If you’re in search of the perfect tropical island, Vaadhoo is it. This tiny island in the Maldives’ Raa Atoll is just a 15-minute speedboat ride from Malé and in spite of its size, it boasts some remarkable natural wonders.

Things to do

At night, stand on Vaadhoo’s beach and look out at the sea of stars. Though the star-gazing in the sky is superb, thanks to the lack of light pollution, it’s actually the sea which is glowing! Phytoplankton in the water has a blue luminescence, caused by the natural electrical impulses they emit. When it’s dark, the water shines with an extraordinarily beautiful neon blue light.

By day, you can enjoy the sun-kissed beach. You won’t see the glow, but the long white swathes of sand still beckon. For uninterrupted views of the tropical fish and coral reefs, head to Vaadhoo Caves to snorkel through a row of small caves or dive the swim-through tunnel.

A day of sea kayaking can also be lots of fun. Keen anglers can try to reel in the catch of their lives, then return to the beach to barbecue the fresh fish for supper.

Not everything you do on Vaadhoo has to include effort. Sometimes you’ll just want to sit in the shade beneath a palm tree looking out at the Indian Ocean or wander along the shore to feel the sand crunch between your toes.

Getting there

The closest airport to Vaadhoo is on the island of Kaadedhdhoo, 42 kilometres away. For an exhilarating ride, transfer to Vaadhoo by speedboat, then explore the island on foot, bicycle or car.