Shadow Palm House
A beachfront stay on Maafushi, without the resort price tag
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A local-island guesthouse on Maafushi
Shadow Palm House is a guest house on Maafushi, one of the Maldives' best-known local islands, sitting 28 km from Malé. It has a private beach area, a restaurant, a spa and wellness centre, and a full kitchen setup — a combination that gives it more practical depth than most island guest houses. The property earns a 5/5 Google rating across 123 reviews, with guests specifically singling out the location. Water sport facilities are on site, and the dining menu runs from continental to Asian to full buffet, which keeps meal planning simple for longer stays.
The honest verdict
A well-equipped beachfront guest house on a lively local island, with a restaurant and spa on site and easy access to water activities.
Best for
- Budget-conscious travellers wanting a beach base
- Couples or families after a local-island feel
- Guests who want water sports without resort rates
- Those planning multi-day stays with kitchen access
Maybe not ideal for
- Travellers wanting a private-island atmosphere
- Those seeking an alcohol-inclusive setup
What a stay costs
Indicative room-only estimate from the lowest nightly rate — excludes airport transfers, taxes and seasonal price changes. Many Maldives properties also require a minimum stay. Check live rates for your dates.
Inside Shadow Palm House Maldives
Getting there
Shadow Palm House Maldives is on Maafushi in Kaafu Atoll, about 28 km from Velana International Airport (MLE). Reach it by the scheduled public ferry from Malé, or a shared or private speedboat the guesthouse can arrange.
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
The island of Maafushi is part of Kaafu Atoll. Kaafu (North & South Malé Atoll) is the most accessible region, a short speedboat ride from Velana International Airport.
Maldives tours & activities
Excursions you can book for a Maldives stay — manta & whale-shark snorkelling, sandbank picnics, diving and sunset cruises. Availability varies by island; filter by your dates and location on GetYourGuide.
Shadow Palm House holds a 5/5 Google rating from 123 reviews. The location on Maafushi is the standout theme among guests, and the property is also flagged among the top-rated in the area for recent stays. No specific sub-scores are available, but the overall rating is the highest possible across a substantial review base.
Good to know
Frequently asked
How much is the speedboat in Maafushi?
The transfer is by public ferry or shared speedboat. The property is 28 km from Malé. An airport shuttle is listed as an available service, so it is worth checking with the property about arrangements on arrival.
Is there a restaurant at the guest house?
Yes. The restaurant covers continental, Italian, full English/Irish, Asian, American, and vegetarian options, as well as buffet service. Room service is also available.
Is there a private beach?
The property has a beachfront location and a private beach area, along with outdoor furniture, a terrace, and an outdoor dining area.
What water activities are available?
Water sport facilities are on site. Activities listed include snorkelling, diving, canoeing, and windsurfing. Bicycle rental and badminton are also available for those staying on land.
Is there a spa?
Yes, there is a spa and wellness centre at the property.
Are there kitchen facilities?
A shared kitchen is available with a stovetop, oven, coffee machine, toaster, kitchenware, and cleaning products. A tumble dryer is also listed. This is in addition to the on-site restaurant and room service.
Is Shadow Palm House suitable for families?
Family rooms are listed, and a children's high chair is available in the dining area. The beach access, outdoor space, and range of activities make it a practical choice for families.
What is the Google rating?
Shadow Palm House holds a 5/5 rating on Google, based on 123 reviews. Guests consistently highlight the location as a particular strength.
Is WiFi available?
Free WiFi is included throughout the property.
What is Maafushi like as a destination?
Maafushi is one of the most visited local islands in the Maldives, about 28 km from Malé. It has a range of guest houses, water sport operators, and a public bikini beach, giving it more infrastructure than smaller inhabited islands.
What is the best time to visit Maafushi?
The dry northeast monsoon season, roughly November to April, brings calmer seas and better visibility for water activities. The southwest monsoon from May to October can bring rougher conditions but also lower rates.
How do I book Shadow Palm House?
The property can be booked through the usual online platforms. For specific requests around airport transfers or room types, contacting the property directly before arrival is advisable.