Top 10 Places to Visit in Maldives
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Maldives is a beautiful island nation situated in the Indian Ocean, not too far from the west coast of India. It’s certainly worthwhile to visit the Maldives owing to its unmatched elegance, spectacular beaches, enthralling aquatic world, and much more.
The best season to fly to Maldives is from December to March-April, as the weather remains dry and suitable for water sports and more. Over the past years, Maldives has gained tremendous popularity as a tourist destination, which has led to the restoration of the inhabited islands for more tourist-friendly sites.
In the article below, we will take a closer look at the 10 best places to visit in Maldives.
Popular Places to Visit in Maldives
Here’s a quick overview of the top places to visit in Maldives -
| Best Places to Visit in Summer | Best Places to Visit in Winter | Best Places to Visit with Family |
|---|---|---|
| Male City | Baros Island | Banana Reef |
| Veligandu Island | Nalaguraidhoo Island | Baros Island |
| Fulhadhoo Island | Banana Reef | Maafushi Island |
| Vaadhoo Island | Vaadhoo Island | Addu City |
Let’s discuss the top 10 places to visit in Maldives -
1. Malé
Malé is the capital city of the Maldives and tops the list of 10 places to visit in Maldives. The city offers an extensive range of thrilling activities - you can come here for a leisurely vacation as well as an adventure-packed one with a wonderfully social atmosphere. With numerous resorts on Malé Island to choose from and a pleasant natural setting, this is one of the perfect Maldives places to visit for a honeymoon.
Snorkelling off the coastline of Malé and submarine tours are a few well-liked activities. November to April is considered the perfect time to visit Male, as this is when the weather is a little cooler here.
- Hulhumalé: Among Malé city’s best destinations, you can feel more in contact with nature here! You can also savour the delightfully authentic local food and make the best of your excursion with snorkelling, scuba diving, and swimming with dolphins.
- Sinamalé Bridge: The Sinamalé Bridge or the China Maldives Friendship Bridge stretches about 2.1 kilometres and has separate lanes for cars, motorcycles, and pedestrians. It has a magnificent structure and also allows you to capture mesmeric views of the blue waters.
- Sultan Park: Sultan Park came into existence following the transformation of the royal gardens of the palace. Attracting visitors from worldwide due to its remarkable historical significance and lush greenery, the park is also good for a nice picnic.
- Hukuru Miskiy: One of Maldives’ oldest mosques and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hukuru Miskiy is renowned for its rich history and magnificent architecture. It is intricately designed using coral blocks, lacquer work, wood carvings, and coral carvings, and has a graveyard inside as well. The opening hours of the place are from 6 am to 7:30 pm.
2. Baros Island
A part of the administrative division of Kaafu Atoll, Baros Island has been skillfully developed as a resort island and a tourism spot associated with trade. This, combined with its low population, makes it one of the top 10 places to visit in Maldives.
Here are some things to do on Baros Island -
- Diving: With an experienced diving instructor conducting introductory dive training in the island’s lagoons, even those who are not skilled in diving but are interested can enjoy themselves here. Remarkably, the diving sessions can be gradually upgraded to get the Open Water Diver Certification, regarded as a valid certificate for diving anywhere in the world.
- Tour the Marine Centre: This is an excellent place to visit in Maldives if you wish to learn about the aquatic world and its nuances. A programme named the Marine Centers Coral Planting Project is also there, where you can adopt coral reefs and pay for their care and protection. On offering support, you will receive a picture of the adopted coral every two years in exchange for monetary help.
- Snorkelling: An enriching view of the fish and other marine life can be enjoyed in the lagoon here by snorkelling, which can make for an experience of a lifetime! The site is just 15 metres away from the beach and also harbours a house coral reef.
- Engage in Other Watersports: Baros Island offers numerous watersports activities that you, as a visitor, can enjoy such as water skiing, wakeboarding, canoeing, and windsurfing. A glass-bottomed boat also serves the purpose of canoeing here, with which you can observe the marine life beneath.
3. Banana Reef
Situated in the north Male-Atoll, Banana Reef is one of the best places to visit in Maldives for diving. Notably, it was among the foremost diving sites in the country to receive appreciation for licensed diving and training.
Jet skiing in the reef, snorkelling, and scuba diving are popular activities here. This place is great for professionals as well, as it enables them to go deeper and explore the lively aquatic world more extensively.
- Watching the Coral and Aquatic Environment More Closely: In Banana Reef, anemones, soft corals, and gorgonians contribute to most of the coral growth. Alongside the millions of tiny anemone fish residing in the anemones themselves, there are emperor angelfish, unicorns, puffers, and more. You can even expect to watch hunting lionfish, groupers, and barracudas here.
- Underwater Diving: Banana Reef has excellent diving spots for individuals of varying experiences. As the southern part of the reef is quite dense, with trees and plants surrounding the spot, the visibility is affected by the rip tide in both shallow and deep seas. Thus, this part is more suitable for seasoned divers. For beginners (or even professional divers), diving in from the east is the most appropriate option.
- Shopping at Centro Mall: Situated just next to the pier, Centro Mall is a must-visit place for shopping once you are done with the water activities. Although it’s less vibrant than the major commercial hubs of Maldives, you can find various goods and cafes here to relax.
- Boat Tour: The area around Banana Reef is great for boat tours, as you can admire the charm of the area while sailing through the water. This makes it a suitable option to unwind after a long day of travel.
4. Nalaguraidhoo Island
Nalaguraidhoo Island is a known travel location worldwide and among the 10 best places to visit in Maldives. The island is about 60 kilometres from the Male airport and is also among the best Maldives honeymoon places to visit.
Here, you’ll come across a lagoon perfect for swimming and underwater photography. You can also engage in adventure activities like scuba diving, snorkelling, and canoeing. Night-time fishing is also available here if you are someone wanting to cook your own fish on the sandy shore.
Outdoor activities on Nalaguraidhoo Island include -
- Kayaking: Kayaking is a popular water-based activity to do here. It’s also an easy one - all you have to do is paddle around the island and see the charming views of palm trees and sandy beaches. This way, you can explore the coastline at your own pace.
- Scuba Diving: Don't forget to add scuba diving to your wish list for your visit to Nalaguraidhoo Island. You can try scuba diving here to see the phenomenal aquatic world and get a chance to closely watch the colourful corals and other creatures like reef sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, and more.
- Spa Sessions and Fish Feeding: For a break from your activity-filled routine, you can certainly go for a spa session and fish feeding here. You can encounter numerous spas near Nalaguraidhoo Island offering excellent massage therapy. Apart from that, you can also get a chance to feed the various marine creatures living under crystal clear waters.
- Sunbathing: Sunbathing is also popular at Nalaguraidhoo Island, as you can view the beaches and laze around! However, you would need to ensure proper clothing as per norms and guidelines here. Moreover, the consumption of liquor or alcoholic beverages would be permissible only at the designated spots.
5. Maafushi Island
Maafushi Island is one of the best Maldives honeymoon places to visit. From the Male International Airport, it is only about 27 kilometres. Although it has a population of only around 2700, it is a great place to socialise, explore the sandy coastlines, and have a drink with your partner.
Mentioned below are the top things to do at Maafushi:
- Dolphin Safari: Dolphin safari, conducted by numerous operators here, is among those watersports you can partake in if you are apprehensive about going deeper underwater. You can bring your camera to click these creatures and have a fantastic experience of watching them and their skills closely.
- Sandbank Excursion: The white sand that accumulates in shallow areas of the sea is used for making sandbanks. You can spend a whole day at a small sandbank as you register for a sandbank trip. You can even do snorkelling at the outer reef and diving into the lagoon.
- Get a Suntan at the Bikini Beach: Although the Maldives has strict regulations concerning clothing on beaches, this beach is relatively liberal in this regard as the name suggests. You can unwind here and enjoy this beach, and even relax under the sun for that precious suntan!
- Snorkelling: Maafushi Island is great for snorkelling for both beginners and professionals. You can engage in this activity and witness aquatic life up close! Most hotels on this island offer excursions to the beautiful coral reefs at the finest sites at Maafushi Corner, Vilivaru Corner, Maavelaathu, and Banana Reef.
6. Fulhadhoo Island
Nestled in one of Maldives’s administrative divisions, Fulhadhoo Island is one of the top 10 places to visit in Maldives. Spread across 78 acres and close to the northwest part of Male City, this island is significantly calmer than other bustling islands of Maldives.
Here’s what you can enjoy on Fulhadhoo Island -
- Unwind on a Beach - The exotic beaches of Fulhadhoo Island are everything that makes it a worth visiting place in Maldives. You can have a leisure time with your loved ones and enjoy refreshments while taking a sunbath. If you are visiting with your kids, you can also have a great time building sand castles!
- Free Diving - As there aren’t many diving spots on this island, people frequently engage in free diving on the beaches without any professional help! However, keep in mind that this activity is recommended only for trained divers.
- Snorkelling - Snorkeling is another popular activity on this island. This sporty activity is offered by many resorts for guests and is done with complete professional assistance. You will find several places on the island reserved specifically for snorkelling.
- Night Fishing - Maldives and its other famous islands offer some of the best places for night fishing as well. On this island, you can indulge in night fishing activities with other locals of the island. Some of the famous fishes on the Island are tuna, barracuda, swordfish, dorado, and wahoo.
7. Vaadhoo Island
Vaadhoo Island is one of the 10 best places to visit in Maldives due to its stunning natural beauty and the unique natural phenomenon of the ‘sea of stars’. At night, the ocean surrounding the island lights up with bioluminescent plankton, creating a mesmerising blue glow that appears as if the stars have fallen into the sea.
Vaadhoo Island is among the popular places to visit in Maldives and offers the following things -
- Scuba Diving - Scuba diving is a popular activity that cannot be missed if you are visiting Vaadhoo Island for the first time. With the island covered with a reef, it becomes quite easy for the divers to enjoy their time there. Note that you can expect to see eclectic and colourful fishes and otherworldly underwater attractions while scuba diving here.
- Kayaking - Kayaking is another fun-filled activity on Vaadhoo Island. The best time to enjoy this activity is when the sun is about to set, as you would be able to enjoy a sunset view worth all the gaze. You can also enjoy kayaking when it gets all dark and glittery, thanks to the popular star phenomenon.
- Candlelight Dinner - Vaadhoo Island is also one of the top Maldives places to visit for a honeymoon. The ever-romantic candlelight dinner can become true right here with your better half! The cold breezes, shining stars, and delectable cuisines here can complement your dinner in the best way.
- Spa Treatments - You can also unwind and pamper yourself with top-notch spa treatments on Vaadhoo Island. From pedicures to body scrubs and more, you can rejuvenate yourself as you book yourself for a treat. You can also try the immunity booster juices and experience the freshness that they bring.
8. Veligandu Island
Veligandu Island, one of the top 10 places to visit in Maldives, is a long-stretched lagoon island located on the North Ari Atoll. The turquoise lagoon island is filled with coconut palm trees, powdery sand beaches, exuberant coral reefs, and exotic marine life. It’s worth noting that since the island is operational as a resort, it only welcomes adults (18+ years of age).
The lip-smacking seafood and exotic cocktails of Veligandu Island alone make it worth visiting all time of the year.
Here are some popular things to try out at Veligandu Island -
- Boat Sailing - Veligandu Island provides a romantic boat sailing experience as the sun sets. Couples can cruise around the attractions of the island and catch picturesque views together to connect for a truly profound experience.
- Cocktail and Cooking Classes - If you are in for learning something new, you can join the cooking and cocktail-making classes offered by the Island. You can discover the art behind famous Maldivian dishes and lip-smacking cocktails - this souvenir skill can be used to impress your friends as well!
- Snorkelling - Snorkelling is another fun-filled activity hosted by Veligandu Island for its visitors. The exceptional and eclectic marine life inside the sea level is everything to enhance your Snorkelling experience. There is a specialised place on the Island to enjoy this activity with expert assistance.
- Eclectic Water Sports - On Veligandu Island, you can enjoy a wide range of water sports - from windsurfing and stand-up paddleboarding to Kayaking, tube rides, and more. Moreover, as all the activities are performed under expert assistance, you can be assured of a good time even if you are a beginner.
9. Addu City
Nestling in the extreme south of Maldives, Addu City is among the best places to visit in Maldives for water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers, owing to its pristine beaches, lush greenery, and diverse marine life. The pleasing tropical weather of Addu City makes it welcoming for visitors all year round. The city offers a perfect blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and luxury on every beach.
- Surfing - Addu City is a popular spot for surfers to be playful amid the breezes and water. While the city offers fewer surfing spots compared to other sites on the list, all the spots offer an exceptional experience! Some of the major surfing spots in Addu City are Madhihera, Shangri-la, Approach Lights, and Koattey.
- Bird Watching - Bird Watching is another famous activity to enjoy in Addu City. The city hosts bird watching near the freshwater lake in Hithadhoo, where you can spot many birds by sitting in the specific areas built by the Maldivian Government. Don’t forget to bring a camera to click some rare birds here!
- Swimming - Addu City is the place to be if you plan to swim your way into the pristine beaches of Maldives. You can discover incredible beaches and crystal-clear water pools here for a rejuvenating swimming experience.
- Skydiving - While Addu City has plenty of opportunities for water-based activities, you can have a great time in the skies as well! Addu City hosts numerous skydiving activities with the assistance of trained professionals that can provide you with a memory of a lifetime.
10. Maamigili
Often called the ‘Whale Shark Island’, Maamigili is a popular, active fishing island with two vast harbours. Among the most affordable places to visit in Maldives, Maamigili is also regarded as the second-best site in the list of Asia's most fabulous diving and snorkelling sites for its Whale Shark Point.
As you visit Maamigili, don't miss out on witnessing the friendly, enchanting whale sharks at the Whale Shark Point. The eastern half of the island is where the fishing village is situated. You can access the main street from the deep-water harbour directly through the island's centre from east to west.
- Scuba Diving: The only divebase on Maamigili is Shamar Guesthouse & Diving, located directly on the Indian Ocean. This site offers exhilarating diving at the most stunning sites in South Ari Atoll. Besides taking dive courses, you can also dive with the whale sharks after a 10-minute boat excursion.
- Dining: Maamigili has an incredible selection of restaurants that are reasonably priced as well. Almost everywhere on the island, you can find restaurants that offer both local and continental food. If you are coming here for breakfast, you can choose from roshi, omelette, mashuni, toast, or something from the continental section.
- Snorkelling Tour: When you go for a snorkelling tour here, you can witness numerous creatures like white sharks and manta rays. Besides spotting them, you can also encounter many turtles and eagle rays, making the excursion more interesting.
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