Tourism in Maldives

Explore notable sights and destinations in this country

Africa / Indian Ocean Islands

Tourist attractions

Hanifaru Bay

Region: Baa Atoll

Natural

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve lagoon where large groups of manta rays and whale sharks gather.

Islamic Centre & Grand Friday Mosque

Region: Male Island

Cultural Heritage

The country''s largest mosque with a symbolic golden dome, completed in 1984.

Maldives National Museum

Region: Male Island

Cultural Heritage

National museum displaying artifacts from the Sultanate period and ancient Buddhist relics.

Hulhumale Artificial Island

Region: North Male Atoll

Modern Architecture

New urban island created as a countermeasure to sea level rise. Beaches and cafes are developed.

Vadu Underwater Restaurant

Region: Raa Atoll

Modern Architecture

Glass-walled restaurant set 5m underwater where you can dine while watching schools of fish.

Ari Atoll Diving Points

Region: South Ari Atoll

Natural

World-class dive site with high year-round whale shark encounter rates.

Kurumba Maldives

Region: North Male Atoll

Resort

First resort opened in 1972. Attractive for its abundant dining options and veteran service.

Sandbank Tours

Region: Around Faadhippolhu Atoll

Natural

Popular for picnics and drone photography on pure white sand bars that appear only at low tide.

Banana Reef

Region: North Male Atoll

Natural

Banana-shaped reef. Famous for colorful soft corals and drop-offs.

Cocoa Island

Region: South Male Atoll

Resort

Luxury hideaway resort where overwater villas have the appearance of traditional dhoni fishing boats.

Suggested itineraries

Classic 3-Night 4-Day Resort Stay

Duration (days): 4

Highlights: Overwater villa stay, Snorkeling, Sunset cruise

Short vacation plan: relax at the spa on arrival day, explore the house reef on day 2, and enjoy a dolphin cruise and sandbank picnic on day 3.

7-Day Diving Adventure

Duration (days): 7

Highlights: South Ari Atoll whale sharks, Night manta, Local island stay

Advanced itinerary: stay 1 night in capital, transfer to dive safari boat, cross atolls, and complete 18 dives.

Family-Friendly Relaxing 5 Days

Duration (days): 5

Highlights: Kids club, Glass-bottom boat, Spa & cooking class

Balanced trip with activities children can enjoy while adults take turns enjoying the spa.

Travel tips

  • International flights arrive at Velana International Airport. Transfer to resorts by speedboat or seaplane.
  • Wearing bikinis outside resort islands is prohibited by law.
  • Alcohol and pork products will be confiscated by customs.
  • US dollar cash is widely accepted on almost all islands, and $1 bills are convenient for tips.
  • Rainy season (May-October) has more squalls but lower prices and relatively high diving visibility.
  • Dry season (November-April) has high sunshine rates and calm seas. Peak season requires early booking.
  • On local islands, eat with right hand and avoid drinking and smoking in public.
  • Voltage is 230V, plugs are mainly British G-type, so carry a conversion adapter.
  • Free Wi-Fi is widespread but speed varies by island.
  • Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the environment.

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