The Maldives is a tropical country in the Indian Ocean, made up of 26 ring-shaped atolls and over 1,000 coral islands. It’s famous for its white-sand beaches, clear blue waters, and colorful coral reefs. The capital city, Malé, is home to a busy fish market, local shops, and the historic Friday Mosque, built from carved white coral in the 17th century. The Maldives is a top spot for snorkeling and diving, thanks to its warm waters, clear visibility, and marine life like manta rays and whale sharks. Travelers can enjoy swimming, surfing, kayaking, and jet skiing, while getting around by boat or seaplane. Most visitors stay in luxurious resorts or overwater bungalows, though guesthouses on local islands are also available.
places to visit in Maldives
Reethi Beach
Reethi Beach, also known as Fonimagoodhoo, is a beautiful island in the Baa Atoll of the Maldives. It’s famous for the Reethi Beach Resort. The island is surrounded by clear lagoons, colorful coral reefs, and soft white sand beaches, making it perfect for a relaxing escape.
National Museum
The National Museum of the Maldives was opened on the country’s National Day. It showcases a wide range of historical items such as royal furniture, traditional clothes, coins, weapons, and items from the pre-Islamic era, offering a glimpse into the nation’s rich past.
Maafushi
Maafushi is a local island in Kaafu Atoll and is known for its welcoming atmosphere and tourism. It’s popular for island-hopping, water sports, and local souvenir shopping. Maafushi Prison is a point of interest, and many travelers visit from nearby resort islands.
Hulhumalé
Hulhumalé is a man-made island south of North Malé Atoll. It’s easy to reach and affordable for most travelers. With its clean beaches, clear water, and friendly vibe, it’s great for families and groups looking to enjoy island life close to the capital.
Meeru Island
Meeru Island, also called Meerufenfushi, is surrounded by a turquoise lagoon and long white beaches. Formed from coral reefs, the island offers natural beauty and is a favorite for snorkeling, beach walks, and relaxing holidays.
Atolls of the Maldives
The Maldives is made up of 26 natural atolls, along with many islands and reefs. These atolls stretch across the Indian Ocean, from north to south. The largest is Boduthiladhunmathi, and Huvadhu has the most islands. Some atolls are made up of small reefs and island chains.
Kuramathi
Kuramathi is the largest island in Rasdhoo Atoll, also known as Ross Atoll. It’s about 2 kilometers long and offers a mix of natural beauty and modern resorts. It’s a popular destination for couples and families alike.
Rasdhoo
Rasdhoo is a local island and the capital of Alif Alif Atoll. It is especially known for scuba diving and snorkeling. You can reach Rasdhoo by ferry a few times a week or by daily speedboats from Malé.
Thulusdhoo
Thulusdhoo is the main island of Kaafu Atoll and is well known among surfers. The nearby surf spots, called “Chickens” and “Cokes,” attract surfers from around the world for their strong and consistent waves.
Meedhupparu
Meedhupparu is a coral island in the Northern Maalhosmadulhu Atoll. The island is peaceful and home to native wildlife like fruit bats, crows, crabs, and geckos. It’s perfect for nature lovers and those looking to unwind in a quiet setting.
Best Time to Visit Maldives
The ideal time to visit the Maldives is between November and April.
During these months, the weather is mostly sunny, dry, and pleasant.
It’s perfect for beach activities, snorkeling, and diving.
The sea is calm and clear, making water sports more enjoyable.
This is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices.
