Mathiveri Island in the Maldives: all about rest

Mathiveri Island is one of the eight inhabited islands of Alif-Alif Atoll, also known as North Ari. It is located in the central part of the atoll, about 84 kilometers from the capital, Malé. Mathiveri is the perfect place for those looking for privacy and untouched beauty. There is no intrusive commercialism, and the streets are saturated with coziness and local flavor. With a population of about 1,000 people, the island offers a leisurely rhythm of life, allowing you to completely dissolve in tropical bliss.

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Island infrastructure

Mathiveri has the main infrastructure for recreation and living: a medical center, several minimarkets, a police station, a court, a school, a cafe, two football fields, as well as mini-football and volleyball grounds.

Mathiveri beaches

Mathiveri boasts several beaches, each with its own unique charm:

• Bikini beach (tourist beach) with white soft sand and clean turquoise water. Specially reserved for tourists, it allows you to freely swim and sunbathe in a swimsuit, enjoying the feeling of a private paradise. For a comfortable and safe bath, do not forget coral shoes, as coral fragments may occur in the water.
• Stingray Beach has an abundant population of stingrays and fish. Here you can watch the majestic stingrays that swim directly to the shore, especially in the morning.
• The public beach is reserved for residents of the island, and the local dress code should be followed.

Directly opposite the Bikini beach is the sand spit of Mathiveri Finolhu. It is easy to reach or reach by boat. Here you will be greeted by calm clear waters, but, unfortunately, the purity of the beach itself sometimes makes you want better. There are also several uninhabited islands in the vicinity that can also be visited.

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Underwater world and active recreation

The marine life around Mathiveri is quite rich. Right from the shore, you can explore the island reef with a snorkel and mask. For a deeper dive into the underwater world, excursions to reefs where stingrays live, as well as to sunken ships are organized. Between Mathiveri and the neighboring Ukulhas Island there is a point known for encounters with majestic manta rays. Rental equipment is available in many guest houses.

North Ari Atoll is considered one of the best diving sites in the world. Here you can meet mantas, sharks, turtles and admire the stunning coral reefs. Mathiveri has its own diving center Buoyancy Dive Club, which offers a variety of sea excursions with a mask and dives.

In addition, guests of the island are available kayaking, and some other water activities, as well as fishing. Many of the guest houses offer not only comfortable accommodation, but also the organization of excursions and water entertainment.

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Where to stay in Mathiveri

The island has a number of cozy guesthouses that will be a great alternative to expensive resorts, allowing you to experience the real spirit of the Maldives without huge costs (prices range from $30 to $200 per night). Among the popular options:

• La Pearl Mathiveri - Guest house with cozy double, as well as family rooms. There is an open terrace with a recreation area, restaurant and excursion services are provided. The cost of living - from $65 per night, with breakfast.
• Riveli Retreat Mathiveri - A well-kept hotel near Stingray Beach. The hotel has a garden, restaurant, room service, round-the-clock reception and free Wi-Fi throughout the territory. From $73 a night, with breakfast.
• Veli Beach Inn - Guesthouse a few steps from the beach, which is suitable for all categories of travelers, including couples of all ages, newlyweds, yoga groups and divers. It offers spacious rooms, a round-the-clock buffet, as well as a variety of excursions, including snorkeling, diving and fishing. From $210 a night.

Taxes and fees are paid additionally.

Veli Beach Inn

How to get to Mathiveri

The road to Mathiveri from Malé is quite simple, making it accessible to every traveler.

Speedboat. The fastest way is a speedboat from Malé, which will take you to the island in just 1-1.5 hours. The cost is around $55 and flights depart twice a day.

Ferry. For a more budget-friendly and authentic journey, you can take a public ferry from Malé. It runs on certain days of the week. Check the schedule.

On request, the owners of some hotels and guest houses can arrange an individual transfer for you, but its cost will be much more expensive.

Useful information. Going on vacation in the Maldives, do not forget that here profess Islam. The local islands do not serve alcohol or pork. It is important to respect local customs: dress modestly outside the bikini beach, covering shoulders and knees if possible. On Friday, the day of prayer, ferries schedules may be changed and some establishments may adjust their schedules.

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