Things To Do
in Maldives
The Maldives is a tropical archipelago of 26 atolls scattered across the Indian Ocean, famed for crystal-clear lagoons and pristine white-sand beaches. Its iconic overwater bungalows and vibrant reefs create a postcard-perfect paradise for Beach Lovers and Divers alike. Marine life thrives here, from manta rays to gentle whale sharks, drawing snorkelers and divers year-round.
Beyond the luxury resorts, inhabited islands preserve warm Maldivian hospitality and a rich, maritime culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Male International Airport, where a warm welcome awaits you with a refreshing coconut drink. Take a seaplane ride that offers breathtaking aerial views of the atolls as you approach your resort. Once you check in, take a moment to settle into your beachfront villa and soak in the vibrant surroundings.
After lunch, embark on a guided tour of the nearby island to immerse yourself in local culture and traditions. Visit quaint shops and sample traditional Maldivian snacks from friendly local vendors. As the sun begins to set, find a perfect spot on the beach to witness the stunning colors that light up the horizon.
Enjoy a seafood dinner under a starlit sky at your resort’s promising restaurant. Participate in a lively cultural show showcasing traditional dance and music, connecting with the rich heritage of the Maldives. Wind down with a soothing beach walk, listening to the gentle waves lapping the shore.
After a delicious breakfast, gear up for an exhilarating snorkeling trip to explore the vibrant coral reefs surrounding the resort. Swim alongside colorful fish, majestic sea turtles, and if you're lucky, playful dolphins. The crystal-clear waters invite you to discover the underwater treasure that makes the Maldives famous.
Return to the resort for a leisurely lunch before joining a marine biologist for a workshop on reef conservation. This educational experience not only enhances your appreciation for marine life but allows you to contribute to important preservation efforts. Spend the remaining afternoon basking on the pristine beach or lounging by the infinity pool.
Savor gourmet Maldivian cuisine in a beachside shack that offers an unforgettable dining experience. Share stories with fellow travelers as the day transitions into night, setting the perfect ambiance for relaxation. Conclude your evening with an intimate bonfire under the stars, sipping cocktail delights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant | $30-60 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within Malé or between nearby islands | $5-20 |
| 🛏️Hotel night (mid-range) | $100-250 |
| 🧳Souvenirs / small shopping | $10-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty and world-class snorkeling/diving
- Wide range of resorts and island-hopping experiences
- Alcohol is restricted on local islands; resort-centric nightlife
- Cost of living can be high, especially on premium properties
- "Assalaamu alaikum" - Hello / greetings
- "Shukuriyaa" - Thank you
- "Kihineh English?" - Do you speak English?
- "Barakah" - Please
Places to Visit in Maldives
Visit one of these nice places.
A world-renowned wall reef in the South Malé Atoll offering vibrant corals and abundant reef fish, perfect for wide-angle and macro photography.
One of the oldest and most famous reefs with dramatic ledges and blue hues—ideal for dramatic underwater shots.
Seasonal gathering spot for manta rays; photograph these majestic filter feeders as they glide past the reef.
Intricate coral-stone architecture and lantern-lit facades provide dramatic exterior photography at dusk.
A famous night photography spot where bioluminescent plankton light up the shoreline, creating a celestial glow in the water.
Food in Maldives
Maldives Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Shredded smoked tuna with coconut, onions, and chili, typically served with roshi (flatbread) at breakfast.
Must-Try!
Fragrant tuna broth served with lime, chili, and onions, often eaten with rice or roshi.
Tuna-filled fried pastries, a popular snack found at markets and eateries.
Spiced tuna cake served as a flavorful snack or starter.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Early-morning hub of fresh catches with nearby stalls offering quick bites and fried seafood snacks.
Small markets and kiosks offering tropical fruits, curries, and hedhikaa snacks on inhabited islands.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Shoulders and knees should be covered in public on inhabited islands and when away from resort areas; resort beaches have more relaxed norms.
Alcohol is restricted to resort premises on local islands. Always ask before photographing locals, especially on smaller islands or in religious areas.
Remove shoes before entering mosques and dress modestly. Seek permission if needed and adhere to local guidance.
Safety
Tipping in Maldives
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. A small sum (5-10%) for good service at restaurants or guides, and a few rufiyaa for housekeeping, is common in resorts.
Major credit cards are widely accepted at resorts and many businesses. Cash (Maldivian Rufiyaa, MVR) is useful on local islands and for small purchases; ATMs are common in Malé and some inhabited islands.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Calm seas, high visibility, and sunny days make this the best time for snorkeling, diving, and island-hopping. Expect little rain and pleasant evenings—perfect for outdoor activities and photography.
More rain and higher humidity with occasional storms. Seas can be rougher on some atolls, but visibility remains good in many sites between showers; this period is still viable for diving and resort-based activities with flexible plans.
Maldives at Night
Hiking in Maldives
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A coastal walk on Hulhumalé with dunes and shoreline views; a gentle outdoor option on the edge of Malé.
Casual nature trails on larger local islands offering coastal scenery and birdlife.
Airports
How to reach Maldives by plane.
Main gateway near Malé; transfers to resorts and local islands by speedboat or domestic flight.
Located on Addu Atoll; serves regional flights and connections to Malé for inter-atoll travel.
Serves the northern atolls; frequent domestic connections to Malé and other atolls.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Dhivehi-speaking native population with a strong fishing and maritime heritage.
A sizable workforce in the resort sector and international residents contributing to the service economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
World-class sites and abundant marine life across atolls.
Short breaks and beginner-friendly waves on certain atolls.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available around resorts and on many local islands; ask for vegetable curries, dhal, and coconut-based dishes. On local islands, meals may be fish-forward, so communicate dietary needs in advance and consider resort options for broader vegetarian menus.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Maldives.