Maldives - Maldives

Maldives

Maldives, Asia

Overview

Maldives, island nation in Indian Ocean, world's top resort destination. Crystal waters, white sand, one island one resort.

Best Time to Visit

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Nov-Apr dry season, sunny weather ideal for vacation

Top Attractions

1

水上屋

Water Villas

2

珊瑚礁浮潜

Coral Reef Snorkeling

3

海底餐厅

Underwater Restaurant

4

水疗中心

Spa Center

5

日落巡航

Sunset Cruise

Getting to Know Maldives

The Maldives, a tropical paradise of 1,192 coral islands scattered across the Indian Ocean, represents the ultimate luxury beach destination. Famous for its overwater villas, crystal-clear lagoons, and some of the world's best diving and snorkeling, the Maldives offers an unparalleled escape from everyday life. Each resort occupies its own private island, providing exclusivity and intimacy that honeymooners and luxury travelers dream of. The underwater world here is extraordinary—swim with manta rays, whale sharks, and explore vibrant coral gardens. While known for high-end resorts, the Maldives now offers guesthouses on local islands for budget-conscious travelers. Whether you seek romance, adventure, or pure relaxation, the Maldives delivers with world-class spas, gourmet dining, and sunsets that paint the sky in impossible colors.

Sample Itineraries

5-Day Maldives Experience Day 1: Arrival & Paradise Introduction - Arrive at Malé Airport - Seaplane or speedboat transfer to resort - Check into overwater or beach villa - Sunset cocktails and welcome dinner - Stargazing from your deck

Day 2: Water Activities - Sunrise yoga or beach walk - Snorkeling house reef exploration - Lunch at overwater restaurant - Diving excursion (discover dive or certified) - Spa treatment - Romantic dinner on the beach

Day 3: Island Exploration - Dolphin watching sunrise cruise - Visit local island (cultural experience) - Traditional Maldivian lunch - Kayaking or paddleboarding - Sunset fishing trip - BBQ dinner

Day 4: Ultimate Relaxation - Sleep in, breakfast in villa - Overwater spa experience - Underwater restaurant lunch (if available) - Float therapy or couples treatment - Sandbank picnic at sunset - Chef's table dinner

Day 5: Departure - Final sunrise swim - Leisurely breakfast - Last-minute snorkeling - Transfer to Malé - Airport departure

Essential Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: November to April (dry season) offers best weather. December-January is peak season. May-October is monsoon season—still beautiful but occasional rain and better diving on certain atolls.
Getting There: International flights to Malé (MLE). Resorts arrange transfers—seaplane (scenic, $300-600 round trip), speedboat (closer islands), or domestic flights + speedboat.
Accommodation Types: Overwater villas are iconic but beach villas offer garden privacy. Water villas often have direct lagoon access and glass floors. Book well in advance for peak season.
Budget Options: Guesthouses on local islands (Maafushi, Thulusdhoo) cost $50-150/night vs $500-2000+ at resorts. Day trips to sandbanks and snorkeling still available.
What to Bring: Reef-safe sunscreen (mandatory), underwater camera, light beach clothing. Resorts are casual—no need for formal wear. Modest clothing for local island visits.
Must-Do Experiences: Snorkel/dive with manta rays, underwater restaurant dining, sunset dolphin cruise, private sandbank picnic, night snorkeling with bioluminescence, spa over the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days do I need in the Maldives?

5-7 days is ideal for relaxation and water activities. 4 days is minimum. Longer stays allow island hopping to multiple resorts or combining resort + local island experience.

Is the Maldives expensive?

Resorts are expensive ($500-3000+/night). All-inclusive packages offer better value. Local island guesthouses start at $50-100/night but offer different experience. Budget $200-300/day at resorts, $50-100 on local islands.

Can I visit the Maldives on a budget?

Yes! Local island guesthouses offer affordable stays with beach access, snorkeling, and day trips. Maafushi is popular for budget travelers. Expect $80-150/day including accommodation, meals, and activities.

What should I know about alcohol in the Maldives?

The Maldives is a Muslim country. Alcohol is only available at resorts and tourist-designated areas. It's prohibited on local islands and in Malé. Resorts have well-stocked bars. Don't try to bring alcohol into the country.

When is the best time for diving and snorkeling?

Year-round diving is excellent. Manta rays: May-November (best June-October). Whale sharks: Year-round but best during plankton blooms. Visibility: Best January-April. Each side of atolls has optimal seasons.

Overview

Recommended Stay

4-7 days

Budget Estimate
Budget$200
Moderate$400
Luxury$1000

per person per day

Practical Information

Language

Dhivehi, English

Currency

MVR

Voltage

230V

Visa Requirements

Visa-free for most nationalities (30 days)

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