12 Unique Things to Do in Maldives

The Maldives is more than just a place to relax on sandy beaches. Located in the Indian Ocean, south of India, this vibrant archipelago consists of nearly 1,200 coral islands, with about 200 of them inhabited by locals.

While the Maldives is often known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, there’s much more to discover. The places to go in Maldives are diverse, offering a wide range of activities, from exploring local islands to staying in luxurious resorts.

Best things to do in Maldives

The Maldives is known for its luxury, offering idyllic islands, pristine white sand beaches, and extraordinary marine life. However, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly trip, you may need to think twice. The Maldives represents the pinnacle of luxury vacations, and the prices reflect that.

1. Stay in Maldives Overwater Bungalows

Immerse yourself in the quintessential Maldivian experience by staying in a Maldives overwater bungalow. These floating sanctuaries, located in many of the island’s top resorts, offer the perfect mix of privacy, luxury, and direct access to the ocean. Imagine waking up to the gentle sound of waves and stepping straight into the turquoise waters to snorkel among coral reefs brimming with life, including colorful fish and the occasional reef shark.

Many of these luxury overwater bungalows in Maldives come with private infinity pools or hammocks suspended over the water, providing an unparalleled blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re at Soneva Jani, Gili Lankanfushi, or Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, the experience is designed to be unforgettable.

To ensure a seamless stay, consider an all-inclusive package, such as those offered at Lily Beach Resort and Spa, covering meals, drinks, and water activities. However, it’s important to note that additional costs like transfer fees from Malé and service charges may apply, so confirm all details before booking.

2. Maldives Resort Day Trip on a Budget

Experiencing the luxury of a Maldives resort doesn’t always require a large budget. For those staying at local guesthouses, there is an affordable way to enjoy the perks of a high-end resort without paying for an overnight stay. Many resorts offer a Maldives resort day trip option, allowing visitors to use resort amenities for the entire day.

These day passes typically include access to pools, private beaches, and other facilities, with each resort setting its own fees and specific offerings. For example, at Kurumba Maldives or Adaaran Prestige Vadoo, day passes provide access to their private beaches, restaurants, and other amenities. It’s important to ask about what’s included and any additional costs that might arise. Your guesthouse can help arrange transportation to and from the resort, ensuring you get the best out of your affordable day trip Maldives.

By opting for a Maldives resort visit for non-guests, you can enjoy luxury experiences without breaking the bank. Whether you’re exploring Maafushi Island or another local area, a day trip is a budget-friendly way to experience the luxury of a Maldives resort.

3. Swim with Hawksbill Turtles in Maldives

The Hawksbill sea turtle is commonly sighted in the Maldives, making it an unforgettable experience for wildlife enthusiasts. While these majestic creatures can be encountered frequently, it’s important to remember that they are listed as endangered species. Conservation and respect for their environment are crucial to ensure their survival.

One of the best places to swim with hawksbill turtles in Maldives is Turtle Rock, located on the outer reef of the Lhaviyani Atoll. This spot is renowned for its large population of Hawksbill sea turtles, and on some occasions, up to 48 turtles have been spotted in just one dive! The reef is accessible for both divers and snorkelers, making it a prime location for snorkeling with turtles in Maldives.

In addition to turtles, the Lhaviyani Atoll is home to the largest population of Green sea turtles in the Maldives, particularly around Kuredu Caves. The outer reef also attracts other marine life, including dolphins, which are often seen from the boat, and sometimes you might even have the chance to snorkel with them.

By joining a guided Maldives turtle tour, you not only increase your chances of encountering these incredible creatures but also support local conservation efforts through eco-tourism, helping to protect the Maldives marine life.

4. Swim with Whale Sharks in Maldives

Swimming alongside the whale shark, the ocean’s gentle giant, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the Maldives. Recognized as the largest fish in the sea, whale sharks can grow up to an incredible 12 meters (40 feet) in length. Despite their size, these majestic creatures are harmless filter feeders that subsist on plankton. They move slowly through the warm waters of the Maldives year-round, making sightings highly likely.

The best whale shark snorkeling in Maldives takes place in South Ari Atoll, particularly near the Maamigili Island house reef. This area is known for frequent whale shark sightings, with peak times from December to May, especially between January and April. Whale sharks are also often spotted from August to November, making this region ideal for encounters throughout the year.

For those interested in combining Maldives whale shark tours with manta ray sightings, Hanifaru Bay in Baa Atoll is another excellent location. This UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve is famous for gatherings of whale sharks and up to 200 manta rays, especially between May and November. Note that only snorkeling is allowed in Hanifaru Bay, as diving is prohibited to protect the ecosystem.

It’s important to respect conservation regulations when interacting with whale sharks. Avoid touching or disturbing these creatures, as responsible observation helps ensure a memorable and sustainable encounter with one of the ocean’s most awe-inspiring inhabitants.

5. Dolphin Watching at Sunset in Maldives

Embarking on a dolphin watching Maldives cruise at sunset offers an unforgettable combination of breathtaking ocean views and the thrill of spotting dolphins in their natural habitat. These beautiful, intelligent creatures are often seen around the islands, especially in areas like Laamu Atoll. As the sun sets, the dolphins become more active, leaping and spinning through the water alongside the boat, creating a mesmerizing sight for visitors.

The sunset dolphin watching tours Maldives allow guests to enjoy the serene beauty of the sunset while observing playful dolphins. Onboard guides, often marine biologists, provide fascinating insights into the underwater world of the atoll, enhancing your appreciation for these marine creatures. Even if dolphin sightings aren’t guaranteed, the experience of watching the vibrant sky as it changes colors at dusk makes the trip well worth it.

Best places for dolphin watching in Maldives include Hulhumale and Vaadhoo Island, known for their frequent dolphin encounters, particularly at sunset. A dolphin excursion offers the perfect balance between relaxation and wildlife adventure, with the calm ocean and the dolphins’ playful energy creating a memorable experience.

6. Snorkeling with Manta Rays in Maldives

Snorkeling with giant manta rays in the Maldives offers an unforgettable experience with some of the most majestic creatures of the ocean. Known as the world’s largest rays, manta rays can reach a wingspan of up to 23 feet and are easily recognized by their unique horn-shaped cephalic fins near their mouths. These gentle giants are harmless, filter-feeding on plankton as they glide through the warm tropical waters.

One of the best places to see manta rays in Maldives is Hanifaru Bay, located in Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. From May to November, strong currents bring a rich supply of plankton to Hanifaru Bay, attracting large groups of manta rays and even whale sharks. This bay is considered the world’s largest manta feeding destination, and during the full moon, you may witness over 100 manta rays gathering to feast on plankton and crustaceans.

Throughout the year, manta rays migrate around the Maldives based on plankton availability. From November to April, they are commonly found on the western side of the atolls, while from May to October, they shift to the eastern side. For those eager to experience Maldives manta ray snorkeling tours, Baa Atoll and South Ari Atoll are renowned for their manta populations.

7. Maldives Underwater Diving

Diving in the Maldives is a must-do activity, offering encounters with a vast array of exotic marine life. Whether you choose to explore the vibrant house reefs near the shore or venture out on a boat dive to more remote reefs within the atolls, each dive provides a unique window into the Maldives’ underwater wonders.

The Maldives is renowned for its diverse marine life, and Maldives underwater diving offers the chance to swim alongside gentle whale sharks in the South Ari Atoll year-round, or to spot majestic manta rays during their seasonal migrations. In addition to these peaceful giants, the Maldives is home to a variety of shark species, including hammerheads, tiger sharks, and thresher sharks, all of which offer thrilling and unforgettable diving experiences.

The best diving in Maldives isn’t just limited to experts. For beginners, the Maldives offers Discovery Dives, where you can dive up to 12 meters deep under the guidance of an experienced instructor, allowing you to experience the magic of the underwater world without needing full certification. Many diving schools across the islands provide courses for all levels, from beginner certifications to advanced levels, making the Maldives the perfect place to earn your diving credentials.

The Maldives is also known for its liveaboard diving safaris, where you can live on a boat, travel between atolls, and dive at some of the best dive sites in the world. With healthy coral reefs, an abundance of sharks and rays, and year-round warm waters, there’s hardly anything to dislike about diving in the Maldives.

8. Explore Maldives Hidden Sandbanks

Visiting a sandbank in the Maldives during low tide is a truly unique experience. These hidden gems, submerged under water at high tide, reveal themselves as the ocean recedes, offering you a chance to explore untouched stretches of sandy paradise. The Maldives is home to numerous sandbanks, each with its own shape and size, making every visit feel like a new discovery.

One exciting way to experience these Maldives sandbank tours is by jet ski, adding a thrilling adventure to your trip. For those seeking a more tranquil visit, many tours also offer sandbank picnics, allowing you to enjoy a private meal on these secluded sandy islands. Remember, the tides can change quickly, so it’s important to secure your belongings in waterproof bags, especially items like cameras or phones.

The best sandbank tours in Maldives often include visits to famous spots like the Hulhumale sandbank or the pristine Fulidhoo sandbank, known for their beauty and serenity. Whether you are seeking adventure or relaxation, these hidden sandbanks offer a peaceful escape from the bustling resorts.

9. Visit Maldives Private Islands

Visiting Maldives private islands offers a truly unforgettable experience, combining luxury, tranquility, and the natural beauty of the Maldives. Imagine starting your day at dawn, setting off to an uninhabited island where you can spend the entire day on pristine white-sand beaches. These islands, locally known as “picnic islands,” vary in size, from tiny sandbanks to larger landforms, each offering a unique adventure.

One of the highlights of visiting a private island is the chance to snorkel around vibrant house reefs teeming with marine life. You’re likely to encounter turtles, spotted eagle rays, reef sharks, and a colorful array of fish in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island.

For a more luxury private island experience in the Maldives, some resorts like Baros Maldives, Velaa Private Island, or Amilla Fushi offer exclusive stays where you can enjoy utmost privacy and personalized services. Even if you’re staying at a guesthouse, you can still book excursions to these private islands for a peaceful day trip. With spacious beaches and secluded corners, you’ll always find plenty of room to relax, even when shared with a few other visitors.

Travel Tips for Maldives

1. Currency: Most resorts in the Maldives charge in USD and accept credit cards, so there’s no need to worry about carrying large amounts of local currency.
2. Tipping: While tipping is generally not expected in the Maldives, it’s always appreciated, especially if you’ve received exceptional service. The staff, who often work for modest wages, will likely be grateful for any tips you choose to give.
3. Getting Around the Resort: Depending on the resort, you may have access to bicycles, golf buggies, or in some cases, the islands are small enough for easy walking.
4. Best Time to Visit: The dry season, which runs from December to May, offers the best weather for outdoor activities. However, this is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit, so plan accordingly.
5. Visas: You can check visa requirements for the Maldives or apply for one using services like iVisa.com. The Maldives offers visa-free entry for many nationalities.
6. Language: Given that tourism is the primary industry, most people in the Maldives speak fluent English, making communication easy for international visitors.
7. Power: The Maldives uses both Type D and Type G power outlets. It’s a good idea to bring a universal travel adapter to ensure you can charge your devices.