Joanna James
Featuring white sandy shores and turquoise blue waters, the Maldives is also home to a few remarkable beaches that are meant to be enjoyed under the night sky. As the sun goes down and the darkness descends, the bioluminescence comes to life, treating you to a captivating “sea of stars.”
The tropical archipelagic nation may be home to more than one bioluminescent beach, but the slice of coastal paradise on Vaadhoo Island is undisputedly the top bioluminescent beach of the Maldives. What could be safely described as the epitome of bioluminescence by the shore, Vaadhoo Island in Raa Atoll was the first ever island in the archipelago to see the spectacular phenomenon; without a doubt, it's the most popular spot on the tropical islands to witness the breathtaking phenomena where certain living organisms in the water emit a bioluminescent glow.
Hulhumale Island in North Male Atoll has a few other fascinating things about it besides being home to another bioluminescent beach in Maldives: interestingly, this is an artificial island covering an area of around 4 square kilometres, amongst the larger ones of its kind in the archipelago. Going back to the bioluminescence here, it is not as famed as the aforementioned Vaadhoo Island but it still is a sight worth admiring on certain evenings in this idyllic country. Those looking to visit or explore Hulhumale Island can easily do so before or after a stay at a private island resort the likes of SAii Lagoon Maldives where plenty of fun in the sun, sand and surf await during the day.
Athuruga Island may not be among the Maldives’ top destinations for bioluminescence sightings, but the rather small island surely wouldn’t leave you disappointed. Hop on a seaplane from the capital city, Male, for a 20-minute ride over the archipelago to find yourself at charming Athuruga. Visiting bioluminescent beaches is undoubtedly one of the most exciting things to do in Maldives, and Athuruga Island certainly makes for more than a decent experience.
It may be one of the smallest islands in the archipelagic nation, but the tropical charm of Mirihi Island is no less enchanting than any other island that calls the Maldives home. Visitors to this small island in the Alif Dhaal Atoll are also treated to a bioluminescent beach, which may not be the most spectacular in the country but is worth seeing as well. Hop on a ferry for a 2-hour trip to the island, or for a more scenic experience, take a seaplane from near the Velana International Airport.
Among the glowing beaches in the Maldives, almost all of which ensue from bioluminescent plankton, this alluring stretch of shore on Fonimagoodhoo Island comes to life thanks to bioluminescent beach algae. Visitors to the island can either take a seaplane directly from the Velana International Airport or fly to Dharavandhoo Airport on a domestic flight and then ferry over to the island.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
