Indian Ocean Escapade. Day 2: Gulhi and Shark Point

We kicked off our day at Seadrop Tours, right after enjoying a delicious breakfast.  They had us covered with all the essentials for snorkeling, from gear to towels!  Before we set off, a brief safety talk prepared us for the exciting journey ahead.

Our first stop was Biyadhoo Reef, a vibrant underwater paradise. The water shimmered with crystal clarity, revealing a stunning underwater world filled with vibrant fish and colorful coral just beneath the surface.  The reef burst with vibrant hues—an absolute dream for capturing stunning underwater shots. This destination is sure to impress.

The next adventure took us to the stunning Coral Reef.  We encountered sea turtles, manta rays, and various other marine life gracefully gliding through the water.  Witnessing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is truly a moment that stays with us forever.  The guides made sure everyone stayed safe while also pointing out hidden marine life we might have missed otherwise. 

Bikini Beach in the morning.

The clear skies and calm waters set the tone for a perfect start

Next, we will share pictures of our snorkeling activities.

We were waiting for our snorkeling gear.

Was this for a kid?

We used our own 'avatar' mask (that orange color).

After snorkeling, our boat took us to Gulhi Island in Kaafu Atoll, where we could relax.  The place was so beautiful that we were speechless when we got there. The perfect shade of blue in the water was reminiscent of a postcard.

The main beach on Gulhi's eastern side was where we spent most of our time.  This white-sand, clear-water beach is one of the best we've seen in the Maldives. Gulhi's beach felt quieter and cleaner than the beaches on nearby islands like Maafushi or Guraidhoo.

We built sandcastles while we swam in calm waters and soaked up the sun.  The atmosphere here is calm and friendly for families. Everyone seemed to be at ease, but they were also careful to keep it clean and pretty.

Our trip continued from Gulhi Island to a tranquil sandbank where lunch was waiting for us. This was the best part of the trip!  Envision dining amidst a setting where vibrant turquoise waters extend infinitely in all directions. That's something you won't find anywhere else.

The lunch came in neat army-style boxes with fried rice and fresh fruit inside.  Easy to make and tasty after a busy morning of swimming and snorkeling!  It felt like a dream to eat here because every direction had amazing views. It's hard not to stop between bites so you can take it all in.

We loved this picnic setup because it was simple, and we could enjoy delicious food outside without having to deal with loud crowds or busy restaurants nearby.

After lunch, we headed to Shark Point, a spot that promises an unforgettable snorkeling experience. As the name suggests, this is where you can swim with nurse sharks in their natural environment. At first, there was a mix of excitement and nerves—sharks, after all! But the guides assured us these nurse sharks are harmless and accustomed to people.

When we entered the water, it was incredible to see these majestic creatures up close. The guides fed small fish to attract them, making it easy for everyone to get a good look. The sharks swam gracefully around us, completely unbothered by our presence. Surrounded by such fascinating marine life, it felt surreal.

By around 4 p.m., we returned to Maafushi Island after an action-packed day filled with adventure and relaxation. Back at our room, we took some time to unwind before heading out for dinner later that evening.

Reflecting on the day, we realized that Gulhi Island and its surrounding areas offered everything we could have hoped for: pristine beaches, vibrant reefs, unique wildlife encounters, and peaceful moments on a sandbank. Whether you are traveling as a family or seeking luxury combined with nature's raw beauty, this destination delivers.

For photography enthusiasts like us, every location provided stunning backdrops—from underwater scenes at Turtle Reef to sunlit shores on Gulhi Island. Even casual smartphone photos looked like they belonged in a travel magazine.

We took pictures with our boatman and guide.

Healing time...

We were waiting for our videos taken during the trip.