Midsummer Thulusdhoo is a compact guesthouse on Thulusdhoo Island in the Kaafu Atoll, and it is the budget-friendly answer for travellers who would rather meet the Maldives than watch it from a resort pontoon. Thulusdhoo is a working local island known for its surf breaks and its relaxed village streets, and the guesthouse sits a minute's walk from the beach. It is a three-star guesthouse with just four room types: Deluxe rooms, a Superior room and a garden-view Deluxe, each around 170 square feet, with a king or queen bed or two queens, and space for two or three guests. The comforts are simple and well chosen. Rooms have air conditioning and ceiling fans, free wifi, free bottled water, irons and wardrobes, and the property has a terrace, a garden, laundry and luggage storage. Breakfast is served daily with a few options, and a full-board arrangement can be made for meals cooked on site. Beach towels and outdoor furniture are provided, and a handful of local cafes and restaurants are a short walk away. A round-trip airport shuttle can be added for a fee. Guests regularly praise the friendly service, and the small scale means staff can help you plan your days.
Location and getting around
Thulusdhoo lies in the North Malé Atoll, not far from the airport. Visitors usually reach it by speedboat from Velana, or by the slower and cheaper public ferry, and then ride an electric buggy from the dock to the guesthouse. Transfers are charged separately, and a private boat can feel expensive when it is shared by only two people, so compare the options. The island is small enough to walk, and the beach, cafes and surf spots are all close.
The rooms
With only four room types, the choice is easy. The Deluxe rooms and the garden-view room suit couples or small groups of three, while the Superior room with two queen beds is the one to pick for friends travelling together. Rooms are compact, so this is a place to sleep, shower and head out rather than to spend the day indoors. Ask about the garden-view option if you prefer quiet.
What to do
The guesthouse lists snorkelling, ecotours and paddleboarding, and the island's surf breaks, including spots known as Chickens and Sultans, are a short boat ride or walk away for experienced surfers. Kayaking, jet skiing and scuba diving can all be arranged nearby. Note that currents near some surf and swimming areas can be strong, so follow local advice and use the area set aside for visitors. Thulusdhoo is also known for its small factory making a popular soft drink, which is an easy and friendly stop on a village walk.
Who it suits and what to know: Midsummer is best for budget travellers, surfers, couples and independent visitors who value local life over resort polish. Because this is a local island, dress modestly in the village, swim at the visitor beach, and expect alcohol not to be served, though you should check when you book. Check-in hours are generous, but plan around the last ferry or boat. Payment methods can vary on small islands, so ask what is accepted before you travel. The calmer months run from about December to April.
Why stay here
- ✓Air-conditioned rooms with ceiling fans
- ✓Free wifi
- ✓Daily breakfast
- ✓Beach about a minute away
- ✓Snorkelling and paddleboarding
- ✓Terrace and garden
- ✓Free bottled water
- ✓Airport shuttle for a fee
Good questions
Where is Midsummer Thulusdhoo?+
It is a guesthouse on Thulusdhoo Island in the North Malé Atoll, a local island known for surfing and a relaxed village feel. The beach is about a minute's walk.
How do I get there from the airport?+
Most visitors take a speedboat from the airport or the cheaper public ferry, then an electric buggy from the dock. An airport shuttle can be added for a fee.
Is alcohol served?+
Thulusdhoo is a local island, so alcohol is generally not available in guesthouses. Dress modestly in the village and use the visitor beach for swimwear.
