You read that right, surfing in the Maldives can be affordable!
Many envision the Maldives as a luxury destination reserved for once-in-a-lifetime splurges. But a fellow surfer I met in Asia helped bust that myth wide open. Her eyes lit up when I told her I wasn’t sure where to visit after Sri Lanka. She said—you should go to the Maldives, it is such a short flight away! She introduced me to local islands like Himmafushi, which cater to travelers seeking authentic experiences without the hefty resort price tag. They are welcoming and ideal for exploring the Maldives without draining your savings (more on these islands below!). Here’s how to surf in the Maldives without breaking the bank!
Why Himmafushi?
I chose Himmafushi Island for its proximity to Malé, the capital and home to Velana International Airport. I did not spend time in Malé or other islands, I just wanted to surf. A swift 20-minute speedboat ride whisked me from Malé to this tiny island. I liked the idea of arriving quickly—no long boat queues or seaplanes required.
Himmafushi is one of the simplest places I’ve visited. Locals are embracing tourism at their own pace while holding onto the island’s authentic charm. And for surfers, the location is a dream—it puts you within minutes of some of the Maldives’ most iconic reef breaks.
The Surf
Since my trip was at the start of surf season, I did not experience huge crowds. Sometimes, it was just my group of 4-8 out there. The biggest crowds were around 20. If only one of the three breaks mentioned below is working, that’s where the surfers who are in town will be. It was an international crowd out there, and everyone I met was friendly. Brazil, France, Spain, Dubai, and Australian folks filled the lineup.
• Jailbreaks – a right-hand reef break accessible by a short walk and paddle from the beach or by boat. It offers fast, long rides with barrel sections, especially at mid to high tide.
• Honky’s – a left-hand reef break accessible by boat, serving up one of the longest, smoothest lefts in the Maldives.
• Sultans – neighbor to Honky’s and a royal right-hander with speed and power—Sultans rules the lineup when the swell lines up just right.
Other surf breaks, like Cokes and Chickens, are nearby, closer to Thulusdhoo Island. Depending on conditions, they can be reached by boat in about 30 to 60 minutes. If you want to check them out, your guesthouse or a local surf house can help arrange transportation.
Surfing in the Maldives was eye-opening. The waves were incredibly consistent when the swell hit, and they offered little forgiveness. No mellow shoulders or cruisy baby waves here and there to warm you up. You had to keep your game face on the entire session—there were no handouts. Because of that, I’d say these breaks are best suited for intermediate to advanced surfers. I did not see any beginners at these breaks.
Surf Season in Himmafushi
The prime surf season in Himmafushi spans from March to October, with the peak swells gracing the island between June and August. During these months, surfers can expect consistent waves, warm waters (82°- 86°F, similar to Sri Lanka), and favorable winds, making it an ideal time for surfing in the Maldives. Be open to checking the swell and visiting during shoulder season, as you will see a slight break in pricing. I stayed at the beginning of March—there was plenty of swell and incredible waves.
Getting There
• I flew into Malé and arrived at Velana International Airport, the main gateway to the Maldives. My one-way flight from Sri Lanka to the Maldives was $150.
Travel to Himmafushi
Travel to Himmafushi is straightforward. I planned my flight times according to the scheduled speedboat times. Plan your boat transfers in advance based on your flight times and budget.
• Public Ferry – an economical option, check the ferry schedule. This route takes about 45 minutes. A one-way ticket costs around $2.
• Scheduled Speedboats – faster than the ferry, scheduled speedboats take about 20 minutes. There are a few companies running these boats. There are usually 3 departure times per day. I used Himmafushi Transport Services on the way there and Naseeb Express on the way back to Malé. These one-way tickets will run you $20-$25.
• Private Speedboat Transfers – private speedboats can be arranged for more flexibility. Prices vary depending on the provider and time of day. Expect to pay between $100-$130 per one-way trip.
*Note ~ these same options are available when you return to Malé for your departing flight. Make sure to schedule your pickup in advance.
Culture & Vibe
Since Himmafushi is a local island, it’s home to Maldivian residents and operates under local laws and customs. Because the Maldives is a Muslim country, alcohol isn’t permitted on local islands. However, there’s a floating bar just offshore if you’re craving a cold beer at sunset (details below!).
I found the vibe in the Maldives to be uniquely its own—more subtle and reserved than other islands I’ve visited. Unlike the immediate, open warmth I’ve experienced in places like Bali, Sri Lanka, or Hawaii, the energy here initially felt quieter. But locals were incredibly kind and helpful once I said hello and engaged.
Religion, tradition and a strong sense of identity shape the texture of daily life in this part of the world. And because many local islands are still relatively new to tourism, they’re doing it their way—rooted in their rhythm, with minimal outside influence. Staying on these islands means supporting community-run guesthouses, enjoying home-cooked meals, and getting a feel for everyday Maldivian life. Authentic, affordable and real.
Accomodation
Himmafushi offers accommodations to suit a range of budgets—unlike resort islands, where everything is owned and operated by the property. That means you’re locked into their premium pricing for accommodation, food, activities, and amenities. Here, you’re not just visiting a perfectly landscaped resort—you’re experiencing real life in the Maldives.
Guesthouse Stays
• Jailbreak Surf Inn – I opted for this simple yet comfortable guesthouse. Their pricing includes a room, breakfast, and one daily boat ride to nearby surf spots ($55/day). Additional services like home-cooked lunch ($6), dinner ($6), surfboard rentals ($10/day), or extra boat trips ($10) can be added a la carte. I appreciated the flexibility, allowing me to tailor my activities each day. The staff’s hospitality, delicious meals, and central location made my stay memorable.
• Natural Surf House – for a more all-inclusive experience, this surf house offers packages that encompass airport pickups, all meals and drinks, multiple daily boat trips, yoga sessions, and more. Contact them directly for pricing and details on how to customize your stay. When I inquired, the all-in price per day was around $100.
Luxury Stays
You guys know that even if we aren’t staying at the luxe places, we usually sniff around them for design inspo and a cocktail 🤷🏽♀️. If you’re inclined to indulge while surfing in the Maldives, here are some nearby luxury resorts to consider:
• Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives – this resort offers direct access to Pasta Point, renowned as one of the best left-hand surf breaks in the Maldives, exclusively available to guests. Pasta Point is one of the only private surf breaks in the Maldives—meaning the only thing you’ll compete with is the tide. Room rates typically range from $300 to $900 per night, depending on the accommodation type and season.
• Gili Lankanfushi Maldives – known for its overwater villas and commitment to barefoot luxury, this resort provides an intimate and eco-friendly experience. Room rates generally start from $1,000 per night, depending on villa category and seasonal demand.
• Villa Nautica Maldives – offering a blend of luxury and accessibility, this resort features overwater and beachfront villas. Room rates usually begin around $350 per night and up, depending on the chosen villa type and time of booking.
These establishments offer the quintessential Maldivian overwater villas, combining luxury with access to world-class waves.
*Solo Traveler Tip ~ I’ve found meeting people is much easier when staying at simple to mid-range accommodations. That’s where my surf buddies are! When I splurge on high-end stays, I often feel more isolated—those spots tend to attract couples or families rather than solo travelers. That said, when I need to create a safe cocoon and relish in solitude, a few days in luxury couldn’t be more appealing.
Eating & Shopping
As Himmafushi grows slowly to embrace tourism, dining and shopping options remain limited—a refreshing change that encourages exploration and walking the entire island. Most places take cash along with cards, and there is an ATM conveniently located by the main jetty.
• Local Restaurants – discover a handful of eateries serving authentic Maldivian cuisine. The cuisine is simple – think fried rice, noodles, kotu and simple soups. You’ll find favorites and become a regular during your stay. These restaurants are inexpensive, running you between $3-$6 per meal.
Tuna is the star of Maldivian cuisine—fresh, flavorful and caught daily using traditional pole-and-line methods. From spicy curries to breakfast plates, this sustainably sourced fish is woven into nearly every meal on the island.
• Local Souvenir Shops – again, there are only a handful to speak of, so spend some time browsing. The Maldives is home to striking blue coral—a rare and radiant ocean treasure often crafted into one-of-a-kind jewelry.
• Moscow Traders – this local shop is your go-to for groceries, snacks, hats, and any essentials you might have forgotten to pack.
Other Activities
Beyond surfing, Himmafushi offers a range of activities to enrich your Maldivian adventure:
• Scuba Diving – The Maldives boasts some of the best scuba diving in the world. If you are certified, don’t sleep on this experience! I descended on an unforgettable dive with PADI-certified Himmafushi Scuba Adventure. The staff’s expertise and emphasis on safety were commendable. At Ran Thila, I encountered three sharks, vibrant fish schools, eels, lobsters, and stunning coral formations.
• Himmafushi Floating Bar – since local islands prohibit alcohol, this floating bar provides a unique setting to enjoy cold beers and other libations. Opening in the afternoons before sunset, it’s the perfect spot to unwind on the water as the day turns to evening.
• Island Exploration – take leisurely walks to immerse yourself in local life. Observe the boatyard, fish cannery, and other industrial facets that contrast with the island’s serene beaches, adding texture and depth to Himmafushi’s charm.
• Himmafushi Swing and Wreck – off the island’s coast, you’ll find the Himmafushi Swing set on a charming beach for relaxation and photos. Nearby, snorkel around the Himmafushi Wreck, a sunken ship teeming with marine life, accessible by a short swim from the beach. If you’re not a confident swimmer or unfamiliar with the currents, consider going with a guide—conditions can vary, and the wreck sits in deeper water than it appears from shore.
• Sunset Watching – don’t miss the mesmerizing sunsets. Watch for adorable nurse sharks and stingrays cruising just off the beaches as dusk falls—a magical end to your day.
Final Thoughts on Surfing in the Maldives
Surfing in the Maldives boasts some of the most consistent waves I’ve ever experienced—and aqua blue hues you must see to believe. Spending 8 days in this stunning country was absolutely worth it. Flying over this archipelago reveals the vastness of its approximately 1,200 islands, each offering unique hideouts & experiences.
This journey taught me the value of research and open-mindedness. Had I accepted the common perception of the Maldives as solely a luxury destination, I would have missed out on this unforgettable adventure. Thanks to a fellow surfer’s insight, I discovered a memorable local island and dreamy surf. Remember, there are many ways to experience a place, so if somewhere is calling you, there’s often a way to make it happen!
Happy Adventuring,
Bekah
PS ~ Did you know the flight from the Maldives to Sri Lanka is only 1 hour and 30 minutes?! Don’t miss our insider scoop on surfing Sri Lanka if you consider pairing these epic surf destinations together for a legendary trip!