popular places to visit in the maldives

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15 Best Places to Visit in Maldives

Left to the mercy of the soft and lapping Indian Ocean, the islands of the Maldives have been sculpted and formed into unquestionably one of the most quintessentially beautiful tropical places on the globe.

Ranging from the powdered beaches of the northern atolls to the earthy sea shacks and fishing hamlets of the southern isles, the whole nation can be found strewn across the turquoise waters some way from the Indian subcontinent.

Most visitors will land in the throbbing, pulsing city of Male, packed onto its own pinprick of an isle and boasting spice-scented markets and great mosques.

Most also don’t linger long before they hit the seaplanes or boats and make for the shimmering private bays of their chosen resort, where infinity pools and over-water cabanas are the norm.

More recently, new local guesthouses and the discovery of rolling waves have begun transforming the Maldives from honeymoon hotspot to surfing, adventure and backpacking destination – paradise is now open to all, it seems.

Lets explore the best places to visit in the Maldives :

Thrumming with scooters and cars and Indian bazaars stacked with coconuts and spice, the city of Male – the capital of the Maldives atolls – has the frenetic feel of a place crammed into a slot that’s too small for it.

And that’s because it is.

Although rarely visited (most travelers bypass the city on seaplanes heading straight for their resort), the town is crammed onto a pint-sized islet in the North Male Atoll.

It manages to fit some fascinating sights between its streets though, like the 17th-century Friday Mosque and the gold-tipped Islamic Centre.

Male Market is another must – just be sure get your haggling skills up to scratch.

2. Hulhumale Island

Sat just across the sparkling waters from the capital of Male, the island of Hulhumale is forever growing and growing as more and more land is reclaimed to house the sprawling urban tendrils of the city.

It’s also the home of the Velana International Airport, which is the main gateway to these paradisiacal islands for most.

However, don’t be put off by how all that sounds – Hulhumale is actually a charming place.

It’s got a gorgeous – if artificial – beach on its eastern haunch, a clutch of leafy neighborhoods, a glass-topped mosque, and planned promenade walkways above the Indian Ocean.

3. Maafushi

Maafushi might not have the sprawling luxury resorts and opulent 5-star hotels that many of its nearby brothers do, but it’s got plenty of charm.

Sadly ravaged in the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami, the place has been busy rebuilding its salt-washed fishing jetties and industrious sailor huts in the last decade.

Something that’s helped is the opening up of rights to local guesthouses, which is transforming Maafushi into one of the top off-beat island getaways for budget travelers.

Of course, you can expect gorgeous beaches backed with palms, lapping waves, and a clutch of homey little coffee shops on the shore.

Sat on the far northern reaches of the Haa Alif Atoll, itself the northernmost of all the Maldivian island chains, the beautiful site of Utheemu holds a special place in the history of this archipelago nation.

That’s because it was once the home of the revered Sultan Mohamed Thakurufaanu – the leader who’s credited with driving out Portuguese invaders from the isles in the late 16th century.

Of course, there are the usual sparkling white sands and lapping Indian Ocean waves, but these are punctuated by heritage sites like the Utheemu Ganduvaru, which is the gorgeous timber-built palace where the respected leader grew up.

Feydhoo’s story is a curious one.

In the 19th century, the people now living between the leafy streets and tight-knit housing blocks here were the inhabitants of nearby Gan island (more on that one later). When the British came in the run up to WWII, Gan was transformed into an airbase, and the locals were shipped out to live on the next island along in the Seenu Atoll.

That was Feydhoo, which is today a pretty picture of lived-in Maldivian life.

Come and stroll the winding walkways and sample seafood curries with the locals – the welcome is always warm.

6. Maradhoo

Joined at the hip to aforementioned Feydhoo by a seaside causeway that runs just above the coral-fringed shores of the Seenu Atoll, Maradhoo is a major link in the island chain that starts with Gan to the east.

Long and thin, it juts out into the Indian Ocean like a finger fringed with narrow beachfronts and swaying groves of coconut palms.

As in Feydhoo, the locals are laid-back and lovely, and the cuisine is spicy and rich in seafood.

Be sure to take a walk down Link Road and flit between the coffee shops and sandwich vendors that meet between the palm trees there.

7. Veligandu Island

Romantic sunsets glow red and yellow over the lapping waters of the Indian Ocean; cocktails clink in the resort’s luxurious bar; sea kayaks bob on the turquoise shoreline, and crystal-clear waves roll in softly from the inland lagoon.

Welcome to uber-beautiful Veligandu Island, which has long been championed as one of the top destinations in the Maldives for couples.

Honeymooners and newly-weds are a common site on this long, thin finger of land on the western edge of the North Ari Atoll, and there are plenty of opulent seaside villas and suites to match.

8. Banana Reef

Many travelers heading to the islands of the Maldives will be coming for one thing and one thing only: diving.

And there’s hardly a single better place to don the SCUBA gear and wetsuits in the country than at the Banana Reef.

This fruit-shaped dash of multi-colored corals and seaweed-clad sandbanks lies underwater between the isles of the North Male Atoll.

It’s served by countless outfitters, who lead excursions to uncover the striped snappers and bulbous sponges, the reef sharks and the barracudas that all coalesce here.

9. Thulusdhoo Island

It’s the spirit of the salt-washed Caribbean that seems to drive Thulusdhoo Island.

Largely undiscovered, this speck in the Male Atolls is ringed by wide spaces of sand from which bulbous coconut trunks sprout by the hundred.

The beaches are – naturally – great, and the locals love to draw in their fading fishing boats to flint up a good sizzling seafood barbeque now and then.

That all fits perfectly with the other pastime of travelers on Thulusdhoo: surfing.

Look for the fun left-hand rollers that turn into barrels off of Villingilimathi Huraa close by.

10. Fuvahmulah

Fuvahmulah promises something a little different to the rest of the Maldivian atolls.

For starters, this speck on the map of the Indian Ocean doesn’t really have any near neighbors, and it occupies an atoll all of its own.

It’s also peppered with the occasional inland lake, which is a rare sight to see in this flat-lying country.

Meanwhile the sandbanks that ring popular Banging Beach make for some crashing rollers and refreshing salt-spray (a break from the usual relaxing lapping lagoons), and the proximity to the Earth’s equator means steamy weather throughout the year.

11. Alimatha Island

Perched on the eastern edge of the Maldives, in the famous Felidhe Atoll, Alimatha is a great tourist island that offers luxury cabanas, untouched stretches of pristine sandy beach, and – most importantly – some of the most celebrated SCUBA diving spots around.

The resort that covers the island can often be seen packed with eager divers, who all come to seek out the pretty coral groves and sea walls that surround the shores.

These are packed with jackfish, morays and eels, and are known for their high visibility and popular night diving packages.

12. Hithadhoo

Large (at least for a Maldivian island) and highly-populated (again, at least for a Maldivian island), this sub-section of Addu City in the old Seenu Atoll can be reached on the same causeways that connect Gan to Maradhoo.

On its southern edge, the place is given away to mangroves and marshes and shrub land, while the north side of the island is packed with cafes and bakeries and the occasional set of looming minarets that rise from the local mosques.

More than anything, Hithadhoo oozes a charming lived-in vibe; one that’s difficult to discover elsewhere in the resort-heavy country.

Kuredu is the self-proclaimed jewel of the Lhaviyani Atoll, which makes its home in the central-north reaches of the Maldivian archipelago.

A boomerang-shaped isle, it’s entirely covered by a single resort, which offers rustic bamboo shacks and rows of those ubiquitous over-water bungalows with verandahs above the waves.

The whole place is completely surrounded by its own private fringing of powdery sand, and is considered one of the most advanced SCUBA and snorkeling destinations in the country – strong currents and high waves often make it difficult to see the manta rays and tropical schools.

Unusually, Kuredu also plays host to a full 9-hole golf course.

Gan is primarily known for its airport, which is the second-largest airport in the entire Maldives and a famous former airbase for the British Royal Air Force during WWII. Today, the island has shed its old military importance in favor of tourism, and it’s slowly rising to become one of the most popular spots in the Addu Atoll.

It’s not just the accessibility (thanks to the airport) that draws the crowds either, because Gan has earthy little fishing restaurants and small stretches of shimmering sand that are usually totally empty of visitors. Nice.

15. Kunfunadhoo Island

If you’re after the fabled luxury and romance of the Maldives, then it’s likely that the opulent resort on Kunfunadhoo Island won’t disappoint – it’s continually hailed as the most indulgent place to stay in the country.

Visitors enter through a thatched timber great hall that hides between groves of coconut palms.

From there, it’s onto the cocktail decks that soar on stilts above the jungle, or out to the beaches where candles flicker in the sultry sea breeze.

Add in a couple of infinity pools, swim-up bars, and the chance to dine on a private little sandbank with only the Indian Ocean waves as a backing track, and it’s easy to see why this one’s so popular!

15 Best Places to Visit in Maldives:

• Hulhumale Island
• Veligandu Island
• Banana Reef
• Thulusdhoo Island
• Alimatha Island
• Kunfunadhoo Island

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• 50 Pristine Places To Visit In Maldives For An Amazing Vacay In 2024!

Unbeatable beaches, unmatched luxury and a very happening underwater world makes Maldives worth it all! Endowed with incredible beauty and splendor of nature. With 1200 islands and 26 atolls, this island country holds a great allure for tourists across the globe for its exotic islands, enthralling blue seas, shiny-sandy beaches, magnificent reefs, and a variety of water sports . Being an island country dominated by water sports, the tourism here is strictly relative to the dry weather conditions and hence the span of December to April is the best time to visit Maldives . Maldives has also undergone drastic change in the last 10 years and the inhabited islands have been made better and tourist friendly. Studded with luxurious water villas and endless palm groves swaying rhythmically, this postcard-perfect amalgamation of blue, white, and green is a true paradise on Earth! Check out the best places to visit in Maldives on your vacations:

50 Best Tourist Places To Visit In Maldives

Heading to Maldives and can’t decide where to head to? Fret not!  Let us help you to know about some of the best ones! And if choosing from so many attractions gets tough, keep our quick list of 50 most beautiful places to visit in Maldives handy. Though not exhaustive, the list of the best places to visit in Maldives helps you tick of all major tourist spots in the country.

• Malé Atoll – For Urban Vibes
• Sun Island – For Sparkling Beaches
• Banana Reef – For A Great Diving Experience
• Alimatha Island – For Canoeing In Calm Waters
• Artificial Beach – For Action-Packed Watersports
• HP Reef – For Corals And Caves
• Fihalhohi Island – For A Thriving Marine Life
• Utheemu Ganduvaru – For Exploring A Wooden Palace
• Biyadhoo Island – For Fresh Organic Produce
• Veligandu Island Beach – For Boundless Green Landscapes
• Baros Island – For Sun-Kissed Beaches
• Emboodhu Finolhu Island – For Romantic Water Villas
• Mirihi Island – For A Digital Detox
• COMO Cocoa Island – For 5-Star Services
• Huvahendhoo Island – For Soft White Sandy Beaches
• Maafushi Island – For A Stunning Mix Of Blue & White
• Kanuhura Island – For Kid-Friendly Villas
• Rangali Island – For That Perfect Family Vacation
• Whale Submarine – For An Exciting Underwater Tour
• Halaveli Islands – For Scenic Beauty And Relaxation
• Dhigu Island – For A Luxurious Getaway
• Majeedhee Magu – For Street Shopping
• National Museum – For Bizarre Historic Artifacts
• Bioluminescent Beach – For Star-Gazing With Bae
• Kudadoo Island – For Total Privacy And Seclusion
• Hulhumale – Mesmerizing Beauty
• Maldive Victory – Best Diving Spot
• Fulhadhoo – Serene Island
• Vaadhoo Island – Stunning & Spectacular
• Gan Island – Gorgeous Yet Secluded
• Thulusdhoo – Adventure Seekers Delight
• Fuvahmulah – Painted Out Of A Storybook
• Hanifaru Bay – For Breathtaking Underwater Sights
• Kudahuvadhoo Island – For Aesthetic Architecture Sights
• Ukulhas Island – For A Calming Scenic Beauty 
• Huraa Island – For Basking In The Sun
• Guraidhoo Island – Secluded Yet Beautiful
• Kurumba Beach – Mesmerizing Beauty
• Grand Friday Mosque – Biggest Mosque In Maldives
• Presidential Palace – Royal Infrastructure
• Male Friday Mosque – Intricate Carvings & Unique Architecture
• China Maldives Friendship Bridge –  A Great Initiative
• Tsunami Monument – Witness The Tranquility
• National Art Gallery – An Artistic Site
• Dhadimagi Kilhi – Second Largest Freshwater Lake
• Bikini Beach – Exotic Attraction
• Addu Atoll – Discover Stunning Islands
• Addu City – A Beautiful Destination
• Male City – Explore The Capital Of Maldives
• The Muraka – Conrad – Have A Lavish Stay

1. Malé Atoll – For Urban Vibes

Image Source Located on the southern edge of Kaafu Atoll, the North Malé Atoll is the largest city and the most popular destination among the best places to visit in Maldives. It is among the top Maldives tourism places. It used to be called Mahal for being the abode of the Royal Dynasties and is now famous as the Kings Island. Male has a tropical monsoon climate with rains occurring through most months in the year. The best thing about Male is its consistently moderate temperature, round the year.

Major attractions at Male: The Grand Friday Mosque, Scuba diving, and snorkeling, Male Fish Market, Malé's National Museum, Tsunami Monument, Dive Club Maldives, Underwater Scooters Best places to stay in Male: Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa , Hotel Octave , The Beehive Best time to visit: November to April

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2. Sun Island – For Sparkling Beaches

Image Source

Also famous as the Sun Island, Nalaguraidhoo Island in South Ari Atoll is among the top Maldives points of interest. It is adorned with some stunning beaches, beautiful tropical flowers, and lavish greenery that pulls a great number of tourists wanting to bask in the lap of nature. With its extremely charming blue waters, sparkling beaches and fabulous resorts, the island guarantees immense joy to its guests. Given its serenity and beauty, it is among the most perfect places to visit in Maldives for couples and honeymooners.

Best time to visit Sun Island: March to April the summer season, suitable for water sports.

Major attractions at Sun Island: Diving, windsurfing and snorkeling, relaxation at sauna and spa, Island Divers

Best places to stay: Sun Island Resort & Spa, Holiday Island Resort & Spa, LUX* South Ari Atoll etc. Best time to visit: November to April

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3. Banana Reef – For A Great Diving Experience

Image Source Located in North Mal- Atoll, Banana Reef is globally renowned for being one of the best diving sites in the world which adds it to the list of top Maldives points of interest. It was, in fact, the very first diving spot in Maldives to get recognition for licensed diving and training. Shaped like a banana, the reef is choc-a-block with exuberant marine life, fantastic corals, amazing cliffs, overhangs, and caves. And thanks to the myriad adventure activities here, it is one of the favorite places to visit in Maldives for the adventure junkies.

Major attractions at Banana Reef: Underwater activities like Scuba, snorkeling, Jet skiing in the reef; places like Maldive Victory, Hulhumal-, Alimatha Island, Biyadhoo Island, Manta Point Best places to stay: Coco Bodhu Hithi, Paradise Island Resort & Spa , Adaaran Prestige Ocean Villas are the luxury accommodations that will keep you happy and comfy Best time to visit: May to July (for diving)

Suggested Read: 27 Best Beaches In Maldives For A Relaxing Time With Your Partner

4. Alimatha Island – For Canoeing In Calm Waters

Image Source Sitting on the eastern edge of Maldives, Alimatha Island is located in Vaavu Atoll. With its azure, crystal clear waters — apt for diving, snorkeling and boating, the island is a perfect spot for a family vacation and for honeymoon too, since it is considered one of the best places to visit in Maldives for couples. Volleyball matches in the sun-kissed beaches and the dazzling sand, here, are great fun. The Ayurvedic massage center, spa, bars, and restaurants make it a revitalizing option among the popular tourist places in Maldives.

Major attractions at Alimatha Island: Diving, snorkeling, and canoeing at Miyaru Kandu, Fotte Kandu (Govt. sanctioned protected sites); Alimatha Aquatic Resort

Best places to stay: VOI Dhiggiri Resort, Rihiveli by Castaway Hotels & Escapes, Fun Island Resort, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, are some of the places that promise you a great stay. Best time to visit: March to April

Suggested Read: 15 Exciting Water Sports In Maldives For Your Adrenaline Fix

5. Artificial Beach – For Action-Packed Watersports

Image Source Situated in North Mal- Atoll, this beach is what its name tells you – artificial. It is the favorite haunt of the swimming enthusiasts among the top places to visit in Maldives. The Artificial Beach is an open area and has certain restrictions for clothing as per the local law. The beach also hosts several carnivals, water sports, and peaceful walks, making this the best place to go in Maldives for youngsters. The evenings here turn beautiful as music groups gather to jam and perform.

Major attractions at Artificial Beach: Shark Point, Manta Point, Nassimo Thila, Kani Corner

Best places to stay: Isola Guest House, Huraa East Inn, Ocean Cottage, Eriyadu Island Resort & Spa. Best time to visit: November to April

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6. HP Reef – For Corals And Caves

Image Source Stationed in North Mal- Atoll, HP Reef is among the top-rated tourist attractions in Maldives. It is a protected marine location that witnesses the widespread presence of a variety of marine creatures. From small, harmful and colorful fishes to multi-hued corals, caves and overhangs — the sea here is bustling with the vivacity of marine life. With utmost care, the marine beings are protected here while making sure that ardent swimmers and divers only spring into waters when it is completely secure, something that makes it one of the finest places to visit in Male Maldives.

Major attractions at HP Reef: Marine life for those who love photography and diving

Best places to stay: Lily Beach Resort & Spa, SeaHouse TopDeck, The Somerset Hotel, Hotel Jen Mal- Maldives nearby hotels.

Best time to visit: December to April

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7. Fihalhohi Island – For A Thriving Marine Life

Image Source Fihalhohi Island, situated at the South Kaafu Atoll in Mal-, is one of the most attractive and gorgeous places in Maldives to spend your hard earned holidays. The island is beautifully surrounded with shady coconut palm trees, pristine beaches, and clear waters. You must visit this island if you are looking for a romantic getaway or planning your honeymoon. The island offers warm weather, making it an ideal place for water activities that visitors thrive for and the most charming addition to the list of best places to visit in Maldives for honeymoon. One of the best things about Fihalhohi Island is the reef that surrounds the island that houses an abundance of marine life. With the availability of scuba diving, one can experience the marine life among the reef and make memories that will last for a lifetime. This island is also known to offer the best tropical with Balinese and other international treatments.

Major attractions at Fihalhohi Island: Fihalhohi Island Resort, Rannalhi and Rihiveli beaches in close proximity

Best Places to stay: Fihalhohi Island Resort, Veligandu Island Resort & Spa, Meeru Island Resort & Spa, Eriyadu Island Resort- easil accessible from the Island.

Best time to visit: December to June

8. Utheemu Ganduvaru – For Exploring A Wooden Palace

Image Source Located in the Northern part of Maldives, Utheemu is one of the best places to visit in Maldives. It is a small island that resembles a small green jellyfish. One of the historical significant tourist places in Maldives, it is the birthplace of Sultan Mohamed Thakurufaanu — revered in Maldivian history for chasing away Portuguese intruders. The place has got a monument in its name — Utheemu Ganduvaru, a heritage building that you must see. Home of the Sultan Mohamed, this palace is made of wood and a major tourist attraction in Maldives.

Major attractions at Utheemu Ganduvaru : The home of Sultan Mohamed, Ancient Cemetery, New Mosque, Beach North shore etc Best places to stay in Utheemu Ganduvaru: Amra Palace Laamu , J Resort Alidhoo, JA Manafaru, The Barefoot Eco Hotel Best time to visit: May to November (for Manta-Ray viewing)

9. Biyadhoo Island – For Fresh Organic Produce

Image Source Another popular island among the best places to visit in Maldives, Biyadhoo Island is stationed in South Mal- Atoll. Spread over ten acres of land, it is around 18 miles away from South Mal- International Airport and has Makunufushi Island in close proximity. The island has abundant vegetation of bananas, coconuts, and mangoes along with cucumbers, cabbage, and tomatoes. It is popular for its sparkling waters and adventurous water sports and hence got the name — the Scuba-diving Island.

Major attractions at Biyadhoo Island: Biyadhoo Island Resort, snorkeling, scuba diving, canoe-paddling

Best places to stay: Cocoa Island by COMO, Arena Beach Hotel, Crystal Sands, Beachwood Hotel, Island cottage, etc. are some of the near-by, luxurious hotels for your comfortable stay. Best time to visit: November to February

10. Veligandu Island Beach – For Boundless Green Landscapes

Image Source Located in North Ari Atoll, Veligandu Island is a reasonably small island. But in spite of being small, it has its own glory for vacationers. The island is filled with astonishing greenery that provides immense serenity in this land of shimmering waters. Also, the lagoons here provide great opportunities for diving and snorkeling. Being in close proximity to a fishing village, the island also promises to serve you delicious food.

Major attractions at Veligandu Island Beach: Veligandu Island Resort & Spa, snorkeling, diving, fishing, village tours Best places to stay: Rasdhoo View Inn, Rasdhoo Dive Lodge, Ras Reef Guest House, Kuramathi Island Resort Best time to visit: November to March

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11. Baros Island – For Sun-Kissed Beaches

An ideal place that will keep the crowd at bay is the Baros Island , which happens to be among the top-rated islands in the Maldives. Mostly known for its natural elegance, the luxurious boutique resort, and the sun-kissed beaches is something to die for. With a number of water villas, the Baros Island is exclusively sought after, for its services and the privacy guests get to enjoy during their stay. With a few restaurants and bars in the precinct of the villas, it makes for an ideal vacation for honeymooners and vacationing with friends. What is to die for is the cyan blue water which is a treat to the eyes and the soul.

Major attractions: Snorkelling, Scuba diving, Coral reef and relaxation in the resort spas

Best places to stay: Baros Maldives, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, Angsana Ihuru, and Grand Park Kodhipparu

Best time to visit: November to March

12. Emboodhu Finolhu Island – For Romantic Water Villas

The arrangement of water villas in the Emboodhu Island is a major attraction in itself. The water villas are arranged in the shape of a flower giving this island a jewel to add to the crown. If on a seaplane, the view is as beautiful as the stay here. Featuring about fifty-five water villas along with the luxe Taj Exotica Resort, the five-star accommodation and hospitality services that guests enjoy here is remarkable and has always received positive feedback. For those looking to relax can opt for the revitalizing spa retreat.

Major attractions: Scuba diving, Cruising, and relaxation at the best spas

Best places to stay: Embudu Village, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Adaaran Prestige Vadoo and Nasandhura Palace Hotel

Best time to visit: November to April

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13. Mirihi Island – For A Digital Detox

Vacationers looking for a complete detox stay at the Maldives should head to the Mihiri Island. With no television to watch, one is absolutely detached from the outside world if they keep their cell phones at bay. With no distraction from the outside world, ones stay at the beautiful island of Mirihi, honeymooners thrive here. they can also avail to the Adam & Eve spa treatment, which is romantically sinful. With around 30 water villas and restaurants that dish out lip-smacking delicacies, the Mirihi Island is a must-visit with your loved one.

Major attractions: Scuba diving, Snorkelling, romantic dinner setups and relaxation at the luxe spas

Best places to stay: Mirihi Island Resort

Best time to visit: July to October

14. COMO Cocoa Island – For 5-Star Services

A country like the Maldives is proud of its sandy beaches and gorgeous islands, but among the many, the COMO Cocoa Island stands out as it is the most sought-after islands in all of Maldives. It is a slice of tropical heaven for relaxation and rejuvenation. The island is home to a large number of resorts and water villas with around 33 of them. Each of these villas provides five-star accommodation and the best hospitality services in all of the surrounding islands. The white powdery beaches that are softer than your skin is something to live for, along with the crystal blue water that surrounds the place with pride.

Major attractions: Snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming pools, infinity edge bathtubs, and relaxation at the spa

Best places to stay: COMO Cocoa Island hotel, Holiday Inn Resort

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15. Huvahendhoo Island – For Soft White Sandy Beaches

The calm water and the lustrous greenery that makes up the Huvahendhoo Island is where you should be for an undisturbed stay for rejuvenation. Whether you are traveling with family or your pack of friends, this island is where you can relax and detox yourself off of the hustle and bustle of daily city life. Known for a family oriented place, kids can have their share of fun at the Kids Club while the adults can enjoy their time walking down the soft white sandy beaches. With restaurants serving top-notch delicacies, both foreign and local, the Huvahendhoo island has a lot of perks to it, making it one of the best places to visit in Maldives with family.

Major attractions: Swimming pool, tennis courts, beach volleyball, billiards and spa at the Lily Beach Resort & Spa

Best places to stay: Lily Beach Resort & Spa and Drift Thelu Veliga Retreat

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16. Maafushi Island – For A Stunning Mix Of Blue & White

Also known as Maldives paradise, the Maafushi Beach is among the best beaches in the country, that is sought after for fun activities. This place stands in top amongst the famous places in Maldives . With a wide range of water sports that keep the tourists hooked, the food served here is lip-smacking and will leave you licking your fingers. Apart from the amazing things to do on Maafushi Island , one can indulge in, one should treat their eyes to the scenic beauty that graces this island. The mix of blue and white is perfectly blended to relax your mind by the sight of it.

Major attractions: Bikini beach, Vihamanafushi Island, Island hopping, Scuba Diving, Snorkelling, and Shark Diving

Best places to stay: White Sand Lodge, Crystal Sands, Beachwood Hotel and Spa

Best time to visit: January and February

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17. Kanuhura Island – For Kid-Friendly Villas

The Kanuhura Island boasts of an elaborate villa setting and the five-star luxurious amenities and services that it provides to its guests. Known for a kid-friendly place, this place sees a lot of kids and packs of friends vacationing here apart from the regular honeymooners. Every villa at the island resort, Kanuhura, provide a private host that will take care of all your needs. While you enjoy the pampering the island provides you, away from the desk work back at home, the kids get to have a good time at the Kids Club. One aspect about the villas that make it worth the stay is the d-cor that leaves the guests amazed. This is an amazing places to see in Maldives .

Major attractions: Surfing, Snorkeling, Scuba Diving, Beach volleyball, Tennis, and rejuvenation at the resort spa

Best places to stay: Kanuhura Maldives

Best time to visit: October to December

18. Rangali Island – For That Perfect Family Vacation

The Conrad Maldives in Rangali Island is where you would want to take your family for a long vacation amongst the sandy beaches and crystal clear cyan blue water. Owned by the Hilton Hotels group, Conrad offers the best hospitality services along with many fun activities both kids and adults can tend to during their stay. With a range of indoor and outdoor activities to choose from, one can enjoy a day at the spa and relax. Also, for those who love fishing, the Conrad Maldives in the island offers fishing activities in the vicinity. This is also one of the most popular Maldives tourist attractions.

Major attractions: Infinity swimming pool, Dolphin sighting, Island hopping, spa, and indoor sports

Best places to stay: Conrad Maldives and Rangali Island Resort

Best time to visit: December to February

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19. Whale Submarine – For An Exciting Underwater Tour

The Whale Submarine is obviously not a place, but the 45 minute underwater tour of the Indian Ocean falls nothing short of an excitingly new and elaborate experience of the underwater life. Cruising through the underwater can be compared to the touring of a garden. The only difference is, you are in a cage and the underwater world is your spectator while your cruise past the marine life. This is one of the most preferred Maldives tourist spots .

Major attractions: Common Lionfish sighting, Yellow Boxfish and a school of yellow and blue snappers

Best places to stay at: Hotel Jen Male, Maagiri Hotel and the Beehive

Best time to visit: November to April (9 AM to 8 PM)

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20. Halaveli Islands – For Scenic Beauty And Relaxation

Isolation can sometimes be good for your health and this is where Halaveli Islands come into the picture. Surrounded by water in every direction, the Halaveli Islands are a perfect spot to detach yourself from the real world with nothing but enormous scenic beauty and relaxation. Well, not at all nothing, for the island is the best place to spend quality time with your friends and family. The Halaveli Island is also home to the Constance Halaveli Resort. Known for its elaborate hospitality services that ease every stay. This is one of the best places to see in Maldives . With 57 water villas for a romantic getaway, the rooms are equipped with televisions and iMac entertainment system.

Major attractions: Paddle boating, Jahaz Restaurant & Bar, Swimming pools, Scuba diving, and Snorkelling

Best places to stay: Constance Halaveli and Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon

Best time to visit: December to March

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21. Dhigu Island – For A Luxurious Getaway

One of the best places to visit in Maldives ,  island of Dhigu is more about the blue than the green, for everywhere you look you find the blue skies and the crystal clear water that calms your sight. The island resort in Dhigu Island has a range of 36 water villas with top-notch facilities and five-star accommodation along with infinity edge bathtub and an enormous view of the vast sea. Your stay at the Anantara Dhigu Resort & Spa is everything one can ask for when it comes to vacationing luxuriously. The food served at the four restaurants of the resort is known to be the best in the region with local and foreign cuisines to fill your palate.

Major attractions: Island hopping, Ferry rides, Scuba Diving, Snorkelling, and other water sports

Best places to stay: Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort, Anantara Veli Maldives Resort, and the Taj Exotica Resort & Spa

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22. Majeedhee Magu – For Street Shopping

Another popular attraction of Maldives sightseeing is Majeedhee Magu. Street shopping is an activity that everyone enjoys, from children to adults, people like to engage in street shopping. When in the Maldives, you ought to visit the Majeedhee Magu, which is just a walk down the main road of the capital city of Male. Here, you will find the latest fashion wear to a wide range of local delicacies that you can savor upon. The best things here that you should take home is the locally handcrafted items, that make way for gifting and self-possession as a souvenir. You can come down here any time between 9 am and 11 pm to shop some goodies to take back home.

Major attractions: The Market

Best places to stay at: The Somerset Hotel, Nalahiya Residence, Coastline Hotels, and Resorts Pvt. Ltd.

Best time to visit: November to April (the market closes at 11 PM)

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23. National Museum – For Bizarre Historic Artifacts

Located in Male stands the quaint building known as the National Museum . It is always a good practice to visit museums during a vacation to learn a little about the history of the place you are staying in. the National Museum of Maldives holds a large collection of artifacts. The components of which traces all the way back to the founding (history) of the Maldives Islands. The building is a part of the 17th century Maldivian Royal Palace and also houses a public park known as the Sultan Park. The well-conserved colonnades and historic artifacts tell a lot about the country. The museum witnesses a large number of visitors and art connoisseurs. Don't miss out on this beautiful palace while Maldives sightseeing on your vacation.

Major attractions: 13th-century wooden plank, Coral stone head of Lord Buddha and the 11th-century piece from Alifu Todd

Best places to stay nearby: Hotel Octave Maldives, Novena Hotel and Hotel Jen Maldives

Best time to visit: Year-round

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24. Bioluminescent Beach – For Star-Gazing With Bae

Image Source You and your partner have surely spotted numerous stars in the skies during your romantic strolls. But have you spotted any under your feet- No, were not crazy! This virgin beach on the Vaadhoo Island in Maldives is popular for a rare and quite exciting phenomenon that absolutely thrills anyone who visits. Attracting visitors with its glowing phytoplanktons that the waves keep tossing over the sands at night, its the perfect spot for honeymooners and couples who are sure to remember the mesmerizing sights for a lifetime! Other than this surreal and romantic feat at night, this beach is also known for the various hip cafes lining the shores. One of the best places to visit in Maldives for honeymoon, it provides endless options for eating in this area. And its relatively easy to get to from Hulhumale by ferry. The place looks stunning if you are traveling in the best month to visit Maldives .

Major attractions: Glowing sands at night, beautiful cafes

Best places to stay nearby: Adaaran Prestige Vadoo, Serene Blue Bowls Inn

Best time to visit: June to October (to spot phytoplanktons)

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25. Kudadoo Island – For Total Privacy And Seclusion

Image Source The Kudadoo Maldives Private Island has just recently joined the tourism bandwagon owing to the new and shiny Kudadoo Maldives Island Resort that has opened up on its shores…and over its waters! Its the perfect place for your fancy staycation owing to the fact that its still unexplored and pristine. Other than lazing on the perfect white beaches and enjoying scuba diving in the crystal clear waters amid dolphins, you can spoil yourselves with the ultra-luxurious services of the resort like swimming in the private pools, spa treatments, yoga sessions, bar and lounge, and an in-house restaurant offering multiple cuisines. All in all, its definitely the best place to go in Maldives for indisputable serenity and seclusion, topped with a hearty volume of luxury! Reaching it is also quite easy since its a just a 40-minute seaplane ride away from Males International Airport. This is one of the best Maldives tourist places .

Major attractions: Swimming with dolphins, the pristine beach, scuba diving, resort facilities

Best places to stay nearby: Kudadoo Maldives Island Resort

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26. Hulhumale – Mesmerizing Beauty

Hulhumale is located in the south of the North Male Atoll and is well-connected to airport and is one of the famous places to go in Maldives . Hulhumale island is spread over an area of 188 hectares comprising palm trees and stunning beaches. The place is a follower of green architecture and promotes the same. The most unique feature about Hulhumale is that it is an artificial beach created by ingenious minds. If you are visiting here during the best time to visit Maldives then you will surely create the lifetime memories here! 

Major attractions in Hulhumale : Water sports adventure Best places to stay nearby: Mo Hotel, Reveries Diving Village, Amra Palace Best time to visit: November to January

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27. Maldive Victory – Best Diving Spot

Maldive Victory is amongst the best tourist places in Maldives and lures travelers with its stunning diving spot that is surrounded by numerous luxuriating resorts. The place is situated between Male and Hulhule and is frequently visited by travelers hopping between the two islands. If you are looking for a perfect diving experience while holidaying in Maldives then do head to this attraction which is one of the best places to visit in Maldives .  

Major attractions: Bright coloured coral reef, watersports adventures Best places to stay nearby: LUX South Ari Atoll, Paradise Island Resort Best time to visit: January to April

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28. Fulhadhoo – Serene Island

Fulhadhoo is a serene island that is located in the southern Maalhosmadulu Atoll and is one of the best places to explore in Maldives . It is located merely 2 hours away from the capital city of male and exhibits the stunning vistas of the Indian Ocean. The population of Fulhadhoo island is even less than 250 persons, making it one of the most secluded islands in Maldives. 

Major attractions: White sandy beaches, crystal clear lagoons, serene ambiance Best places to stay nearby: Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, Finolhu Best time to visit: July to October

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29. Vaadhoo Island – Stunning & Spectacular

Raa Atoll in Maldives is one of the most well known atolls around the world and one of the best places in Maldives  if you are a beach person! Home to some of the most beautiful beach resorts and stunning sites, Vadhoo Island is spectacular! A natural phenomenon named ‘Sea of Stars’ occurs here which captures everyone’s attention and is a sight to behold.

Major attractions: White sandy beaches, glow in the dark sea shoreline, serene ambiance Best places to stay nearby: Ungoofaaru Inn, You & Me Maldives Best time to visit: July to November

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30. Gan Island – Gorgeous Yet Secluded

One of the must visit places in Maldives is the southernmost atoll in Maldives, the Gan Island! Forming a part of the Addu atoll this island is a gem and here you can try some amazing water activities.  Be it snorkeling, diving or anything else that you wish to try, this island in Maldiuves is perfect to go for it! You can also have some cultural and heritage experiences here or maybe plan for a resort stay.

Major attractions: White sandy beaches, crystal blue lagoons, great ambiance Best places to stay nearby: Addu Stay, Equator Village Resort Best time to visit: July to October

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31. Thulusdhoo – Adventure Seekers Delight

Image Source One of the best places in Maldives that you must explore is Thulusdhoo which is nestled in the Kaafu Atoll. The place is considered to be the best in the Indian Ocean for adventure activities like surfing and snorkeling. Due to the popularity of these activities, Thulusdhoo is known as the ‘surf land’. Another amazing part about this place is the colorful coral reef that you get to witness here. If you are looking for less-crowded places to see in Maldives then there cannot be a better option than Thulusdhoo.

Major attractions: Huraa, Kuda Huraa, and Hudhuranfushi Best places to stay: Canopus Retreat, Dream Inn Maldives, Reef Edge Best time to visit: January – March

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32. Fuvahmulah – Painted Out Of A Storybook

Image Source You will find Fuvahmulah located at the southernmost tip of Maldives which is a place oozing with natural beauty. A look at this place will make you wonder if it has been painted out of a storybook. With golden sand against the blue waters, this place will take your heart away. Want more? Well, Fuvahmulah gives you more like adventure activities and lip-smacking food. There is no doubt in the fact that it is one of the best places to visit in Maldives .

Major attractions: Thoondu, Fua Mulaku Island, and Bandaara Kilhi Best places to stay: Veyli Residence, Cottage 316, and Fuvahmulah Inn Best time to visit: January – March

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33. Hanifaru Bay – For Breathtaking Underwater Sights

Image Credits Locally known as ‘Vandumaafaru Adi’, Hanifaru Bay is identified as a marine protected area. It is located in a vast UNESCO Biosphere Reserve called Baa Atoll. With its aesthetic view of white sand beaches, pristine blue lagoons and its serene navy blue ocean waters, the keyhole shaped bay guarantees immense joy and calmness to the eyes of visitors. This tourist spot in Maldives is best known for the largest feeding station for the manta rays in the word and underwater adventures such as scuba diving and snorkeling.

Best places to stay: Biosphere Inn, Aveyla Manta Village, Hanifaru Stay Best time to visit: May – December

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34. Kudahuvadhoo Island – For Aesthetic Architecture Sights

Image Source Kudahuvadoo is the capital island of Dhaalu Atoll, best known for its architecture significance due to the presence of mysterious mounds called ‘hawattis’. These mounds are believed to be prehistoric which dates back to the islamic period are actually preserved sites of ruins of excavated Buddhist temples. With the remains of an ancient mosque carved with coral stone craving offers an immense sight to an excellent ancient masonry, that makes it an ideal place for the family vacation. The clear blue waters of the island make it an apt place for diving. The venture will help the visitors to discover true Maldives heritage and culture. If you are looking for top Maldives tourist attractions , here Kudahuvadhoo island awaits your visit.

Best places to stay: Riu Atoll, Dhaal Atoll Meedhufuhi, Riu Hotel, Kudahuvadoo Hotel Best time to visit: November – February

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35. Ukulhas Island – For A Calming Scenic Beauty

Image Source Located on the Alif Alif Atoll of the Maldives 70 km east from Male, the island is surrounded by the coral reefs and blue lagoons. It is the first environment-friendly and sparsely populated isle of the island nation. It is famous for its cleanliness and waste management system. It is a favourite spot for the family and kid who wants to enjoy spotting the rays turtles giant mantas, zebra sharks and reef sharks. The enticing site of the island is its bikini beach, lined with sun beds and dotted umbrellas guarantees the calmness and stillness to the visitor from the hustle of city life. Make sure that you include it in your itinerary as it is one best places to go in Maldives .

Major attractions: Veligandu, Rasdhoo, Kuramathi, Velidhoo Best places to stay: Paguro Beach Inn, Holiday Heaven Ukulhas, Athiri Inn Best time to visit: March – May

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36. Huraa Island – For Basking In The Sun

Image Source Another one on the list of Maldives tourist places is Huraa Island which is located on the Kaafu Atoll. With the less no of population, it is a perfect place for those who are seeking an authentic Malidivian holiday. Therefore an island becomes an amazing space to mingle with locals. You must visit this place if one wants to get a taste for Maldivian traditional culture. Diving with manta rays, several fishes and turtles, snorkeling, and dolphin spotting tours are the other highlighted amazing things that pull the attention of the tourists.

Major attractions: Kanuhuraa, Himmafushi, and Kuda Huraa Best places to stay: Beach Heaven, Paradise Island Resort, Maakoalhi Lodge Best time to visit: November and April

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37. Guraidhoo Island – Secluded Yet Beautiful

Image Source The island in the kafu Atoll is a paradise for the ones who are escaping the crowd and want to be bathed in the lap of the nature.Its colourful houses and the coral chunks makes it a blissful place to be at. The picaresque island is known for its water activities, mainly surfing followed by the turtle, dolphin snorkelling and diving. While walking in the sandy streets of the island, one can find a fantastic semibikini beach and an adventurous seasonal burf beach.With its amazing sights,the island promises the moving experience to the visitors.

Major attractions: Maadhoo, Maafushi, and South Male Atoll Best places to stay: Equity Beach Inn, Coco Cottage, Ithaa Beach Best time to visit: April – June

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38. Kurumba Beach – Mesmerizing Beauty

Image Source Among the best places in Maldives comes the Kurumba beach which is located 7kms from Male and approachable via short boat ride.It is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of life.The beach allows you to explore the laze on white sand, coral reefs and here you can indulge in a relaxing Maldivian spa. Its beauty and seclusion makes it an ideal place for couples. The dive in the crystal clear lagoon makes an addition to the joy and pleasure of the visitor.If you want to connect with the beauty of nature spend some time with yourself then it’s a perfect place to set your feet into it.

Major attractions: Lee Point Beach, East Point Reserve, and Darwin Waterfront Precinct Best places to stay: Kurumba Island Resort, Bandos Maldives, Hulhule Island Hotel, Lonuveli, SamannGrand

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39. Grand Friday Mosque – Biggest Mosque In Maldives

The Grand Friday Mosque is one of the most popular mosques in Maldives and lures travelers from across the world. It is a part of the Islamic Center and is located in proximity to the main jetty of Male. It was established in the year 1984 and is named after Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaanu-Al-Auzam, who commissioned this magnificent infrastructure. The mosque can accommodate nearly 5000 worshippers which makes it the biggest mosque in the Maldives. 

Timings:  Open 24 hours Location:  Orchid Magu, Malé, Maldives

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30. Presidential Palace – Royal Infrastructure

Presidential Palace in Maldives is the residence of the President and is located in front of the Hukuru Miskiiy. The Presidential Palace has been resided by 4 presidents till now. It represents the unique colonial architecture and was built by Sultan Md Shamsuddeen III for his family. You can glance the outer beauty of this marvelous building here which also comes to the list of one of the best tourist spots in Maldives . 

Timings:  Open 24 hours Location:  Medhuziyaaraiy Magu, Male’ City 20115, Maldives

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41. Male Friday Mosque – Intricate Carvings & Unique Architecture

One of the oldest surviving mosques in Maldives, the Male Friday Mosque is one of the most well known tourist spots in Maldives. Also known as the Male Hukuru Miskiy, the mosque was built in the year 1658 and its distinct architecture and detailed carvings on the walls are gorgeous and which also contributed to the mosque being listed as one of the tentative UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Sites in 2008.

Timings:  9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Location:  Hukuru Miskiy, Maldives

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42. China Maldives Friendship Bridge – A Great Initiative

Your sightseeing in Maldives  can’t be complete if you don’t witness this 2 kilometer long bridge that connects Maldives’ ncapital city, Male to Hulhule, an airport island. The bridge was made as a part of the Belt & Road Initiave and was funded by China and is believed to have strengthened the ties between bothe the nations. It is also known as the Sinamale Bridge and is one of the best places to visit in Maldives .

Timings:  Open 24 hours Location:  Sinamale Bridge, Maldives

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43. Tsunami Monument – Witness The Tranquility

Image Source As the name indicates,the Tsunami monument is a memorial to the victims of the devastating 2004 tsunami, located in Boduthakurufaanu Magu in southeast Male. It stands as a memorial to the victims of the devastating 2004 tsunami which claimed the lives of 74 Maldivians, and the tsunami monument stands as aThe beacon of hope after tragedy.Therefore, it becomes an apt tranquil space to reflect upon the events of the fateful day.The beach nearby is a popular surfing spot too. You must visit the place if you are looking to know certain facts of history. The 20 steel spheres encircling the monuments symbolize the atolls of the country,while the rising pillars stand for the waves of tsunami. This is one of the ideal tourist places in Maldives which must be visited.

Best places to stay: Kurumba Maldives,, Hathaa Beach Holidays, Season Holidays , Point Inn

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44. National Art Gallery – An Artistic Site

Image Credit : National Art Gallery

Established in 1999, the art gallery is located in Male and considered as the best place to visit in Maldives . It is a platform for showcasing some breathtaking and amazing local and international artworks. Apart from that, gallery conducts regular exhibitions and promotional events for artistic niche. It has amazing collections of islamic items, local, royal and traditional Maldivian dresses. It is an enticing worth dropping site for the art lovers and artists. If you want to delve into the artistic colour, this is an apt place to drop in.

Location: Machangolhi, Maldives

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45. Dhadimagi Kilhi – Second Largest Freshwater Lake

Image Credit: Ibrahim Asad for Wikimedia

Knwon for its beauty, Dhadimagi Kilhi is one of the best places to visit in Maldives. It is also the second largest freshwater lake of the country. Surrounded by greenery on all sides, it is an ideal place to visit in Maldives. You can enjoy exciting activities like fishing, swimming and boating here.

Location: Dhadimagi Kilhi is located on the Fuvahmulah Atoll of the Maldives.

Best time to visit: July to September

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46. Bikini Beach – Exotic Attraction

Image Credit: Pixabay

Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.

Bikini Beach is not only among the top places to visit in Maldives but also a beautiful place to see. Dotted with palm trees, the place is an exotic attraction that draws the attention of so many tourists around the world. Soak in the warm sun rays and enjoy activities at the beach like snorkeling, swimming and more.

Location: Rasdhoo Island, Maldives

47. Addu Atoll – Discover Stunning Islands

Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.

Addu Atoll is considered to be one of the most popular and spectacular islands in the southernmost atoll of Maldives. The Gan Island is a must-visit when you are visiting Addu Atoll. You must also visit Meedhoo Island, Hulhudhoo Island, Maradhoo Island and Feydhoo Islands. Discover Maldives in March to enhance your traveling experience.

Major Attractions in Addu Atoll: Diving, snorkeling, and fishing Best Places To Stay In Addu Atoll: Green Wing Guest House, Lodger Guest House, Pebbles Inn Best Time To Visit: July to September

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48. Addu City – A Beautiful Destination

Addu city is one of the beautiful destinations in Maldives which you must add in your itinerary when you are planning to visit Maldives. Addu is known as the second largest city and is in the shape of a heart where you will see tall coconut trees and fascinating views.

Major Attractions In Addu City: The Mosque of the Judge Best Places To Stay In Addu City: South Palms Resort Maldives Best Time To Visit: November to April

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49. Male City – Explore The Capital Of Maldives

Planning for your honeymoon? One of the Maldives places to visit with your loved ones is Male city which is indeed a beautiful place for water sports lovers. Male city is considered to be a natural paradise and is perfect destination for capturing beautiful memories and mesmerizing experiences. You must check out some of the Maldives travel tips which will help you in planning your trip.

Major Attractions In Male City: Swimming, fishing, and witnessing carnivals and parades Best Places To Stay In Male City: Samann Grand, Maagiri Hotel, Hotel Octave Maldives Best Time To Visit: October to April

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50. The Muraka – Conrad – Have A Lavish Stay

The Muraka is housed in the Conrad Maldives resort which is an undersea villa and is a 2 level lavish setting. You will get to experience an exquisite style of dining, living and sleep under the crystal clear water of the Indian Ocean. The Muraka is one of the best Maldives tourist places if you are looking out for a lavish stay.

Major Attractions In Male City: Water sports include snorkeling, and diving, jet skiing. Best Places To Stay In Male City: Samann Grand, Maagiri Hotel, Hotel Octave Maldives Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year

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So what is your pick among the best places to visit in Maldives – calm & serene islands or adventurous water sports center? Indulgent island resorts or a walk down the history? Oh wait! It can be all of it too, isn’t it? If all these things already excite you and has set your adrrenaline rushing, then plan and plan your trip to Maldives and experience a blissful vacation amidst the beaches! Happy Vacay!

Disclaimer : TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Maldives

Is it safe to travel internationally in the upcoming weeks or months?

The tourism industry is slowly reopening, and you can visit most of the above-mentioned places and more if travelling in a small group while following all the guidelines released. But don’t take our word for it: check up on the latest travel advisory, Covid-19 measures, and the number of cases before your departure.

What are the best places to visit in the Maldives with family?

The best places to visit in the Maldives with family are Veligandu Island Beach, Alimatha Island, and Hulhumale Mosque. The Maldives is an excellent choice for a family vacation as you can stay at a luxurious resort, get pampered and have fun with your kids.

What are the things to do on Male island?

Visit the Old Friday Mosque, National Museum, and Newport, all of which happen to be the best places to visit in Male Maldives.

What should I pack for the Maldives?

Men should pack shorts or lightweight pants and short-sleeved upper garments. Women should pack a bikini, summer dresses, skirts, and airy cotton shrugs. Flip-flops are a must.

Is visiting the Maldives very expensive?

The cost of visiting the Maldives depends on how you plan your trip. The prices of resorts vary from low to high, with rooms that cost Rs 7000/night to a lakh/night.

How many days should I plan a Maldives trip for?

Unless you wish to indulge in specific activities only, Maldives is perfect for a short stay. A week of holidaying in the Maldives is enough for a single trip.

Is drinking in Maldives legal?

Yes, drinking in the Maldives is legal if you are of the legal age. Since the Maldives is an Islamic country, alcohol is banned for locals. However, the resorts and bars are licensed to purchase and sell alcohol, but at a steep markup price.

What is the legal age of drinking in the Maldives?

The legal age of drinking in the Maldives is 18. If you are of legal age, you can purchase and drink alcohol only if you are not a citizen of the country.

Should I go to the Maldives for my honeymoon?

Yes, Maldives is a great destination for your honeymoon. The Maldives is one of the most ideal places for honeymooning in the world, with the privacy and peace that the scenic beaches provide.

Which country is the Maldives in?

The Maldives is actually a chain of around 1192 islands which is located in the southwest of Sri Lanka and India at the Indian Ocean.

Is the Maldives cheap for Indians?

Visiting the Maldives can be cheaper from India because of its closeness. On the other hand, the accommodations can be costly depending on the location and facilities

Which are some of the best resorts in the Maldives?

The best resorts in the Maldives for a lavish yet comfortable stay are listed below! 1. Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort 2. Taj Exotica Resort & Spa 3. Paradise Island Resort 4. W Maldives 5. Sun Island Resort

Which are some of the most famous restaurants in the Maldives?

Some of the most famous restaurants in the Maldives where you can enjoy a scrumptious meal are: 1. Citron by Lemongrass 2. Ithaa Undersea Restaurant 3. Symphony Restaurant 4. Sea House Café 5. Belle Amie Bistro

Which are the best things to do in the Maldives?

If you are up for an adventurous vacation, then the Maldives is the perfect location for you. You can try various activities like Snorkeling, Fun Tubing, Parasailing, Water Skiing, and Kitesurfing. You can also try the local food and relax on the picturesque beaches.

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The Top 11 Things to Do in the Maldives

EXTREME-PHOTOGRAPHER / Getty Images

The Maldives conjures up idyllic images of over-water bungalows and pristine beaches. However, visitors are often surprised to find that there are more things to do in the Maldives than what they expected. There's something for everyone, regardless of whether you prefer an active, or inactive, vacation. This makes the Maldives a very versatile destination! Read on to see what activities are popular.

Go Snorkeling

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

The Maldives is made up of more than 1,000 coral islands. Therefore, the snorkeling is naturally spectacular!  All resorts in the Maldives offer this activity.  However, ideally, you'll want to choose an island with an in-house reef where you can go snorkeling directly from the beach (or your over-water villa!) instead of by a prearranged boat trip.

The quality of the reefs does vary. Angsana Ihuru , in North Male Atoll, is regarded by many to have the best in-house reef in the Maldives and the resort can easily be reached by speedboat from Male. In the same area, Fihalhohi Island Resort is excellent.

Other luxury resorts with outstanding in-house reefs and snorkeling are Diamonds Athuruga , Vilamendhoo Island Resort and Spa , Mirihi Island Resort , and Lily Beach Resort. These are all located in South Ari Atoll. In North Ari Atoll, Kandolhu is excellent. The Park Hyatt Hadahaa and Robinson Club are remote options situated within North Huvadhoo, one of the deepest atolls in the Maldives. If you're on a budget, try Biyadoo Island Resort in South Male Atoll.

Dive to Reefs and Meet Sea Creatures

The Maldives is regarded as one of the best scuba diving destinations in the world. You'll be able to get up close and personal with an abundance of sea creatures including turtles, mantra rays, moray eels, and rare whale sharks. Varied reef structures and deep channels provide exciting diving opportunities. 

If you're super serious about scuba diving, the best option is to book a liveaboard boat trip. These luxury cruise boats visit some of the most remote reefs and will allow you to explore places beyond the reach of resorts in the Maldives. The optimal time to go scuba diving is from January to April. However, most liveaboards operate from November to May. Top options are Carpe Diem Maldives and Maldive Mosaique.

Banana Reef, in North Male Atoll, was the first Maldives dive site to be discovered and remains very popular. Some islands surrounding it are Farukolhufushi, Fullmoon and Kurumba. 

The superb in-house reef at Angsana Ihuru , in North Male Atoll, has its own shipwreck called the Rannamaari.

Ari Atoll (one of the largest atolls in the Maldives) is home to many popular dive sites and most liveaboards visit it. There are also numerous resorts in the area that have dive centers and offer diving excursions. Maaya Thila, in North Ari Atoll, is particularly famous and one of the best spots to swim with sharks. South Male Atoll isn't as developed as North Male Atoll, but the dive sites there are just as good and whale sharks can be found there throughout the year. These resorts all rate well for diving on Tripadvisor.

If you do want to stay at a resort but have access to remote diving sites, COMO Maalifushi is the only resort in pristine Thaa Atoll, with 66 islands and diverse marine life.

Looking for an inexpensive independent dive company? Try Maldives Passions Dive School or Maafushi Dive & Water Sports on inhabited Maafushi Island (the center of the independent travel scene).

Spot Dolphins

The Maldives isn't just known for its snorkeling and scuba diving. It also ranks highly as one of the world's top dolphin destinations. Dolphins are everywhere in the Maldives. They're really friendly and are frequently known to swim up to tourist boats. They may even swim past your over-water villa!

Many resorts in the Maldives offer dolphin watching trips as part of their standard guest experiences. However, sightings aren't guaranteed. To maximize your chances of spotting some, head to little-known Meemu Atoll and its Muli Channel (the success rate is said to be 85%). There are only two resorts in the area -- Medhufushi Island Resort and Hakuraa Hura.

Closer to Male, in South Male Atoll, luxurious COMO Cocoa Island is situated near a populous dolphin spot. Sunset dolphin cruises are offered. If your budget doesn't extend that far, the dolphin-watching cruise offered by neighboring Biyadoo Island Resort gets good reports.

For travelers who aren't staying at one of the resorts, the dolphin-spotting trips run by Cruise Maldives on Hulhumale Island are recommended.

Enjoy Water Sports

All kinds of water sports are possible in the Maldives. Kayaking, paddle-boarding, jet-skiing, water-skiing, parasailing, windsurfing, wake-boarding, kite-surfing -- you name it! Many resorts provide a selection of these activities for free.

For an extra adrenaline rush, the  Four Seasons Resort at Landaa Giraavar and Lily Beach Resort are two resorts in the Maldives that have jet-blades that will propel you out of the water.

Extreme Maldives at the Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa on Furanafushi Island offers a wide variety of water sports and is well-managed. Alternatively, there are independent water sports companies on inhabited islands near Male, such as Maafushi. 

Catch a Wave

You can even catch a wave in the Maldives! Most of the renowned surf breaks are located around Male. The surfing season runs from March to October, with the bigger swells from June to August.

Atoll Adventures offers surfing packages to Cinnamon Dhonveli on Farukolhufushi Island in North Male Atoll, with exclusive access to the resort's Pasta Point surf break (the region’s most consistent break). The resort has a program designed especially for surfers and a maximum of only 30 surfers are allowed there at a time.

Lohis surf break is a popular alternative in North Male Atoll. It's named after Lohifushi Island (now Hudhuranfushi), which it breaks off. This island is considered to be the main surfing island in the Maldives. Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi has been recognized as the Maldives' leading surf resort and offers special surfing packages. Due to spiraling popularity, a cap of 45 has now been placed on the number of surfers permitted to stay there.

The surfing scene on Huraa Island in North Male Atoll is buzzing as well, due to the large number of surf breaks within easy reach and several guesthouses that provide inexpensive accommodations. Famous breaks include Sultans, Honky's, and Chickens. The Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa has an in-house surfing school with instructors from Australia.

If you want to escape the crowds, head south. The secluded surf breaks there are best suited to intermediate and advanced surfers. Beacons and Tiger Stripes, two of the most powerful waves in the Maldives, are on Huvadhoo Atoll. Addu Atoll (previously Seenu Atoll) has some standout spots too.

More centrally located Thaa and Laamu atolls are also starting to attract surfers wanting to get away from the north. However, accommodations are limited, so you may need to take a surf charter to reach the breaks.

Surf Atoll is recommended for those who are keen to go on a multi-day liveaboard surfing charter trip to various surfing spots in the Maldives.

Cruise Around the Maldives

Don't want to spend all your time at a resort in the Maldives? Boat cruises are a popular thing to do, with various options from sunset cruises in local dhonis to longer overnight and multi-day luxury yacht cruises.

Many resorts have their own boats, which are available for guests. The Four Seasons Explorer is one such boat, which functions as a floating resort. Alternatively, Yacht Maldives operates private charters. If you'd prefer to join a group, G Adventures offers this 7-Day Small Group Maldives Dhoni Cruise from Male to Male. Airbnb has some options for boat rental as well.

What's more, it's possible to visit some luxury resorts in the Maldives on day trips, such as those offered by Cruise Maldives.   Cruise Maldives also operates reasonably priced boat cruises.

Explore Male

Male, the capital of the Maldives, is densely compressed onto an island of about two square kilometers (1.25 square miles). It's one of the world's smallest capitals! Most visitors bypass it in favor of the country's idyllic uninhabited islands. However, culture vultures will find it an interesting place to explore. There are mosques, museums and markets. And, Male's compact size means it only takes a couple of hours to stroll around it.

The National Museum provides insight into the country's heritage. Its collection encompasses royal antiques, artifacts, coins, photos and other memorabilia from the days of the Sultanate. Thrones, palanquins and statues are highlights. The museum is located in Sultan Park, which was part of the Sultan's palace. The National Art Gallery is within the complex too.

The Islamic Center's landmark Grand Friday Mosque is the biggest mosque in the Maldives. Opened in 1984, it has a modern plain white marble exterior and gold dome. Nearby, the historic Old Friday Mosque (Hukuru Miskiiye) and graveyard provide quite a contrast. It's the oldest mosque in the Maldives and dates back to the 17th century. Notably, the mosque was constructed using stone made from coral. You'll need to go inside to appreciate its beauty. Medhu Ziyaaraiy, the tomb of Abdul Barakat Yoosuf Al Barbary from Morocco, who introduced Islam to the Maldives in the 12th century, is in the same area.

Head towards the harbor to see the fascinating local market where fruit, vegetables and freshly caught fish are sold.

The area around Alimas Carnival, next to the Hulhumale ferry terminal, is known for its hip coffee shops and cafes.

If you'd prefer to take a guided tour, Secret Paradise offers comprehensive full and half day Male city walking tours. The Male walking tour conducted by S&Y Tours and Travel is shorter.

Do keep in mind that the Maldives follows strict Islamic practices. So, be sure to dress respectably, covering your legs and shoulders. In addition, women must cover their head with a scarf or cloth to enter mosques. Men will need to wear a shirt and trousers. No t-shirts or shorts.

Island Hop and Visit Local Villages

Due to a change in law, tourism is now permitted on inhabited Maldives islands. Many resorts offer excursions by boat to these islands and fishing villages, where you can interact with local communities and enjoy local food.

And, if you think visiting the Maldives is expensive and perhaps even unaffordable, think again! Tourists can stay in village guesthouses (some of which are quite boutique and attractive) and experience the simple local way of living. Most are close to Male, on islands such as Hulhumale, Maafushi, and Guraidhoo.

Guests at the Shangri-La Villingili Resort and Spa have the option of exploring five neighboring islands by bicycle or on foot.

Secret Paradise on Hulhumale Island offers full and half day island hopping tours, plus activities such as cooking lessons and meals with local families. S&Y Tours and Travel on Male is also recommended.

Get a Massage or Spa Treatment

Need to relax and rejuvenate? There's possibly no better place to get a spa treatment than the Maldives, with the soothing ocean as a backdrop. Many resorts in the Maldives have spas. However, some really stand out for their unusual settings. 

The spa at Huvafen Fushi is the world's first underwater spa, with two glass-walled treatment rooms. Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa spa is situated on its own separate island, which guests are transported to by boat. Its defining feature is its Night Spa with four special lunar rituals on the beach. If you're a nature lover, don't miss the spa at the Six Senses Laamu . Its cocoon-shaped treatment rooms are made from twigs and branches twined together! Drift Spa at Niyama Private Island Resor t also has a delightfully intimate setting.

Veli Spa at Kurumba wows guests with its lush garden spa, the first spa in the Maldives to feature traditional herbal remedies.

Award-winning Duniye Spa has locations at many resorts in the Maldives.  Other top spas in the Maldives are Talise Spa at Jumeirah Vittaveli , Banyan Tree Spa Vabbinfaru , and Angsana Spa Ihuru.

Peal Sands Hotel is a relatively inexpensive option on Huraa Island. Secret Paradise offers lunch and spa trips there .

Practice Yoga

Yoga retreats are growing in popularity in the Maldives. Secret Paradise arranges reasonably-priced seven day yoga holidays , with twice-daily sessions. A range of yoga styles are practiced.

Some resorts also offer in-house yoga classes, including morning and sunset yoga on the beach, followed by pranayama and meditation. Kurumba Maldives , Baros ,  Four Seasons Resort Landaa Giraavaru , COMO Coco Island , and Jumeirah Vittaveli are all known to have decent yoga classes.

Just Relax!

With a view like this, you can't miss spending some time (or a lot of time) soaking up the sun in a strategically placed hammock. It's certain you won't want to move!

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How to Plan a Once-in-a-lifetime Trip to the Maldives — Overwater Villas, Turquoise Waters, and Postcard-perfect Islands Included

Here's what you need to know before planning your Maldives vacation, including the best places to stay, things to do, and more.

Best Hotels and Resorts

Best things to do, best time to visit, how to get there, how to get around.

Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation/Visit Maldives

Mention a trip to the Maldives, and you’re immediately met with wistful sighs. There’s a reason this long string of low-lying islands in the Indian Ocean is at the top of many travelers' lists. Perhaps it's the sugary-white sands, the thatched-roof overwater bungalows, the swaying palm trees, or the waters so electric blue that its shade deserves a new classification.

“The colors just pop in the Maldives. Absolutely no filter is required!” says Sarah Harvey, Maldives expert and travel journalist. “The sea is so intensely turquoise that it almost glows, and the water is clearer than anywhere I’ve yet seen in the Caribbean. I once lost half an hour standing waist-deep in a lagoon just marveling at the hundreds of tiny rainbows refracted by the sun across the sandy sea floor.”

It's no wonder it was also crowned the favorite island destination in Asia in Travel + Leisure 's 2024 World's Best Awards . Whatever these islands’ magic touch is, it has loved-up honeymooners and wealthy families flocking to its 174 private island resorts. Made up of 1,192 tiny islands spread throughout 26 atolls, only around 200 of its islands are “local islands,” and 174 are resort islands, with more opening up every year.

“It's a truly exceptional escape from the every day, full of diversity and exploration that is more surprising than many give credit for,” says Venetia Cox, travel advisor at Cazenove+Loyd . “It's not just a passive destination for relaxation. It has incredible marine biodiversity, which can be experienced via snorkeling or diving, and has some of the best beaches in the world.”

Read on to start planning your dream trip to the Maldives.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Arrive early in the morning to minimize time for your resort transfer and get to the island as quickly as possible.
• Spend time snorkeling your resort’s house reef or book a diving excursion.
• Book a stay at Soneva Fushi for an ultra-relaxing, over-the-top resort experience unlike any other.
• Biking around your island resort is the best — and most fun — way to cross the island.
• Visit during the low season from May to November to see the manta rays feeding in the famous Hanifaru Bay.

Courtesy of Four Seasons Resorts

Soneva Fushi

A castaway island dream, this sustainable luxury resort is known as one of the most family-friendly resorts in the Maldives. It's been wowing guests for almost 30 years with the country’s largest kids club and rooms dedicated to ice cream, chocolates, and meat and cheese — all complimentary. “Every time I go to Soneva Fushi , I get giddy; the island makes me feel like a big kid! The water villas have water slides. You can skip between restaurants via a wooden walkway in the jungle canopy,” says Harvey. “There’s so much fun baked into this resort’s DNA.”

Joali Maldives

It’s all about the glitz and glam at this Raa Atoll resort. Each of Joali’s 73 villas is a design dream dotted with touches like rose gold finishings, emerald marble showers, and pops of coral pink. “The food here is also amazing, and the Japanese restaurant is outstanding,” says Cox.

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi

This resort was voted the best resort in Asia in 2022 by T+L readers and one of our readers' 100 favorite hotels in the world for 2024 . One of the largest human-made islands in the country, Waldorf Astoria Ithaafushi has 119 palatial villas and a can’t-miss spa. Its 11 dining options, including an Australian-style grill helmed by a Michelin-starred chef, are also a major draw.

Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru

The Four Seasons at Landaa Giravaaru’s sprawling 103 villas offer a more sophisticated and sleek take on an island paradise. It’s “Manta on Call” phones for when manta rays appear nearby and stellar service are a few highlights. “One of the best things about it is the ‘psychic butlers’ who seem to know exactly what you want before you do,” says Harvey.

Gili Lankanfushi

A short boat ride from the airport takes you to this thatched-roof paradise which Cox calls, “the original Robinson Crusoe escape” — but five-star. Gili Lankanfushi’s 45 open-air overwater villas are rustic and eco-friendly, enforcing a no-plastic policy and a “no news, no shoes ethos.” Reserve one of its standalone Crusoe Residences for an incredibly private stay — they’re only reachable by boat.

The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort

Architecture lovers will swoon over the St. Regis’ 77 artfully designed villas made to look like manta rays and Maldivian fishing huts. A points-friendly hotel, it’s a favorite for American travelers in search of a far-flung tropical escape. While the villas are hard to leave, don’t miss out on its crustacean-shaped spa, home to one of the Maldives’ largest hydrotherapy pools.

Velaa Private Island Maldives

With a reputation as one of the country’s most exclusive and expensive resorts, anything is possible at Velaa. From Wagyu teppanyaki dinners in its rooftop restaurant to nine holes at one of the country’s only golf courses to a wellness retreat at its new Wellbeing Village; there are endless options at this ultra-luxury, expertly crafted 47-villa island getaway.

Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation/Visit Maldives

Snorkel with marine life.

Ocean enthusiasts say the best part of the Maldives exists underwater. So snorkel or dive amongst a kaleidoscope of colors and marine life, including turtles, sharks, fish, manta rays, and whale shakes. “Diving and snorkeling with whale sharks is one of the most incredible things you can do in the Maldives,” says Harvey.

Treat yourself at the spa.

Many island resorts in the Maldives have a dedicated spa. Some are overwater with glass bottoms, and some are in the jungle canopy, but they’re all worth booking a treatment. Depending on the spa, guests can find just about any therapy, from cryotherapy to 24k gold facials.

Bike around the island.

The majority of the resorts listed above give guests bikes for personal use during their stay. Spend mornings biking to the breakfast buffet and evenings riding along the jetty, spotting eagle rays and sharks below. The mix of freedom and fun is one of the most unique parts of a Maldivian resort stay.

Get out on the ocean.

Life and fun in the Maldives revolve around the water. Resorts offer a seemingly never-ending laundry list of water activities, including surfing, fishing, dolphin cruises, paddleboarding, jet skiing, parasailing, sea bobs, flyboarding, catamarans, and even submersibles. The ocean is your oyster.

Visit a local island.

While 99 percent of visitors come for total rest and relaxation on the private islands, spend an afternoon on a local one instead. Most resorts offer tours and experiences to visit the “real Maldives.” “You might get befriended, you might be lucky enough to see women playing a game of bashi on the sports field, you might even get invited into someone’s home for a cup of tea,” says Harvey.

Evgeniya Vlasova/Travel + Leisure

While there’s no wrong time to visit the Maldives, the country’s peak season is from November to April, a time synonymous with blue skies and scorching sun. However, due to the effects of climate change, the seasons are becoming more and more uncertain. “Every Maldivian I’ve spoken to about the weather says the timing of monsoon season has been harder to predict in the past couple of decades,” says Harvey. A visit during the off-season from May to October puts you squarely in the monsoon season, but that doesn’t mean it will be a definite downpour. Planning your trip during this time will also save you a few bucks due to more affordable “low season” villa rates. If you base yourself at a resort in or around the Baa Atoll during this time, you can snorkel with hundreds of massive manta rays feeding at the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Hanifaru Bay.

Travelers arrive in the Maldives via Velana International Airport, which is set to unveil an expansion at the end of the year. Upon entering the arrivals terminal, guests will see dozens and dozens of resort representatives holding a plaque with the resort name. Once you’ve found yours, they’ll escort you to one of three places: the domestic terminal for a plane transfer, a speedboat for a transfer directly to your resort, or the new seaplane terminal for a seaplane transfer. Don’t worry; it may sound overwhelming, but a resort rep will take care of everything for you; all you have to do is follow them.

Transport to the resorts is typically arranged through your resort. Once you’ve arrived at your private island resort, there’s not far to go. Guests typically use the bicycles provided to get from one place to the other, call their butler for a buggy ride, or walk the island barefoot.

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30 Best Things to Do in the Maldives

We take pride in providing authentic travel recommendations based on our own experiences such as unique images and perspectives. We may earn a commission when you purchase a product or book a reservation. Learn more ›

Written by Woodrow Matthews

Any traveler who has ever dreamed of white sand beaches, luxury accommodations, exotic marine life, and the feeling of being a planet away from the rest of the world has probably had the Maldives on their mind at some point. These beautiful islands in the Indian Ocean are the home of world-class scuba diving, some of the world’s best hotels, and the overall unbelievable scenery.

Vacations to the Maldives come in many forms. Some people will go island hopping to see as many of these paradise islands as they can, while others will plant themselves on a private island resort and simply disconnect for some in-depth relaxation. Whatever your plans, a Maldives trip is highly unlikely to disappoint.

Any trip to the Maldives will start on North Malé Atoll, where the international airport island is located, near the capital. Perhaps after a stop there to appreciate the history and culture of this island nation, most visitors are off to the more remote corners of the country, where most Maldives things to do can be found.

While you might think it’s all about laying on beach chairs and spending time in an overwater bungalow, there are actually a ton of fun activities to do in the Maldives. We’ve compiled a list of some of the best below to guide your planning.

• Most significant landmark – Banana Reef
• Park to visit – Sultan Park
• Free activity – Malé Fish Market
• Activity for kids – Dolphin Watching
• Activity for adults – Scuba Diving
• Place to eat – Ithaa Undersea Restaurant
• Place to stay – Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi

Things to Do in the Maldives

While most Maldives tourist attractions involve the ocean, some are more traditional city activities such as museums and historical sites. Read on to see what to do in the Maldives, no matter what type of activities you want on your trip.

1. Scuba Diving

Whether you are a seasoned diver or have never tried it, the Maldives is undoubtedly one of the best dive sites in the world. Wrecks, coral reefs, and vibrant marine life, such as harmless white tip reef sharks, are some of the best things to see in the Maldives and are best seen up close to the sea floor.

The best time to visit for diving is during the dry season, from January to April, when visibility is best. However, as long as there aren’t any serious storms churning up the seas, you can also enjoy a dive in the other months.

Similarly, you’ll find places to dive all over the islands, with nearly every major resort able to set you up with a dive. Some of the best sites are around South Male Atoll, where you’ll find entire resorts centered around scuba diving. The Fihalhohi Island Resort, bookable here, has an on-site PADI-certified dive center.

Are you a total scuba beginner who wants to try it? If you are staying at a hotel or rental near Maafushi Island, this scuba discovery experience can pick you up, provide the equipment, and show you exactly how it works in a safe environment with professionals.

See Related : Bora Bora vs The Maldives: What’s the Difference?

2. Visit Your Own Private Island

There are many places you can go in the world for pristine beaches and fancy hotels. We’re thinking of Hawaii, the Caribbean, and the Greek Islands . But what can’t you find there? An entire, private island with nothing but your hotel – or even your villa.

The Maldives is one of the unique places in the world where you can find such accommodations. When you step off of your flight at the Male International Airport, you won’t get into a taxi to your hotel. You’ll be on specially-chartered transportation by air or sea to your final destination, perhaps with some other arriving guests, because the only thing there is your resort!

Most commonly, your private island resort will arrange a seaplane transfer directly to its sandy beach. Ultra-luxury resorts, like the Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru , can be reached in just 30 minutes while you enjoy the 50 shades of blue from above. Most rooms have their own swimming pool, giving you a private oasis within your private island.

If a seaplane transfer doesn’t sound like your idea of a relaxing vacation , hotels closer to Male can be reached by speedboat. The COMO Cocoa Island Resort, bookable here , is just 40 minutes from the airport while gliding on the azure water.

Are you looking to do things really big? The Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is a mega-luxury hotel that takes it even a step further. Book their Private Island to have an entire, ocean-surrounded playground to yourself. You’ll choose from one of the three villas on the island, have personalized meal and activity service, and find yourself just about as far away from the rest of the world as possible.

See Related: Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the Maldives

3. Explore Malé City

While most people head straight to the resort islands, spending a few hours exploring the capital city of Male (or Malé) can be interesting. Located on a tiny portion of North Male Atoll, the city is known for its colorful buildings, bustling city life, and mesmerizing mosques.

It’s less than 10 minutes away from the Maldives International Airport, making it one of the great places to visit in the Maldives before you return to normal life. Male City is home to one-third of the country’s population and is one of the most densely populated cities in the world.

It’s also very compact (hence the dense population), making exploring in just a few hours easy. That is why so many travelers make this a stop on their way out of the country.

Some of the most popular attractions in Male’ are the Old Friday Mosque and the Male Fish Market, both of which we’ll discuss in their sections later. Besides those, you can see a stingray spot, a surf break, locals playing beach volleyball and cricket, and other aspects of everyday life in this island nation.

If you don’t know where to start when it comes to exploring the capital city of Male, check out this Male’ guided walking tour (which may or may not be male-guided). It is specifically configured to be done during your layover before leaving the Maldives, with transportation from the airport included. Luggage storage is available for an additional fee.

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4. National Museum, Maldives

Address: National Museum, 5GG6+V3C, Chaandhanee Magu, Malé, Maldives

If you’re interested in learning about the Maldives’ unique history and culture, stop at the National Museum of the Maldives. The museum’s purpose is to instill patriotism throughout the country, and it was opened on the National Day of the Maldives, November 11th back in 1952.

The museum has an impressive collection of artifacts from both the Buddhist era and the Islamic monarchy era. Some of the oldest and most significant artifacts include a buddha head from the 11th century, an engraved wooden plank from the 13th century, and clothing weaved during the 15th century. It holds paper and cloth manuscripts from the earliest records of Maldivian history.

While most visitors to the Maldives are there for the beach and sea, it’s nice to get a look into the country’s identity and appreciate its society beyond the resorts. The museum is a great place to do so, and it can be easily added to a visit to Male City or before your departure flight.

Plan to spend about one hour here if you’d like to see every exhibit in the two-story museum.

5. Swim With Whale Sharks

One of the most beautiful creatures in the Maldives, and even the entire ocean, is the majestic whale shark. The Maldives is one place that brings people from all over the world who want a chance at seeing, and even swim with, these gentle giants.

Whale sharks are the largest presently-existing species of fish known to humans, and they can grow to be over 60 feet in length. Don’t let their size (or name) scare you, though. Whale sharks are slow-moving, filter-feeding animals, meaning they eat tiny organisms and pose no threat to swimmers.

Most hotels, especially in the South Ari Atoll, can help you arrange a whale shark experience. You can also book a five-day, all-inclusive adventure to South Ari Atoll , which includes accommodation, food and beverage, and a whale shark excursion. You’ll also see manta rays and sandbanks as part of your tour.

If you’d prefer a DIY-excursion, you can book a speedboat transfer to the local island of Maafushi. From there, there is a whale shark, manta ray, and dolphin boat tour that includes a sandbank picnic lunch. This is a great way to save money on your adventure.

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6. Have an Underwater Spa Day

Address: North Malé Atoll, 08390, Maldives

There’s nothing like getting a spa treatment on a tropical island vacation. This is one of the best things for couples to do in the Maldives, especially with the quality of the spas at the luxury hotels you have to choose from there.

What if you could combine a tranquil spa day with the other best thing to do in the Maldives? The Huvafen Fushi resort is home to the first underwater spa in the world and is the only place that offers such an experience. You can get a massage while you gaze at the colorful fish and thriving reef around you.

The treatment room will have you eight meters below the surface, or about 26 feet. Two treatments are specifically designed to make the most of the space: the Underwater Dream, available for 60 or 90 minutes, and the Underwater Rendezvous, for 120 minutes. Both are top-to-toe formulas that will have you feeling ridiculously relaxed and like you are simply floating with the currents.

While you aren’t making the fish jealous from the treatment room, the Huvafen Fushi has plenty above the surface going for it. Beach and overwater bungalows, an infinity pool, several restaurants, and an overwater gym are just a few of the amenities on this beautiful island .

7. Sultan Park

Address: 5GH6+2C2, Male, Maldives

As we’ve mentioned, the city of Male is one of the most densely populated in the entire world. Driving across the bridge from the airport, you’ll immediately see its tiny land mass packed from end to end with buildings and cranes.

Sultan Park is one of the best and only places to escape this concrete jungle without heading to an outer island. Located in the center-north of the city, it appears to take up just a tiny space on the map, but you’ll immediately be surprised by how spacious it feels within its lush gardens.

The park sits on the former site of the Royal Palace before it was destroyed in the 16th century. Today, it hosts thousands of plants and trees, several fountains and statues, and plenty of benches and places to relax away from the city streets.

While you’re probably not headed to the Maldives specifically in search of a park, this can be a lovely stop during a day in the city where you can catch a glimpse of everyday Maldivian leisure. Note that a small fee of about $5 is collected from foreigners wishing to enter the park.

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8. Snorkel With Manta Rays

Address: Maafushi Ferry, WFVQ+7RG, Maafushi, Maldives

Hopefully, we’ve made it clear by now that the atolls of the Maldives are home to some incredible sea life. Another species not to be missed are the majestic manta rays of the islands.

Manta rays are similar in shape to the more commonly known sting rays but have fins resembling wings rather than round bodies. They have short tails and swim with their gaping mouths wide open as they filter feed on tiny plankton and coast along.

They can be found in locally-known spots around the Maldives, especially around South Male Atoll. Take a guided snorkeling tour to reach these places and have a chance to swim alongside them, usually in large schools. Most swimmers who try this say that they could have spent hours admiring these peaceful creatures.

While the main attraction of many of these tours is to see manta rays, don’t forget that you are bound to spot a wide variety of unique marine life on your adventure. White tip and grey reef sharks are not uncommon around sand bars, and while it may sound frightening, these species are incredibly docile and won’t bother you. Plus, you’ll get to tell everyone you swam with sharks.

9. Male Fish Market

Address: 188 Ibrahim Hassan Didi Magu, Male 20188, Maldives

One of the few free things to do in the Maldives can be found in Male, at the northern end of the island at the harbor. The Male Fish Market is where you can see the day’s catches and buy some tasty treats.

Local fishermen will lay out their fresh catches, often including tuna, sailfish, and reef fish. The best time to visit the fish market is in the morning when you’ll see the most action, but fishermen will unload their nets throughout the day.

Alongside the fish, this is also where fresh fruit and vegetables are bought and sold in the Maldives. Farming isn’t exactly possible on this country’s vast majority of land, so most produce must arrive from abroad. Hotels, restaurants, and everyday residents shop here for many culinary needs.

This walking tour of Male includes a stop at the fish market, along with all of the other important sights in the city. Be sure to bring some cash to buy snacks or souvenirs.

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10. Banana Reef

The original dive site of the Maldives that became famous was Banana Reef, a crescent-shaped coral reef just off the coast of the airport. It deserves a spot on our list not only because of its impressive underwater ecosystem but also because it’s a convenient place to get to.

You can find all kinds of seafloor features at Banana Reef: caves, overhangs, cliffs, and walls. There are colorful reef fish, large grouper, manta rays, and sharks frequenting the area. Scuba divers will, of course, be able to descend to see the best of the reef, but snorkeling from the surface also provides an exceptional look at everything.

The site can be accessed from the capital, as well as from resorts around North Malé Atoll. The nearest hotel is the beautiful Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort and Spa , just east of the airport. They have beautiful bungalows with swimming pools, several restaurants, and a location allowing easy access to Male.

11. Tour a Local Island

The private resort islands are amazing, no doubt. But, as you may imagine, everyday life in the Maldives for a local doesn’t involve living in overwater bungalows and laying under palm trees all day.

To get a sense of what life is actually like in the Maldives, take a day trip to one of the many local islands. There are just under 200 inhabited islands out of the more than 1,000 that make up this vast country, where Maldivians live, work, and play.

One option is to stay on a resort island, such as the Meeru Island Resort & Spa , which is located very close to a local island. In the case of the Meeru Island Resort, the local island of Dhiffushi is located just across a small channel. You would need to arrange a water taxi from the resort to the village, where you can explore.

Another choice would be to stay in a local island accommodation, eliminating the need for day trips. For example, the Arena Beach Hotel (bookable here) is on the island of Maafushi and is one of the most popular local islands to visit. The laid-back atmosphere gives the vibe of a fishing village, and locals are known to be warm and welcoming to visitors to their island.

Finally, if you are looking to get creative with your itinerary, you might be interested in utilizing one of the only two international airports in the country besides Male-Gan.

The island of Gan is another major population center in the country and could make for an interesting visit off the beaten path before you depart on a flight from its airport. A vacation rental is a great choice to experience local life here.

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12. Sunset Cruise

Watching the sunset in a picturesque place like the Maldives is wonderfully romantic and a great way to end the day. Doing it from a boat on a sunset cruise can make the experience even more special.

You can find evening boat rides to enjoy the sunset departing from just about any of the resort islands, as well as some local islands. They often serve light snacks or dinner, plus tropical cocktails and other alcoholic beverages – one of the ways to find them in the otherwise alcohol-free Maldives.

Many of these cruises offer additional experiences before or after enjoying the sunset. For example, this sunset cruise from Huraa or Dhiffushi offers night fishing, providing everything you need to hook something big under the stars. This sandbank snorkeling cruise will have you out until sunset, which you’ll watch from the boat, after a fun day of seeing the sand banks and sea life.

Sunset cruises are just one way to enjoy the amazing colors of the evening sky in the Maldives, but be sure to plan nights to see it from your resort’s beach as well. Don’t forget a good camera no matter where you plan to watch the sunset, as you’ll certainly want to capture the moment.

13. Go Surfing

If you’re in search of the perfect wave, the Maldives might bring you pretty close to it. While Maldives surfing may not be as appreciated worldwide as spots in Hawaii or Indonesia, the waves here are a ton of fun, and they are a much-appreciated secret for surfers who have tried it.

Surfing season in the Maldives is from April through October, which aligns with the monsoon season. However, the right ocean conditions can appear throughout the whole year. The necessary southeastern swell brings small to medium-sized waves and long, even breaks.

Therefore, this isn’t necessarily a surfing destination for the pros like the north shore of Maui – beginners can try it out here! However, remember that the bottom is often reef in the Maldives, so some caution needs to be exercised. The best thing you can do is to ask a local for tips or even go out with a guide.

There are a few surf shops on the inhabited islands that can offer gear and advice, and some hotels may have boards if you aren’t packing one. You’ll be glad you paddled out once you are jamming on beautiful breaks with the picturesque atolls in the distance.

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14. Dolphin Watching

One of the most appreciated marine mammals worldwide can be found happily playing in the Maldives: dolphins! More than 20 species of dolphins live around the islands, including spinner and spotted dolphins.

Since they are so popular to see, plenty of day cruises go out searching for dolphins and are usually successful at finding them. This dolphin cruise in Dhiffushi goes out in the late afternoon to the edge of the atoll, where dolphins are known to frequent. Usually, the dolphins provide a great show for the visitors, jumping and diving around the boat.

If you want to take dolphin watching to the next level, this cruise in Maafushi will put you in the water to snorkel with them. You’ll also be swimming with nurse sharks and giant trevallies, and underwater photos and video are provided – which you’ll definitely want after such an experience.

15. Tsunami Monument

Address: Thin Ruh Park, Boduthakurufaanu Magu, Male, Maldives

While the Maldives is a beach paradise for vacationers, it’s important not to forget that its composure of small atolls leaves it prone to certain natural disasters that have taken their toll in the past. The country was seriously affected by the massive earthquake in the Indian Ocean in 2004, which many of us remember as one of the worst of all time.

The Maldives created the Tsunami Monument in Male to commemorate the tragedy and those in the country who lost their lives. It is in a small park next to the harbor on the island’s west side.

The large structure comprises 108 metal rods standing in a circle to symbolize the number of people who died when the waves came over the islands. Shortly after the earthquake, there was concern that the entire country could become submerged and remain uninhabitable. While this, fortunately, did not come to be, it’s a fear that eventually could become a reality in the Maldives due to rising sea levels.

A stop at the Tsunami Monument is a nice way to pay your respects and get a deeper look into a significant piece of history. Don’t allow this to dissuade you from taking a trip here – earthquakes happen in the region all the time and rarely cause such a tsunami.

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16. Old Friday Mosque & Islamic Centre

Address: 5GH6+4W9, Lonuziyaarai Magu, Malé, Maldives

The Maldives is a Muslim country, and while you may not notice this at your resort, the national faith is front and center in the capital and local islands. In Male, some of the most visited sights are the Old Friday Mosque and its neighboring Islamic Centre.

Even for those of other religions, the Old Friday Mosque is a piece of beautiful architecture and a rare piece of ancient Maldivian history. The mosque was constructed in the mid-1600s, making it one of the oldest in the country and all of Southeast Asia. It is made of a type of coral rock, abundant on the islands and sturdy for building, and is a majestic sight in the city.

The Islamic Centre is one of the most famous attractions in Male. The building is known for its mind-blowing architectural features, such as a large, golden dome roof and intricate woodworkings. The center is where a large conference hall hosts official meetings, as well as an Islamic library.

Both attractions are just a block away and sit near some other major attractions in Male, such as the Muliaage Palace and Sultan Park. Keep in mind that visitors should dress modestly in most places around non-resort islands and especially near Islamic sites.

17. Jet Skiing

Address: Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa, 20187 Dhangethi, Maldives

If you’re looking for some exhilaration on the water, jet skiing is one of the best things to do in the Maldives. The seas on the interior of the lagoons are generally calm and flat, and the scenery of overwater bungalows in infinite shades of blue makes for an amazing ride.

Riding a jet ski isn’t complicated; most people get the hang of it after just a few minutes of practice. Once you are comfortable, you can zip around to sandbanks, coral gardens, and swim spots or simply have fun jumping your own waves.

Water sports centers on some local islands can rent out jet skis from the beach. However, most visitors have their resort arrange something for them. The Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa has jet skiing for guests on the property, along with a luxurious swimming pool and sandy beaches.

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18. The National Art Gallery of Maldives

Address: 5GH6+4F2, Male, Maldives

Another attraction to experience real, local culture beyond luxurious resorts is the National Art Gallery in downtown Male. The gallery was established in 1999 to showcase Maldivian art talent as well as to display international works for enjoyment by locals and visitors.

The exhibits are constantly changing and rotating, meaning this is an interesting stop even for repeat visitors. Some of the items that have been displayed are traditional Maldivian outfits, royal artifacts, and Islamic items. The gallery is always looking for pieces made by local islanders to showcase.

The National Art Gallery is just across the street from the Islamic Centre and is closed on Fridays. Most visitors only need about an hour to see the entire collection, so if you are an art lover, this is an easy pre-departure flight visit.

19. Paddle Boarding

Address: 1 Milaidhoo Island Milaidhoo Island, 20002, Maldives

A great water sport that is fun for everyone and can be practiced directly from the white, sandy beaches is stand-up paddle boarding. While you may have seen some paddle boarders use them to catch waves and surf, most people prefer paddle boarding leisurely on flat water.

It’s great exercise; most people only need a few minutes to balance. You’ll be paddling over crystal-clear water alongside idyllic beaches in the Maldives. Don’t be afraid to jump (or fall) off – the water is pleasantly warm, and your paddle will float.

Most resorts offer a few paddle boards for guests to try out. They may be fiberglass or inflatable, but there is no real difference in use. The Milaidhoo Island Maldives offers them and is located next to a pristine snorkeling spot, making for a great paddleboard destination.

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20. Water Skiing or Wakeboarding

If you’re ready to take it up a notch after paddle boarding, you might be ready for a higher-speed water activity like water skiing or wakeboarding. These sports will have you holding a tow line attached to a boat that pulls you across the water.

Many people enjoy the ride while they feel the breeze on their faces and watch the scenery. As with the other activities in the Maldives we’ve discussed, the scenery will be some of the most awe-inspiring in the world to enjoy from your skis or wakeboard. More experienced riders will have the boat zig-zagging along the water so they can jump them and get some air.

Even if you are a beginner, there are activities in the Maldives that can be booked to try out. This Maafushi wakeboard and waterski experience will provide a lesson for those who need it, allowing you to ride at your leisure.

21. Sport Fishing

Address: UI Hotels, Nirolhu Magu – 19 Goalhi, Hulhumale 23000, Maldives

For fishermen, the Maldives is a dream destination. Sport fishing is some of the best in the world here, with big game like tuna, swordfish, wahoo, and barracuda frequenting the reefs and deep canyons.

Commercial fishing and tourism strongly support The Maldives’ economy, so the government closely regulates the sport. This keeps fish stocks at adequate levels and available for everyone. Going out on a tour or charter boat will ensure you follow all regulations, so there is no need to worry about formalities.

You can find charter boats available in the resort island areas as well as on local islands. This sunset fishing cruise goes out just before sunset, allowing you to enjoy it from the boat before dropping anchor at a spot near the reef where you’ll cast your lines to try to catch dinner.

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22. Dine at an Undersea Restaurant

Address: JP8F+6H9, Conrad Rangali Island 20077, Maldives

If you’ve dreamed of being immersed in the underwater world, among the marine life, you must check out the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant! The restaurant is located at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island and allows guests to dine 15 feet under the sea.

The half-dome glass walls allow you to admire the gorgeous turquoise Maldivian waters from a unique perspective while dining on delicious cuisine. As you enjoy your meal, various tropical fish will swim through the coral reef beside your table.

Dinner is an eight-course meal that features seafood and meat dishes. Of course, a vegetarian option is available. If you prefer to visit for lunch, the chef offers a four-course menu with a vegetarian option.

Ithaa Undersea Restaurant opens for lunch at 12:30 pm and dinner at 6:30 pm. Reservations are mandatory and can be made until 12:00 p.m. on the same day.

23. The Sea of Stars

Address: VX6Q+H9V, Vaadhoo, Maldives

You’ve probably seen the photos of bioluminescent beaches in Puerto Rico , where most people go to see them. But few visitors know that you can also experience the unique phenomenon of light-up water in the Maldives.

On the island of Vaadhoo, the Sea of Stars is on a stretch of beach where the bioluminescent phytoplankton light up under the night sky.

These microscopic creatures have this light reaction when they are touched or disturbed, such as when the tide pushes water onto the sand or when you swim through them. But don’t worry, you aren’t hurting them, and they cannot hurt you – it’s just their natural biology.

Vaadhoo is a small local island with very little visitor infrastructure, and the Sea of Stars is most often visited on nighttime tours from nearby resorts. The Emerald Faarfushi Resort & Spa is located on the same atoll and relatively close by if you want a luxurious and modern resort with easy access to this beach.

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24. Muliaage Palace

Address: 5GH6+2WH, Medhuziyaaraiy Magu, Male’ City 20115, Maldives

If you’re looking to see a part of Maldives history in the center of Male City, check out Muliaage Palace. It is at the site known for being the ancestral home of Sultans for centuries.

The palace was built in 1914 and completed five years later in 1919. Sultan Muhammad Shamsuddeen III had the palace built for his son, Prince Hassan Izzuddin, after returning from his studies in Colombo.

Today, the palace is the official residence of the Maldives President. On the grounds of Muliaage Palace, you will find the Medhu Ziyaarai, which translates to the “central tomb.” The tomb is for Abul Barakat Yousef Al-Berberi, a Moroccan scholar who introduced Islam to the Maldives in 1153.

The palace has hosted many well-known guests, including the late Queen Elizabeth II. Though entry to the public is not allowed, visitors can admire the beautiful exterior and take in the history of the land it sits on.

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25. Golfing

If you’ve grown tired of laying out on the gorgeous Maldives beaches, check out some of the country’s fancy golf courses. A few of the island’s top private island resorts offer 9-hole courses for guests.

Velaa Private Island offers a gorgeous golf course designed by professional golfer Jose Maria Olazabal. It’s one of the best things for adults to do in the Maldives that doesn’t involve being on (or in) the water.

A few times a year, the resort hosts a golf academy for guests to have a one-on-one session with a PGA professional. If you’re traveling with a golf aficionado, this would be a great surprise for them.

Other resorts that offer beautiful golf courses include the Meeru Island Resort & Spa and the Kuredu Island Resort & Spa . Both are stunning properties that will provide plenty of activities for the whole family besides hitting the green.

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26. Seaplane Tour

Enjoy the Maldives from a different perspective by going above the atolls on a seaplane tour. There are over a thousand islands and atolls that make up the country, and though you probably won’t see them all, this is a great way to get a birds-eye view of their unique beauty.

Flying over the marvelous turquoise waters dotted with white sand beaches and lush, green islands is any photographer’s dream. You can even enjoy some island hopping while on a seaplane tour with short sightseeing tours.

As you’ll most likely need to board a seaplane to get to your resort island, consult with your hotel to find out if a seaplane tour is possible from there and which companies they work with. This will remove much of the stress of planning and allow you to enjoy your experience in the skies fully.

27. Skydiving

Adventure seekers, rejoice! Skydiving is a thrilling activity that can be done while visiting this beautiful island nation and should definitely be added to your bucket list .

You’re not alone if you’ve experienced major FOMO while watching YouTube videos of people skydiving in the Maldives. Thankfully, skydiving in the Maldives can be done by both experienced jumpers and amateurs.

There’s hardly anything more electrifying than free-falling for 60 seconds toward the earth and then floating down peacefully after your parachute deploys. However, it’s also worth noting that you cannot go scuba diving for at least 24 hours after skydiving.

Check with your resort to see if arranging a skydiving adventure is possible. Kandima Maldives Resort is an excellent option as it has its skydiving drop zone. Otherwise, the most popular islands for skydiving are Kooddoo atoll and Dhaalu atoll.

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28. Flyboarding

Have you ever seen someone flyboarding or been lucky enough to try it yourself? Thanks to the calm water and amazing scenery, this is a fantastic activity to try in the Maldives.

Flyboarding is one of the closest things you can do to flying, and it’s a great alternative for those who aren’t interested in the thrill of skydiving. Rather than jumping from thousands of feet, you’ll be propelled by a special watercraft jet pump connected to a hose. Water is thrust from it towards the surface, allowing you to float six feet or more above.

Flyboarders who are comfortable with the equipment can do tricks and fly higher. Most people who try this activity get the hang of it within 30 minutes or less. Try it out yourself at this flyboarding experience if you’re staying near Maafushi.

29. Kite Surfing

A little wind can put a real damper on your beach day – but it’s what every kite surfer hopes for. While the Maldives is known for predictable weather that’s often just right in the high season, some atolls can catch a great breeze for kite surfing.

If you aren’t familiar with this water sport, it doesn’t involve paddling into any waves. Instead, your feet will be held onto a board by straps while you catch the wind in a large parachute you’re holding onto. Then, it’s all about steering, holding the wind, and having fun.

While many kite surfers like to just cruise and enjoy the ride, some prefer to hit waves and get some air for tricks like spins and flips. You can try it out on this kite surfing experience near Maafushi, set up for beginners and experienced riders.

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30. Parasailing

If you want to fly high above the islands, but skydiving and seaplanes don’t sound like fun, then a great compromise could be parasailing. This leisurely but exciting activity will have you seated under a parachute pulled by a boat below.

When parasailing, you get some pretty impressive air, and you can expect to reach 100-300 feet of altitude. This is high enough to see the little patches of coral and islands that make up the atolls, which gives a special perspective on where you are in the world. Plan to get a bit wet as well – most captains like to “dip” their riders in the water before the flight is over.

Parasailing is a lot of fun; even those who fear heights or falling generally do fine with it. If your resort is in the Maafushi area, try this parasailing tour , which will have you cruising with the birds rather than the fish.

Tours in Maldives

Experience the best of Malé on our 4 hour highlights walking tour. Led by a local guide, you'll discover hidden gems and iconic landmarks in this vibrant city. Visit the fish market to see the catch of the day, view landmarks such as the President's Palace, Sultan Park, and Friday Mosque. Head up a tall building for breathtaking views over the city, and visit the Royal Garden Cafe for snacks and refreshments.

Make the most of your Maldives vacation with this small-group tour that combines snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing with a sunset dolphin cruise from Hulhumale. The first stop of the day is a sandbank where you’ll learn or refresh your snorkel skills. From there, visit two snorkel sites near Male to see colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, reef sharks, rays, and coral. Finally, enjoy a sunset cruise with the chance of spying dolphins along the way.

Looking for an exciting way to spend your vacation in the Maldives? Then look no further than the Full Fun Adventure Trip! This action-packed tour takes you snorkeling in the mesmerizing underwater world, kayaking in the crystal clear waters, cruising around to spot dolphins, and more. You’ll also get to visit a stunning sand bank in the middle of the ocean – an experience you’ll never forget.

What is the Maldives known for?

Picturesque beaches, luxury accommodations, and thriving marine life are some things this island paradise is known for. Apart from the resort islands, where you can find things like overwater bungalows and private islands, the capital island of Malé is actually one of the most densely populated cities in the world.

Are the Maldives worth visiting?

If you want your next vacation to involve white sand beaches, palm trees, scuba diving, snorkeling some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world, or simply relaxing, the Maldives are worth visiting. The top things to do in the Maldives involve resort relaxation or fun in the water. If you’re looking for more of a city escape, these beautiful islands probably aren’t your ideal destination.

What are some cheap things to do in the Maldives?

Let’s be honest; being a luxury vacation destination, few things are “cheap” about the Maldives. But there are ways to save money if you’re on a budget. Opt for staying in vacation rentals and doing less expensive Maldives attractions such as paddle boarding, surfing, and snorkeling rather than helicopter tours and scuba diving.

Is there anything to do with kids in the Maldives?

Yes, children can have a blast here, as there are fun things to do in the Maldives for the whole family! Try kayaking over the ridiculously clear waters of the atolls, banana boating, or parasailing for some adventurous fun. Kids visiting the Maldives can also enjoy sport fishing and dolphin watching.

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23 Best Places To Visit In Maldives For An Enchanting Experience

Maldives is more than just a dreamy backdrop for Insta selfies; it’s a paradise where relaxation and adventure unite. From the bustling underwater life in Maafushi to the luxury resorts in Baa Atoll, we’ve got your Maldives tourism places covered. Get ready to dive into a world where the water’s bluer than the sky and the memories are forever.

23 Best Places To Visit In Maldives 

• Malé Atoll 
• Sun Island 
• Banana Reef 
• Alimatha Island
• Artificial Beach 
• Fihalhohi Island 
• Utheemu Ganduvaru 
• Biyadhoo Island 
• Veligandu Island Beach 
• Baros Island 
• Emboodhu Finolhu Island 
• Mirihi Island 
• COMO Cocoa Island
• Huvahendhoo Island 
• Maafushi Island 
• Kanuhura Island 
• Rangali Island 
• Whale Submarine
• Halaveli Islands 
• Dhigu Island
• Majeedhee Magu 
• National Museum

1. Malé Atoll

When talking about the attractions and the things to do in Maldives when in Male, visiting the Male fish market, the Grand Friday Mosque, and obviously scuba diving in Maldives are some of the best things that you just cannot miss out on.

2. Sun Island

Dive into the vibrant coral reefs, snorkel with majestic sea turtles, or simply bask in the sun-kissed serenity. The island boasts luxurious overwater bungalows, ensuring a romantic setting for your Maldives honeymoon. Explore lush gardens and savor world-class cuisine in this tropical haven. Sun Island is your gateway to Maldivian magic and unforgettable memories.

3. Banana Reef

Swim alongside graceful manta rays, meet inquisitive reef sharks, and befriend a kaleidoscope of fish. This stunning reef formation promises an interactive, awe-inspiring experience for all. Banana Reef is not just a place; it’s a gateway to adventure in the Maldives!

4. Alimatha Island

From snorkelling with vibrant marine life to diving into the Maldives’ mesmerizing underwater world, Alimatha Island provides unforgettable aquatic experiences. Whether you’re an underwater enthusiast or a sun-soaked beach bum, this spot on the list of Maldives tourist places guarantees an incredible journey into the beauty of the Indian Ocean.

5. Artificial Beach

With many Maldives tourism places beckoning, the Artificial Beach ensures you get a slice of paradise without leaving the city. Remember, among all the places to visit in Maldives, this urban oasis is a shimmering gem! Don’t miss out!

Imagine swimming alongside manta rays and vivid schools of fish as you navigate the reef’s tunnels and overhangs. Exploring HP Reef, you’ll understand why the Maldives is celebrated globally.

If you’re compiling a list of Places To Visit In Maldives, HP Reef deserves a top spot. Truly, when it comes to Places To Visit In Maldives, HP Reef remains an unmatched, mesmerizing gem.

7. Fihalhohi Island

Whether you’re snorkelling through vibrant coral reefs or lounging under the whispering palms, this island guarantees an unforgettable experience. Dive into the heart of one of the top Maldives tourism places and let Fihalhohi’s enchantment whisk you away. Ready to embark on a journey like no other? Fihalhohi awaits! 

8. Utheemu Ganduvaru

As you wander through its intricately designed rooms, you’re not just sightseeing; you’re stepping back in time. It stands as a testament to Maldivian heritage, offering an authentic slice of the nation’s past often overshadowed by beach resorts. 

If you’re curating a list of top Maldives tourism places, Utheemu Ganduvaru should not be missed. Dive deep into the culture, history, and architecture of this paradise nation, and make your Maldivian journey truly unforgettable!

9. Biyadhoo Island

If you’re searching for top Maldives tourism places, let the allure of Biyadhoo’s pristine beaches, thrilling water sports, and breathtaking coral reefs enthrall you. Dive deep into the ocean’s mysteries, or simply soak up the sun on its radiant sands.

Interact with the vibrant marine life or enjoy a serene sunset. Every moment here promises an unforgettable adventure. Come, witness the magic!

10. Veligandu Island Beach

As one of the top Maldives tourism places, Veligandu offers more than just stunning vistas. Dive into its crystal-clear lagoons, indulge in sun-kissed relaxation, or explore the vibrant marine life beneath its waves. Ready for an unforgettable adventure? Dive into the heart of the Maldives and let Veligandu Island Beach captivate your senses!

11. Baros Island

As you plan your next getaway, remember that Baros Island isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience. Among the beautiful places to visit in Maldives, this jewel of an island promises serenity, luxury, and memories that will last a lifetime.

12. Emboodhu Finolhu Island

The island’s pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs make it undeniably one of the most beautiful places to visit in Maldives. Dive deep into the azure waters, discover the marine life, or simply relax on the sandy shores. Engage your senses and indulge in the paradise that is Emboodhu Finolhu Island! Want to experience the Maldives at its best? Make this island your next stop!

13. Mirhi Island

As the sun dips, savor gourmet island cuisine, with the tantalizing promise of a mesmerizing starlit night ahead. Want to make memories that last forever? Join a beach bonfire with fellow explorers, sharing tales and laughter. Experience magic; experience Mirhi Island. Will you answer its call?

14. COMO Cocoa Island

By evening, dine under a canopy of stars, with sand between your toes and the gentle lull of waves. Curious for more? Click

15. Huvahendhoo Island

16. maafushi island.

In the evening, let the hypnotic rhythms of local Boduberu drummers transport you to a world of pure relaxation. But that’s not all! Connect with the locals, savor mouthwatering Maldivian cuisine, and embark on a traditional dhoni cruise. Ready for an adventure? Maafushi beckons! 

17. Kanuhura Island

Fancy a romantic sunset cruise or an interactive cooking class? It’s all here. And as evening falls, gather around the fire for tales and stargazing. Every moment is a story waiting to be told. Will you be its next storyteller? Dive in, explore, and let Kanuhura Island etch unforgettable memories into your heart. 

18. Rangali Island

As the sun sets, dine under the starlit sky in over-water restaurants, tasting the freshest seafood and the finest cuisines. But the real magic? It’s the people. Warm, welcoming, and eager to share their island paradise with you. So, are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey? 

19. Whale Submarine

Designed to mimic the movement of its majestic namesake, this state-of-the-art vessel provides an immersive aquatic experience like no other. Feel the thrill as you descend into the abyss, uncovering the secrets of the underwater world. 

With its panoramic windows, every seat is a front-row seat to nature’s most captivating show. Whether you’re an adventurer, a marine enthusiast, or just looking for a unique experience, the Whale Submarine promises memories that’ll last a lifetime. Dive in, and let the ocean’s magic envelop you! 

20. Halaveli Island

On the island, indulge in luxury villas with their own private plunge pools, offering uninterrupted ocean views. Ready for an adventure? Sail into the horizon, partake in water sports, or simply lay back and let the gentle ocean breeze whisk your worries away. Dive into Halaveli – where dreams merge with reality.

21. Dhigu Island

Embark on a traditional Dhoni boat ride at twilight, or simply unwind in a luxurious over-water villa. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a relaxation enthusiast, Dhigu promises an experience to cherish. Dive in, the island paradise of Dhigu beckons! 

22. Majeedhee Magu

Don’t forget to savour the tantalizing aroma of Maldivian delicacies wafting from the nearby cafes and eateries. Interact with friendly locals, snap a few photos, and immerse yourself in the vibrant urban tapestry of the Maldives. Majeedhee Magu isn’t just a street; it’s an experience! 

23. National Museum

And it’s not just about looking – interactive exhibits await, offering a hands-on experience that bridges the gap between the past and present. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or just seeking a day of discovery, the National Museum promises a journey like no other. Come, and immerse yourself in a world of wonder! 

Discover the shimmering blues and tropical hues of the Maldives, where each island is a slice of paradise. From overwater bungalows to vibrant coral reefs, the Maldives beckons with unforgettable memories. Dive into serenity and let the waves tell tales of timeless beauty. Until next time, dream of turquoise horizons!

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10 of the Best Places to Visit in the Maldives

December, 2023

A trip to the Maldives may be just what you need if you're in search of some sun, sand and relaxation. The Maldives has long been a luxury travel destination, but the country does not calm down in its role on the world tourism scene, it still offers a world-class experience that has no equal. Looking to get away to the white sand beaches of the Maldives but you’re still not sure about the best places to visit?

If you want to tick off the 'what not to miss in the Maldives' to make the most of your trip check these 10 best places to visit in Maldives that are too good to be missed. Whether you’re looking for a private romantic getaway or a budget-friendly destination, we’ll help you decide where to go in the Maldives . Start your adventure here to enjoy the perfect vacation full of unique experiences: follow the guide!

• Adaaran Prestige Vadoo
• OBLU SELECT Lobigili
• Siyam World Maldives
• Finolhu Baa Atoll Maldives
• Reethi Faru Resort
• Hard Rock Hotel Maldives
• Anantara Veli Maldives
• Atmosphere Kanifushi
• Ayada Maldives
• OZEN Reserve Bolifushi
• Scubaspa Yang, Maldives
• Emperor Serenity, Maldives
• Maldives Aggressor II, Maldives
• Carpe Novo, Maldives
• Scubaspa Ying, Maldives
• Azalea Liveaboard, Maldives
• Blue Force One, Maldives
• Blue Voyager, Maldives
• Ocean Divine, Maldives
• Emperor Leo, Maldives

1 Sea Underwater restaurant in the Maldives

The signature Sea underwater restaurant at Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas , perhaps one of the only underwater restaurants in the world with an award-winning wine cellar for an unforgettable Maldives dining experience in the most unique of settings. The Anantara believes in one-of-a-kind experiences, and is now taking epicurean adventure to a whole new level with themed dining event that marries the art of storytelling, the magic of illusion, and the marvels of cutting-edge 3D technology including new underwater-aged wine tasting experience, surrounded by near 360-degree views of the local marine life, unveiling the breath-taking beauty and rich biodiversity of the island’s renowned house reef .

2 CROSSROADS Maldives: The Unique and Largest Tourist Destination in the Maldives

CROSSROADS Maldives, the country’s first world-class, multi-island leisure destination of luxury resorts and dining to leisure, fashion, and entertainment is the leading lifestyle hub for travellers across the Island nation. The only 'one-stop, non-stop' lifestyle destination in the Maldives invites adventurous travellers from the four corners of the globe to cross paths and explore a treasure trove of iconic oceanfront resorts, upscale lifestyle outlets and endless entertainment offerings, as well as the stunning natural, cultural and nautical attractions that have lured maritime travellers to the Maldives for centuries. The beating heart of the place and the centre of all the action The Marina @ CROSSROADS is with in a convenient 15-minutes speedboat ride from Malé and Velana international airport.

3 Malé: the capital of the Maldives

The capital of the Maldives, Malé, founded in the XV century is the main city of the island nation is located on the same name island in the southern corner of North Male Atoll. Malé is not only in the country's heart, but has always been the capital of the Maldives, from century to century from the Sultan's palace, and then from the president's office. Exploring the capital is like taking a step through the looking glass, ànd more than 120,000 people on two square kilometers make Malé one of the most densely populated cities on the planet that almost seems to be floating, some 800 kilometres from the next nearest metropolis.

4 Hanifaru Bay: UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

Hanifaru bay is a manta feeding hotspot in Baa Atoll and best place to swim and snorkel with manta rays in the Maldives . The site is a protected marine park and the whole Baa Atoll, where Hanifaru bay is, has been declared a UNESCO biosphere reserve. This northern atoll is known for having some of the richest coral reef systems in the world. The best time to visit Hanifaru bay from May to November to see hundreds of 'filter feeders' accompanied by a dozen whale sharks.

5 The Muraka: Underwater Hotel Maldives

Visit to the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island resort to discover THE MURAKA, a first-of-its-kind, luxury two-level residence with a master bedroom submerged over 16 feet below sea level in the Indian Ocean. Make your way down the spiral staircase or elevator to your private underwater hotel Maldives, aquarium and architectural masterpiece with master bedroom with 180-degree curved acrylic dome, floor-to-ceiling windows in the bathroom and walk-in closet, and dedicated tunnel viewing theater.

6 Fuvahmulah: Diving with sharks in the Maldives and more

Best place to dive with sharks in Asia, Fuvahmulah is an island-atoll and Biosphere reserve in the Maldives located on the equator. A relatively unknown dive scene, unique location, the most diverse coral ecosystems in the country and isolation make Fuvahmulah an ideal destination for exhilarating diving in the Maldives. The reef systems are home to significant populations of sharks mainly tiger, thresher, and whale sharks. Besides diving, there are many things to do on the island that can make your holiday full of fun. Nicknamed the Maldivian Galapagos Fuvahmulah boasts with magnificent beaches, freshwater lakes, surfing, snorkeling, fishing and jungle trekking.

7 Maafushi: How to Visit the Maldives On a Budget

Maafushi is one of the most popular local islands for a perfect cheap holidays in the Maldives. With bikini beach, incredible scuba diving, a wide range of affordable hotels with rooftop infinity pools , dining options, excursions and activities, Maafushi is the capital of budget tourism in the Maldives. Located just 35 minutes by speedboat from Male, the island is an ideal place to feel the local lifestyle and traditions while enjoying thrilling adventures in the Maldives.

8 Addu Atoll: the 'second city' of the Maldives

Addu Atoll, also known as Addu City or Seenu Atoll is south of the equator being the southernmost atoll and an exclusive Maldivian getaway. Addu Atoll, is steeped in history and culture, home to remnants of the British colonial endeavour, a unique dialect and some of the country’s most esteemed scholars and businessmen. The second international airport in the Maldives located on Gan Island, South Palm Resort and Canareef Resort play an important role in the development of the tourism industry of the Maldives.

9 Dhigurah: a beautiful island to swim with Whale Sharks

The best place in the Maldives to spot whale sharks Dhigurah is a local island in South Ari Atoll, with long stretch of white sandy beaches. Heaven for adventures, the island is considered to be one of the longest in the Maldives. Besides the long beaches, Dhigurah's main attractions are below sea level. Scuba divers and snorkelers who seek contact with whale sharks, manta rays and world-class corals find this place one of the best diving in the Maldives.

10 Vaadhoo Island: Sea of Stars Maldives

A nature miracle, the gorgeous glowing beach is on the Mudhdhoo Island, also known as the Vaadhoo Island on Raa Atoll . Famous for its phenomenal fluorescent, glowing waves this natural phenomenon occurs due to the presence of millions of marine microbes known as phytoplankton in the water. This phytoplankton is bioluminescent and as the skies get darker after sunset, these microscopic planktons emit a bright vibrant blue light in the water which creates an ethereal effect. This phenomenon makes the waves glow as they gently splash over the bioluminescent beach and is the ideal place to spend your time after dark in the Maldives. The best time to visit the glowing beach is between June and October.  Faarufushi ,  Cora-Cora resort  and  You & Me Maldives  are nearest hotels to see Sea of Stars Maldives

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1. Stay in an Overwater Bungalow

1 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Most of the resorts in Maldives have their own private islands and have overwater bungalows, which provide an astounding holiday experience amid turquoise waters. You can directly jump into the water for snorkel or a swim or simply sunbathe on your private deck.

2 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Diving is one of the most popular things to do in Maldives. Some dive sites in Maldives are Fish Head, HP Reef, Banana Reef and Maanta Point. Summer or Dry Season is the best time for diving and there are many PADI dive centres. Stingrays, whale shark migration, reef sharks and sea turtles can be spotted here.

3. Snorkelling in Maldives

3 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

The Maldives is one of the most popular destinations for snorkelling. You can snorkel almost anywhere, from your hotel or a snorkelling trip closer to the nearby reef. The visibility is fantastic the water temperature remains 20 to 30 degrees Celcius year-round. Beautiful coral plates, striped Snappers, bannerfish, manta rays, dolphins, reef sharks, hawksbill turtles, Napoleons, and squids can be spotted here.

4. Dive with Whale Sharks in Maldives

4 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Maldives is one of the top hotspots of whale sharks where these can be spotted all year round. Whale Sharks can be best seen in the South Ari Atoll Marine Protected Area. Diving excursions, swimming tours and snorkelling tours are the best way to spot them.

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Taj Coral Reef Maldives Package With Water Villa Stay - Honeymoon Edition

Radisson blu resort maldives, maldives holiday package with male sightseeing & underwater restaurant lunch, medhufushi island resort maldives tour package - beach villa stay, holiday inn resort kandooma all inclusive - maldives honeymoon package, villa nautica maldives paradise island - beach villa stay, 5. candlelight dinner on beach.

5 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

The quiet shores of Maldives are perfect to have private candlelight dinners and are a one-of-a-kind experience. Some resorts are known to arrange sandbank dinners with the tastiest delicacies and sparkling wine from their cuisine and soft music in the background.

6. Water Sports

6 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

For all those wishing to keep their heads above water, Maldives won't disappoint. The natural environment of the islands bejeweled with crystal clear lagoons and turquoise blue waters is the perfect combination for a natural water sports arena. With technological advancement water sports centres have advanced equipment which will make your experience a thrilling one.

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7. See Bioluminescence on Vadhoo Island

7 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

The Vadhoo Island is a spectacular island in Maldives which is famous for its bioluminescent phenomenon known as the Sea of Stars. It is located in the Raa Atoll. The Sea of Stars phenomenon is the name given to the mesmerising waters of Vaadhoo Island when they glow a brilliant blue under the moonlight. The best time to see the Sea of Stars is June and October. You can also swim in the glowing water.

8. Relax at a Spa in Maldives

8 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Maldives has been an epitome in exotic spa treatments and wellness programs. Exclusive spa packages are offered by the resorts, some aimed for individuals, some specially curated for couples. From blissful settings to spa professionals, each intricate detail is meticulously looked after.

9. Whale Shark Tour at Dhigurah Island

9 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

One of the least populated islands in the Maldives, Dhigurah Island is located on the Alif Dhaal Atoll. Situated 96 km away from Male. Dhigurah Island is popular for whale shark tours (which can be spotted at any time of the year) and snorkeling trips. It has multiple diving spots and a dive center.

10. Whale & Dolphin Watching

10 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Maldives is one of the top 5 destinations in the world for dolphin watching as it is home to more than 20 different varieties. Spinner Dolphin, Melon-headed Whale, Blue Whale and Pilot Whale can be easily spotted here. Dolphin spotting cruises are offered by most resorts.

11. Whale Submarine Ride

11 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Submarine ride in Maldives is a unique experience and a thrilling way to explore the Indian Ocean. The 45-minute to one hour tour is arranged in an AC submarine allowing you to see whales, colourful fishes and coral reefs.

12. Romantic Dinner at Undersea Restaurant

12 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Ithaa is an underwater restaurant located 5 meters beneath the sea level at Conrad Maldives, Rangali Island of Alif Dhaal Atoll. It is an acrylic structure, capable of holding 14 persons at a time. The glass rooftop offers a panaromic view of the brilliant coral gardens making it one of the most beautiful restaurants across the world.

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13. Diving With Hammerhead Sharks

141 km from city center 13 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

 Maldives is home to more than 20 species of sharks, including the king-sized Hammerhead shark. Felidhoo Atoll, Veligandu Island, Kuredu Island, Sun Island and Fuvahmulah Atoll are some top sites for diving with hammerhead sharks. November to May is the best time.

14. Explore Male

14 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

One of the world's smallest national capital, Male is known for its ancient mosque and colourful buildings. With its beauty and progressiveness being talked about the island today has grown into one of the most visited places in the Maldives. It is a casual town best for wandering without pre-planned itineraries. With heritage buildings on the one hand and trees and waters with welcoming shades on the other, Male is a must-visit.

15. Water Sports at Gan Island

149 km from city center 15 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Gan Island is the southernmost island that forms a part of the Addu Atoll, making it the southernmost island of Maldives. It is popular for water sports, snorkelling and diving and is home to some of the best luxury resorts in Maldives.

16. Snorkelling at HP Reef

141 km from city center 16 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

One of the most beautiful diving sites in the Maldives, the HP Reef, located at the North Male Atoll, is also referred to as the 'Girifushi Thila' and the 'Rainbow Reef', the latter owing to the plethora of brightly coloured corals that adorn the seabed. The resplendent reef is full of astonishing formations, which include crevices, splendid caves, huge blocks, and a whopping vertical swim-through chimney which reaches up to a height of 25 metres.

17. Sunset Cruise

17 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Experience the pristine beauty of Maldives on a sunset cruise. It is an absolute spectacle as you watch the brilliant vista of the scarlet skies changing shades, while the sun sinks in the endless waters. Sometimes, dolphins and whales can also be spotted.

18. Bikini Beach at Ukulhas Island

18 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

A uniquely featured, environmentally friendly and sparsely populated island, Ukulhas finds itself on the Alif Alif Atoll of the Maldives. Like a pearl surrounded by coral reefs and blue lagoons, it is located 70 km east from Male. One of the best islands, when one talks about natural beauty, Ukulhas Island is the very first eco-friendly isle of the island nation. It houses one of the best bikini beaches among the local islands.

19. Diving & Snorkelling at Himmafushi Island

19 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Himmafushi Island in Kaafu Atoll is one of Maldives’ still developing tourist islands. A visit to the island guarantees a glimpse into traditional life in the Maldives. Its main is lined with souvenirs like carved rosewood manta rays and dolphins and coral headstones while the entire island can be explored on foot in less than an hour. It’s a popular spot for dolphin watching and diving.

20. Surfing in Maldives

20 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Owing to its location in the Indian Ocean, Maldives has waves that are best suited for surfing adventures. The swell reaches up to head to shoulder, hence it is safe for for both advanced and intermediate surfers. Thulusdhoo and Himmafushi are the most popular surfing islands in Maldives. For a unique experience, luxury surf charters are also available but they cost a lot.

21. Scuba Diving at Banana Reef

21 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Banana Reef is one of the world's most popular dive sites which is located in Maldives. It is also one of the oldest reefs and is adorned with stunning caves, majestic cliffs, beautiful coral growths and powerful overhangs. It is ideal for beginners as well as advanced and expert divers.

22. Enjoy Watersports at Maafushi Island

22 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Nestled in the Kaafu Atoll, Maafushi Island is a large island when compared to the rest of the islands situated in the atoll. It is dotted with cosy guesthouses and hostels which are not only affordable but are also extremely comfortable. From historical monuments to sandbars, from diving agencies to restaurants, the island invites you to embark on a smorgasbord of activities.

23. Dive with Manta Rays at Manta Point

23 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Manta Point, located on the south-east coast of the Northern Male Atoll in the Maldives, is a seasonal dive site. Also known as the Lankan Point, this part of Maldives is well known for its gentle slopes underwater and colourful coral reefs. It is the place to go to during the South Western Monsoon season when the Mantas gather at this point.

24. Surfing at Thulusdhoo Island

24 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Thulusdhoo Island lies in the Kaafu Atoll and is the capital of the same. The island's location makes it one of the best surf spots in the Indian Ocean. The waves that break at Thulusdhoo due to the coral reef surrounding the island is the reason why so many people are attracted to this place.

25. Watch a Boderu Show

141 km from city center 25 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

The Boduberu is a music form that was founded in Maldives as early as the 11th century. The Boduberu Show is extremely famous here. The show is performed during many festivals and gatherings. Almost all of the resorts in the Maldives play the Boduberu tunes or hold the show at least once a week.

26. Wreck Diving at Maldive Victory

141 km from city center 26 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

If one were to describe the Maldive Victory in a single sentence, it would be "there is always something destructive in something beautiful". The Maldive Victory is a famed wreck diving spot with picturesque resorts encompassing it.

27. Visit the Artificial Beach in Male

27 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Artificial Beach is one of the most beautiful and only man-made beaches in the Maldives. With breathtaking views and a pleasant climate, it is shaped like a crescent, and has earned its spot as one of the most popular and liked tourist destinations.

28. Shopping at Male Local Market

28 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

One of the most happening and renowned shopping destinations in the Maldives is the Male Local Market. Famous for souvenirs that are authentic and exclusive to this island, the market has the hearts of both the locals and the tourists.

29. National Museum

29 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

The National Museum of Maldives is an ancient building containing a well-maintained collection of artefacts that help in tracing unusual historical events of this archipelago. It aims at instilling patriotic feelings in the citizens of Maldives. The museum has a massive assemblage of royal antiquities ranging from the Buddhist and Islamic era making it a paradise for the lovers of history and crafts.

30. Explore Hulhumale Island

30 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Hulhumale is an artificial island in Maldives located south of the North Male Atoll and connected to the airport by a causeway. It houses the popular Hulhumale Beach located on the sunrise side of the island. The beachfront road is ideal for a walk and houses some resorts and cafes. Other attractions here are Central Park, Fruit & Vegetable Market, and some mosques.

31. Relax at the Sandy Beaches of Fulhadhoo Island

31 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

The small island of Fulhadhoo is fairly uninhabited and is one of the most stunning islands in the Indian Ocean. With less than 250 people residing in a small village on the west side of this island, the place is basically uninhabited and nothing short of a paradise.

32. Grand Friday Mosque

32 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

The Grand Friday Mosque in Male is one attraction that, with its towering golden dome, gathers the attention of all visitors. The mosque is part of the Islamic Centre which is at the Male's centre and is located right next to the main jetty of Male, thus making it easy to spot, even from the sea.

33. Male Hukuru Miskiiy

33 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

One of the oldest surviving mosques of Male in Kaafu Atoll is the Male Friday Mosque, also known as the Malé Hukuru Miskiy. With every corner ornate from inside out, the mosque dates back to the year 1658. Its unique architecture and intricate carvings on the walls became the reason for why it was listed in UNESCO tentative World Heritage Cultural List 2008.

34. Visit White Pebble Beach of Fuvahmulah Island

34 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Situated at the southernmost tip of the Maldivian archipelago is the largest island of the nation, Fuvahmulah. The scenic, natural beauty of this place is bound to take your breath away. With lush green mingling with the yellow of the dried leaves and the brown of the barks blending with the golden sand, Fuvamulah appears to be a place out of a picture that one painted in their imagination.

35. Night Snorkelling at Hanifaru Bay

35 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Located in a vast UNESCO Biosphere Reserve called Baa Atoll, an administrative division within one of the world's most geographically dispersed countries, Hanifaru Bay is paradise, to say the least. Hanifaru Bay is known to etch an unforgettable memory in the minds of its visitors, providing one of Maldives' best known underwater adventures such as scuba diving and snorkelling.

36. Islamic Centre

36 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Being the state religion of the Maldives, the Islamic Center in Male is one of the country's most famous and beautiful marvels of architecture. Situated in the northern fringes of the capital city, close to the Hulhule ferry point and neighbouring the Republic Square (Jumhooree Maidan), the grand building is the perfect example of Islamic architecture.

37. Island Hopping

37 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Maldives is comprised several islands, each quite set apart from the other. The more commercial and known ones include Alimantha, Mirihi, Kudahuvadhoo, Gan and Hulhule. You can get from one island to other by seaplanes or Dhonis, local boats with diesel engines - you will definitely be spoilt for the choice whether you opt for the aerial views in a seaplane or drifting in the cool blue waters on a boat.

38. Muleeage

38 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Mulee'age or the Presidential Palace is the residence of the President of the Maldivian republic. Situated right opposite to the Hukuru Miskiiy, in the capital city of Male, Muleeage has been home to 4 presidents till now. Earlier the Theemuge (now the Supreme Court) used to be the Presidential Residence.

39. Visit Utheemu Ganduvaru at Utheemu Island

39 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

A place steeped in rich historical significance, the Utheemu Island in the Haa Alif Atoll is a slice of paradise for the nature lovers and history buffs. With a pleasant climate dominating the island for a major portion of the year, it is an ideal place for a vacation for solo and group travellers alike. The natural beauty of Utheemu Island is unmatchable.

40. Experience Local Life at Maradhoo Island

40 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Located in the beautiful Addu Atoll of Maldives, Maradhoo Island is best described as an authentic Maldivian experience merged with a mindblowing diving getaway. A holiday in this southern tip means plunging into the most serene and untouched parts of Maldives.

41. China-Maldives Friendship Bridge

41 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

The China Maldives Friendship Bridge or the Sinamale Bridge is a 2-kilometre long bridge connecting the capital city Male to the airport island of Hulhule and by extension, Hulhumale Island. The bridge was made as a part of the Belt and Road Initiative and is largely funded by China, strengthening the ties between both the nations. 

42. Majeedhee Magu

42 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Maldives busiest street and a paradise for shopaholics, Majeedhee Magu, is the most famous street markets in the Male. Crossing the city from the east to the west, it has shops providing everything from cosmetics, handlooms, and jewellery to electronic items. Within the cluster of local crafts and Islamic perfumes is the textile, which is the star product of this Maldivian market.

43. Dhadimagi Kilhi

43 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

One of the two freshwater lakes, the Dhadimagi Kilhi finds itself in the Fuvahmulah Atoll of Maldives. Covering an area of 6.37 hectares, the pictureque lake is the island nation's second largest lake in terms of volume. Surrounded by lush green vegetation of ferns and reeds, Dhadimagi Kilhi is the most visited lake for swimming because of the calm water.

44. Sultan Park

44 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Sultan Park is a famous public park in Maldives located opposite the Islamic Centre in Male. Also known as Rasrani Bageecha, it was formed after transforming the palace's royal gardens built in the 16th century. Sultan Park is known for its lush greenery and quiet surroundings which makes it ideal for picnics and walking. Best time to visit is early morning or late evening.

45. Medhu Ziyaaraiy Shrine

45 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Situated near the great Hukuru Miskiiy in Maldives, Medhu Ziyaaraiy is the tomb of the famous Morocco scholar Abdul Barakat Yoosuf Al Barbary who is credited for the advent of Islam in the Maldives during 1153 AD. The tomb is a symbol of peace which prevails among the Maldivian population.

46. Adventure Activities at Huraa Island

46 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Just 35 minutes away from Male, Huraa Island is located on the Kaafu Atoll of the Maldives. With a population of around 600 people, this island is perfect for those looking for an authentic Maldivian beach holiday. Bikini Beach is also found on Huraa Island.

47. Surfing at Guraidhoo Island

47 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Guraidhoo Island in the Kafu Atoll is a bliss for the ones escaping the crowd into the serenity of nature. Inhabited only since 1970, the island, its colourful houses occupying around 1700 people and coral chunks make it a beautiful place to be at. Walking the sandy streets of the island one can find a fantastical semi-bikini beach and an adventurous seasonal surf beach.

48. National Art Gallery Maldives

48 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Established in 1999, the National Gallery of the Maldives, located in Male, is a platform for showcasing the local and international artworks. From conceptual works to paintings, the gallery conducts regular exhibitions and promotional events for the people of artistic niche. It is an attraction worth dropping for the artists and art lovers visiting this side of Maldives.

49. Canoeing at Mahibadhoo Island

49 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Located in the central Maldives, Mahibadhoo is the capital of Alif Dhaal Atoll. It is one of the country’s smaller islands at 8 hectares and has a population of around 2,000 people. Despite this, it remains a beautiful island off the beaten path to visit for water sports opportunities like swimming, diving, snorkelling, canoeing, and surfing.

50. Sandbank Cruise at Dhiffushi Island

50 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

Dhiffushi Island in Kaafu Atoll is the easternmost inhabited island in the Maldives which is popular for its breathtaking sunrises before the rest of the country. Just 36 kilometres northeast of the capital city Male, the island is just 0.2 kilometres wide with a population of fewer than 1,500 people.

51. Bioluminescent Beach

51 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

The bioluminescent beach on Vaadhoo Island of Maldives is a tropical paradise in Raa Atoll, famous for its glow-in-the-dark waves. A biological phenomenon causes the water to emit a bright blue light at night, giving the beach an ethereal look. This makes Vadhoo a worthy destination for honeymooners and adventure seekers.

52. Tsunami Monument

52 out of 103 Things To Do in Maldives

The Tsunami Moment is a freestanding memorial to the victims of the devastating 2004 tsunami, located in Boduthakurufaanu Magu in southeast Malé. The tranquil location is perfect to reflect upon the events of the fateful day, and is frequented by history enthusiasts and kin of the victims. The beach nearby is a popular surfing spot too.

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Maldives   Travel Guide

Courtesy of levente bodo | Getty Images

Why Go To Maldives

You've seen photos of the Maldives before: picture-perfect private villas suspended over striking blue waters, alabaster white sand beaches and spectacular sunsets dipping into the horizon. The scenic beauty of the Maldives is something to behold, something you can't quite understand until you're there in person.

The island nation of the Maldives is popular with honeymooners looking for seclusion and adventurers looking to explore the depths of the sea on a scuba diving or snorkeling excursion. If you don't fall into either category, consider that the Maldives' appeal has broadened in recent years. Today, honeymooners and divers are joined by a more diverse mix of families, groups of friends, and even solo travelers seeking wellness retreats or "budget" vacations in guesthouses rather than resorts. Travelers seeking the ultimate in relaxation can unwind at one of the many superb resort spas and all visitors should certainly spend an afternoon exploring an inhabited island village to get a snapshot of typical island life. The resorts in this region are also spectacular, ranging from underwater hotels to overwater bungalows to incredibly beautiful resorts . However, getting to and staying in this tropical paradise requires patience (there are no direct flights from the United States) and plentiful cash. Located in the Indian Ocean, roughly 600 miles southwest of Sri Lanka, the Maldives is about as isolated as you can get – and that's just one of its many allures.

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• # 1 in Best Places to Visit in Asia
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Maldives Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit the Maldives is from November to April, when there is little precipitation and warm temperatures, ranging between the high 70s and mid-80s. The island nation is warm and sunny year-round, but it does experience a dry season and a rainy season, and there are pros and cons to each. Though the period between November and April promises the best weather, this is also the busiest time of year and, as such, the room rates at resorts are expensive. However, since each resort inhabits its own island, you won't have to contend with the same intensity of crowds like you might during the high season in another tropical destination with more public facilities. Check the number of villas and size of the island before you go, so you can get an idea of how tranquil the island will be.

May to October is considered the rainy season, with the southern atolls experiencing the most rain. During this time, islands see between 7 and 8 inches of precipitation monthly and often strong winds. However, showers tend to be short and punctuated by sunshine. Some days, it only rains overnight, while there can be many hours of sunshine through the day, if you're lucky. Some travelers find the better deals available during rainy season make it worth the gamble of visiting, although July and August are the riskiest months. However, the term "deal" is relative, since the Maldives is a pricey location year-round. This time of year is also popular with surfers because the area sees bigger waves and better swells for surfing during these months.

Note that the private resorts are permitted to celebrate non-Islamic holidays, including Christmas, Easter and Diwali, but you will not find them celebrated on inhabited islands.

Weather in Maldives

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Tap water is desalinated This treated water is fine for showering and brushing teeth. Some resort islands have their own desalination plants (as the sea is too deep for a national water pipeline between islands), but many resorts offer bottled water instead. Bottled water is sometimes free, but can also be pretty expensive at some resorts. Normally, the resorts with their own desalination plants provide water for free.

It's hot These islands are located near the equator, meaning the temperatures are warm year-round and the sun is strong. Make sure to apply a liberal amount of sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun's UV rays.

Islamic tradition is important The Maldives is an Islamic nation, meaning it adheres to Islamic traditions and practices. However, because the resorts are on private islands, resort guests do not have to obey local cultural restrictions, meaning travelers can consume items normally banned, such as alcohol and pork, and are free to wear swimsuits. Beyond the resorts' borders, you'll find plenty of mosques and no alcohol. It's advised that women cover their shoulders, chest and knees unless they are at the airport or on a resort island (out of respect for the local culture rather than for their safety).

How to Save Money in Maldives

Adjust your expectations Visiting the Maldives on a budget is unlike visiting other travel destinations like Mexico or Asia on a budget, where you may be able to get by spending less than $50 to $100 a day. There are some ways to save, but overall, a trip here is pretty pricey in comparison, even if you're staying in a guesthouse and taking local ferries.

Choose flights wisely Airfare from the United States is incredibly expensive. If you can pair a vacation here with one in Sri Lanka, the Middle East or Europe (where you can catch a direct flight), the cost will be less ludicrous. Or, consider signing up for a travel credit card and use airline and hotel loyalty points to book a vacation here.

Pick accommodations carefully Weigh the pros and cons of a "budget" hotel (known locally as "guesthouses") versus choosing a cheap resort. Guesthouses are normally in better condition than many of the cheapest (and oldest) resorts, since this form of tourism has only been permitted since 2010, and despite the term "guesthouse," they are often more like boutique hotels than budget lodgings. However, due to the fact that guesthouses are not on private islands, alcohol and skimpy swimwear are not permitted.

Culture & Customs

The Maldives has been an Islamic nation since the 12th century, but was previously Buddhist and Hindu. As an important trading post on the ancient Spice Route between East Asia and the Middle East, there are influences from China, Malaysia, Indonesia, Africa and the Arab world in Maldivian culture. It includes crafts like lacquerware, pottery, matt weaving, Bandiyya Jehun dancing inspired by Indian pot dances, and a form of drumming and dancing known as Boduberu ("big drum"), which is reminiscent of African drumming.

With this rich heritage, you'll find religious traditions entrenched in the culture on inhabited islands, while by contrast, resort islands are their own kingdoms far removed from the local way of life. Mosques are on every inhabited island, and you'll see women dressed in  headscarves, normally with jeans and flip-flops. Should you wish to visit an inhabited island, you too should dress reasonably conservatively out of respect for the local culture, and to avoid too many stares. Some inhabited islands are more liberal than others, so it's best to inquire locally, but as a general rule, men shouldn't wear sleeveless tops or short shorts, while women should cover their shoulders, chest and knees on inhabited islands.

If you're swimming or sunbathing on an inhabited island that doesn't have a tourist beach, be aware that bikinis and skimpy swimwear are illegal and travelers have been detained by police for it in the past. The simplest workaround is to wear boardshorts and a rash shirt, which also helps prevent sunburn.

Travelers are permitted to go inside some mosques, but it's best to ask a local first, as some mosques are closed to non-Muslims. On the inhabited islands, you'll also notice the sound of the "call to prayer" and sometimes even people praying in public at certain times throughout the day. Be respectful by lowering your voice and not walking in front of those who are praying. This is also the time of day when shops close, too. You can download a free prayer time smartphone app if you're spending a lot of time on an inhabited island so you don't get caught tripped up everything closing several times a day.

During Ramadan, don't eat or drink on the street on inhabited islands, because Maldivians fast during the day, and also be aware that most restaurants and cafes will not open until after sunset for anyone.

Public displays of affection, such as kissing or hand-holding, are illegal on inhabited islands. Again, you won't need to comply with any of this if you're staying on a resort island or liveaboard. Homosexuality is illegal in this island nation, but many resorts are gay-friendly, particularly the international brands and higher end resorts.

Alcohol and pork are also illegal on inhabited islands, although it is readily available on resort islands. If you're staying in the local island community and are craving a glass of wine, your guesthouse can normally arrange a day trip to a resort or a liveaboard so you can have a drink. You can also find alcoholic drinks at Hulhule Island Hotel, which is a quick, free shuttle ride from Velana International Airport.

With close to 200 resort islands, tourism is the dominant industry that draws on a large portion of the workforce and has elevated the country from the United Nations' Least Developed Country designation to Middle Income Country status in just 40 years. The other major industry is fishing using traditional methods, and this island nation exports its dolphin-safe tuna to countries across the world.

The Maldivian currency is the rufiyaa (MVR) and it is pegged to the US dollar; $1 equals about 13 to 15 rufiyaa. However, the exchange rate can fluctuate, so be sure to check it before you travel. The official language of the Maldives is Dhivehi, though most Maldivians speak and understand English and sometimes a third language too, especially those working at resorts.

What to Eat

You'll be able to find all kinds of international cuisine in the Maldives. Norwegian salmon, Japanese wagyu and Australian lamb are transported from all corners of the world to suit the demands of international guests. If you're attempting to have an eco-conscious vacation , you might want to check out an eco-friendly resort that cuts some of the air miles out of your dinner by growing some of its own fruit and vegetables and working with local farmers and fishermen, such as resorts like Soneva Fushi and Amilla Fushi.

Resorts have a main restaurant and a handful of specialty restaurants, with Italian, Thai and Japanese being some of the most popular cuisines. Many resorts also offer theme nights, such as "Maldivian Night," "Seafood Night" and "BBQ Night." If you're staying a week or more, consider a resort with at least three or four restaurants so you don't end up eating the same meals twice. Some of the cheaper resorts only offer buffets, the standards of which are variable, so checking recent reviews is a safe bet. A few of the high-end resorts cater to special diets like ketogenic, Paleolithic, gluten-free and vegan – you'll see this promoted on the resort websites.

Cafes and restaurants on inhabited islands don't offer such a broad range of cuisine as resorts, but you will find plenty of tasty Maldivian, Sri Lankan and Indian fare, as well as international classics like spaghetti bolognese, burgers, pasta and pizza. Maldivian cuisine relies heavily on the region's available ingredients, which means seafood, coconut and chilis feature prominently in most dishes. Tuna, wahoo and mahi mahi are a few of the local types of fish you can expect to find on menus in the Maldives. Other popular dishes include hedika (a kind of Maldivian tapas featuring savory fillings like fish, spiced potatoes and vegetables), fish curries and barbecued fish.

Keep in mind, because the Maldives is an Islamic nation, the local population is not allowed to drink alcohol, so there are no bars on inhabited islands. However, you will be able to enjoy alcoholic beverages at all resorts and liveaboards, and at the airport hotel (Hulhule Island Hotel), but not anywhere at the airport.

Getting Around Maldives

The best way to get around the Maldives depends on what kind of island you're on, although most visitors will stick to their chosen resort island. The majority of islands in the Maldives range in size between 0.3 and 0.7 square miles, which means they don't take long to navigate. Many resorts offer bicycles or chauffeured golf buggies to make getting around in the humidity easier, while if you're in a local town, your guesthouse might offer you a bicycle. In the capital city of Malé and in Hulhumalé , walking, buses or taxis are the main transportation options.

Note that if you have mobility issues, you may find this country can be trickier to get around due to the speedboat/seaplane transfers, large areas of sand and (normally) unpaved paths at resorts and on many inhabited islands. There's no air bridge at the international airport, but if you inform your airline in advance, it can make arrangements for a lifting device. A few resorts, such as Baros, Kuramathi and Adaaran Select Meedhupparu, have been recommended by travelers with mobility issues. Amilla Fushi is the only resort in the Maldives that has been officially designated an IncluCare-certified resort (even the dive center teams are trained to assist travelers with disabilities). IncluCare is a U.K.-based tourism organization specializing in inclusive and accessible travel training, assessment and accreditation.

Entry & Exit Requirements

The Maldives requires that international visitors have a passport that's valid for six months from the expected departure date, in addition to proof of sufficient funds and an onward travel plan. You will automatically be granted a 30-day visa on arrival, which can be extended to 90 days if requested. Vaccinations for hepatitis A and typhoid are recommended prior to arrival. For more information, check out the U.S. State Department's website .

Palm trees, aquamarine water and sugar white sand greet travelers at every turn in this island nation.

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Maldives Tourism: 20 Best Places to Visit in Maldives

 last updated: 04 feb, 2021 by abhishek gurung.

Amongst the many beautiful destinations to visit in the world, Maldives has an unrivalled luxurious aura that keeps on attracting those seeking solace and tranquility, and of course, a lot of romance as well.

Ever since Maldives was discovered, it has been an obvious choice to visit to have the best beach holiday ever! Maldives is a place that would make you feel quiescent, where you can simply gaze at its white-sand beaches, crystalline lagoons and azure water.

Check out: Maldives Tour Packages

Nonetheless, this holiday destination can also be perfect for food fanatics, history and art lovers as well as adventurers. Through this blog, you can find 20 places to visit in the Maldives in 2021 that are suitable for every genre of tourists visiting.

20 Top Tourist Places & Things to Do in Maldives in 2021

COMO Cocoa Island

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03 Nights/ 04 Days

Maldives exploration.

04 Nights / 05 Days

Maldives sightseeing & adventure tour.

Maldives Tour with Sri Lanka

Maldivian islands to visit for couples.

Romance in the many islands in the Maldives offering romantic hideout villas, a perfect paradise for lovey-dovies. In Maldives, there are about 75 private islands offering luxurious retreats and the below mentions are some of the exquisite ones.

Photo: https://bit.ly/2tibVwF

Amongst the many islands, COMO Cocoa is one of the most sought after places in the island country of Maldives. It houses a large number of resorts and the best part of it all is the presence of the water villas (you have to experience staying in one of these). The COMO Cocoa Island has around 33 water villas, each offering only the best facilities. Once your staycation is sorted, you can take a long stroll on the white powder sand and indulge in spa retreat. The restaurant and the food is always top-notch and so is the rejuvenating activities like diving and snorkelling that can be enjoyed at the house reef.

Top Beaches and Seaside Getaways in the World

Photo: https://bit.ly/2tKgnUt

If you are looking for a place away from the crowd, this is an ideal place to be. Baros is a high rated and popular island in Maldives. With sun-kissed beaches and boutique luxury resort, this island is famous for its natural elegance and beautiful corals. Baros has a number of water villas as well as island resorts providing luxe amenities, along with a few restaurants and bars in the vicinity. In Baros, you can dip your feet in the cyan-blue water and relax your muscles in the spa. For the adventure spirited couples, there are also a number of watersports.

Top Romantic Getaways for Adventure and Nature Lovers in Asia

Photo: https://bit.ly/2uLYhX0

One of the best attractions about this island is perhaps the arrangement of the water villas in shape of a flower bud. A little rubbernecking can help see this beautiful sight from a seaplane as you land. Emboodhu Finolhu Island featuring around 55 water villas, also houses the luxurious Taj Exotica Resort. Here, you will get pampered with 5-star accommodation and amenities, and you can also delve into a revitalizing spa retreat. However, since it being close to the Maldives International Airport, this island is conveniently accessed via speedboat (for those who prefer).

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Photo: https://bit.ly/2vmEZ7G

The resort in Mihiri island are perhaps build for those who love a complete detoxing environment as no television sets are provided. I mean, why would you even need one? Mihiri Island Resort offers excellent rooms that are made ideal for honeymooners along with Adam and Eve spa treatments. The resort has around 30 water villas and a few island resorts. The island restaurants offer exquisite food over romantic dinner. However, to partake in some fun activities, the island also has diving and snorkelling water sport options made available.

Top 15 Family Attractions in Dubai

Photo: https://bit.ly/2uFqRbD

What can go wrong in the capital itself, it’s brilliantly lit buildings, restaurants, bars, and tourist attractions will occupy you all day. Of course, such itinerary is suitable for those couples who enjoy exploring places. Why, Male is because, the international airport is located here, right from the time you reach, you can explore its surroundings. While here, you can take a dip in the protected ocean pool, Artificial Beach and indulge in underwater scooter riding and snorkeling. You can as well go sightseeing places like the Tsunami Monument, Grand Friday Mosque, Male Fish Market, Sultan Mosque and Male National Museum.

Maldivian Islands to Visit for Family

Vacationing with family can be very tricky, often; elders prefer the beach and spa while youngsters prefer the water sports. Thus, basing on that, here are a few best family-friendly islands offering well-maintained resorts dedicated for a perfect family holiday.

Photo: https://bit.ly/2gMDBYL

This popular place is where you can rejuvenate amid the lustrous sight of the calm water (even when you are with kids) because, Huvahendhoo has Lily Beach Resort and Spa that serves best facilities for those who come in packs. This is family-oriented resort island that houses luxe rooms and also restaurants that serve special delicacies for little ones. Now, while the parents go for a spa, the children can spend time in the ‘Kids’ Club.’ There are two swimming pool, tennis courts, billiards and beach volleyball. You will never run out of activities here in Huvahendhoo Island, Lily Beach Resort and Spa.

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Owned by the Hilton Hotels group, the Conrad Maldives in Rangali Island is one of the best places to stay when on a vacation with family. In Rangali Island, you can joult in various family oriented activities like snorkeling and diving as well as island hopping, fishing, dolphin sighting and more (it depends on the weather). The resort in the island also has a Kids’ Club, where infinity swimming pool, spa and indoor sports are provided.

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Expect to get pampered in Kanuhura island, apart from its unparalleled beauty that baffles the visitors, it has a resort of the same name and it comes equipped with luxurious 5-star hotel decor and luxe amenities. Here, you can rejuvenate in the spa the resort provides as well as a private outdoor shower and a personal villa host. If you want to spend family time in fun activities, this island has various such things to do, like diving and snorkeling. You may as well as indulge you kids in a Kids Club where entertaining activities like beach volleyball, tennis, indoor games etc are made available.

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Surrounded by water on all sides, you may feel isolated (only with a want to never go back). Here in Halaveli, you can rejuvenate and spend quality time with family doing nothing but just ‘FUN’. And to have the best value for money when you are on your family vacation, the island also houses the Constance Halaveli Resort, the resort has around 57 water villas and the best part is, since kids enjoy spending some time with their favourite channels, the rooms are intact with satellite television and even an iMac entertainment system. The Constance Resort in Halaveli Island, similar to other islands has a Kids Club offering activities like paddle boats and swimming pools. The island houses Jahaz Restaurant and Bar serving only the best cuisine and drinks making your evening memorable.

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No matter where you look, only a sense of peace will surround you in the island of Dhigu. With its white sand and baby blue sky, you can get your feet in the water with a feeling of ‘tranquillity’. Here, the island also houses Anantara Dhigu Resort & Spa that has 36 water villas offering infinity edge bathtub with a view of the calm-blue lagoon. ‘A sight that will leave you awe-inspired.’ This resort comes under 5-star category having enormous rooms with the best facilities. There are four restaurants at Anantara Dhigu Resort which offer delicious food and it is a mere ferry ride towards the adjoining island. This resort also has a Dhoni Kids’ Club that will keep the younger ones entertained all day in activities.

Places to Visit with Children

It is always fun to hangout with your family and kids, exploring places and collecting sweet memories. And in the capital, Male, there are a bunch of places to visit that is best experienced with children.

Perhaps, this is one of the best things to do or experience with your kids while in Male, the capital island. Just so you don’t get confused by its name, Whale Submarine is not for viewing whales but observing life on a reef and it is a popular highlight in the island. This submarine will take you on an underwater tour, where you get to see colorful corals and beautiful marine species. A few species you get to see are reef fish, blue or yellow striped snappers, yellow box fish, lionfish and turtles as well. This 45 minute tour will provide knowledge to the kids and even elders who love marine species.

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Street shopping is definitely a fun thing to do and a perfect spot where you can find almost everything is in Majeedhee Magu. A walk down the main road of Male you can see numerous shops selling varieties of goods. From latest fashion wear to gadgets to smallest commodities and even locally crafted items. You can visit this place with your family and spend a day sightseeing local attractions and can also savour delicious food in Juways Cafe and Restaurant, Seagull Cafe or Dinemore Central. In Majeedhee Magu, the shops have a beautiful collection of garments, jewellery, watches, handbags, electronics, perfumes and cosmetics. The shops remain open from 9 am to 11 in the night.

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Although being a popular island in Maldives, always receiving tourists from across the globe, Male does not own a natural beach. Thus, a man-made beach was constructed and called Artificial Beach. If island hopping or staying in luxurious resorts is not your thing, you and your family can visit this place filled with fun activities. Here, a number of entertainments can also be witnessed along with many exciting water sports and if hunger strikes, you can visit the Dinemore or Oxygen Cafe located in the vicinity of the Artificial Beach.

Tourist Spots Reflecting History, Art and Culture of the Island

Planning to visit a new country means a detailed research about all the attractions and hotels and transport, so why not learn about its history, art and culture for a change as well. The island of Maldives, witnessed a lot of mishaps in its past and to let visitors know a thing or two, one of its islands, Male has a few treasures installed. ‘Check it out’.

The National Museum is located in Male and it preserves a large collection of historic artefacts that traces the history of Maldivian Islands. This three-storied museum is a part of the 17th century Maldivian Royal Palace compound, which also has a Sultan Park (Public Park). Inside the museum, you will find a collection of well preserved galleries and artifacts of weaponry, household wares, religious paraphernalia, Arabic and Thaana-engraved pieces of wood and more. The major highlights of the museum are the 11th-century piece from Alifu Thoddoo, a coral stone head of Lord Buddha; a 13th century engraved wooden plank from Hukuru Miskiiy and Feyli Kolhu of Sultan Ghaazee Mohamed. In Male, the National Museum is a popular attraction visited by many art connoisseurs, it is opened everyday, 10am-4pm (except friday).

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It’s impressive modern structure will definately spell-bind you, its simplicity and white marbled mosque is the biggest in the country. Grand Friday Mosque has a striking plainness look on the exterior with a golden dome above (the gold is anodised aluminium). A visit to this place must be done between 9am and 5pm (avoid prayer times). Since it is a religious site, a proper dress code is mandatory with full length cloths for both men and women. Inside, you can see main prayer hall that can accommodate upto 5000 worshippers; it also has an Islamic Centre that includes a classroom, conference hall and a library.

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Photo: https://bit.ly/2uBIZUe

Erected to memorialize those who lost their lives in a devastating nature’s fury that took place in 2004 – Tsunami Monument is a beautiful structure located on the coast line of Male, on the Boduthakurufaanu Magu. This iconic monuments architectural design is adorned with spheres encircled with ring like structure. You can get a beautiful sunset view from here. However, the beach near the monument is also famous among tourists especially for surfers as it is said to be the best spot for surfing.

Best Islands for Wildlife and Adventure Lovers

‘Wildlife and Adventure’ go well together in Maldives as you can partake in some water sports and witness oceanic species as well. There are many atolls around where you can find hundreds of species and the sources that lead you to them are adventure sports and recreational activities.

Photo: https://bit.ly/2uC7PDx

You can get a wide range of wildlife in Maldives to which these islands are not new to the marine life that take refuge in the colourful coral reefs and its many atolls. You can find beautiful oceanic species like dolphins, blue-stripe snapper, oriental sweet lips, moorish idols, angelfish, unicorn fish, as well as some bigger fishes like sharks, manta rays and stingrays. However, these islands are also home to different species of birds. Herons, seagulls, cranes, are common bird in Maldives, speaking of which, fruit-bats are also widely seen flocking around.

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Photo: https://bit.ly/2ubAvAF

Yes, it is true that the many island resorts of Maldives offer exhilarating activities but what are the mere chances for those who come to spend time in the capital? Well, to be fair, the island of Male has a club for adventure or recreational activities that can be enjoyed by all sorts of vacationers. Try the Dive Club in Male Island in your holiday in Maldives. It offers activities like underwater scooter trip, scuba diving, fishing and island hopping. Feeling insecure to try out something new? Well, not to worry as there are professional guides available as well.

Best Places for Connoisseurs

Often when on a vacation, we tend to list ‘what to eat’ at the last page of the to do list but, it is believed that, food is the first thing that unites us with a new destination. Thus, while in Maldives, despite savouring in some international restaurants, you have to go local and try some Maldivian cuisine as well.

Its impressive decor, charming garden and trees around the terrace makes Seagull Cafe House one of the best places to eat and spend a relaxing time in Male. Its menu consists of a wide range of delicacies from sandwiches to curries, burgers to wraps, grills to pasta and of course fish. You have to visit this beautiful café while here that is located in the midst of the city centre. Seagull Cafe House remains open from 8 am to 11 pm.

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If you love thai cuisine, you have to visit to Thai Wok to savour its authentic food. Located in Hithaffivinivaa Magu, it has a charming ambience and delicious food. The aroma of their food may tempt you to come back for more. While on a family trip, the best part is the weekly buffet and you have to visit for that. Maldives absolute fame and luxurious aura captivates every vacationer.

Its clear blue waters, white sandy beaches, soothing villas and scrumptious food are the things that vacationers are drawn towards. The second thing that invites people are the adventure, water sports, wild species and underwater life. These islands of Maldives certainly are a treasure trove that must be explored before the island disappears. Well, not to sound very cliched, if the images did not really help you to virtually be there, Tour My India can certainly help you get there.

You can call us at +919212553108 or send us your queries at [email protected] to know more about the deals and tour packages we provide. Also, if you liked this blog, please like and share. Happy vacationing!

Quick Answers to Some Frequently Asked Questions:

Q. when is the best time to visit maldives for holidays.

Maldives has a warm temperature throughout the year, and November to February is the best time to visit it. If you enjoy surfing, then March to April is a good time to visit it. May to October is when it receives a lot of rain.

Q. Is Maldives a good tourist destination to visit with children?

The Maldives is an amazing place for families including children. Kids can have a lovely time at the world class resorts, beaches and other sources of entertainment.

Q. Is alcohol available in the Maldives?

As the Maldives are a Muslim country, alcohol is illegal. However, all the resort islands have a special alcohol license, so you can enjoy drinks in them.

Q. Do tourists need a visa to visit the Maldives?

Tourists are issued a free 30 day tourist visa upon arrival, which is applicable to all nationalities. You need to have the following documents with you: valid passport, roundtrip ticket, booking confirmation letter or funds to cover the expenses.

Q. What is the temperature of the water in Maldives?

The temperature of the water remains somewhere between 28° – 30°C throughout the year. It is great for swimming at any time of the year.

Published: 14 Nov, 2018 By Abhishek Gurung

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About the author

Abhishek Gurung

Abhishek Gurung is a writer whose passion for food and travel is an unending affair. He likes going on treks and camping in the woods, loves exploring forts and architecture, he is a cycle enthusiast who likes to contribute something to the environment, travel photography and videography is another interest as he sees life in a cinematic point of view. He likes the idea of living in offbeat destination where the mode of communication is to interact with each other. Coming from Nagaland, he has visited some beautiful valleys and remote villages and appreciates nature as it is and as it should be.

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• 15 Best Places To Visit In Maldives For The Perfect Vacation

15 Best Places to Visit in Maldives for the Perfect Vacation

Maldives is one of the most beautiful destinations to visit in the world. It attracts those seeking a serene and restful holiday destination with a lot of romance in it. With its  posh resorts , exquisite water villas, colourful reefs and water that's bluer than the sky, Maldives is a great tropical destination for honeymooners. It is the place that makes you feel at peace while gazing at calm waters, joyous while walking on the soft sandy beaches, and content after spending a relaxing vacation with your loved ones.

The islands in Maldives shower upon you not just stunning scenic beauty but extravagant hospitality as well, which makes it as close to paradise as one can imagine. From luxury 5-star stay options and some of the best spas in the world to the mouth-watering local cuisine and thrill of exciting water sports; these islands in Maldives will make sure you are having the best time of your life with some of the best places to visit in Maldives. Head to the local markets for shopping handicrafts, souvenirs, sarongs and clothing among other intriguing things, and head over to the archaeological sites such as the President Palace, National Museum and whatnot for proper city sightseeing.

Places to Visit in Maldives

Check out these 15 best places to visit in Maldives and explore this beautiful cluster of islands for those postcard-worthy pictures: -

One of the most famous places in Maldives, and its largest city, Male offers some fun and exciting attractions. From scuba diving, snorkelling diving and more, there are a host of exciting water sports that you can enjoy. The Male's National Museum is a popular attraction among the tourists here, along with the Tsunami monument and more.

2. COMO Cocoa Island

Although there is no dearth of gorgeous islands in Maldives, the COMO Cocoa island holds a different charm. The island offers eternal peace and relaxation for travellers looking for rejuvenation. A favourite Maldives tourist spot, COMO Cocoa island is known for its luxurious 5-star villas and pampering hospitality. And add to that the clear blue waters and the white sandy beach as well and you have got the recipe for an experience that would just touch your soul.

3. Vaadhoo Island

Vaadhoo is a beautiful island in the Maldives which is known for its stunning beaches, iconic landscapes and mesmerising beauty. What makes it one of the best places to visit in Maldives is an incredible natural phenomenon that occurs during the late summer months. When the sun goes down Vaadhoo, the sea waves light up like a shimmering field of blue dots, due to the growth of phytoplankton or aquatic creatures that glow in the dark, giving the sea the appearance of the starlit night sky.

4. Banana Reef

The Banana Reef is globally renowned as one of the best diving sites in the world. It derives its name from the banana-shaped reef that is home to exotic marine life, corals, cliffs and caves. Another reason it is considered among the top Maldives tourist places is that it offers a plethora of adventure activities, such as scuba, snorkelling, jet skiing in the reef and more.

5. Sun Island

Another island known for its sparkling islands is the Sun island that is counted among the best places to visit in Maldives. It is blessed with naturally stunning beaches, beautiful tropical flowers as well as lavish greenery that makes you feel the best version of yourself. It is a great place if you are looking for a relaxed time, basking in the lap of nature, at one of the many fabulous resorts here.

6. Mihri Island

If you are in for a completely detoxing environment then Mihri island is the place to be. With no TV sets provided in the rooms, the only thing you should expect is a connection with the phenomenal natural beauty, exquisite food and relaxing spa treatments. For these reasons, Mihri island is also one of the best places to visit in Maldives for couples. You can also take part in some fun activities here such as diving and snorkelling.

7. Maafushi Island

Maafushi island is truly one of the must-visit places in Maldives. Not only does it have fancy beaches with water sports options but also offers exquisite food that you are sure to enjoy. It might not have the luxury resorts and opulent 5-star hotels that many other islands do, but all that it offers hat got plenty of charm.

Feydhoo shows a pretty picture of the lived- Maldivian life. Its inhabitants used to live in the nearby Gan island but after the British transformed it into an airbase during WWII, the locals were shipped out. It is a great picnic spot in Maldives where you can come and stroll the winding walkways while relishing the delicious local cuisine.

9. Addu City

Addu city is the most urban place to see in Maldives after Male. It is also the nation’s second-largest city which attracts honeymooners and couples through the captivating vistas sandwiched between the blue waters and overhead skies, lined by tall coconut trees. The Mosque of the Judge is located here which is among the famous historical things to see in Maldives, telling the tale of the Sultanate rule over the city.

10. Bikini Beach

Bikini Beach is an absolutely beautiful place to see in Maldives. Considered among the top Maldives tourist places, Bikini Beach is an exotic attraction dotted with palm trees that draws the attention of so many tourists around the world for sun-soaked relaxation and activities such as snorkelling, swimming and more.

11. Huvahendhoo Island

Huvahendhoo island is a popular Maldives tourist spot for families that offers a tranquil environment for relaxation. The sight of the clear and calm waters, the world-famous spas, luxury stays and restaurants are all focussed on a family staycation. There are ‘kid’s clubs’ where your children can spend some quality time while you unwind at the spas.

12. Whale Submarine

Whale Submarine is a great picnic spot in Maldives to experience life on a reef with your kids. The submarine takes you on an underwater tour where you get to see colourful corals and beautiful marine species. But do not get confused with its name, you won’t get to see any whales.

13. Artificial Beach

The artificial beach in Male is man-made and makes for an exciting place to visit in Maldives. It can be explored along with your family as a fun day trip with a lot of water sports activities and good food around the corner.

14. The Muraka - Conrad

The Muraka is a lavish 2-level undersea villa housed in the Conrad Maldives resort. It offers a breath-taking experience of the exotic style of living, dining, and sleeping under the blue waters of the Indian Ocean which might be very hard to believe for some at first. This opulent accommodation comes with a private chef and butler, infinity pool, professional spa treatments, on-call fitness trainer, and water activities. By far, The Muraka is one of the most bewildering places for sightseeing in Maldives.

15. Rangali Island

The Rangali island is counted among the most picturesque places during your Maldives sightseeing tour. The super luxury Conrad Maldives resort is located on this island. It is an ideal hub for enjoying varieties of water activities, such as dolphin spotting, swimming, and fishing. Rangali Island is a complete family-friendly destination and a stunning place to explore with your loved ones.

Best Time to Visit Maldives

The best month to visit the Maldives is between November and April, when the weather is warm and tropical and beach activities can be easily enjoyed, making it the best time to go to the Maldives weather wise.

The months of January to April experience dry weather conditions, with little rain and low humidity, making it the peak season at the luxury resorts and the best time to visit Maldives for honeymoon. The monsoon months, as well as the months from May to December, experience rain and the risk of storms which might come in the way of many looking to undertake exciting water sports. Still, long spells of bright sunshine even during these months can be experienced.

Maldives has become the world’s favourite destination to experience quintessentially beautiful tropical places and water sports while offering the most terrific cluster of sandy beaches in the Indian Ocean. Plan a trip to Maldives with your loved ones with Veena World with our exciting Maldives tour packages that cover all your needs.

We are an Indian travel company founded in 2013 and excel at domestic and international tour packages including guided group tours, specialty tours, customized holidays, corporate MICE travel, inbound travel and destination weddings.

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'आपला महाराष्ट्र' ही पॉडकास्ट मालिका म्हणजे महाराष्ट्राची झलकच. गौरवशाली इतिहास , वैविध्यपूर्ण परंपरा आणि आकर्षक भूगोल लाभलेल्या महाराष्ट्राची ओळख करून देण्यासाठीच वीणा वर्ल्डने ही मालिका सुरू केली आहे. या मालिकेतून महाराष्ट्राच्या रोमांचक इतिहासाचे साक्षीदार असलेल्या गड - किल्ल्यांचा थोडक्यात परिचय करुन दिला जाईल. मग दर गुरुवारी न चुकता ऐका ' आपला महाराष्ट्र ' आणि तुमच्या भटकंतीला द्या नवीन दिशा. Looking to explore the wonders of Maharashtra, India? Tune in to 'Aapla Maharashtra', a podcast series that takes you on a journey through the state's rich history, captivating culture, and breathtaking geography. Join us every Thursday for a new episode and discover the many forts that bear witness to Maharashtra's majestic past. Take your travel experience to the next level with 'Aapla Maharashtra'.

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How to choose the best Maldives island for your travel style

Mar 4, 2024 • 7 min read

There are thousands of sun-drenched islands in the Maldives, and finding the right one is all part of the fun ©seanscott/Getty Images

Let’s get one thing straight: Not all atolls were created equal. But on the plus side, the  Maldives  has thousands of sun-drenched islands, and discovering the perfect one for your trip is all part of the fun.

Every resort in Maldives is its own private island but choosing the right one for you can be difficult. Want to kick off your Indian Ocean holiday in style? Our guide will help you know what to look for in the hunt for your ideal island, whether you’re searching for affordable options or five-star resorts with brilliant dive schools. 

The distance dilemma

Yes, your sun-kissed island resort might be wonderfully secluded with no other atoll in sight, but remote locations inevitably crank up the price – not simply because there are higher costs to cover (like getting supplies to the resort in question) but because it’s likely you’ll need to pay for a short domestic flight or a seaplane flight to get there. Seaplane transfers are the most expensive option (expect to pay anywhere from US$300 to US$900 for a round trip), while domestic flights to one of the Maldives’ smaller airports (followed by a boat transfer) will be slightly cheaper.

The good news? Some of the best Maldives resorts are just a boat ride from Male’s Velana International Airport, so don’t write off properties simply because of their close proximity.

We recommend: Patina Maldives, the Fari Islands

Located on the Fari Islands development, Patina Maldives, the Fari Islands is only a 45-minute speedboat transfer from the international airport. Fancy a spot of island-hopping? Traveling between islands in the Maldives can be expensive, but Patina Maldives is just a short shuttle-boat service from the Fari Islands’ Ritz-Carlton resort, so there’s no chance of claustrophobia setting in. The Capella Maldives , which will be the third and final Fari Islands resort, is due to open in 2025.

Where to stay for the best food

It may sound self-indulgent, but trust us – knowing your culinary criteria can make or break a holiday. That tiny, exclusive island you’ve got your eye on might well have a Michelin-starred chef, but even the most delicious dishes can look rather plain after you’ve eaten your way through the restaurant’s menu in the space of two days. In summary, bigger is often better if food is a priority. Our top tip? Don’t miss Maldivian Night – most resorts will offer these culinary extravaganzas, typically held in the main buffet restaurant. Chefs will go all out to champion local cuisine, and they’re great opportunities to try local seafood like the Maldivian snapper.

We recommend: Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi

You’ll never go hungry at the South Male Atoll’s Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi resort, which has a staggering 11 restaurants, including ones specializing in Levantine and garden-to-table cuisine. There are regular food-themed events, too – our favorites include Arabian Night and the Twilight Seafood Barbecue, held on the beach.

Where to go for downtime

Why are you going on holiday to the Maldives? If you’re dreaming of lazy sunbathing sessions on the country’s best beaches, your priorities will be different than those of the adrenaline-fueled traveler keen to try every high-octane activity available, whether it’s swimming with manta rays or skydiving (as of 2023, the Maldives now has a skydiving school, which you’ll find on Ifuru Island ). As a rule, smaller resorts are great for crowd-free downtime, while larger ones are best suited to families and active types.

We recommend: Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu

For the best of both worlds, consider Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu  on Baa Atoll – regarded as one of the best spots in the Maldives . There’s a wide range of activities and experiences on offer, but where you can also escape your fellow vacationers by signing up for a night on a nearby deserted island.

Money talks

It’s a myth that you have to be a millionaire to holiday in the Maldives, although without a little research, costs can easily spiral out of control. Travelers keen to make the most of their hard-earned cash should familiarize themselves with the packages on offer to make sure they’re getting the best value for money. Options can range from bed-and-breakfast-only packages to to ones that include all meals and drinks, along with certain activities.

We recommend: Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa

A private island in North Male Atoll considered one of the best spots in the Maldives for honeymoons, the Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa  has a huge range of room categories and offers a brilliant selection of packages, including Island Romance packages that feature fantastic extras designed with couples in mind. Planning on tying the knot? You can get married here, too.

And if you have more questions about budget-planning for a Maldives adventure, take a look at our top 8 ways to save money in the Maldives .

What to look for in sustainability

Taking a second to consider your destination’s sustainability credentials won’t just benefit Mother Nature, it could also save you serious amounts of cash. If an island is producing its own drinking water, growing its own vegetables and transporting guests by boat rather than gas-guzzling seaplane, there will be lower outgoings, which means less costs to cover – all of which translates into lower room rates.

We recommend: Fairmont Maldives - Sirru Fen Fushi

There are numerous reasons to visit the Shaviyani Atoll’s Fairmont Maldives - Sirru Fen Fushi resort, including the fact that it’s tucked inside one of the Maldives’ largest lagoons. But it’s also a great place to learn about sustainability, whether it’s at the Sustainability Lab, where guests can turn discarded plastic bottles into jewelry (waste plastic has also been transformed into various pieces of furniture you’ll see throughout the resort) or during excursions with marine biologists from the Olive Ridley Project , a charity created to protect sea turtles that has a partnership with the property. There’s also the fantastic Coralarium, a semi-submerged structure just off the beach designed by British sculptor Jason de Caires Taylor, who specializes in underwater installations. It doubles as a coral propagation project, and guests can snorkel inside it to admire the tropical fish and brightly-colored corals.

Where to get a culture fix

A growing number of resorts are honoring the region by offering experiences that provide a deeper insight into the Maldives and prove that there are endless reasons to venture beyond your villa. Many now offer trips to local community islands, for example, and in recent years several have opened small museums. At Cora Cora resort’s Dutch Onion Museum (named after the onion-shaped vessels found on the island, several of which are on display), visitors can check out over 400 ancient artifacts found on nearby islands.

We recommend: Heritance Aarah

Heritance Aarah , a beautiful resort on the stunning Raa Atoll, recently unveiled its Live Maldivian Village Museum, which focuses on 4,000 years of Maldivian history. Guests can sample local delicacies at a traditional open kitchen, learn about the art of coral stone carving and find out why locals are known as some of the world’s best boat builders.

Timing is everything

Let’s get one thing straight: there’s no such thing as a bad time to visit the Maldives . But considering the season is important if you’ve got your heart set on certain activities. If you’re planning on swimming with mantas, for example, a stay on a Baa Atoll resort between May and November is your best bet, although July to October is a great time for manta sightings elsewhere. If you’re planning on a surf session, you’ll need to visit between April and October.

We recommend: frequent holidays

To ensure you experience the Maldives’ best bits, schedule a holiday every month without fail. We’re joking, but you get the point: think what you want to see and do, and brush up on the different areas’ seasonal selling points.

Planning a trip to Maldives? Here’s more of our expert advice to help you plan.

Know these things before you visit

Getting around can be tricky, check out our tips here 

Get out of your villa with these 8 things to do in Maldives

This article was first published Oct 21, 2021 and updated Mar 4, 2024.

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The best hotels in the Maldives to book now for a winter sun escape

Slides for grown-ups, underwater restaurants and paradise beaches – these are the finest five-star hotels in the Maldives

If you’re getting in early and are already on the hunt for winter sun for the end of the year or in early 2025, the Maldives – and its promise of palm-tree and white-sand paradise – is a tempting location. The country is made up of hundreds of islands, many now home to a luxury resort, so it can be difficult to know where to start.

Just like the Seychelles, home to the gorgeous Mango House , and Mauritius , offering glorious beaches and adventures further south, the Maldives are like heaven on Earth, providing you with a breathtaking idyll to escape from the daily grind.

Which part of the Maldives is best to stay?

For many people, travelling to the Indian Ocean hotspot involves some serious air travel – during one of the best times to visit the Maldives , the peak of the dry season ( November to March ), there are some direct flights from the UK, but most international arrivals from London will have to connect in Dubai or Doha, with total flight time exceeding 12 hours. Because of this, many people prefer to stay on islands that are within a swift speedboat ride of Malé.

For the more intrepid, there are further-flung resorts, either a seaplane or domestic flight away from the capital Malé, in other atolls, such as Gaafu Alifu, all the way down south, and Raa in the north.

Where should I stay in the Maldives for the first time?

Many of the big-gun resorts are concentrated in the North Malé Atoll and so it’s a great place to start, for ease of travelling from the international airport in the capital.

How many days in the Maldives is enough?

It depends how much you want to switch off. You’ll need some time to recover from the long-haul flight, and if you want to earn a diving accreditation, for example, you’ll have to allow time for that. The resorts tend to have lots of restaurants and activities to try, so it’s not uncommon for guests to check in for 10 days or more, to give themselves time to work through everything. Plus, you may want to island-hop around a few resorts while you’ve made it all the way over to the middle of the Indian Ocean.

For some, the tiny islands can get a little claustrophobic after a few days (even if it is paradise we’re talking about) – which is why the Maldives is a great option for a twin-centre holiday, pairing it with places such as Dubai and Sri Lanka.

Which is the best Maldives island?

Each island has its own USP, so it depends what you’re looking for. Some have all the bells and whistles for families, some are more focused on things such as wellbeing , and some have incredible food and drink experiences, including underwater restaurants, where you can admire the marine life as well as your meal.

What are the best hotels in the Maldives for 2025?

We’ve picked our favourites, from five-star hotels near Malé to remote desert islands that have been transformed with amazing art and design. Browse the best hotels in the Maldives, including top couples' hotels, family-friendly stays, all-out luxury resorts and more.

Best for laid-back fun: Seaside Finolhu

An ‘island playground that puts a playful twist on luxury,’ Seaside Finolhu – a 30-minute sea plane ride from Malé - eschews the usual beige honeymoon stereotypes. From your initiation in a hot pink golf buggy (stay in a top-tier Rock Star villa, complete with disco ball and butler) through to the rope swings in the jungle-green Fehi Spa, this private island resort in the UNESCO-protected Baa Atoll pops with colour and playful details.

Families are very much welcome here – in fact, Finolhu’s particular brand of laid-back fun suits everyone, and is evident everywhere from its beach club/restaurant Crab Shack (serving lobster rolls and truffle fries, with DJ beats emanating from a neon-lit camper van) to nightly performances from flame throwers and acrobats.

The resort plays host to a number of restaurants, including Kanusan, but for those who like their holidays experiential, there’s the opportunity to dine in the middle of the ocean on a platform positioned five degrees north of the equator, or in Finolhu’s signature ‘beach bubble’ at the far end of its two-kilometre sand bank, reported to be the longest in the Maldives. Words by Megan Conner

Best for the beaches: Six Senses Kanuhura

New to the Maldives last autumn, Six Senses Kanuhura arrived alongside the new Virgin Atlantic route, which will fly between London Heathrow and Malé three times a week from late October. The Six Senses brand has taken over an existing Maldives hotel and brought it into the fold, with villas both on the beach and on stilts over the water, and a signature spa. It’s set across three private islands.

The resort is a 40-minute seaplane ride from Malé, in the Lhaviyani Atoll. As well as its pristine shores, the hotel has rare orchids growing in the gardens and, naturally, several palm trees.

Best for couples and small groups: Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi , a short speedboat away from Malé, has a staggering 11 restaurants and bars, so the chances of you getting bored of the food during your stay are slim – especially since one of them is a Zuma, which we’d gladly eat at any day of the week. It’s perfect for couples in search of romance, but there’s plenty to keep young kids and teens entertained, too.

If you’re travelling in a group for a special occasion, the 350,000-square-feet Ithaafushi Private Island residence is hard to beat, with space for 24 guests.

Best for traditional Maldivian dining: Milaidhoo

You might be able to order every conceivable luxury foodstuff in the Maldives (from caviar to champagne), but at Milaidhoo , it’s local cuisine that is most celebrated. The resort is home to a fine-dining restaurant that champions Maldivian food. It’s shaped like a traditional boat, another nod to the sailing route the islands formed for spice traders travelling from Indonesia to India and Arabia once upon a time. Today, the dishes make use of these culinary treasures, such as cinnamon, cardamom and turmeric. Fortunately for guests, cookery classes with the chef are available.

For something truly memorable, visitors to Milaidhoo will also be able to spend the night on a sandbank in the middle of the Indian Ocean.

Best for an all-round five-star experience: O&O Reethi Rah

Truly living up to its name, One&Only Reethi Rah was the Maldives’ original luxury hotel and it has set the standard ever since. There are around three times as many staff as guests, so you can be sure of superb, attentive service – no matter where you left your bicycle, it will magically reappear back at your villa ready for when you next want it; buggies also materialise just when you need them; the team are experts of the extra mile, with past gestures for guests including the construction of a treehouse as an absurdly romantic dinner setting; and even the sand is raked to perfection overnight. We especially love the spa, which is set in a vast, peaceful garden, leading all the way to a yoga deck at the shore. It has a Bastien Gonzalez nail studio (you may be in the middle of nowhere, but the best mani-pedis in the world are here for you), a salon, Espa treatments and a Watsu pool.

Best for Robinson Crusoe vibes: Gili Lankanfushi

The star of a Channel 5 series on the planet’s billionaire playgrounds, Gili Lankanfushi is the ultimate barefoot-luxury experience – and here, that’s taken literally, since guests are encouraged to lose their shoes on arrival. This is to maintain the Robinson Crusoe resort’s ‘no news, no shoes’ policy for an authentic castaway adventure. The hotel’s Private Reserve is the biggest over-water villa in the world and, yes, it has a slide taking you straight into the sea. In keeping with the Crusoe theme, the butlers are named Mr Friday, there to be your loyal assistant (and friend) throughout your stay. Several of the rooms are adrift in the ocean, reached only by boat, with a hammock to swim across to. It may be modelled on the ultimate desert island, but that doesn’t mean it has to eschew the finer things in life – £100 Wagyu steaks and an expensively stocked wine cellar await, for a start.

Best for amazing art: Joali

In the northern Raa Atoll, Joali is either a seaplane or domestic flight away from the Maldivian capital Malé. There’s an impressive art collection on the island – and the villas themselves are works of art, with rose-gold accents, petal-shaped ceiling fans and pastel-coloured sofas. The feminine decor extends to the hotel’s branded seaplane, adorned with birds and flowers, and far more creative than the red and white Trans Maldivian Airways ones. The island has a resident artist, who’ll be able to teach anyone the joys (and mindfulness) of watercolour painting, even if their repertoire was previously limited to stickmen. There are incredible installations dotted throughout the resort and even the arrival jetty is a masterpiece in its own right. In addition to its artistic leanings, Joali is among the most sustainable resorts in the country. And if you’re in search of a spa hotel in the Maldives, make the short speedboat journey across to sister property Joali Being .

Best for families: The RitzCarlton Maldives, Fari Islands

Part of the recently formed Fari Islands, the Ritz-Carlton is a family-friendly Maldives hotel that’s easy to reach by speedboat from Malé. The resort was one of the last projects by the late Australian architect Kerry Hill, who created the spaceship-like over-water pods that contrast with some of the more rustic, wooden versions available on other islands. The island’s stand-out space may be the spa, in the centre of those pods, adrift in the ocean, but it’s also a great choice for families, since it has a brilliant kids’ club, which includes playgrounds, napping pods, a pool with slides and jets, and a screening space for films and video games.

Best affordable option: The Standard, Huruvalhi

The Standard outpost in the Maldives is on the island of Huruvalhi, up north in the Raa Atoll. Its arrival in 2019 introduced a playful, party-loving option to the country’s luxury-hotel scene, plus, with rooms starting from around the £350-a-night mark, it’s a more affordable option. The resort can be reached by a short seaplane ride from Malé. Each villa has its own deck and pool, but there are far more sociable places to hang out at, including the six restaurants and bars. After nightfall, dance by the bonfire on the beach and until dawn at the glass-bottomed, over-water nightclub.

Best for villas with private water slides: Soneva Jani

We’ve all seen the pictures of those Maldives villas with slides taking guests from hotel room to ocean and, unsurprisingly, we want in on the action, however old we are. At Soneva Jani , lots of the villas have these slides, so the fun can begin. The resort is the sister property to Soneva Fushi , which has been one of the pioneers of sustainable tourism in the country ever since it opened in 1995. As well as enjoying your own private miniature water-park, the highlight of a Soneva Jani stay is embracing the brand’s Slow Life philosophy, which aims to help guests feel like children again (achieved by the slides alone, let’s face it).

Best for eating and drinking: Patina Maldives

Just across the water from the Ritz-Carlton in the Fari Islands, Patina is an excellent choice for foodies – the three hotels in the archipelago (which includes the yet-to-open Capella, coming in 2025) will eventually offer guests more than 20 restaurants and bars, with a shuttle boat taking them back and forth. At Patina alone, dining options include Wok Society for sushi and classic Asian dishes, the Fari Beach Club, whose menu was designed by a Michelin-starred chef, a Patagonian grill and a Scandi-Japanese restaurant run by a former Noma chef. You’ll also be able to visit the ice-cream truck for your free daily gelato. Eating and drinking aside, the island is home to some impressive art installations, including a giant one by the American artist James Turrell.

Best for sustainability: Six Senses Laamu

There’s a lot of green-washing in the Maldives, with hotels claiming to have good eco practices while flying in produce from thousands of miles away, but one of the most authentically sustainable resorts is Six Senses Laamu , where you can enjoy a classic Maldivian experience while treading lightly on the planet. It is about to unveil its hi-tech new Institute of Marine Conservation, plus there’s an Earth Lab championing zero-waste practices and producing as much as possible on the island. The hotel is in the Laamu Atoll, a 35-minute domestic flight south from Malé to Kadhdhoo airport, followed by a 15-minute speedboat trip.

Best adults-only resort: Anantara Veli

Sometimes we could all use a little peace and quiet (and pool areas free from unicorn inflatables), so for an adults-only hotel in the Maldives, Anantara Veli is the grown-up paradise for you.

The resort is a 30-minute speedboat ride from Malé, with a cinema under the stars, a spa for Ayurvedic treatments and romantic couples' rituals, and a turquoise lagoon frequented by baby reef sharks and puffer fish. In case you don't love the idea of being marooned on a desert island, simply head over to the sister hotel across the lagoon Anantara Dhigu and try out the dining scene there, which includes a poolside pizza restaurant, a seafood grill and a Thai restaurant at the end of a wooden walkway.

Best all-inclusive: Hurawalhi

All-inclusive may have once meant luridly coloured cocktails, tacky performances and sunburn, but it’s a far more classy affair in the Maldives, naturally – especially at Hurawalhi , which has four restaurants and three bars that you can enjoy freely during your stay. These include a glass-walled sunken restaurant, so you can lose the snorkel and watch the tropical flit fish by, while dressed a little more stylishly than the average pair of flippers allows.

The resort is also home to a wine cellar, stocked with an impressive selection of labels, and a vegan restaurant, serving plant-based takes on classic comfort food. Activities on offer include sunset cruises in search of dolphins, snorkelling on the house reef and deep-sea fishing.

Best for underwater experiences: Conrad Maldives Rangali Island

One of the most famous things about the Maldives as a destination is the country’s creative use of under-water architecture – and nowhere specialises in the subterranean as well as Conrad Maldives Rangali Island . Snorkellers at this resort can forego their equipment, since you won’t be needing a mask to witness the sea life in these waters. Instead, book a stay in an under-water bedroom and watch the fish darting past all through the night. And you can stay dry while spying on the tropical fish over dinner too, swapping wetsuits for evening attire at the undersea restaurant.

Best for surfing: Kuda Villingili

If you’re heading to the Maldives to catch some surf, Kuda Villingili is the resort for you. It’s in the North Malé Atoll, which means it’s just a half-hour speedboat ride from the international airport. It’s also near a prime surfing break: Chickens Break attracts surfers from all over the world. It’s so called for its proximity to an island once known for its poultry farm. The break is one of the longest in the Maldives and experienced surfers will also be able to ride two more noteworthy breaks: Cokes and Sultans. If you’re more concerned with actually being able to stand on a board first, the surf team is on hand to help you practise.

Best for an intimate retreat: Kudadoo

This private island, a short seaplane ride from the capital, has just 15 villas, which makes it an excellent choice for anyone seeking seclusion. Kudadoo is also all-inclusive, which extends to the champagne and the spa treatments. You’ll be able to book unlimited private yoga classes, personal-trainer sessions and excursions (though you should probably make the cheese cellar your first stop). The over-water villas are arranged in a ring on the edge of the 200-metre by 200-metre island. The resort, which was created by New York-based architect Yuji Yamazaki, has a distinctly Japanese aesthetic.

Best for a laid-back vibe: Alila Kothaifaru Maldives

Marking the return of the brand to the Maldives, the Alila outpost on Kothaifaru island opened last year. It has 27 acres of grounds, spanning sandy beaches, jungle and, a Maldivian essential, plenty of palm trees. The personalised service ensures guests will feel at home – and it starts at the airport. The resort is home to four restaurants and two bars, including one called Yakitori, where sake fans especially will enjoy the cocktails. Snorkellers will love swimming out to the house reef; also within reach is the Hanifaru Bay reserve, which promises at least the chance of a manta-ray sighting.

Best for spa seekers: Joali Being

For many visitors to this tropical paradise, the sun, sea and scenery is tonic enough – but if you want to take your wellbeing to another level, book a restorative stay at Joali Being , a 40-minute seaplane flight north of Malé on Bodufushi in the Raa Atoll. You’ll be able to retox accordingly a short speedboat ride away at big-sister hotel Joali , but here on the island, it’s wellness all the way, courtesy of its extraordinary spa facilities. These include a master practitioners programme, showcasing specialised treatments such as holographic memory resolution, Watsu water massages and craniosacral therapy. There’s a remarkably well-equipped sound-bath suite, a tea lounge with a tea sommelier on hand, and regular workshops; and residents on-site include Ayurvedic doctors, herbologists and naturopaths. The serenity extends to the suites, which are more like temples, with a pretty pastel green and pink palette, pitched ceilings and lots of gold accents. The structure of the resort adheres to the principles of biolithic design, so that it blends seamlessly with its tropical surroundings. You’ll be able to get into Joali mode with the kimonos helpfully hanging in your room: there’s a smarter floral option for the evenings and beige pyjamas to blend in during the day.

Best for budding marine biologists: The Nautilus

There are many ultra-luxury hotels in the Maldives, since it’s such a favoured destination of the wealthy (at Christmas, the tarmac at the airport in Malé is said to be covered in private jets). One of the best of the best is the Nautilus , which helps its guests dig a little deeper with the help of its resident marine biologist, Emily Jupp. The resort is in a Unesco-protected reserve near Hanifaru Bay, ringed by coral reefs, and you’ll be able to go out on snorkelling trips with Jupp. During certain times of the year, guests can also swim with whale sharks and manta rays, with some of the dives taking place at night when you might just see some bioluminescence. As for the other desert-island (in name alone) facilities, these include a superb spa, an impressive wine cellar and an array of restaurants.

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