12 Top
Tourist Destinations in Maldives – A Complete Travel Guide
The Maldives, a tropical paradise in the
Indian Ocean, is known for its turquoise waters, overwater villas, coral reefs,
and white sandy beaches. Whether you’re a honeymooner, diver, or beach lover,
the Maldives offers a dream escape. Here’s a detailed guide to the top 12
tourist spots with essential travel information.
1. Malé
Malé, the vibrant capital of the Maldives, is a blend
of local culture and modernity. This bustling island city offers a taste of
authentic Maldivian life with colorful buildings, local markets, and historical
landmarks like the 17th-century Hukuru Miskiy mosque. Despite its small size,
Malé is packed with experiences—from visiting the National Museum to strolling along
the lively Artificial Beach. The city serves as a great starting point before
heading off to the tranquil islands.
Highlights:
- 🛫 Route: Direct flights to
Velana International Airport; 10-minute ferry to Malé.
- 🏝️ Places to Visit: Hukuru Miskiy, Sultan Park,
National Museum, Fish Market.
- 🗣️ Language: Dhivehi; English is widely spoken.
- 💳 Cash or Card: Cards
accepted in most places, but keep USD/MVR cash for markets.
- 🎒 Things to Carry:
Sunscreen, light clothing, umbrella, reusable water bottle.
- 🛏️ Best Safe Stay: Central Malé; mid-range hotels
from ₹6,000/night.
- 🧳 Precautions & Expenses:
Beware of pickpockets in crowded markets; daily budget ₹8,000–₹10,000.
- 🍛 Local Foods: Mas Huni,
Garudhiya soup, Hedhikaa snacks.
- 🛍️ Shopping Spots: Majeedhee Magu street; local
sarongs, handicrafts, fish products.
- 🕒 Minimum Time Needed: 1
day.
- 👥 Avg. Expenses for 2 Persons:
₹20,000 (stay, food, transport).
- 🛡️ Safety Tips: Avoid late-night walks in
unfamiliar alleys.
- 🚰 Water Advice: Drink
bottled water only.
- 📶 Connectivity: Good mobile
& Wi-Fi networks.
2. Maafushi Island
Maafushi is a budget-friendly island ideal for
travelers seeking an authentic Maldivian experience. Known for its friendly
locals and growing guesthouse culture, it offers beautiful beaches, water
sports, and proximity to resort excursions. It’s perfect for snorkeling,
diving, and dolphin watching while staying within budget.
Highlights:
- 🛫 Route: Speedboat from Malé
(35-40 mins).
- 🏝️ Places to Visit: Bikini Beach, Coral Garden,
sandbanks.
- 🗣️ Language: Dhivehi; English spoken in
guesthouses.
- 💳 Cash or Card: Cash
preferred in local shops.
- 🎒 Things to Carry: Snorkel
gear, swimwear, sunhat.
- 🛏️ Best Safe Stay: Guesthouses; ₹4,000–₹6,000 per
night.
- 🧳 Precautions & Expenses:
Respect local customs; daily budget ₹7,000.
- 🍛 Local Foods: Grilled fish,
Maldivian curry, coconuts.
- 🛍️ Shopping Spots: Beach stalls with souvenirs
& handmade jewelry.
- 🕒 Minimum Time Needed: 2
days.
- 👥 Avg. Expenses for 2 Persons:
₹30,000 (including water activities).
- 🛡️ Safety Tips: No alcohol allowed; dress
modestly outside beach zones.
- 🚰 Water Advice: Stick to
bottled water.
- 📶 Connectivity: Good Wi-Fi
in accommodations.
3. Hulhumalé
A planned city close to the airport, Hulhumalé blends
urban design with beach vibes. It's less crowded than Malé and features
artificial beaches, parks, and clean streets. It’s perfect for couples or solo
travelers seeking convenience and relaxation before heading to remote islands.
Highlights:
- 🛫 Route: 15-minute taxi from
Malé Airport.
- 🏝️ Places to Visit: Hulhumalé Central Park,
Beachfront, Mosque.
- 🗣️ Language: Dhivehi; English widely spoken.
- 💳 Cash or Card: Both
accepted.
- 🎒 Things to Carry: Swim
gear, camera, flip-flops.
- 🛏️ Best Safe Stay: Beachfront guesthouses;
₹5,000–₹8,000.
- 🧳 Precautions & Expenses:
Quiet area, low risk; daily budget ₹6,000–₹8,000.
- 🍛 Local Foods: Tuna
sandwiches, street seafood, coconut desserts.
- 🛍️ Shopping Spots: STO Trade Centre, Nala
Boutique.
- 🕒 Minimum Time Needed: 1
day.
- 👥 Avg. Expenses for 2 Persons:
₹22,000.
- 🛡️ Safety Tips: Very safe; be cautious on
isolated beaches at night.
- 🚰 Water Advice: Drink
filtered or bottled water.
- 📶 Connectivity: Excellent.
4. Baa Atoll
A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Baa Atoll is famous for
Hanifaru Bay where you can swim with manta rays and whale sharks during the
season. The coral reefs here are spectacular, and the marine biodiversity is
unmatched. It’s a haven for nature lovers and scuba divers.
Highlights:
- 🛫 Route: Domestic flight +
speedboat from Malé (~1.5 hrs).
- 🏝️ Places to Visit: Hanifaru Bay, Dharavandhoo,
Fulhadhoo.
- 🗣️ Language: Dhivehi; English at resorts.
- 💳 Cash or Card: Cards at
resorts; cash in villages.
- 🎒 Things to Carry: Dive log,
underwater camera, eco-sunscreen.
- 🛏️ Best Safe Stay: Eco-resorts & guesthouses;
₹9,000–₹15,000.
- 🧳 Precautions & Expenses:
Marine fees apply; budget ₹12,000/day.
- 🍛 Local Foods: Fish curry,
coconut bread, tropical fruits.
- 🛍️ Shopping Spots: Local markets with seashell
crafts.
- 🕒 Minimum Time Needed: 2–3
days.
- 👥 Avg. Expenses for 2 Persons:
₹45,000–₹50,000.
- 🛡️ Safety Tips: Follow reef-safe diving rules.
- 🚰 Water Advice: Resorts
provide purified water.
- 📶 Connectivity: Available,
but patchy offshore.
5. Vaadhoo Island
Vaadhoo is world-renowned for its mesmerizing “Sea of Stars” phenomenon,
where the shores light up at night due to bioluminescent plankton. It’s a
magical experience best seen between June and October. The island is peaceful,
ideal for a romantic getaway or honeymoon experience with minimal tourist
crowds.
Highlights:
- 🛫 Route: Domestic flight to
Ifuru + speedboat (approx. 2 hrs).
- 🏝️ Places to Visit: Bioluminescent beach, local
villages.
- 🗣️ Language: Dhivehi; basic English in tourism
areas.
- 💳 Cash or Card: Carry cash
(USD/MVR).
- 🎒 Things to Carry: Camera,
flashlight, bug repellent.
- 🛏️ Best Safe Stay: Local guesthouses;
₹4,000–₹6,000 per night.
- 🧳 Precautions & Expenses:
Budget ₹6,000–₹9,000/day.
- 🍛 Local Foods: Seafood BBQ,
coconut bread.
- 🛍️ Shopping Spots: Handicraft shops (basic).
- 🕒 Minimum Time Needed: 1
night for full bioluminescent effect.
- 👥 Avg. Expenses for 2 Persons:
₹22,000.
- 🛡️ Safety Tips: Wear beach shoes at night.
- 🚰 Water Advice: Bottled
only.
- 📶 Connectivity: Limited;
ideal for digital detox.
6. Addu Atoll (Seenu Atoll)
Addu Atoll is the southernmost part of Maldives and the
only area south of the equator. It's famous for its historical British base,
long causeways, and untouched dive sites. The island has a unique charm, with
less commercial tourism and more local interactions.
Highlights:
- 🛫 Route: 90-minute flight
from Malé to Gan Airport.
- 🏝️ Places to Visit: Gan Island, British Loyalty
shipwreck, Eedhigali Kilhi nature park.
- 🗣️ Language: Dhivehi; locals understand basic
English.
- 💳 Cash or Card: Cash
preferred.
- 🎒 Things to Carry:
Snorkeling gear, reef shoes, travel diary.
- 🛏️ Best Safe Stay: Gan Island guesthouses;
₹4,500–₹7,000.
- 🧳 Precautions & Expenses:
Daily spend ₹7,000–₹10,000.
- 🍛 Local Foods: Reef fish,
spicy curries, breadfruit.
- 🛍️ Shopping Spots: Local craft markets in Feydhoo
and Hithadhoo.
- 🕒 Minimum Time Needed: 2–3
days.
- 👥 Avg. Expenses for 2 Persons:
₹38,000.
- 🛡️ Safety Tips: Safe zone; rent a cycle to
explore.
- 🚰 Water Advice: Drink
bottled water.
- 📶 Connectivity: Decent.
7. Fuvahmulah
A single-island atoll, Fuvahmulah offers a unique
landscape of freshwater lakes, black pebble beaches, and exotic flora. It’s a
paradise for experienced divers thanks to frequent tiger shark sightings and
rare coral species. Unlike other islands, it's more self-sustained and
community-driven.
Highlights:
- 🛫 Route: 1.5-hour flight
from Malé.
- 🏝️ Places to Visit: Thoondu Beach, Bandaara Kilhi
lake, diving points.
- 🗣️ Language: Dhivehi; limited English.
- 💳 Cash or Card: Carry cash
for ease.
- 🎒 Things to Carry: Dive
logbook, local SIM card, insect repellent.
- 🛏️ Best Safe Stay: Local homestays;
₹4,000–₹6,500.
- 🧳 Precautions & Expenses:
Budget ₹7,000/day.
- 🍛 Local Foods: Fried yams,
fish rice, sweet coconut puddings.
- 🛍️ Shopping Spots: Local markets for handmade
crafts.
- 🕒 Minimum Time Needed: 2
days.
- 👥 Avg. Expenses for 2 Persons:
₹30,000–₹35,000.
- 🛡️ Safety Tips: Avoid lake areas after dark.
- 🚰 Water Advice: Boiled or
bottled.
- 📶 Connectivity: Patchy but
available.
8. Dhigurah Island
Dhigurah is a long, narrow island perfect for couples
and photographers. It’s one of the few places where you can spot whale sharks
year-round. Its soft sand beaches, shallow lagoons, and diving centers make it
a popular eco-tourism destination.
Highlights:
- 🛫 Route: Domestic flight +
speedboat from Malé (~2 hrs).
- 🏝️ Places to Visit: Long Beach, coral reef dives,
Whale Shark Zone.
- 🗣️ Language: Dhivehi and English.
- 💳 Cash or Card: Mostly cash.
- 🎒 Things to Carry: Action
camera, reef-friendly sunscreen, hat.
- 🛏️ Best Safe Stay: Boutique guesthouses;
₹6,000–₹8,000.
- 🧳 Precautions & Expenses:
Plan ahead for diving; ₹8,000–₹10,000/day.
- 🍛 Local Foods: Coconut fish
curry, roshi (flatbread), mango desserts.
- 🛍️ Shopping Spots: Local beachside vendors.
- 🕒 Minimum Time Needed: 2
days.
- 👥 Avg. Expenses for 2 Persons:
₹38,000–₹42,000.
- 🛡️ Safety Tips: Stick to designated swim zones.
- 🚰 Water Advice: Bottled
only.
- 📶 Connectivity: Good in
guesthouses.
9. Thulusdhoo Island
Thulusdhoo is famous among surfers for its impressive
waves and is known as the home of the Coca-Cola Surf Break. It’s perfect for
adventure seekers who also want a taste of village life. You’ll find local
culture, music, and handicrafts blending well with water sports.
Highlights:
- 🛫 Route: Speedboat from Malé
(25 mins).
- 🏝️ Places to Visit: Cokes Surf Point, local market,
reef snorkeling areas.
- 🗣️ Language: Dhivehi; English understood.
- 💳 Cash or Card: Cash for
smaller shops.
- 🎒 Things to Carry: Surfboard
(optional), rash guard, GoPro.
- 🛏️ Best Safe Stay: Surf guesthouses;
₹5,000–₹7,000.
- 🧳 Precautions & Expenses:
Adventure insurance recommended; daily ₹7,000–₹9,000.
- 🍛 Local Foods: Grilled fish,
papaya salad, coconut water.
- 🛍️ Shopping Spots: Artisanal wood and coral
souvenirs.
- 🕒 Minimum Time Needed: 2
days.
- 👥 Avg. Expenses for 2 Persons:
₹32,000.
- 🛡️ Safety Tips: Mind strong currents during
surfing.
- 🚰 Water Advice: Only
bottled.
- 📶 Connectivity: Strong
signals and cafes with Wi-Fi.
10. Veligandu Island
Known for luxury overwater villas and crystal-clear
lagoons, Veligandu is a romantic escape. Ideal for honeymooners, it offers
high-end amenities, fine dining, and privacy. The island is all about
relaxation, with options like spa treatments and sunset cruises.
Highlights:
- 🛫 Route: Seaplane from Malé
(~20 mins).
- 🏝️ Places to Visit: Private beach, lagoon, resort
spa.
- 🗣️ Language: English and Dhivehi.
- 💳 Cash or Card: Mostly
card-based transactions.
- 🎒 Things to Carry: Formal
beachwear, credit card, underwater camera.
- 🛏️ Best Safe Stay: Veligandu Island Resort;
₹20,000–₹30,000/night.
- 🧳 Precautions & Expenses:
Luxury rates; daily spend ₹15,000–₹20,000.
- 🍛 Local Foods: Gourmet
seafood, tropical mocktails.
- 🛍️ Shopping Spots: Resort boutique.
- 🕒 Minimum Time Needed: 2–3
days.
- 👥 Avg. Expenses for 2 Persons:
₹85,000–₹90,000.
- 🛡️ Safety Tips: Follow resort guidelines for
ocean safety.
- 🚰 Water Advice: Filtered
water provided.
- 📶 Connectivity: Excellent.
11. Ukulhas Island
Ukulhas is an eco-friendly island known for its
cleanliness, organized layout, and vibrant marine life. Ideal for snorkeling
and reef exploration, it’s also one of the few islands actively involved in
environmental conservation. A peaceful alternative to touristy resorts.
Highlights:
- 🛫 Route: Speedboat or ferry
from Malé (~1.5 hrs).
- 🏝️ Places to Visit: Coral Garden, Eco Beach.
- 🗣️ Language: Dhivehi and English.
- 💳 Cash or Card: Mostly cash.
- 🎒 Things to Carry:
Biodegradable toiletries, reef shoes.
- 🛏️ Best Safe Stay: Eco guesthouses;
₹4,500–₹6,000.
- 🧳 Precautions & Expenses:
Respect eco rules; budget ₹6,000/day.
- 🍛 Local Foods: Reef tuna,
banana fritters.
- 🛍️ Shopping Spots: Limited souvenir shops.
- 🕒 Minimum Time Needed: 2
days.
- 👥 Avg. Expenses for 2 Persons:
₹28,000–₹32,000.
- 🛡️ Safety Tips: Respect conservation areas.
- 🚰 Water Advice: Filtered
available.
- 📶 Connectivity: Good.
12. Rasdhoo Island
Rasdhoo is a diver’s paradise, offering clear waters,
hammerhead shark sightings, and affordable diving schools. It’s perfect for
both certified divers and beginners. The laid-back atmosphere makes it a
favorite for solo travelers and young couples.
Highlights:
- 🛫 Route: Speedboat from Malé
(~1.5 hrs).
- 🏝️ Places to Visit: Rasdhoo Reef, Madivaru
Finolhu.
- 🗣️ Language: Dhivehi and English.
- 💳 Cash or Card: Cash for
most.
- 🎒 Things to Carry: Dive
certification, light wetsuit.
- 🛏️ Best Safe Stay: Guesthouses; ₹5,000–₹6,500.
- 🧳 Precautions & Expenses:
Dive safely; ₹8,000–₹9,000/day.
- 🍛 Local Foods: Fried reef
fish, fruit platters.
- 🛍️ Shopping Spots: Small dive gear stores.
- 🕒 Minimum Time Needed: 2–3
days.
- 👥 Avg. Expenses for 2 Persons:
₹35,000–₹40,000.
- 🛡️ Safety Tips: Strictly follow dive briefings.
- 🚰 Water Advice: Bottled
preferred.
- 📶 Connectivity: Reliable.
Adv
📍
Recommended Order to Visit All 12 Destinations
To
minimize travel time and costs, follow a north-to-south
itinerary:
1.
Malé (Arrival & Explore capital)
2.
Hulhumalé (connected to Malé
by bridge)
3.
Thulusdhoo Island (short speedboat
from Malé)
4.
Maafushi Island (south of Malé)
5.
Ukulhas Island (north Ari Atoll)
6.
Rasdhoo Island (near Ukulhas)
7.
Dhigurah Island (central Ari
Atoll)
8.
Vaadhoo Island (Raa Atoll, by
transfer)
9.
Fuvahmulah Island (far south, by
domestic flight)
10.
Addu Atoll (Seenu) (southernmost,
direct flight from Fuvahmulah)
11.
Veligandu Island (luxury stop near
end of trip)
12.
Back to Malé & Departure
✈️ Use a mix of speedboats, domestic flights, and 1–2 seaplane
transfers for remote islands.
⚠️ Precautions for the Maldives Trip
- 🧾 Entry Rules: No visa
required for Indians, but carry passport with 6 months validity and
confirmed hotel bookings.
- 💳 Currency: US Dollars are
widely accepted; carry some Maldivian Rufiyaa for local islands.
- 💧 Water Safety: Drink only
bottled or filtered water.
- 🩳 Dress Code: Modest dress
in local islands; swimsuits only in designated bikini beaches or resorts.
- 🚑 Health: Basic medical care
available; bring personal medications and mosquito repellents.
- 📵 Connectivity: Buy a local
SIM (Dhiraagu or Ooredoo) at the airport for internet.
- 🌊 Activity Safety: Always
follow dive/snorkel guides; wear life vests during transfers.
- 🔋 Power Supply: 230V,
UK-type plug (carry a universal adapter).
- 🛍️ Shopping: Bargain only in local markets; avoid
coral or shell exports.
- ☀️ Sun Protection: Reef-safe sunscreen,
sunglasses, and hats are must-haves.
- 🛑 Emergency: Dial 119
(police) or 102 (ambulance) in Maldives.
Disclaimer: This blog is for
informational purposes only. Travel costs, weather conditions, and policies may
change over time. Please verify travel details, visa requirements, and health
advisories before booking your trip. Always respect local customs and travel
responsibly.
#MaldivesTravel #MaldivesHolidays #VisitMaldives #MaldivesTourism #BeachParadise #TopPlacesMaldives #BudgetMaldives #IslandVacation #MaldivesForCouples #MaldivesGuide
top places to visit
in Maldives, Maldives travel guide, budget Maldives vacation, tourist
attractions in Maldives, Maldives for honeymoon, Maldives itinerary, best local
islands Maldives
