Velavaru Island

Introducing Velavaru Island

Velavaru Island is located on the pristine Nilande Atoll, also known as Turtle Island and AV Island. Velavaru means "Turtle Island" in Maldivian. It is an island full of primitive style. It is far away from the hustle and bustle, surrounded by palm trees, golden coast and clear and transparent blue-green lake water.

Imagine the beauty of a gentle breeze blowing past you as colorful fish swim freely in the coral reef. There's even a transparent church here. The main island is entirely made up of sandy houses, with water houses about 200 meters offshore. There's also a wide variety of flora here.

The island is surrounded by palm trees, golden beaches and clear and transparent turquoise waters. The resort on the island has 79 villas, each of which is designed as if it has endless imagination space.

Climate and best time to travel

The Maldives is a great place to travel year-round, with the best deals between May and August. The Maldives is hot year-round, with temperatures hovering around 30 degrees Celsius. The year is divided into two distinct seasons: the rainy season and the dry season.

Rainy Season (May-October): This period offers the most competitive prices for Maldives. While there are more rainy days than the dry season, showers are common and clear quickly, so it doesn't significantly impact travel.

Dry Season (November to April): This is peak tourist season in the Maldives, and travel prices are higher. The dry season offers sunny and windy weather with less rainfall, making it ideal for beach photography and diving.

In addition, July 26th of each year is the Maldives' National Day, which is also the biggest festival in the area. The whole island will celebrate with singing and dancing, adding a beautiful scenery for tourists from afar.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended travel time: 4-7 days

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Most Popular FAQs for Velavaru Island

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Velavaru is a small, scenic island in the Maldives known for its luxury resorts and stunning natural beauty. It exemplifies the Maldives’ reputation as a tropical paradise, offering unique marine biodiversity and secluded beach experiences.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Located in the South Nilandhe Atoll of the Maldives. Visitors typically fly into Velana International Airport (Malé) and transfer to Velavaru via a seaplane, speedboat, or domestic flight plus boat ride arranged by resorts.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The island is accessible year-round. The best time to visit is from November to April for dry season conditions, calm seas, and optimal visibility for snorkeling and diving.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no public entrance fee; access is included in resort bookings. Travel transfers (seaplane or speedboat) are arranged through resorts or authorized operators, usually prepaid online.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is highly recommended, ideally 1–3 months prior, especially for peak season or luxury resorts, including transfers and activities.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–3 days is sufficient to enjoy the beaches, water activities, and resort amenities. Longer stays allow for relaxation and island-hopping excursions.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Pristine beaches with panoramic ocean views
• Coral reefs for snorkeling and diving
• Resort-based wellness and spa facilities
• Sunset viewpoints along the coastline

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided activities like diving, snorkeling, and excursions are available through resorts, usually in English. Audio guides are not common.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Beachfront at sunrise and sunset
• Overwater villas or jetties for panoramic ocean shots
• Above coral reefs during snorkeling or diving excursions

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Relax on the beach, followed by water activities like snorkeling or kayaking in the morning. Afternoon spa or leisure time. Sunset cruise in the evening. Repeat or include short boat trips to nearby islands.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

No public night tours. Resorts may offer private dinners, night fishing, or evening entertainment for guests.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Generally uncrowded due to its private resort nature. Least busy times are weekdays during the shoulder season (May–October).

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Luxury resorts provide full facilities: restaurants, bars, rest areas, spa, swimming pools, and shops. Basic public amenities are minimal as it is a private island.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Accessible for elderly and children within resort premises. Limited accessibility outside resort paths due to natural terrain; check with resort for mobility accommodations.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Resorts mostly accept credit cards and mobile payments; carrying some cash for minor tips is recommended.