45785 days ago
Picture this: you wake up in an overwater villa, the sound of gentle waves beneath you, the ocean stretching endlessly in every shade of blue. Welcome to the Maldives—your slice of paradise in the Indian Ocean. With its sugar-white beaches, turquoise lagoons, and world-class resorts, this dreamy archipelago is the definition of escape.
But there’s more to the Maldives than just beauty. It’s a place where luxury and adventure go hand in hand. Whether you’re snorkeling with manta rays, enjoying a candlelit dinner on a private island, or soaking in the culture of local villages, every moment here feels magical and meaningful.
With over 1,000 coral islands to explore, warm tropical weather year-round, and a unique mix of privacy and pampering, the Maldives is the perfect destination for honeymooners, solo travelers, and families alike.
Ready to plan your island escape? Let’s dive into the best places to visit in the Maldives and start creating your perfect itinerary.
Best 22 Islands to Visit in the Maldives
The Maldives is made up of over 1,190 islands, each offering a unique experience. Whether you’re looking for a luxury escape, an adventure-filled trip, or an authentic local island experience, this Maldives Travel Guide will take you through the top 10 islands that you must visit.
1. Malé – The Cultural & Historical Heart of the Maldives
Malé, the capital city of the Maldives, is the busiest and most vibrant island in the country. While most travelers pass through quickly, Malé offers a fascinating glimpse into Maldivian history and daily life.
Visit the Old Friday Mosque (Hukuru Miskiy), built from coral stone in the 17th century.
Explore the Maldives Islamic Centre, an architectural landmark with a golden-domed mosque.
Stroll through Malé’s bustling markets, where you can find fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and handcrafted souvenirs.
Best for: Culture lovers, history enthusiasts, and travelers looking for an authentic Maldivian experience.
2. Maafushi – The Budget-Friendly Paradise
If you want to experience the Maldives without breaking the bank, Maafushi Island is the best option. It’s one of the few local islands where guesthouses are allowed, making it a great alternative to expensive resorts.
Stay in affordable beachfront guesthouses and enjoy a slice of paradise at a fraction of the cost.
Take part in snorkeling, diving, and sandbank excursions at budget-friendly prices.
Dine at local Maldivian cafés, trying dishes like mas huni (tuna with coconut and chapati).
Best for: Budget travelers, backpackers, and those looking for an authentic island stay.
3. Baa Atoll – The UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
Baa Atoll is a protected marine biosphere, home to some of the Maldives’ most pristine coral reefs and marine life. It’s particularly famous for Hanifaru Bay, where you can witness hundreds of manta rays and whale sharks during the feeding season.
Go diving or snorkeling with manta rays in Hanifaru Bay (best from June to October).
Stay in luxury eco-resorts like Soneva Fushi or Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru.
Explore secluded sandbanks and hidden lagoons, perfect for a private escape.
Best for: Marine life lovers, eco-tourists, and those seeking a sustainable luxury stay.
4. Vaadhoo Island – The Glowing Beach of the Maldives
Vaadhoo Island is world-famous for its "Sea of Stars" phenomenon, where the waves glow blue at night due to bioluminescent plankton.
Walk along the shimmering shoreline, where the water glows under your feet.
Experience a romantic evening by the beach, watching the bioluminescent waves.
Enjoy local island hospitality and learn about Maldivian fishing traditions.
Best for: Couples, photographers, and nature lovers.
5. Dhigurah – The Best Island for Swimming with Whale Sharks
Dhigurah, located in the South Ari Atoll, is one of the best places in the world to see whale sharks all year round.
Join a snorkeling or diving excursion to swim alongside whale sharks.
Walk along one of the longest natural sandbanks in the Maldives.
Stay in affordable boutique guesthouses and enjoy a more laid-back, local vibe.
Best for: Adventure seekers, divers, and marine life enthusiasts.
6. Hulhumalé – The Modern Island Next to Malé
Hulhumalé is a man-made island just a short drive from Velana International Airport, offering a mix of modern infrastructure and beachside relaxation.
Stay in affordable hotels with easy access to the airport (great for stopovers).
Enjoy the wide beaches and take a walk along the scenic coastline.
Explore Hulhumalé Central Park, a green oasis in the middle of the island.
Best for: Short stopovers, budget travelers, and easy access to Malé.
7. Thulusdhoo – The Surfing Capital of the Maldives
Thulusdhoo is the best island for surfing, home to world-class waves like Cokes and Chickens. It’s also a great place to experience Maldivian island life without the luxury resort prices.
Catch amazing waves at some of the best surf spots in the Maldives.
Visit the Coca-Cola Factory, the only place in the world where Coca-Cola is made from desalinated seawater.
Enjoy a more laid-back, local experience, with guesthouses and family-run cafés.
Best for: Surfers, backpackers, and culture enthusiasts.
8. Veligandu – The Ultimate Luxury Escape
If you’re looking for pure Maldivian luxury, Veligandu Island Resort & Spa is the perfect choice.
Stay in overwater villas with direct access to the lagoon.
Experience private candlelit dinners on the beach.
Enjoy world-class spa treatments overlooking the ocean.
Best for: Honeymooners, couples, and luxury travelers.
9. Fuvahmulah – The Galápagos of the Maldives
Fuvahmulah is one of the most unique islands in the Maldives, featuring lush tropical landscapes, freshwater lakes, and dramatic cliffs.
Dive with tiger sharks, one of the few places in the world where you can see them year-round.
Explore Bandaara Kilhi and Dhadimagu Kilhi, two rare freshwater lakes in the Maldives.
Experience a less touristy, off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Best for: Divers, explorers, and those seeking something different from the typical Maldives experience.
10. Addu Atoll – A Blend of History and Island Beauty
Located in the far south of the Maldives, Addu Atoll is a former British military base turned tropical escape.
Discover World War II relics and historical sites from the British era.
Stay in guesthouses on Gan Island, offering an affordable Maldives experience.
Cycle across several connected islands via a series of causeways—a rare experience in the Maldives.
Best for: History buffs, off-the-beaten-path travelers, and adventure seekers.
11. Dhiffushi – A Tranquil Local Island Escape
Dhiffushi is one of the most charming local islands in the Maldives, offering a mix of authentic island life and beautiful beaches.
Enjoy the uncrowded beaches, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Stay in affordable guesthouses, experiencing warm Maldivian hospitality.
Go on snorkeling excursions to nearby reefs, teeming with marine life.
Best for: Budget travelers, solo explorers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
12. Fulhadhoo – The Hidden Gem of the Maldives
Fulhadhoo is one of the least developed islands, making it a secluded paradise perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.
Walk along untouched, white-sand beaches with no resorts in sight.
Snorkel in crystal-clear lagoons, home to vibrant coral gardens.
Experience Maldivian village life, away from the typical tourist hotspots.
Best for: Travelers seeking a private, untouched island experience.
13. Dhonfanu – A Haven for Diving and Snorkeling
Located in Baa Atoll, Dhonfanu is one of the best islands for divers and snorkelers, with easy access to Hanifaru Bay.
Swim with manta rays and whale sharks during the peak migration season.
Stay in eco-friendly guesthouses, focusing on sustainable tourism.
Visit local farms and fishing villages to learn about Maldivian traditions.
Best for: Diving enthusiasts, eco-conscious travelers, and marine lovers.
14. Raa Atoll – The Rising Star of the Maldives
Raa Atoll is one of the newly developed luxury atolls, with a growing number of high-end resorts and untouched islands.
Stay in luxury resorts like Joali Maldives, featuring art-inspired villas.
Explore secluded sandbanks and lagoons, perfect for private getaways.
Discover vibrant coral reefs, untouched by mass tourism.
Best for: Luxury travelers, honeymooners, and island hoppers.
15. Haa Alifu Atoll – The Northernmost Atoll of the Maldives
For those wanting to go off the beaten path, Haa Alifu Atoll is remote, pristine, and rich in history.
Stay in private island resorts or guesthouses in Utheemu, the historical capital of the Maldives.
Visit Utheemu Palace, the birthplace of Sultan Mohamed Thakurufaanu, a Maldivian hero.
Dive in some of the Maldives’ most untouched reefs, far from tourist crowds.
Best for: History buffs, divers, and travelers seeking a truly remote experience.
16. Lhaviyani Atoll – The Atoll of Luxury & Adventure
Lhaviyani Atoll is home to some of the best all-inclusive resorts in the Maldives, offering a blend of adventure and relaxation.
Stay in 5-star resorts like Hurawalhi or Kuredu, offering overwater villas.
Go shark diving at Kuredu Express, a world-famous dive site.
Enjoy exclusive dining experiences, including underwater restaurants and floating breakfasts.
Best for: Luxury seekers, honeymooners, and adventure travelers.
17. Meemu Atoll – A Surfer’s Paradise
Meemu Atoll is famous for its consistent surf breaks and untouched natural beauty.
Ride the waves at Muli, one of the Maldives’ best surf spots.
Stay in eco-friendly guesthouses, focusing on sustainable island living.
Dive in Meemu’s untouched reefs, where manta rays and reef sharks are common sights.
Best for: Surfers, divers, and eco-conscious travelers.
18. Thinadhoo – A Pristine Local Island Experience
Thinadhoo is a small, peaceful island with no motorized vehicles, making it a great escape from modern life.
Enjoy long stretches of clean, secluded beaches.
Explore the coral reefs, which remain largely untouched by tourism.
Stay in small boutique guesthouses, experiencing true Maldivian hospitality.
Best for: Nature lovers, digital detox travelers, and those seeking peace and quiet.
19. Fihalhohi Island – The Best Affordable Resort Island
If you want the Maldives’ luxury experience without the high prices, Fihalhohi is a great choice.
Stay in affordable beachfront bungalows with stunning views.
Go on sunset dolphin cruises, one of the highlights of the island.
Snorkel right off the shore, with vibrant marine life just steps from your villa.
Best for: Mid-range travelers, couples, and first-time visitors.
20. Kudahuvadhoo – Home to Mysterious Ancient Ruins
Kudahuvadhoo is one of the most intriguing islands in the Maldives, with mystical stone ruins believed to predate Islam in the region.
Visit the mysterious ancient mosque ruins, featuring coral-stone carvings from an unknown civilization.
Experience local island life, away from the luxury resorts.
Dive in uncrowded waters, with healthy coral reefs and abundant marine life.
Best for: History enthusiasts, off-the-beaten-path travelers, and culture seekers.
21. Gulhi – The Best Local Island for an Authentic Maldivian Experience
Just a short speedboat ride from Malé, Gulhi is one of the most accessible and charming local islands.
Stay in family-run guesthouses, offering a warm, personal touch.
Relax on Gulhi’s Bikini Beach, one of the best public beaches in the Maldives.
Learn about traditional Maldivian fishing, or take a sunset fishing trip.
Best for: Budget travelers, solo explorers, and those looking for a mix of local life and stunning beaches.
22. Thoddoo – The Fruit Island of the Maldives
Thoddoo is famous for being the Maldives’ main agricultural island, producing sweet, juicy watermelons and tropical fruits.
Walk through fruit plantations, where you can taste fresh papayas, mangoes, and bananas.
Snorkel with sea turtles, a common sight in Thoddoo’s waters.
Stay in affordable boutique guesthouses, with a strong focus on eco-tourism.
Best for: Foodies, nature lovers, and those looking for an island escape without the crowds.
Top 10 Things to Do in the Maldives
1. Snorkel in Crystal-Clear Waters
The Maldives is a snorkeler’s dream, with shallow lagoons and vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Swim alongside sea turtles, manta rays, and colorful reef fish at iconic spots like Banana Reef and HP Reef—or try bioluminescent night snorkeling for a magical glow-in-the-dark adventure.
2. Dive Into World-Class Underwater Sanctuaries
For divers, the Maldives offers jaw-dropping encounters beneath the waves. Explore manta ray gatherings at Hanifaru Bay, dive deep at the Maldives Victory Wreck, or spot sharks in the remote waters of Fuvahmulah—known as the “Galápagos of the Maldives.”
3. Stay in an Overwater Villa
Experience true luxury in a villa suspended above the ocean. With glass floors, infinity pools, hammock nets, and ocean access just steps away, resorts like Soneva Jani and Gili Lankanfushi deliver once-in-a-lifetime moments with every sunrise.
4. Swim with Whale Sharks in South Ari Atoll
Get up close with the ocean’s gentle giants. South Ari Atoll is one of the best places in the world to swim with whale sharks year-round. Guided tours give you a safe, unforgettable way to encounter these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
5. Sail into the Sunset on a Dolphin Cruise
Watch pods of playful spinner dolphins leap beside your boat as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean. Choose a luxury yacht for a champagne toast or a traditional Maldivian dhoni for an authentic experience—it’s romance and nature rolled into one.
6. Picnic on a Private Sandbank
Escape to your tiny island for the day. A private sandbank picnic lets you enjoy fresh seafood and tropical fruits in complete seclusion, surrounded by turquoise waters as far as the eye can see. It’s the ultimate island fantasy.
7. Try Your Hand at Night Fishing
Embrace a centuries-old tradition with a night fishing trip under the stars. Using handlines instead of rods, catch snapper or grouper, then enjoy your fresh catch prepared at your resort. It’s peaceful, cultural, and surprisingly fun.
8. Explore the Colorful Streets of Malé
Don’t skip the capital—Malé offers a glimpse into local life. Visit the historic Old Friday Mosque made from coral stone, stroll through Sultan Park, or check out the lively fish market for a taste of daily island culture.
9. Surf the Legendary Waves
Yes, the Maldives has surf too! Head to Thulusdhoo or Himmafushi to catch perfect waves with minimal crowds. Surf charters are popular here, letting you chase the best swells across multiple islands.
10. Learn to Cook Maldivian Cuisine
Spice up your trip with a local cooking class. Learn how to prepare Maldivian favorites like Mas Huni (tuna and coconut) or Garudhiya (fish soup), guided by local chefs or home cooks who welcome you into their kitchens.
Whether you're diving with manta rays, sailing into the sunset, or learning to cook island-style, the Maldives is full of unforgettable moments beyond the beach.
Up next: essential tips before visiting the Maldives—to help you plan smart and travel stress-free.
Essential Travel Tips for the Maldives
The Maldives is a dream destination, but knowing a few key travel tips will help you make the most of your trip. From visa requirements to cultural etiquette, this Maldives Travel Guide covers everything you need to know before visiting this island paradise.
1. Best Time to Visit the Maldives
The Maldives enjoys warm, tropical weather year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your travel priorities.
Dry Season (November – April):
Best for beach vacations, clear skies, and luxury resort stays.
Peak tourist season, so resorts are pricier and more crowded.
Wet Season (May – October):
Best for budget travelers and surfers, with fewer crowds and lower hotel rates.
Afternoon showers and occasional storms, but still plenty of sunshine.
Best for Diving & Snorkeling:
Manta rays and whale sharks are best seen from June to October (Baa Atoll’s Hanifaru Bay).
Visibility is best from January to April, with crystal-clear waters.
2. Visa and Entry Requirements
The Maldives has a hassle-free entry process, making it easy for travelers to visit.
Visa-Free for All Nationalities: A 30-day visa on arrival is issued to all travelers free of charge.
Passport Requirements: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date.
COVID-19 & Health Guidelines: No PCR tests are required, but travel insurance covering COVID-19 is recommended.
Yellow Fever Vaccination: Required if you’re traveling from a country with yellow fever transmission.
3. Currency, Payments & Budgeting
Official Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), but USD is widely accepted at resorts.
Credit Cards: Most resorts, hotels, and restaurants accept Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.
Cash & ATMs:
Bring cash for local islands, as ATMs are limited outside Malé.
Local vendors, ferries, and small cafés prefer Maldivian Rufiyaa.
Budgeting Per Day:
Luxury Travelers: $500+ per day (overwater villas, fine dining, seaplane transfers).
Mid-Range Travelers: $150 – $300 per day (resort stays, island activities).
Budget Travelers: $50 – $100 per day (guesthouses, local ferries, and street food).
4. Cultural Etiquette & Local Customs
The Maldives is a Muslim-majority country, so respecting local customs is important, especially when visiting inhabited islands.
6. Internet & SIM Cards
Best Local SIM Cards: Dhiraagu and Ooredoo offer prepaid tourist SIMs with high-speed 4G internet.
Where to Buy: SIM cards are available at Velana International Airport, kiosks in Malé, and resort shops.
Free Wi-Fi: Available at most resorts, hotels, and cafés, but speeds may vary.
5. Festivals & Events in the Maldives
If you time your trip right, you may experience one of the Maldives’ cultural festivals.
Ramadan (Holidays Vary): Expect quieter local islands, but resorts remain fully operational.
Maldivian Independence Day (July 26): Parades and festivities across the country.
National Day (Changes Annually): Celebrated with fireworks and cultural performances.
Escape to the Maldives with Fun & Sun – Your Luxury Island Getaway
Craving barefoot luxury, turquoise waters, and unforgettable moments? This curated Fun & Sun Maldives itinerary takes you straight into a world of indulgence—perfect for couples, honeymooners, and anyone in need of a tropical reset.
Trip Highlights
Arrive in Malé and transfer via private speedboat to Anantara Dhigu Maldives
Stay in a stunning overwater villa with panoramic ocean views
Enjoy floating breakfasts, sunset dinners, and a USD 60 dining credit at Sea.Fire.Salt or Baan Huraa
Spend your days snorkeling, jet skiing, or relaxing at the luxury spa
Conclude with a peaceful sunrise and private transfer back to Malé International Airport
This escape includes private transfers, daily gourmet breakfasts, and luxury accommodations with free time to relax or explore with optional add-ons.