Ask anyone in your immediate vicinity if they would be interested in traveling to the Maldives? Maldives are the pinnacle of island paradise and everyone's ideal vacation spot.

As we just learned, these immaculate, stunning islands in the Indian Ocean are a sanctuary of unspoiled beauty and one of those locations that truly lives up to the reputation!

Before booking flights, the Maldives seemed like a simple destination—just one of those places everyone dreams of visiting. However, after booking, it quickly became clear that planning a trip here is more complex than expected. There’s an abundance of options to choose from, a long list of things to pack and many to leave behind, unfamiliar local laws, and a variety of activities that aren’t always captured in those Pinterest-perfect photos.

This guide aims to simplify the process and ensure a smooth, unforgettable stay in the Maldives. Some tips may seem obvious, but each one is designed to help make the most of a visit to one of the world’s most stunning destinations!

Essential Things to Know Before Visiting the Maldives

Male: The Hidden City

The capital city, Male, is often overlooked by tourists, yet it’s a vibrant hub where many locals live. Interestingly, the airport is located on Hulhulé Island, not Male itself, meaning the city is often missed entirely by visitors.

Respect Local Culture

While the resort islands are generally more liberal, the Maldives as a whole is a conservative country. Always be mindful of local customs, especially in public spaces like airports. Once you’re on your private island resort, feel free to enjoy the beachwear!

Resorts Are Island-Specific

Each resort typically occupies its own island, offering a unique experience tailored to its location. Don't expect every resort to be the same, each has it's distinct charm and atmosphere.

Every Resort Is Unique

Resorts in the Maldives offer various amenities and experiences. They are not all identical, despite what the pictures of overwater villas and snorkeling might suggest. Research each one carefully to find what suits your preferences.

Peak Season: December to April

The busiest (and most expensive) season in the Maldives is from December to April, driven by perfect weather conditions. However, the Maldives enjoys excellent weather year-round, so visiting off-season can save money without compromising the experience.

Island Time Is Real

Many islands operate on their own time zone, usually an hour behind Male's local time. While it may not technically add extra hours to your day, this 'island time' helps you relax, enjoy the sunset, and immerse yourself in the laid-back vibe of the Maldives.

What to Pack for the Maldives

Clothing:

There’s no need to over-pack for the Maldives. Keep it light and breezy with summer essentials—think shorts, swimsuits, and casual attire. The laid-back atmosphere means no one is concerned with fashion. While a couple of smart outfits for evenings out may come in handy, don’t be surprised if you're the only one dressed up. If you do want to look stylish, remember practicality is key. Most activities are outdoors, and heavy clothing will just feel uncomfortable.

Toiletries:

Stick to the basics in terms of toiletries. However, make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen, as the many water-based activities will require frequent reapplication.

Cameras:

An underwater camera is a must for capturing the vibrant marine life. Don’t forget a float for your camera to avoid accidental drops while exploring the waters.

Other Essentials:

Beyond the basics, these islands are well-equipped with shops, so don’t stress about forgetting something small. If you need medication, pack it, as some islands have their own on-site doctors for emergencies.

How to Get There

Booking a flight to the Maldives is straightforward, much like any other international trip—whether you're flying from London, New York, or elsewhere. However, getting to the individual islands requires a bit more planning. Be sure to arrange your transfer to the resorts in advance, as this step is essential for a smooth arrival.

Getting Between Islands

Booking stays at multiple resorts in the Maldives is a fantastic way to maximize your experience. Each island offers something unique, and moving around lets you discover new places and activities—whether it’s exploring different snorkeling spots or enjoying fresh perspectives. It’s definitely a great way to extend the excitement of your trip. Plus, you'll have a bit of a smug moment when others are heading home, and you're just moving to your next stunning island.

Where to Stay in the Maldives

After an extensive search for the best places to stay in the Maldives, we’ve rounded up a few top picks based on personal experience. Each offers its own unique charm and luxury, ensuring an unforgettable stay. Here are our recommendations, listed in no particular order:

Dusit Thani Maldives

At Dusit Thani, you’ll enjoy ultimate luxury with personalized service, including your very own butler. The resort boasts a variety of accommodations, from ocean villas to beach villas, along with the largest infinity pool in the Maldives. You can easily explore the island by golf buggy or bicycle. One of the standout features here is the stunning bioluminescent plankton that lights up the beach at night. It’s an extraordinary experience that shouldn’t be missed.

Angsana Ihuru

For a more intimate experience, Angsana Ihuru is the perfect choice. As one of the smaller islands, it offers personalized service, from sunset cruises to romantic candlelit dinners on the beach. The coral reef here is among the best in the Maldives, teeming with dolphins, turtles, sharks, and clownfish. Whether you’re snorkeling or relaxing, the focus on exclusivity and nature ensures an unforgettable escape.

Kurumba Maldives

Kurumba is the largest resort on our list and offers an impressive range of accommodations, making it suitable for different budgets. Despite it's size, it maintains a premium experience with a wide range of activities and amenities. The resort is conveniently located near Male, making it an ideal spot to either begin or end your Maldivian holiday. With abundant sea life and a variety of luxurious rooms, Kurumba is a well-rounded choice for anyone looking to experience both relaxation and adventure.

What to Eat?

When it comes to food in the Maldives, there's no need for concern. Every resort offers a wide variety of dining options to suit different tastes, and most can easily accommodate dietary requirements if you notify them in advance. No matter your preference, you’ll have plenty of choices throughout your stay.

What to See and Do

There’s no shortage of activities to enjoy during your time in the Maldives. While it’s always a good idea to check with your resort for specific offerings, here are some tried-and-true experiences to look forward to:

Snorkeling: Whether you’re in front of your resort or on a guided tour, the Maldivian waters are teeming with diverse marine life. Just hop in and start exploring!

Romantic Dining: From private island dinners to candlelit meals by the beach, the Maldives offers endless romantic dining options. Choose one that makes your evening extra special.

Swim with Sharks: Swimming with whale sharks is an unforgettable experience, but even out of season, blacktip sharks are common, offering a thrilling underwater adventure year-round.

Guided Tour with a Marine Biologist: Enhance your snorkeling experience by joining a marine biologist on a guided tour. You’ll spot creatures you might have missed and gain deeper insights into the ecosystem.

Sunset Tour: A sunset cruise is a must. You might even spot dolphins along the way! Either way, the Maldivian sunset is a breathtaking sight, best enjoyed.

Spa Day: Indulge in a relaxing spa day. The tranquil surroundings make it the perfect place to unwind.

Swim with Manta Rays: Manta rays are another majestic creature you can encounter in the Maldives, especially during the right season. Swimming with them is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Money-Saving Tips

While the Maldives is undeniably a luxury destination, there are ways to make your dream vacation more affordable:

Go Half-Board: Half-board is a practical option. You’ll often find you’re not hungry enough for a full lunch after a big breakfast. You can always snack light or indulge in a lunch, but going half-board helps save money without sacrificing your experience.

Visit Off-Season: To save on costs, plan your trip between May and November. The weather remains great, and prices are lower with better availability.

Switch Things Up: Start or end your stay in a luxury water villa, then move to a beach villa later on. Alternatively, explore different islands during your stay. This way, you get the best of both worlds without overstretching your budget.