BeachVilimalé Public Beach
Vilimalé
A small public beach with soft sand and calm water, close to the island's shady streets.
Wear modest swimwear and take your rubbish with you.
Open in MapsPhoto: Adam Jones, CC BY-SA 2.0
Discover Vilimalé
A quieter side of island life
Vilimalé
Discover the peaceful character of Vilimalé, a small island close to Malé, where shady streets, coastal views and relaxed local life make a refreshing change of pace.
About Vilimalé
Part of the city, on its own island
Vilimalé, also known as Villingili, lies about two kilometres west of Malé and is one of the districts of Malé City. It is mostly residential, and many people who live here cross to Malé every day for work and school.
With more trees, fewer vehicles and the sea always close by, it is a good place to walk, sit by the water and see everyday island life at a gentler pace.
Things to see and do
Slow down
There are no big sights here. The pleasure is in the pace.
Beach
CoastSwimming in the lagoon
Vilimalé shoreline
Locals swim and paddle in the shallow lagoon, with the Malé skyline across the water.
Swim within your depth. There may be no lifeguard.
Photo: Adam Jones, CC BY-SA 2.0
CoastCoastal sunsets
Western shore
The rocky edges of the island are a peaceful place to sit by the sea, especially around sunset.
Photo: Yaeesh Shifau, CC0
- Island walkingWander the quiet streets and you will soon reach the shore. You can walk around much of the island at an easy pace.
- Local island cultureVilimalé is a home first. Keep your voice down near homes and mosques, and ask before photographing people.
- Looking after the beachesLocal volunteers have worked for years to care for Vilimalé's beaches and reef. Help by leaving no litter and not touching coral.
- Local cafésSmall local cafés serve tea, snacks and short eats. A good place for a break during your walk.
Getting to Vilimalé
A short ferry ride
To the ferry terminal
The Vilimalé Ferry Terminal is on the western side of Malé, across the island from the hotel. Take a taxi or walk.
Public ferry
Public ferries run by MTCC cross frequently between Malé and Vilimalé. Buy your ticket at the terminal.
For current ferry times and fares, check Raajje Transport Link (RTL) or ask at reception.
Visitor tips
Good to know
Respectful clothing
Cover your shoulders and knees on the streets, and wear modest swimwear at the beach.
Island customs
This is a residential island. Be quiet near homes and mosques, especially at prayer times.
Take your rubbish
Bins can be scarce near the shore. Carry your litter back with you.
Beach etiquette
Keep the beach clean, give swimmers and families space, and do not take sand, shells or coral.
Weather
Bring water, sun protection and something light to cover up. Rain showers can arrive quickly.
Care for the reef
Do not stand on or touch coral, and use reef-safe sunscreen.
Explore nearby
More to explore
Photo: xiquinhosilva, CC BY 4.0 Malé City
The capital: mosques, markets, parks and the busy waterfront, right outside the hotel.
Explore Malé
Photo: Saaremees, CC BY-SA 4.0 Hulhumalé
Wide streets, a long public beach and cafés by the sea, across the Sinamalé Bridge.
Discover Hulhumalé
Photo: Zairon, CC BY-SA 4.0 Attractions
Historic mosques, museums, markets and beaches worth your time.
See the attractionsPhoto credits. A shady, tree-lined street on Vilimalé: Adam Jones, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Aerial view of Vilimalé, a green island just west of Malé: Shahee Ilyas, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. A quiet beach on Vilimalé: Adam Jones, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Swimmers in the lagoon at Vilimalé, with the Malé skyline behind: Adam Jones, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Rocks and calm sea on the coast of Vilimalé at dusk: Yaeesh Shifau, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons. Looking west across the water from Malé towards Vilimalé: Zairon, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Malé City seen from the water, with the golden dome of the Grand Friday Mosque: xiquinhosilva, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Hulhumalé beach, with white sand, palm trees and turquoise water: Saaremees, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Hukuru Miskiy, the Old Friday Mosque, built from coral stone: Zairon, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Other photos: Unsplash.
