The Maldives has been entertaining adventure enthusiasts and nature admirers with its lovely beaches, gorgeous islands, limitless opportunities for water sports, and enjoying lavish villas. The country has bountiful gifts to offer of which the star attraction is the coral islands.
If you want to explore its plethora of varied attractions, then you must definitely plan your itinerary quite well. This article will help to list down the top things to do in the Maldives and witness a memorable, thrilling, eventful, and grand experience.
Things to do in Maldives
Let us uncover the mystic beauty of the place, entertaining thousands of globetrotters from various parts of the world.
1. Scuba Diving at Maaya Thila
One of the most adventurous things to do in Maldives is to go scuba diving at Maaya Thila. The enthralling beauty of the place captivates the tourists along with the fun-filled activity wrapped in zeal and enthusiasm.
Besides the oceanic floor along the coast of Maaya Thila is home to spectacular marine life. Truly a scuba diver’s dream is to plunge into the deep waters and explore the vibrant and stunning sea life underneath. One can find tunas, angel fish, and snappers. Moreover, the coral cove and the Grey reef shark enhance the beauty of the place and are certainly the key attractions.
Price: Ranging between INR 1300 and INR 180000 per person
2. Island Hopping
Maldives is comprised of almost 1000 islands. Hopping along some of the best islands is one of the most interesting things to do in Maldives. Immerse in the tranquility of the pristine and serene beaches, indulge in the soothing and refreshing climate, appreciate the exotic corals, and engage in multiple adventurous activities.
Some of the prominent islands in Maldives are Maafushi, North and South Male, Huraa, Himmafushi, and Gulhi. There are plenty of opportunities for water sports activities like snorkeling, fishing, island hopping, dolphin safari, and many more. It is better to opt for a packaged tour.
Price: Approximately INR 14,000 per person (adult)
3. Vaadhoo Island at Raa Atoll
An offbeat place from the regular beaches in Maldives but a place to observe an unusual phenomenon that has earned the place the name “Sea of Stars”. The ocean floor glows brightly under the moonlight almost every day. The occurrence is attributed to a concept called bioluminescence.
The microscopic planktons present inside the ocean are often attacked by fish. As self-defense and as protection from enemies, the planktons emit a blue light that shines, is cool and does not generate any heat. You will love to watch the blue sparkling waters, a bright treat to the eyes.
4. Surfing in Thulusdhoo Islands
For adventure enthusiasts and water sports lovers, surfing in Thulusdhoo islands is a unique opportunity and indeed one of the fabulous things to do in Maldives. It’s intriguing to watch the ocean waves curl up, allowing the surfers to float along with them.
The islands are located in Baa Atoll and are considered the best among the various surfing destinations in Maldives. So if you happen to visit the country, do not miss out on exploring the sea waters with your surfing gear.
Price: Starting from INR 10,000 per person for 2 hours
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5. Stay at Six Senses resort, the overwater bungalow
Six Senses resort is an overwater bungalow at Laamu Atoll, providing incredible experiences of the blue and greenish sea waters, the lush green vegetation, and the pristine beauty of the landscape. The resort has many to offer in its accommodation selections. You can opt for Lagoon Water Villa, Ocean Water Villa, Ocean Water Villa with Pool, Laamu Water Villa, Sunset Laamu Water Villa, and many more.
The villas are all equipped with modern amenities and pleasantries. You can spend time in solitude and peace, away from the busy city life, and transport your mind into a world of solace and calm. Spa and massage therapies are offered to relax your body in the vicinity of Mother nature and its breathtaking marvel. Besides, one can engage in multiple water sports and adventurous activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and sunset dolphin cruise.
Price: Starting from INR 2,15,850 per night.
6. Visiting the Hulhumale beach
For beach lovers, one of the best things to do in Maldives is to visit Hulhumale beach. The beach is said to be a picturesque place with mind-blowing scenic views. You can stroll along the beach, sit and relax, and soak yourself in the extravagant beauty. The best way to enjoy the beach is to walk around bare feet on the soft white sands. And if you are with your partner, the experience is truly romantic.
In the evening, the beach presents a different view with the sunset spreading a golden hue in the sky as the sun descends down beyond the horizon. Do not miss out on savoring your taste buds with the delicious and lips-smacking seafood at the various street food stalls and cafes along the white sand beaches.
7. Explore the fascinating Male island
While preparing the top things to do in Maldives, the one that qualifies high on the list is exploring the capital island, Male. There are ancient heritage buildings, serene beaches, wonderful green parks, prominent museums, and vibrant panoramic scenery. You will love to engage your mind and soul in the intrinsic beauty of the island.
If you want to buy some souvenirs and gift items, then do visit the open markets full of life and filled with bright and vibrant colors. To satiate your hunger, you must hop on to the local food stalls along the streetside.
The key attractions of Male are a must-entry into your Maldives tourism itinerary the Old Friday Mosque, the National Museum, the Male Local Market, Sultan Park, Artificial Beach, and the Tsunami Monument. For people who love water sports, there are good opportunities for snorkeling and submarine touring.
8. Voyaging on the sunset cruise
The soothing freshness and the encapsulating beauty are best witnessed while cruising on the sea waters. Voyaging on the sunset cruise and drowning in the eccentric beauty of the islands are one of the splendid things to do in Maldives.
You can book a boat or local dhoni and go for a one hour long ride along the waters. As the sun sets beyond the horizon, the evening flourishes into the golden sparks of sunlight, cascading and shimmering on the waters. You can even be lucky to meet the dolphins diving and playing around you.
9. Relaxing spa treatment at Adaaran Prestige Vadoo
Who doesn’t love a relaxing spa treatment after being drifted away from the regular busy life? If you really want yourself to be coddled, then you must visit Adaaran Prestige Vadoo. The place is away from the main Maldives on a private island, offering an environment of peace and calmness.
Types of massages and treatments at Adaaran Prestige Vadoo are:
- Japanese Themed spa
- Mandara spa
- Traditional aromatherapy massages
- Various therapeutic spa therapies
- Balinese massage
- Head massage
- Foot massage
- Facial treatments
- Couples massage
The best part is while enjoying the massage you can rest your brain observing the scintillating views around you.
Address: Adaaran Prestige Vadoo, South Male Atoll, Republic Of Maldives
10. Water skiing at Meeru Island Resort & Spa
Another thrilling and adventurous opportunity for water sports lovers. Meeru Island resort and spa provides a delightful water skiing activity on the sea waters. It is awesome to watch people gliding over the sea waves and white foams folding across to break at the seashore.
You can meet and greet the dolphins and turtles. Besides experts and trainers are present at the resort to guide you in water skiing.
Address: Meeru Island Resort & Spa, Meeru Island, North Male Atoll, Maldives.
Price: Almost INR 6500 per person for 20 minutes.
11. Snorkeling at Maafushi Island
Maafushi island has underwater coral gardens which are the star attractions and allure several tourists who are fascinated with the marine life and their way of survival. One can watch the Green Sea turtles, Manta rays, sturgeons, Moray eels, and other exotic fish species. Hence it’s better to go about snorkeling on the sea waters and reach the ocean floor to watch these spectacular marine species and organisms.
Further, you can check out the aquatic plants which are unique and exclusive in their appearance and qualities. While snorkeling, you may encounter swimming with grey reef sharks, whitetip sharks, and whale sharks.
Price: Approximately INR 1423 per head.
12. Skydiving
If your nerves are strong and your heart is steady, you must enroll yourself to enjoy skydiving in the Maldives. It is one of the most dramatic and captivating things to do in Maldives. For all lovers of adventure sports, this is a lifetime experience.
At a speed of 120 miles per hour, you will undergo a free fall for about 1 minute and then the fall will be graduating slowly allowing you to enjoy the scenic view around before landing on the ground. It is breathtaking to watch the entire landscape of the island from the sky above.
Instructors will be present to guide you in skydiving and they will be harnessed to you for safety and security. The skydiving starts from a height of 10000 feet where the aircraft will wait for the jump.
Duration: 1 hour
Operational Hours: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Price: Almost INR 50,000 per person
13. Helicopter ride
A bird’s eye view of the Maldives is something you will cherish watching. And what can be a better option than a helicopter ride over the archipelago? The helicopter tour is quite popular in the country as in one attempt, you can be a part of the panoramic beauty.
The beauty of the quaint islands, the turquoise blue lagoons, and the sandbars, magnifies if one gazes from the top. The palm trees sway along with the breeze, and the white sandy beaches capture the heart of the tourists. So if you get a chance try the helicopter tour, a different and unique experience other than the regular visit to the sightseeing spots, or be engaged in sports.
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14. Dolphin watching
One of the best things to do in Maldives with the kids is dolphin watching. Though adults also enjoy the same, kids seem to have more fun and enjoyment playing and engaging with the dolphins. Dolphins are peaceful creatures and very much friendly with humans. They play around the waters and entertain the tourists with their activities.
Normally packaged tours are conducted to ferry the tourists in a boat in groups to the dolphin watching site. You will enjoy watching the creatures swimming, playing, and diving in the ocean waters. Do not forget to capture the wonderful moments.
Tour duration: 1 hour
Price: Approximately INR 5800 per person
15. Jet Skiing in Male
Jet skiing is much more rapid and much more thrilling than water skiing. You need to be trained in jet skiing to participate in the sport. Male provides a wonderful opportunity to get engaged in jet skiing, an awesome experience to witness within the ocean waters.
The spot is safe, secure, and perfect for the activity. It is magnificent to watch the participants whizz past at a very fast speed leaving foams of water spread like a jet.
Location: Male.
Price: Almost INR 5600 per head for 30 minutes.
16. Flyboarding in Hulhumale
Imagine flying at a majestic height forced high by the power of jet propulsion. Isn’t it thrilling and adventurous? A watercraft generates propulsion and you can feel the joy of flying high above like a bird. You can even imagine yourself as a superhero.
This incredible experience of flyboarding at Hulhumale island is one of the most astounding things to do in Maldives. Instructors are present at the flyboarding site to assist you in this sport. You will be guided with all the dos and donts and provided with the safety gear.
Duration: 30 minutes
Price: Approximately INR 4300 per person
17. Parasailing
If you want to experience and feel one of the exhilarating things to do in Maldives, then you must definitely try parasailing across the sea waters. You will love the soothing breeze brushing past your face and sailing above watching the blue waters and the dazzling sky above. The scenic views of the landscape greet and entertain the tourists with their eccentric beauty.
People who engage in this sport, wear a parachute and then they are tethered to a speedboat operating at a lightning speed. The force enables the participants to glide across the sky at a super-fast speed.
Location: Reethi beach, Finolhu beach, and Cocoon beach
Price: Approximately INR 4500 per head
Duration: 10 minutes
18. Kitesurfing
Kitesurfing or kiteboarding is one of the exciting things to do in Maldives. The breeze and the weather are suitable for kitesurfing activity and perfect for adventure sports lovers. Even if you are a novice surfer, you can try this activity as it’s quite safe and secure.
In kitesurfing, the surfer surf with a longboard that has a triangular sail attached to it. The cool refreshing air and the blue pristine waters of the sea create a sensational experience for the surfers. You will love zooming past the sea waters and feeling the thrill around.
Location: Hulhumale and Male
Price: Ranging between INR 4000 and INR 7400 per head
Duration: 1 hour
19. Banana boat ride
Banana boats are large boats and are inflatable tubes in shape and appearance. You can ride the boats which operate at very high speed sailing along the huge waves of the sea waters. It’s an experience of its kind to witness the adventure and the enjoyment embedded within it.
You must be equipped with a life jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, a cap, and a camera to capture the moments.
Location: Hulhumale
Duration: 10 to 15 minutes
Price: About INR 2000 for a group of 2 to 3 people
20. Kayaking
Kayaking is a very popular sport in the Maldives, a perfect way to spend a vacation if you love water sports and want to add some fun and thrill to your travel itinerary. You need not be an expert swimmer to go kayaking. The sport is safe and perfectly fine for beginners and novice swimmers. You just need to be an adventure enthusiast to enjoy the sport.
The best way to enjoy kayaking is with glass-bottom kayaks. You can explore the marine life underneath the ocean waters and learn about their habitat.
Location: Vilamendhoo Island.
Price: Approximately in the range of INR 830 to INR 4000 per head.
21. Stand-up paddle boarding
Stand-up paddle boarding on the calm and peaceful waters of the ocean is something you don’t want to miss. And if you are an avid water sports lover, then it’s a perfect opportunity to fulfill your desire to experience fun and thrill. Paddleboarding demands concentration and focus on balancing on the board standing straight.
You can control your speed as you paddle board along the waters. It’s absolute bliss to feel the breeze in the air and then the serene waters to soothe your brain.
Location: Thulusdhoo Island, Baa Atoll.
Price: Approximately INR 2500 per person
Duration: 1 hour.
22. Fishing
For those who want to spend time leisure in the Maldives, fishing is a good option. You can sit along the bank of the waters with the fishing hooks waiting for the big catch. If you are lucky then you can fill your bucket with some arracuda, swordfish, sailfish, yellowfin tuna, marlin, and wahoo. Truly an incredible experience to remember.
Well, you may enjoy cooking some delicious and sumptuous meals packed with seafood with family and friends. You may even go for night fishing and be lucky to catch quarrel fish, snappers, jacks, and emperors. Almost all the islands of Maldives offer opportunities for fishing.
Price: Ranging between INR 6500 and INR 8500 per head for 1 hour
23. Partying underwater at Subsix
Isn’t it a divine experience to party underwater almost 10 feet beneath the archipelago? This is exactly what you will witness at Subsix, an underwater restaurant, and bar. It’s cased with fiberglass and provides a lifetime experience of dining at the bottom of the water.
Besides Subsix has an underwater nightclub where you can party with music beats to entertain you, delectable food and drinks to satiate your hunger, and soothe your thirst with their premium brands. You can watch different species of marine animals while dining at the restaurant.
Location: Huluwalu, Maldives.
24. Jungle theatre
We do traditionally watch movies and theatres in a closed hall. But in the Maldives, you will witness a different experience. Sitting amid the dense line of coconut and palm trees, the island provides a stupendous opportunity to watch films and acts. Jungle cinema at Gili Lankanfushi is exactly the place where you should be to enjoy a movie night.
The place has cushions and bean bags to sit and relax and wait for the screenings of some classic films. The sky above sparkling with the stars, the lush greenery around, and the mystic scenery enhance the experience further. Do not forget to hop on with popcorn and some cocktails.
Location: Gili Lankanfushi, Lankanfushi Island, North Malé Atoll Republic of Maldives, Maldives.
25. Dining at 5.8 Undersea restaurant
5.8 Undersea restaurant is equipped with all the state-of-the-art facilities offering a breathtaking experience to the guests. Located underneath the ocean, you must definitely plan for a romantic dinner with your partner. The dishes prepared at the restaurant are mouth-watering and from various cuisines especially the local ones.
While gulping the delicious food and the exotic drinks, you will love to watch the marine life around you especially the sharks and the reef fishes. You will definitely relish the seafood prepared at the restaurant. It serves in both buffet form as well as a La Carte menu. The key specialties of the restaurant were sushi, Teppanyaki grill, and Sweet Pea Tartare.
Location: 5.8 Undersea Restaurant, Laccadive Sea, Maldives.
26. Boduberu Show
While on vacation in the Maldives, it is logical to entertain yourself. And the best way is to watch the Boduberu show. It is a classic show where the various folk tales of Africa are portrayed. The tradition is said to be 900 years old and all the tales are filled up with lively songs and dances.
You can learn a lot about the rich cultural heritage and historical tales of the Maldives. It is truly one of the most entertaining things to do in Maldives. The song and dances are accompanied by the rhythmic beats of the drums. You will love to tap your feet to the music as the tunes are soulful and soothing.
27. Tour of the local villages
You must definitely not miss out on the tour to the local villages of Maldives. Knowing the local people, their way of living, the culture, festivals, food habits, attire, and other aspects of their lives is something that will bring you closer to the country. These will help you to understand the country and its inherent beauty.
The culture of Maldives is wonderful and simplistic in nature yet lively and full of zeal and joy. Next, you must try out the delectable local foods of the country. The cuisine of Maldives has a touch of Indian, Sri Lankan, and African dishes. You can visit the local fish markets, walk along the village lanes or even go cycling across the village. It is always refreshing to feel the pristine air of the villages.
28. Romantic candle dinner at Soneva Fushi
If you are traveling with your partner or on a honeymoon, then you must enjoy a romantic candle dinner at Soneva Fushi. The resort is perfect to spend with your beloved, cozy and beautiful. The entire area is encompassed by lush green vegetation, thrilling marine life, and splendid beaches. You will indeed love the environment and its tranquil nature for a perfect candlelight dinner.
Being located in a secluded place and away from city life, the resort will provide you with an abode to spend time in solitude and peace. Further, the meals served at the in-house restaurant are sumptuous and delicious. The dishes are specially prepared by elite chefs of the island with utmost care that further adds charm to the romantic dinner.
Location: Soneva Fushi, Kunfunadhoo Island, Eydhafushi, Maldives.
29. Visit the Friday mosque
Friday mosque is an incredibly beautiful mosque in Male. The mosque is a perfect place wrapped with divinity and spirituality. It is locally known by the name of Malé Hukuru Miskiy, ancient and holy. You will love to be in the vicinity of the mosque and its spiritual environment.
The mosque was constructed in 1658 and is considered in the list of UNESCO’s World Heritage sites. The architectural beauty of the mosque is amazing, influenced by the Islamic style of architecture. The embellished ceilings, the intricate wall carvings, and the old inscriptions enhance the beauty of the mosque. The lacquer work on the wall panels, doors, and windows is stunning.
The main area of the mosque is divided into three parts or segments called he Mihtab, the Medhu Miskiy, and the Fahu Miskiy. The mosque has the capacity of accommodating almost 1327 devotees.
Location: Old Friday Mosque, Male, Kaafu Atoll, Maldives.
30. Explore the National Museum
The National Museum of Maldives houses many rich historical artifacts and royal antiquities that will be dearly loved by history buffs. The museum is a glorious replication of the Maldives people and the richness of the country. The collection inside the museum is huge and brings about the ancient glory of the archipelago.
The museum is located inside Sultan park, which is beautiful and gorgeous in its own way. There are aper and cloth manuscripts, ancient armor and arms, anthropological objects, and various jewelry and costumes of the age-old queens and kings. The citizens of Maldives take pride in the museum and consider it as their national treasure and heritage.
Location: National Museum, Chaandhanee Magu, Malé, Maldives.
Price: INR 580 per head.
Maldives is a traveler’s paradise with its vast array of flora, fauna, and nature’s striking and picturesque beauty. The plethora of opportunities available on the island allures tourists for spending a memorable vacation. The 30 lists of things mentioned in the article will guide you to plan your itinerary well. So what are you thinking of? Pick up your pen, paper, and switch on your laptop and start planning.
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