Dhigali Maldives

Overview

Not every exceptional Maldives experience requires a five-figure nightly rate. Dhigali Maldives, set on a lush island in the Raa Atoll, is proof that intelligent design, a world-class house reef, and genuine hospitality can deliver a stay that rivals resorts at three times the price.

The resort occupies a long, narrow island with beaches on both sides — sunrise to the east, sunset to the west — and a house reef that experienced divers consistently rank among the best in the country. The atmosphere is vibrant without being rowdy, stylish without being pretentious, and relaxed in a way that only an island surrounded by deep blue ocean can be.

Dhigali's house reef is genuinely exceptional and accessible directly from the beach. Expect to encounter reef sharks, sea turtles, eagle rays, and dense schools of tropical fish without even booking an excursion. Bring your own snorkel mask for the best fit, or borrow from the water sports centre at no charge.

Accommodation

Dhigali offers a range of room categories across the island and over the water, all designed with a clean, contemporary aesthetic that balances comfort with the island's natural beauty. Rooms are well-sized for the price point, and every category delivers on the essentials: a comfortable bed, a good shower, and either direct beach or lagoon access.

Room Highlights

• Beach Bungalow — Ground-level rooms set among tropical gardens with a short walk to the beach. A private terrace with daybed overlooks the vegetation. The most affordable option, and a smart choice for guests who will spend most of their time in the water.
• Beach Villa — Larger than the bungalows, with direct beach access and an outdoor rain shower. These are the sweet spot of the resort: space, privacy, and sand between your toes.
• Water Villa — Perched over the lagoon with a sundeck, steps into the water, and uninterrupted ocean views. The overwater experience at a price that would be unthinkable at ultra-luxury resorts.
• Water Villa with Pool — The top category, adding a small private plunge pool to the overwater experience. Popular with honeymooners and couples celebrating special occasions.

Dining

Dhigali offers a surprisingly diverse dining scene for a mid-tier resort, with several restaurants and bars spread across the island.

• Capers — The main buffet restaurant, serving international and Maldivian cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Theme nights (seafood, Asian, Mediterranean) keep things fresh across longer stays.
• Jade — An à la carte Asian restaurant with standout sushi, Thai curries, and teppanyaki. Worth at least one visit.
• Battuta — Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavours, including wood-fired pizzas and grilled meats. The beachside setting is the best on the island for dinner.
• Haali Bar — The resort's main bar, set over the water with panoramic sunset views. Live music several nights a week creates a convivial atmosphere.
• Kakuni Pool Bar — Casual poolside food and cocktails during the day.

Dhigali offers four meal plan options: Bed & Breakfast, Half Board, Full Board, and All-Inclusive. For most guests, we recommend the Half Board plan (breakfast + dinner) and paying for lunches separately. This gives flexibility without the premium of full all-inclusive. If you enjoy cocktails and water sports, the All-Inclusive plan offers the best value.

Activities & Experiences

House Reef & Diving

The house reef is the undisputed star of Dhigali. Accessible from the beach on the island's eastern side, it drops off steeply into a channel, creating conditions that attract a remarkable density and variety of marine life. Snorkeling here rivals dedicated excursion sites at many other resorts.

• Walk-in house reef snorkeling — no boat required, available all day
• PADI dive centre with courses from beginner to Divemaster
• Over 25 dive sites within a 30-minute boat ride, including channel dives, coral gardens, and manta cleaning stations
• Night snorkeling guided excursions
• Guided reef ecology talks

Water Sports

Dhigali has one of the most active water sports centres in the Raa Atoll:

• Jet skiing, wakeboarding, waterskiing, and tube rides
• Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (complimentary for all guests)
• Catamaran sailing and windsurfing
• Big game fishing excursions
• Sunset dolphin cruises

On Land

• Infinity pool overlooking the ocean
• Overwater spa with a focused menu of massages and body treatments
• Modern fitness centre with free weights and cardio equipment
• Beach volleyball and badminton
• Excursions to local islands and sandbank picnics
• Sunset fishing in the traditional Maldivian style

Getting There

Dhigali is reached by a 45-minute seaplane transfer from Velana International Airport in Malé. The resort arranges all transfers, and guests can wait in a comfortable shared lounge at the seaplane terminal. The flight crosses the North Malé and Raa Atolls, offering a preview of the turquoise-and-green landscape you will be calling home.

Seaplane transfers operate during daylight hours only (approximately 6:00 AM to 4:30 PM). If your international flight arrives late in the evening, you will need to overnight in Malé before the morning transfer. We can arrange a comfortable airport hotel for the night — it is a standard part of most Maldives itineraries and nothing to worry about.

Why Book with Lagoon Travel Co.

Dhigali is one of the resorts we most frequently recommend to travellers seeking outstanding value, and we have sent enough guests to know the property inside out. We can advise on the best room category for your priorities, recommend the right meal plan, and often secure complimentary room upgrades or added-value inclusions. If you are considering the Maldives but thought it was beyond your budget, let us show you what is possible at Dhigali.