10 Best Things to Do in the Maldives

Whether you’re a first-time visitor to the Maldives or a seasoned traveller, the glow-in-the-dark beach on Mudhdhoo island is sure to leave you awestruck. This stunning beach is known for its unique, green bioluminescent waters, which are caused by a phytoplankton called dinoflagellates.

To witness this amazing natural phenomenon in its full glory, visit the beach during the new moon phase when the night sky is at its darkest. Also, consider the weather and tide patterns to increase your chances of seeing the bioluminescence at its best. Note that in order to protect the bioluminescent plankton and the fragile ecosystem, you shouldn’t go into the water to admire this one-of-a-kind display.

A dolphin spotting cruise at sunset is the perfect way to see these playful and friendly animals in their natural habitat and snap the most Instagram-worthy photos of your holiday. Dolphins are a common sight in the Maldives, and you can find dolphin tours in most resorts on most atolls. North Ari Atoll, South Ari Atoll, North Malé Atoll and South Malé Atoll are said to be the best atolls for dolphin spotting.

The best time of the day to go out to see dolphins is just before sunset. This is when they often follow the boats and indulge in playful bow-riding. Some cruises even include swimming or snorkelling with a pod of dolphins, although sightings can’t be guaranteed.

With over 1,000 islands to explore, the Maldives is the perfect place to go island hopping. You can visit local villages, sandbanks and uninhabited islands to get a taste of the Maldivian culture and way of life. Forget long schleps on a coach or being stuck in traffic. Instead, make your way from one paradise island to another on seaplanes, local ferries or speedboats.

If you’re keen to travel independently between each uninhabited island, the local ferry is a budget-friendly option. To get to your resort island, you'll need to book one of the pricier transfer options, such as a speedboat or seaplane. Traditional Maldivian fishing boats, dhoni, can also be chartered privately for travel to other islands.

The Maldives are a water sports enthusiast’s paradise where many islands, atolls and resorts offer extensive opportunities to have fun on the waves. If surfing is your passion, head to Cinnamon Dhonveli located in the North Malé Atoll. This island boasts consistent waves and caters to surfers of all levels.

For scuba diving and snorkelling, check out the north reef of Lhaviyani Atoll. It’s especially popular among experienced divers. Raa Atoll is another excellent option, known for its rich marine biodiversity and healthy coral reefs. Kite surfers and windsurfers love Nalaguraidhoo Island in South Malé Atoll due to its consistent winds and sheltered lagoon. Several resorts on the island offer lessons and rentals if you’d like to have a go.

Whether you’re looking for unique souvenirs or seeking an authentic Maldivian experience, you’ll find both, and much more, at the Malé local market. Famous for products that are exclusive to this island, this fun and versatile market has the hearts of both the locals and visitors.

At the Malé local market, also known as the Malé Bazaar, you’ll discover a vast array of items made out of coconuts and palm leaves such as slippers, mats and miniature dhoni boats. Other popular items include lacquerware flower vases, sarongs and seashells. The market is brimming with local delicacies, so why not try the fresh Maldivian fish curries, snacks like fried samosas and refreshing coconut drinks?

Huraa island is a charming and friendly island best known for its snorkelling and surfing opportunities and gorgeous sandy beaches fringing the island. The Huraa village boasts souvenir shops, cafes, small grocery shops and dive centres. One of the biggest draws is the chance to get unique glimpses of the real Maldivian way of life.

Many resorts in the area organise picnics on nearby sandbanks, offering stunning views and a chance to relax in seclusion. Fishing trips allow you to experience a traditional Maldivian activity and catch your own dinner. You can easily access Huraa by public ferry from Malé. The ride takes about 45 minutes.

Addu City consists of 5 inhabited islands and offers an exciting blend of local Maldivian life, history and stunning natural beauty. Each Addu City island is unique and full of character. Meedhoo Island is brimming with history as the oldest continuously inhabited island in the Maldives. The Hulhudhoo Island is known for its beautiful beaches, perfect for a relaxing day in the sun.

On Maradhoo Island, you can witness skilled craftsmen build traditional dhoni boats. Feydhoo Island offers quaint guesthouses and restaurants serving authentic Maldivian cuisine. Hithadhoo Island is the second largest island in the Maldives and a bustling hub with a harbour, shops and Addu Nature Park, a protected area where you can explore its rich ecosystem.

Whether you're a marine life enthusiast or looking for a beautiful island getaway with a local touch, Dhigurah Island will charm you with its lovely beaches and exciting nature. The surrounding waters of Dhigurah teem with marine life. Divers and snorkellers can explore over 30 dive sites with colourful coral reefs, schools of fish, manta rays and turtles.

Dhigurah boasts one of the Maldives' 3 whale shark sanctuaries. The gentle giants frequent the waters around the island year-round, making Dhigurah a prime location for swimming or snorkelling with whale sharks. On this unique island, you’ll find authentic Maldivian guesthouses and homestays, allowing you to interact with the local people and experience their culture firsthand.

Hanifaru Bay, located in the Baa Atoll of the Maldives, is world-renowned for a spectacular phenomenon: the mass gathering of manta rays. The bay's unique shape and location attract plankton-rich currents and this plankton buffet draws hundreds of manta rays, creating an unforgettable feeding frenzy known as a ‘cyclone’.

Hanifaru Bay is the crown jewel in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. At Hanifaru Bay, you can experience its unique marine environment while supporting conservation efforts. Visiting Hanifaru Bay is strictly regulated to minimise disturbance to the manta rays. A permit is required to enter the bay, and snorkelling or diving is only allowed with a licensed guide.

The National Museum, Maldives offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Maldives. The museum is one of the oldest institutions in the Maldives dedicated to preserving the country's heritage. The original building, a 3-storey structure located in Sultan Park in Malé, dates to the 17th century and was formerly part of the Maldivian Royal Palace complex.

The museum's collection spans centuries, showcasing artefacts that tell the story of the Maldives from its pre-Islamic days to the modern era. You'll find a variety of exhibits including Buddhist religious images, royal regalia, everyday objects used by Maldivian people throughout history, traditional Maldivian boats and fishing equipment and historical documents, maps and photographs.