Kuramathi Island beach
Kuramathi Island is a rather spacious destination where outdoor recreation perfectly combines with an array of modern amenities. Nestled in the Rasdu Atoll, it lies nearly 60 km from Malé. Kuramathi welcomes visitors year-round, with a seaplane transfer that takes a mere 20 minutes. The island stretches over 1.8 km, brimming with lush vegetation. Romantics will be captivated by a sunset stroll along the extensive sandy spit that reaches into the ocean.
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Beach description
Among the resorts on North Ari Atoll, Kuramathi Beach ranks highly, boasting one of the longest sand spits in the Maldives. The Home Reef provides excellent opportunities for snorkeling, with both the land and bathing areas blanketed in pristine white sand.
Visitors are captivated by the island's vibrant natural beauty, which includes romantic lagoons, shaded lawns, and an abundance of fragrant tropical flowers. Colorful bungalows, constructed solely from natural materials, perch at the water's edge, with some elegantly built on stilts above the water.
The island's crystal-clear waters and lush greenery leave a lasting impression on tourists. The two contrasting sides of the island offer unique experiences: one side, tranquil and serene, hosts beaches and villas, while the other, breezier side, welcomes seaplane arrivals and boasts restaurants with stunning sunset views.
Kuramathi teems with wildlife. Flying foxes soar above, herons approach fearlessly, and schools of small fish glint in the waters, attracting sharks, mantas, and stingrays. Although the reef has faced challenges in recent years, there is optimism for its recovery.
Snorkeling excursions, whether solo or guided, are a thrilling way to explore the underwater world. Encounters with reef sharks or rays can be awe-inspiring, and a noticeable chill from the currents along the reef adds to the adventure. It's advisable to avoid swimming through the reef passages at low tide, and flippers are essential. For novices, the area around the main pier is the ideal starting point.
The island's size allows for a half-day exploration of its flora and fauna wonders, either on foot or by transport. Buggies are available to take you to any part of the resort; a simple wave of the hand is all it takes to hitch a ride to your desired destination.
Kuramathi is a haven for newlyweds, families with children, and those with a sense of adventure. Older children, in particular, will find the island more engaging.
When is the best time to visit?
The Maldives, with its idyllic beaches and crystal-clear waters, is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit for a beach vacation is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. This period is characterized by lower humidity, less rainfall, and plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for sunbathing, snorkeling, and diving.
- November to April: This is the peak tourist season, with perfect weather conditions for beach activities. The sea is calm, offering excellent visibility for underwater adventures.
- May to October: Known as the monsoon season, this period sees more rain and stronger winds. However, it's also a time when the islands are less crowded, and resorts may offer lower rates.
For those seeking the ultimate beach vacation, timing your visit during the dry season ensures the most comfortable and enjoyable experience. However, if you're looking to avoid crowds and don't mind occasional showers, the off-peak months can also be a great time to explore the Maldives' natural beauty.
Video: Beach Kuramathi Island
Infrastructure
Kuramathi Island Resort, rated 4 stars, occupies nearly the entire territory of the island. Established over 40 years ago, the resort has recently been renovated twice and boasts 360 villas. These accommodations range from those nestled amidst lush greenery to the spectacular overwater villas, available in both small and two-story configurations, catering to families and exclusively to newlyweds.
Vacationers can choose a villa with a terrace on solid ground or one with a jacuzzi terrace. From the comfort of their bathroom, guests can enjoy a breathtaking view of the lagoon.
The cleanliness of both the rooms and the grounds is maintained rigorously. The staff, known for their love of tourists, is highly responsive to any request. The resort features several restaurants and bars, a spa offering a variety of amazing massages, and a medical center.
The needs of tourists are met by local shops, including those selling souvenirs, jewelry, and photography, and there is even a specialized marine shop. For a rainy day, a library is available to guests. An ecological station on the island offers informative walks for those interested in learning about the local flora and fauna. To take a break from intellectual and sports activities, tourists can visit a cigar club or a wine cellar.
Young tourists aged 3 to 12 years can enjoy the kids' club free of charge in the afternoon. After 7:30 PM, by prior arrangement, children can be left at the club for a fee until midnight. Babysitting services are also available.
Guests have access to a variety of sports facilities; a gym and a tennis court are available, and nearly all kinds of sports and water activities are well-developed. The resort also features an excellent diving center and offers courses and RYA certification for those interested in mastering windsurfing.
Tourists are assigned to one of three main restaurants, depending on which part of the island they reside in. Here, they are greeted with a buffet and dishes of international cuisine. In addition to these, guests can visit nine other à la carte establishments that expertly prepare Mediterranean and Indian dishes, Asian and Japanese cuisine, fusion, and seafood. A plethora of tasty and intriguing options await, including themed dinners, fruits, and desserts.
Weather in Kuramathi Island
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All hotels of Kuramathi IslandUseful information
- The island is intended, rather, for a calm, contemplative vacation. No noisy parties, no animation. The coolest drive awaits tourists during dives by the reef and during the sunset.
- Kuramathi is attractive for tourists in any season. The island is populated both in winter and in summer by no less than 95%. Even the rains are not able to spoil the chic rest.
- To visit souvenir shops, shops, get acquainted with the life of local residents, you should go on an excursion to neighboring Rasda.