authority.
- Don't touch or stand on coral, and never take shells, sand or coral off the island.
Accessibility
- Roads are mostly flat, compacted sand; there are few paved paths or kerbs.
- Wheelchair access is limited — ask your host about step-free rooms before booking.
- Boarding speedboats and ferries involves steps from the jetty; crews will help.
- No taxis on most small islands: buggies or bicycles may be available on request.
Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hulhumalé · https://census.gov.mv/2022/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/P5.pdf