Thoddoo beaches: Bikini Beach and the old beach compared
Thoddoo has two tourist beaches: Bikini Beach and the older beach with the swing in the ocean. Here is how they differ and which one suits your day.
The two beaches compared
- Bikini Beach is the beach most guests use. Our beaches page lists a sandy entrance to the water, sunbeds and hammocks, a reef for snorkelling, a photo zone at the entrance, toilets and showers, and shade. Under the recent changes more showers, toilets and changing rooms were added, a sunbed is put away when you leave so nobody holds one all day, and a new sports ground has appeared.
- The old tourist beach is known for the swing standing in the ocean, the island’s best-known photo spot. Our page calls it clean, almost empty, with calm water and a free photo zone. Its drawbacks are the rocky entrance to the water and the distance from where guests stay.
- Both are on our island page, with the rules for sunbeds. Beaches on our website
Which beach for which day
- For swimming, a long day with a sunbed and a first snorkel, choose Bikini Beach. The sandy entrance is easier on the feet than the rocky one at the old beach.
- For photos on the swing and a quiet hour away from other guests, go to the old beach. The bottom is rocky at the entrance, so consider shoes you can wear in the water.
- Ask us for the way to each beach when you arrive; the island is small and we will point you there.
Practical points
- Sunbeds on Bikini Beach are rented for USD 2. Prices and rules can change, so confirm them with us.
- Thoddoo is a local island where people live. In the village dress modestly; swimwear is for the bikini beach and for trips to picnic islands. What a bikini beach is
- Relax Residence guests can take a mask, snorkel and fins at reception free of charge; the house reef is near Bikini Beach. Snorkelling on Thoddoo Bicycles can be rented at the guesthouse. What to take to the Maldives The best season for the Maldives
- Read about swimming safety before you go into the water. Why beaches in the Maldives can be dangerous
Frequently asked questions
How many tourist beaches are on Thoddoo?
Two: Bikini Beach and the old tourist beach with the swing.
Which beach is best for swimming?
Bikini Beach has a sandy entrance to the water. The old beach has a rocky entrance.
Are the sunbeds free?
Under the new rules a sunbed is rented for USD 2. Ask us to confirm before you go.
Where is the swing in the ocean?
On the old tourist beach.
Can I snorkel from the beach?
Yes. Listings say shore snorkelling is possible at the house reef near Bikini Beach, and guests of Relax Residence get a mask, snorkel and fins at reception.
Does Bikini Beach have toilets and showers?
Yes, there are toilets, showers and changing rooms.
Can someone hold a sunbed all day?
Under the new rules the sunbed is put away when you leave, so a place cannot be held with a towel. Confirm the rules with us before you go.
Reviewed by the Relax Residence team in October 2026.
