Your Ultimate Guide to South Malé Atoll

Updated April, 2026

Beaches, as descended from the pages of glossy magazines, warm lagoons with turquoise water and one of the best diving in the Maldives - all this about the South Male Atoll. South Male Atoll (South Kaafu) is a group of islands in the Maldives, which lies just south of the North Male Atoll and is separated from it by the Vaadhoo Kandu channel. Showing the best of the Maldives, South Male region offers everything you can need for a memorable and comfy holiday. The days here revolve around swimming, relaxation, water sports and snorkeling - and nothing more.

South Male Atoll is the younger sister of the busier, more developed North Male atoll and here you will find a some more tranquil and simple resorts including excellent options for budget travel. You can reach most of them in about 30 minutes by speedboat from Male airport or by public ferry. The South Male Atoll becomes visible as soon as you cross the canal between the North and South Male atolls. Scattered like pearls in the heart of the Indian Ocean, the islands here are slightly larger than the emerald vegetation spots in a rim of white sand and topped by an attractive resorts or two.

With all this ocean on your doorstep it's no wonder that the hotels offer fantastic opportunities for water sports. Jet ski, canoeing, surfing, sailing and deep sea fishing are just a few ways to get an unforgettable Maldives experience.