Welcome to the Maldives.

A destination that people don’t just visit but dream about.

Newlyweds imagine their honeymoon here.

Travelers save for years to experience it once in a lifetime.

Others return, chasing the same feeling.

When people talk about a true luxury escape, the Maldives always comes first.

Not only for its white-sand beaches.

Or its crystal-clear lagoons.

Or the famous over-water villas floating above the sea.

The Maldives is about privacy you can feel.

Moments that slow time.

Memories that stay long after the flight home.

Scattered across 26 natural atolls, each island offers a different story.

Some are made for romance.

Some for adventure.

Some for families.

From snorkeling straight off your villa to walking on a sandbank in the middle of the ocean.

To sunset cruises where dolphins swim beside your boat.

Fun & Sun Travel experts curated the best things to do in the Maldives, so you don’t just visit this paradise.

You experience it the right way.

Reading Recommendation: [ 22 Best Places to Visit in Maldives: Top Islands and Activities ]

Why the Maldives Is Unlike Any Other Destination?

Holidays to the Maldives take you to a string of discrete tropical islands called atolls.

Considered a destination for secluded beach holidays, where idyllic hotels and house reefs are supreme. 

The waters display their own brand of beauty; the white sands shine, and rows of palm trees stand tall along the shoreline.

Each of the 26 atolls in the land offers its own unique selling point.

The North and South Ari Atolls offer easy access to the Maldivian capital, Mâle, and the islands have a reputation for their world-class scuba sites.

The Maldives holiday promotes a well-known concept of "one island, one resort."

Reading Recommendation [ Best Time to Visit the Maldives For the Best Experience ]

Top Things to Do in the Maldives in 2026

1. Stay in an over-water villa

Over the lagoon, these over-water bungalows offer a rare sense of freedom and elevation.

A private lagoon and infinity pool extend outward, inviting slow days, timeless views, and starlit nights.

Indoors, soft light and natural materials create a calm ambiance for your holiday home in your over-water villa.

Lagoon vs Ocean Villas:

Our Fun & Sun travel experts recommend that you choose to book a stay in beach villas or over-water villas.

But what’s the difference between these two accommodations?

A beach villa in the Maldives:

Set on the sand with beach access, offering its own private slice of paradise. Lush greenery and the ocean nestle between them.

Booking a beach villa at Raffles will treat you to a luxurious retreat, complete with a private courtyard and pool area.

Over-water Villas:

Maldives over-water villas are another intriguing option. Stilts perch these villas.

You stay right above the lagoon! It’s like floating in a luxury cocoon above the water.

Over-water villas offer unique features, like iconic glass floors and ladders that lead into the water.

2. Snorkeling & Diving in Crystal-Clear Lagoons

With a reputation for over-the-top luxury. Think underwater restaurants and private water slides that drop you straight into the ocean.

Before resorts, pure diving and snorkeling formed the destination's roots, captivating divers.

Offers countless top places for snorkeling and diving since it contains thousands of islands and atolls.

Protip: 

To swim with manta rays & whale sharks, choose a UNESCO area like

Hanifaru Bay (Baa Atoll) and South Ari Atoll (SAMPA).

Maldives House Reefs Snorkeling:

A house reef is the coral reef that surrounds a resort island, located a few steps from the over-water villas.

In many destinations:

You must take a boat to reach the reefs.

Shallow water limits snorkeling.

Ocean currents scatter marine life.

But in the Maldives:

Coral reefs wrap around islands

Visibility is excellent

Marine life is abundant, and access is immediate.

You get out of your villa and start snorkeling. That's exactly the type of luxury the Maldives offers you as a tourist.

3. Relax on the Private Sandbank

One of the unique biological and geological features on the planet. Can you imagine that a new island formed, and you are the only one who created memories of it?

A sandbank is a natural underwater ridge made of sand, formed by currents in seas, often exposed at low tide.

It's like the tales of Atlantis, hidden and sacred within the depths of the sea, known only to you and your loved ones as cherished stories.

Pro Tip:

Savor lunch while feeling the warm sand between your toes and indulge in a picnic on the shores.

Also, remember to take amazing pictures for Instagram and social media.

4. Enjoy World-Class Spa & Wellness Experiences

A sanctuary of wellness, a destination where time slows down and the senses awaken. Resort islands across the Male Atolls offer many spa-focused experiences. The spas stand out with their unique offerings.

Including treatments in over-water tents, underwater altars, holistic healing programs, and over-water yoga sessions.

Romantic Things to Do in the Maldives (Couples & Honeymooners)

Maldives romantic delights have a romantic end.

In our humble opinion, Shakespeare would have loved to spend his honeymoon in the Maldives.

The land of romance offers countless unique and exquisite experiences for newlyweds and couples. Often considered the supreme honeymoon destination for several reasons.

Private islands, private bungalows, and lavish romance activities.

You and your lover alone on a secluded island sounds like the perfect honeymoon plan.

Let's discover the top things to do in the Maldives for newlyweds and romantic couples.

1. Sunset Cruises & Dolphin Watching

Couples can take a sunset cruise that sinks into the eye of the sun. While they watch the dolphins in indulgence together, they sip fancy champagne and enjoy the most beautiful view in the world.

Dhoni Cruise boats.

As curators, we would love to recommend the Male Holiday Luxe Stay and Dolphin Cruise at Raffles for you. 

Both of you will immerse yourselves in the serene beauty of the ocean with a luxurious Dhoni boat cruise. From breathtaking Dolphin Cruises on Dhoni boats and unforgettable moments.

This boat cruise will deliver the ultimate blend of romance and passion.

Champagne sunset cruise for couples

Most luxury resorts like Anantara, Four Seasons, and Baros offer this classic romantic experience.

The scene exudes luxury, romance, and natural beauty, painted in shades of pink and gold.

It showcases elegant yacht dinners, an infinity pool that mirrors the sky, and intimate moments that champagne toasts mark.

The gentle pace of the journey creates a tranquil setting perfect for couples as the sun sets over the shimmering turquoise lagoon.

 2. Private Beach Dining Under the Stars

Dining under the stars! Guided by lanterns to a table prepared in silence on a private beach! Stand inches from the pristine water!

Candles flicker in the breeze! And the sound of waves replaces the background music! Personal chef serving the food!

And the two of you laughing and flirting!

Sounds like a great, fancy honeymoon night activity.

This is the essence of your trip: beach dining under the stars. It sounds perfect.

It's all about turning the holiday into a fairytale story and an unforgettable moment.

3. Floating Breakfasts in Your Maldives Villa

A luxurious in-villa dining experience where a large tray of breakfast floats in your pool.

The perfect way to start your day. You can choose from continental, Full English, or a champagne breakfast.

Best for iconic photos and a serene start to the day, as couples on a holiday.

Offered by most 5-star resorts and usually costing extra, with prices varying by resort and itinerary.

Things to Do in the Maldives for Families with Kids

There is a myth that Maldives holidays are for couples and solo travelers only. But that's not true.

Let Fun and Sun explain to you why!

Families who choose the right resort discover a different side of the country. One with kids' clubs, marine adventures, shallow turquoise lagoons, and water sports that feels like a theme park.

Only with a better view.

It's not only for couples, but it's also for travelers who choose the proper island (one island, one resort).

 1. Kids Clubs & Family Resorts

Part of the joy of holidaying with your kids is going with the flow and satisfying the kid within you.

With all the family resort variety from:

Siyam World authenticity. Fairmont luxury activities. Hard Rock's vibrant vibes. Soneva Fushi (The Den) big pirate ship.

And don't forget Niyama Private Islands, with its extreme (but safe) kids' activities.

The Maldives is what we call the essence of a great family holiday.

2. Shallow Lagoon Swimming & Beach Play

Shallow lagoon

Shallow lagoon swimming in the Maldives is very safe for kids and fantastic for kids' amusement.

With top spots including:

Kandima, Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, and Meeru offer clear water. Perfect for beginner snorkeling, often found within family-centric resorts or local islands.

Rasdhoo Island provides a natural playground for the kids to enjoy their holiday in the Maldives.

Beach Play

The Maldives offers fantastic beach play for kids with soft sands for building castles.

Calm, shallow lagoons provide perfect splashing opportunities. Various resorts offer dedicated Kids' Clubs (like at Dhigali, SAii Hotels, One&Only). They organize treasure hunts, crafts, water games, and supervised fun.

Alongside family adventures like dolphin cruises, snorkeling, kayaking, and even teen clubs.

3. Water sports for kids

Your kids' holiday in the Maldives can include a fantastic range of activities, like water sports. Many resorts offer dedicated kids' programs and equipment for all skill levels, ensuring fun for everyone. 

Snorkeling:

Easy to learn, kids can discover vibrant coral reefs and charming tropical fish right off the beach or from a boat.

Glass-Bottom Boats/Semi-Submarines: 

Perfect for non-swimmers or younger kids, these allow them to see the dazzling marine life and the breathtaking coral gardens from a dry seat.

Kayaking & Paddleboarding:

Gliding across calm, shallow lagoons in a kayak or on a paddleboard? This is a peaceful and fun thing children can do in the Maldives.

Banana Boat & Fun Tube Rides:

These banana boat and tube rides offer exciting splashes and laughter, as kids hold on tight while bouncing over the waves in amusement.

Dolphin Watching & Gentle Sailing:

Taking a boat trip to see dolphins connects with the ocean, making it perfect for families who want to have fun in the Maldives.

Other Adventure & Water Activities in the Maldives

1. Scuba Diving for Beginners & Certified Divers

The Maldives is a fantastic destination for every type of visitor. Especially for those who want to try scuba diving for the first time.

Offering easy programs like (PADI), (DSD), and courses through many resorts and dive centers.

Discover Scuba Diving (DSD): 

Beginner scuba divers find the Kurumba Island shallow lagoons perfect.

DSD is a half-day experience with a breathing practice in shallow water and a supervised dive to 12m.

PADI schools.

PADI schools offer visitors an easy and fun way to learn scuba diving in the clear, shallow lagoons. You will learn from the finest certified professionals who specialize in beginner training.

Beginners will also see turtles, rays, and even reef sharks, creating unforgettable experiences. Making scuba diving for beginners the supreme thing to do on your next holiday.

Night diving.

The underwater world is a captivating place to be, but at night it takes on a whole new perspective.

Creatures like lionfish, moray eels, lobsters, and reef sharks venture out to hunt. The little guys, such as nudibranchs, shrimps, and crabs, emerge from hiding.

The bioluminescent plankton is the star of the show. This amazing light show sees the plankton sparkle like underwater stars.

The peaceful hush, the narrowed field of vision, and the pulse of the reef all combine to create a sensory adventure.

Night diving is not about what you perceive; it’s about how you will feel.

Beginners start in shallow lagoons, where tutors teach them basic skills before exploring the reefs.

2. Parasailing & Jet Ski Adventures

Parasailing & Jet Skiing is an exciting mix of breathtaking aerial views and ocean thrills. Letting you dive over turquoise lagoons in a parachute or zip across the crystal-clear water on a jet ski.

Parasailing

You're lifted high into the air by a parasail, offering amazing panoramic views of the reefs, tiny islands, and beautiful blue ocean. Consider it a peaceful flight high above, then a smooth descent, all towed by a boat.

It's safe for beginners, as they need no experience. The instructors ensure safety, making it accessible for everyone, including couples (tandem rides).

Jet Ski Adventures

Feel the adrenaline rush as you speed across the waves, enjoying a "white-knuckle" ride in the warm Maldivian waters. Available solo or with a partner, with some operators offering multi-hour tours.

Both experiences will be the highlights of your holiday. Offering unforgettable moments of pure joy, perfect for honeymooners, adventure lovers, and families.

3. Island-Hopping Excursions

Island hopping tours offer a way for travelers to experience local islands and sandbanks.

Popular islands for hopping excursions include

Maafushi, Kudahuvadhoo, Dhigurah, Gulhi, and Ukulhas.

Offering diverse experiences from surfing to marine conservation.

Considered one of the top things to do in the Maldives for tourists who are seeking adventure, local culture, and diverse marine life.

Male, Maldives, top attractions: Hukuru Miskiy, fish market, artificial beach

Maldives holidays are not only about visiting a fancy island or an opulent resort. Male is becoming a local and cultural tourism hub for the world and the GCC area.

Moving beyond luxury things to do to more authentic things to do in the Maldives, through local islands, traditional food, and culture.

The Maldives not only offers lavish resorts, but one of the top attractions of the Maldives is its local culture.

1. Visit Malé City (capital of the Maldives)

Malé is the bustling capital of the Maldives, an island nation in the Indian Ocean. It's known for its mosques, local markets, and vivid buildings.

Grand Friday Mosque:

Also known as the Hukuru Miskiy or Islamic Centre Mosque, it's the largest mosque in Male.

Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar I constructed Hukuru Miskiy in 1658 and considered the oldest building in Male. The builders constructed a minaret beside the mosque, and UNESCO added it to its Tentative List.

Tourists should visit the Grand Friday Mosque in Male for an original cultural soaking and stunning Islamic patterns.

Local markets:

markets centered on the bustling Fish Market and adjacent Local Market (for fruits/veg)

Offer fresh seafood, local bazaars, and local crafts like woven mats, coconut items, and miniature dhoni boats.

Souvenir shops and supermarkets provide a vibrant glimpse into Maldivian daily life.

Tourists should visit Male's local markets for cultural immersion, vibrant daily life, and fresh local food.

National Museum:

The prime minister, Mohamed Amin Didi, opened the first National Museum of the country on 11 November 1952.

Discovering ancient artifacts, the sultan's possessions, traditional crafts, historical coins, stamps, and boats. The National Museum in Male offers an experience of the nation's rich history beyond the fancy resorts.

Rather than their present-day stereotype.

The Male National Museum Tour provides visitors with a deeper cultural connection to the islands' past.

Maldives local island experiences: Maafushi, Dhigurah, and Fulidhoo cultural activities

Maafushi, Dhigurah, and Fulidhoo offer rich local experiences beyond resorts. Focusing on water activities.

Maafushi

The center of the South Male Atoll independent travel scene is the island of Maafushi.

With over 50 hotels and guesthouses. It is the most cultured and progressive inhabited island in the land of Male.

Day-in-the-life:

More “busy local island” energy. You’ll see scooters, small shops, guesthouses, and excursion boats going out all day. It feels social and active compared to quieter islands.

Cafes and crafts:

You’ll find plenty of casual cafes and souvenir shops. Typical local buys include sarongs, handmade jewelry, coconut-based products, and small handicrafts.

Cultural etiquette:

Wear modest clothes in town and keep swimwear for the designated bikini beach only.

The top thing to do on Maafushi Island is

Drum Rolling

A speedboat day trip for snorkeling and sandbanking. (Maafushi is one of the easiest hubs for excursions).

Dhigurah

Dhigurah Island is a local island in the South Ari Atoll, known for its long beaches, whale sharks, and guesthouses.

Day-in-life:

You embrace a slower, calmer, and more "barefoot island life." As you take long beach walks, ride bikes, and find that peaceful rhythm where the sea and sun become your besties. Making your Dhigurah holiday unforgettable.

Dhigurah is also known for its long “bikini beach” stretch.

Cultural etiquette:

Same local-island rule:

Modest clothing in public areas, swimwear only at the bikini beach.

The top thing to do in the Dhigurah, Mahal Dibiyat, is:

Turtle snorkeling (Dhigurah is especially popular for snorkeling-focused trips and holidays).

Fulidhoo

Small, local, and community-driven. If you want an authentic thing to do in the Fulidhoo, Vaavu Atoll! This tour will fulfill your urge for a perfect, authentic holiday.

Day-in-the-life:

Daytime feels quiet, and in the evenings, the island turns cultural and lively when performances happen. The most famous performance in Fulidhoo is its traditional Maldivian cultural dances. Especially Boduberu (big drum) and Langiri Jehun.

We recommend guided Fulidhoo tours for these performances.

Cafes and crafts:

Expect a few small cafes and very local, simple shopping. The “craft” here is less about shopping streets and more about experiencing living culture. We love to call it the "how to live" craft.

Cultural etiquette:

Be respectful in clothing and behavior (especially around the mosque and in the village). Keep beachwear for tourist beach areas only.

Top 1 thing to do:

Bodu Beru cultural night (traditional drumming performance). Fulidhoo is specifically known for Boduberu and other folk dances like Langiri Jehun and Fathigandu Jehun.

Discover Maldivian Cuisine & Traditions

Kudahuvadhoo, Dhaalu Atoll, is recommended to try local Maldivian food.

Mas Huni:

Mas Huni (or Mashuni) is a traditional and very popular Maldivian breakfast dish. It is a simple, flavorful mixture made from tropical chopped tuna, onion, grated coconut, chili, and lime juice.

The name translates to "mixed fish" ("mas" meaning fish, "huni" meaning coconut).

Garudhiya:

Garudhiya is a fundamental broth in Maldivian cuisine.

A staple made by simmering tuna with water, salt, and sometimes onions or curry leaves.

Representing the islands' deep connection to the sea, they serve it with rice, lime, and chili.

Coconut-based food:

Coconut is the heart of Maldivian cuisine, used in almost every form. Milk, oil, grated flesh, and water.

Coconut creates staple dishes like:

Mas Huni (tuna, coconut, onion breakfast mix with roshi flatbread).

Creamy curries (Dhon Riha).

Sweet snacks like Gabulhi Boakiba (coconut & cassava cake).

Refreshing coconut water (Kurumba).

And even the prized sweet Mudi Kaashi (sprouted coconut apple).

Unique Experiences Only Found in the Maldives

1. Underwater Restaurants

Dining below sea level. Surrounded by coral reefs, with fish gliding past your table.

Underwater restaurants in the Maldives are a true bucket-list experience.

Glass walls reveal a living aquarium while chefs serve fine-dining menus inspired by the ocean.

Known for its limited availability, high demand, and unforgettable memories.

Top underwater dining experiences include:

Ithaa Undersea Restaurant (Conrad Maldives)

SEA Restaurant (Anantara Kihavah)

5.8 Undersea Restaurant (Hurawalhi)

This is not another dinner with your loved ones. It’s a story you will tell forever.

Final Thoughts: Why the Maldives Is Always Worth It

The Maldives is not a destination you simply visit.

It’s a destination you feel.

From waking up above turquoise lagoons.

To go snorkeling straight from your villa.

To quiet sandbanks where time disappears.

Whether you travel as a couple, a family, or a solo explorer.

Whether you choose luxury resorts or local islands.

The Maldives gives you something rare:

Space.

Privacy.

Memories that stay vivid long after the journey ends.

And that’s why the Maldives is always worth it.