Experience the best of Maafushi

Maafushi is a small, flat coral island in the South Malé Atoll, around 30 kilometres from the capital, Malé. It is a lived-in island, with a fishing harbour, a school, a mosque, small shops and houses along sandy lanes shaded by palms and breadfruit trees. A stretch of beach on the island's edge has been set aside for visitors to swim and sunbathe.

A ring of reef surrounds the island, and the shallow lagoon is clear enough for snorkelling right from the shore. Boats go out to sandbanks, to reef sites with sea turtles and rays, and to look for dolphins at dusk. Neighbouring local islands such as Guraidhoo and Gulhi are quick boat rides away, and Malé's fish market and colourful streets lie to the north.

Maldivian food is built on tuna: mas huni, shredded smoked tuna with coconut, onion and chilli, is eaten at breakfast with roshi flatbread, and garudhiya is a clear fish broth served with rice. Grilled reef fish, fried fish balls and fresh coconut are common. Skies are clearest between December and April, and the wetter months bring squalls and swell.