Thoddoo: The Watermelon Island of the Maldives

The Maldives is famous for turquoise lagoons and luxury resorts, but Thoddoo offers something different. Known as the “Watermelon Island”, this fertile island in Alif Alif Atoll is celebrated both for its agriculture and as one of the Maldives’ most popular guesthouse tourism destinations.

The Agricultural Heart of the Maldives

Thoddoo is unique in a country where arable land is scarce. Its fertile soil supports the large-scale cultivation of fruits and vegetables. The island’s claim to fame is its watermelons, grown year-round and enjoyed across the Maldives. Alongside papayas, cucumbers, bananas, and leafy greens, Thoddoo’s produce supplies resorts, local markets, and households throughout the nation.

The Rise of Guesthouse Tourism

Beyond farming, Thoddoo has emerged as a tourism hotspot. With dozens of guesthouses and a lively community, it offers a more authentic Maldivian experience compared to exclusive resort islands. Visitors can enjoy the rhythm of daily island life, share meals with locals, and explore at a slower, more personal pace.

Beaches, Snorkeling, and Diving

Thoddoo is not only about farms. The island boasts pristine beaches fringed with coconut palms and calm turquoise waters. Snorkeling and diving sites around the island feature turtles, manta rays, and colorful reef fish – giving travelers the best of both land and sea.

Watermelon & Farm-to-Table Experiences

No trip to Thoddoo is complete without tasting its famous watermelons, often enjoyed fresh under the tropical sun. Many guesthouses offer farm-to-table experiences, where visitors can tour papaya groves, learn about cultivation, and sample fruits straight from the fields. This blend of agriculture and tourism makes Thoddoo unlike anywhere else in the Maldives.

Tradition Meets Modernity

Farming remains at the heart of Thoddoo’s identity, but tourism has brought new opportunities. The island is a success story of how traditional livelihoods and community-based hospitality can thrive together, offering visitors a rich and meaningful experience.

Why Visit Thoddoo?

For those seeking more than just a resort holiday, Thoddoo is the perfect destination. Whether it’s relaxing on quiet beaches, snorkeling with marine life, or enjoying a slice of the sweetest watermelon in the Maldives, Thoddoo – the “Watermelon Island” – truly offers the best of both worlds.