COMPLETE TRAVEL GUIDE (2025 Edition)

One of the Maldives’ most popular local-tourism islands — famous for close-to-shore nurse sharks, friendly culture, and world-class marine beauty.

Introduction: Why Keyodhoo Is a Top Local-Tourism Destination

Keyodhoo, located in Vaavu Atoll, has rapidly become one of the Maldives’ best-known islands for local tourism. It offers:

  • A warm, welcoming island community
  • Affordable, beautiful guesthouses
  • A stunning bikini beach
  • Nurse sharks often swimming right near the beach
  • Spectacular sandbanks and lagoons
  • Some of the Maldives’ most legendary dive sites
  • A relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere

Unlike luxury resorts, Keyodhoo gives you real Maldivian island life mixed with adventurous ocean experiences.

Getting to Keyodhoo

From Malé / Velana International Airport

A) Speedboat (Most Popular Option)

  • 90 minutes
  • $50 USD per person
  • Daily departures (morning & afternoon)
  • Guesthouse staff can book it for you

Fast, comfortable, and the preferred choice for tourists.

B) Public Ferry (Budget-Friendly)

  • 4-5 hours
  • Under $10–15 USD
  • Limited schedule
  • Great cultural experience

Where to Stay – Popular Local Tourism Hub

Keyodhoo has several well-rated guesthouses, making it one of the busiest local-tourism islands in Vaavu Atoll. Expect:

  • Clean A/C rooms
  • Private or shared balconies
  • Home-cooked meals
  • Bikini beach access
  • Snorkeling & shark tours
  • Helpful, friendly hosts

Keyodhoo is ideal for travelers who want authentic experiences, nature, and affordability.

Food & Dining

Keyodhoo’s meals are wholesome and local:

  • Freshly grilled tuna
  • Rice & curry plates
  • Coconut-rich dishes
  • Maldivian snacks (“hedhikaa”)
  • Fruit juices, smoothies
  • Beach BBQ dinners

Shops offer snacks, drinks, and essentials.
Alcohol is not served, as per Maldivian local-island rules.

Beaches & Natural Beauty

Bikini Beach

Beautifully maintained and perfect for:

  • Sunbathing
  • Swimming
  • Snorkeling
  • Relaxed scenery

Nurse Sharks Near the Beach

One of Keyodhoo’s most unique features is that nurse sharks can often be seen close to the beach or near the harbour area.

This creates:

  • Amazing natural photo opportunities
  • Gentle, memorable encounters
  • Spectacular sunrise/sunset photography

The sharks in Vaavu Atoll are known to be calm and non-aggressive—photographers and nature lovers adore this feature.

Sandbanks & Picnic Islands

Nearby uninhabited sandbanks are stunning:

  • Powder-soft white sand
  • Bright turquoise water
  • Perfect for drone shots

A favorite activity for weddings, proposals, and family photos.

Healthy Coral Reefs

The island’s surrounding reefs offer:

  • Turtles
  • Stingrays
  • Eagle rays
  • Reef fish
  • Gorgeous underwater scenery

Top Things to Do in Keyodhoo

1. Nurse Shark Watching & Photos

Keyodhoo is famous for this.
You can capture:

  • Sharks in shallow water
  • Drone videos with sharks
  • Aerial drone photos
  • Swim with sharks

A highlight for travelers and photographers.

2. Diving at World-Class Sites

Nearby channels rank among the top in the Maldives:

  • Miyaru Kandu (sharks, currents, action)
  • Fotteyo Kandu (one of the world’s top dive sites)
  • Caves, overhangs, & drift dives

3. Snorkeling Adventures

See:

  • Turtles
  • Reef sharks
  • Rays
  • Schools of fish
  • Colorful coral gardens

4. Sandbank Picnics

Often the most magical part of a Keyodhoo trip:

  • Lunch or dinner on a sandbank
  • Drone-friendly landscapes

5. Dolphin Cruises

Spinner dolphins love Vaavu Atoll waters.

6. Local Island Life Walk

Explore the community:

  • Sandy lanes
  • Colorful houses
  • The harbour
  • Fishing boats
  • Friendly residents

7. Night Fishing

A cultural activity using traditional line fishing.

Cultural Etiquette

Keyodhoo is a Muslim island; simple guidelines ensure respect:

✔ On the island:

  • Dress modestly (shoulders & knees covered)
  • No swimwear except at bikini beach
  • Respect prayer times
  • Ask for permission before taking photos of locals

✔ At bikini beach or on excursions:

  • Standard swimwear is allowed

The community is kind, welcoming, and used to international visitors due to the island’s popularity.

Shopping

While small, Keyodhoo offers:

  • Handmade Maldivian crafts
  • Beach clothing
  • Island-made souvenirs
  • Cosmetics
  • Snacks & local treats

Purchases support local families.

Best Time to Visit

☀️ High Season: December – April

  • Dry, sunny weather
  • Calm seas
  • Best underwater visibility

🌥️ Shoulder Season: May – July

  • Occasional rain
  • Lower prices
  • Fewer crowds

🌧️ Wet Season: August – November

  • More rain but warm
  • Excellent marine life

What to Pack

  • Reef-safe sunscreen
  • Swimwear
  • Waterproof phone case
  • Camera / drone (highly recommended!)
  • Light cotton clothes
  • Snorkeling gear (optional)
  • Power bank
  • Cash (USD or MVR)

Who Keyodhoo Is Perfect For

✔ Couples
✔ Families
✔ Backpackers
✔ Drone photographers
✔ Snorkeling addicts
✔ Divers
✔ Budget travelers
✔ Anyone wanting authentic island life

Not suitable for:
✘ Nightlife seekers
✘ Luxury-only travelers

Summary: What Makes Keyodhoo Unforgettable

Keyodhoo has earned its reputation as one of the Maldives’ top local islands thanks to:

  • Nurse sharks that swim beautifully close to the beach
  • Stunning natural scenery
  • Warm, friendly community
  • Safe, peaceful environment
  • World-class snorkeling & diving
  • Gorgeous sandbanks
  • Affordable guesthouses
  • Unique photo opportunities

For travelers seeking a real Maldivian island experience, Keyodhoo is one of the most memorable choices in the country.