Athiri Residence Dhiffushi
A beachfront stay on Dhiffushi, where the Indian Ocean is steps away.
A place to stay on Dhiffushi
Athiri Residence is a beachfront guest house on Dhiffushi island, roughly 35 km from Malé and reachable by public ferry or shared speedboat. It sits directly on the beach, with a sun terrace, outdoor furniture, and a private beach area. The property runs an on-site restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a menu that takes in fresh seafood, Maldivian dishes, and international options. Rooms are spread across three categories, starting from around USD 64 per night, and a free airport shuttle is included.
The honest verdict
A well-priced, beachfront guest house with genuine Maldivian character, sea-view rooms, and activities arranged through local operators.
Best for
- Budget-conscious couples and families
- Snorkelling and fishing trips
- Travellers wanting a local island experience
- Short breaks from Malé
Maybe not ideal for
- Those wanting a full-service resort
- Travellers seeking an alcohol-inclusive bar
Right on the beach
The guest house sits directly on Dhiffushi's beach. There is a private beach area, sun terrace, and outdoor seating — so the water is genuinely a few steps from your door, not a walk across a resort campus.
Rooms with a view
The 28 m² Superior rooms each have a private balcony. One category looks out over the island, the other faces the sea directly. Both have an extra-large double bed and natural light on two sides.
The restaurant
The on-site restaurant has ocean views and runs all three meals. The menu draws on fresh seafood, tropical fruit, Maldivian cooking, and broader international dishes — a practical option for guests who prefer to eat in.
Water sports and activities
Dhiffushi's clear water suits snorkelling, canoeing, and fishing. The property has water sport facilities on site, and bicycle rental is available for getting around the island.
Rooms & suites
Standard Double or Twin Room
sleeps 4 · 2 single beds / 1 large double bed / 2 single beds OR 1 large double bed
- Air conditioning
- Ensuite bathroom
- Flat-screen TV
- Minibar
- Free WiFi
Superior Room with Balcony and Island View
28 m² · sleeps 2 · 1 extra-large double bed
- Balcony
- Garden view
- Air conditioning
- Ensuite bathroom
- Flat-screen TV
Superior Room with Balcony and Sea View
28 m² · sleeps 2 · 1 extra-large double bed
- Balcony
- Sea view
- Air conditioning
- Ensuite bathroom
- Flat-screen TV
Inside Athiri Residence Dhiffushi
Amenities at Athiri Residence Dhiffushi
Great for your stay
- Restaurant
- Private bathroom
- Air conditioning
- Bath
- Free WiFi
- Family rooms
- Airport shuttle (free)
- Room service
Bathroom
- Toilet paper
- Towels
- Bidet
- Bath or shower
- Slippers
- Private bathroom
- Toilet
- Free toiletries
Bedroom
- Linen
- Wardrobe or closet
Outdoors
- Outdoor furniture
- Beachfront
- Sun terrace
- Private beach area
- BBQ facilities
- Terrace
Kitchen
- Electric kettle
Room amenities
- Socket near the bed
- Clothes rack
Getting there
Dhiffushi island sits about 35 km from Malé. The transfer runs by public ferry or shared speedboat, and the guest house provides a free airport shuttle. Coordinate your arrival time with the property directly so the shuttle can be arranged around your flight.
The public ferry costs only a few dollars but runs on set days; a shared speedboat is typically $25–50 per person one way. The guesthouse usually arranges the speedboat — confirm days and fare.
On the map
Athiri Residence holds a 4.9/5 Google rating across 48 reviews. The highlights noted by the property include a top-rated location and a breakfast menu covering continental, full English/Irish, vegetarian, and Asian options. Sea views and free parking are also called out as guest favourites.
Good to know
Frequently asked
How do I get to Athiri Residence from the airport?
The guest house provides a free airport shuttle. The island of Dhiffushi is about 35 km from Malé, and the transfer runs by public ferry or shared speedboat. Confirm your arrival time with the property in advance.
What room types are available?
There are three categories: a Standard Double or Twin Room sleeping up to four, a 28 m² Superior Room with a balcony and island view, and a 28 m² Superior Room with a balcony and sea view. The sea-view option is the premium choice.
What are the room rates?
The Standard Double or Twin Room starts from USD 63.82 per night. The Superior Room with island-view balcony starts from USD 91.30, and the sea-view version from USD 102.30. Rates may vary by season.
Is there an on-site restaurant?
Yes. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with ocean views. The menu covers fresh seafood, Maldivian dishes, international options, and tropical fruit. Breakfast choices include continental, full English/Irish, vegetarian, and Asian.
Can I snorkel or dive from the guest house?
Snorkelling on local coral reefs can be arranged from Dhiffushi. The property has water sport facilities on site. Diving is typically arranged through local operators rather than an in-house dive centre.
What water sports are available?
Activities available include snorkelling, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Paddle boarding and jet skiing can also be arranged. Bicycle rental is on site for getting around the island.
Is the property suitable for families?
Yes. The Standard Double or Twin Room sleeps up to four people, and the property lists family rooms among its facilities. Room service is also available.
Is parking available?
Free parking is available at the property.
Is there free WiFi?
All room categories include free WiFi.
How do I make a reservation or ask questions?
You can contact the property directly by email at reservations@athiriresidence.com or by phone at +960 7887227, in addition to booking through standard online channels.
Is Dhiffushi a local island?
Yes. Dhiffushi is an inhabited local island, which means it follows Maldivian customs. Alcohol is not served on local islands, so the guest house does not have a bar.
Are there plans to expand the property?
The owners have announced a future expansion to Goidhoo island in the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. That property is not yet open, but it signals the direction the brand is heading.