The quintessential Maldivian getaway must include a retreat by the serenity of ocean waves, the salt of the sea on the tip of the tongue and lastly, a refuge from the bustling noises of city life. Fonimagoodhoo on the island of Baa Atoll, often referred to as the Reethi Beach, offers the mystique of verdant wilderness, tranquillity and luxury. The island is home to a reef filled with a diverse array of sea creatures, despite being spread across just a 600 m stretch. It is also recognised by UNESCO as a bio reserve, due to its unique geographical traits.
How To Reach Reethi Beach
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By Seaplane – The beach can be reached by a seaplane ride which takes around 35 minutes. The Reethi Beach Resort’s preferred partner in seaplane operations is MANTA.
By Flight – Reethi Beach is located at a distance of 125 km from Velana International Airport. One option is taking a 20-minute domestic flight to Dharavandhoo and proceeding to the beach by a short speedboat ride. The Reethi Beach Resort’s preferred partner in domestic carriers is FlyMe.
Suggested Read: Top Water Sports In Maldives For Your Next Exciting Trip
Places To Visit Near Reethi Beach
Reethi Beach is a part of one of the many islands in the Maldivian archipelago. Here is a list of places to visit near the beach.
1. Milaidhoo Island
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Located 126 km northwest of Male, Milaidhoo is known for its luxury resort of the same name. The island is a part of the Baa Atoll Bioreserve under UNESCO and lies close to the Hanifaru Bay. Tourists can either take a 35-minute-long seaplane from Male or a 15-minute-long domestic flight to reach this quaint island. Milaidhoo has a strict policy of not allowing guests to wear swimming costumes inside restaurants. Kayaking is a popular activity among tourists in Milaidhoo.
Timings: 2 PM – 12 AM
2. Handhuvaru Bar
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The Handhuvaru Bar is a popular spot in the vicinity of the Reethi Beach Resort water villas. It is situated on the northern end of the island and offers a jungle-like, adventurous interior to host visitors. The trained mixologists at this bar serve a range of alcoholic, non-alcoholic and fresh fruit beverages. The bar also presents itself as an elaborate shack with a view to behold. For those who prefer to drink alcoholic beverages, the bar offers a ‘cocktail of the day’ for its guests. Drinking while soaking in the views of the surroundings is one of the best things to do at Reethi Beach.
Timings: 12 PM – 8 PM
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3. Hanifaru Bay
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Hanifaru Bay is a keyhole-shaped bay in Baa Atoll, Maldives. This place used to be a popular diving spot until the 1990s when it was converted into a protected area. There is a nursery for grey sharks and between May and December, the unique shape of the bay allows it to get filled with planktons for manta rays to feed on. Only five boats are allowed at once and one can see rangers on patrol in the area at all times. Hundreds of manta rays gather in this bay and present a vibrant sight to behold.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
4. The Underwater Institute By Maldives Passions
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This institute is regarded as one of the safest to learn different types of diving and has expanded from its original base, Maafushi. The dive masters here are eager to educate tourists from around the world. They use advanced equipment and the hygiene maintained by the institute is commendable. If you are planning a long stay in Maldives, you can go for their internationally recognised certified courses, since the institute is a member of SSI and PADI. Though these certifications are for adults, the institute also has something for kids (8 and above) with their Bubble Maker program.
Timings: 8 AM – 8:30 PM
Suggested Read: Uncover The Landscapes Of Male Amidst The Tranquil Beaches And Blue Lagoons
5. Javvu Spa
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The Javvu Spa is located in the heart of a verdant forest in Baa Atoll. The spa is the perfect retreat for those seeking wellness and luxury. The spa is named after the Dhivehi word for ‘atmosphere’ and is nestled amidst banyan trees. You can spend your time meditating for as long as you wish, or stroll on one of the only outdoor running tracks in this picturesque country. You can also avail yourself of the treatments offered by their salon and go in for a complete rejuvenation of mind, body, and soul.
Timings: 9 AM – 8 PM
6. Coral Boutique
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This tourist attraction, which sells souvenirs and gift items like sarongs, is located in Dharavandhoo, near Reethi Beach. People can find many items to choose from at affordable rates apart from products made from turtle shells, which are strictly prohibited. There are custom-made t-shirts, fridge magnets and keyrings sold at this boutique. The owner of the boutique has a lot of interesting information to offer and visitors love coming to this place to take a piece of this beach back to their homeland.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
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Where To Stay
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The Reethi Beach Resort is one of the most popular resorts in Reethi Beach, with 120 bungalows welcoming tourists. The deluxe villas of the resort have access to private beaches. Ithaa Inn Kamadhoo and Akomadoo Retreat are great options for Reethi Beach hotels for those on a lower budget.
Where To Eat
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The Moodhu Bar and Restaurant on the premises of the Reethi Beach Resort is popular for serving delectable food. Rehendhi Restaurant is another popular spot for trying out Dhivehi cuisine.
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Best Time To Visit Reethi Beach
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November To April – The weather is breezy and gentle during this time and the sea is far from turbulent. Such weather is perfect for indulging in underwater activities.
May To October – Those looking for the perfect vacation within a budget can opt for the monsoon season. It is when the rates of flight tickets and accommodations are at their lowest. Moreover, the island is not as crowded as summer.
Other Factors To Consider
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Here are some factors to consider while planning your trip to Reethi Beach:
Average Cost Of The Trip: Depending on the accommodation you are choosing, a week-long trip to the beach may cost somewhere between ₹1,50,000 to ₹2,00,000 per person.
Travel Tips For Reethi Beach:
- Wear appropriate swimwear at the Beach, since nudity is strictly prohibited in Maldives.
- Carry insect repellents since the Beach also has tropical forests adjacent to it, becoming a breeding ground for insects.
- Do not carry alcohol from a different country to Maldives, since it is prohibited.
- Carry enough cash throughout your journey because the Beach has no ATMs. US dollars are widely accepted, apart from the Maldivian Rufiyaa.
- Pack your luggage wisely. If you have to explore the island to the fullest, you must be able to carry your luggage around comfortably.
- Book all-inclusive packages. Try to avert being charged extra for amenities. Plan before and include everything you need in your bookings.
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Reethi Beach is one of the most serene beaches in the Maldivian archipelago. From water sports for adventure lovers to great shopping spots for shopaholics – the beach has something to offer everyone. If you seek an experience nestled in the arms of nature, amidst crystal-clear water and teeming marine life, plan your trip to the Maldives with TripXL and rejuvenate your body, mind and soul.
Cover Photo: Michael Hobi / Wikimedia Commons