What are the top ten things to do in the Maldives?
Think the Maldives, think the best beach vacations! With its blue seas, crystal clear waters, white-sand beaches, an abundance of marine life around its many reefs, luxury resorts, host of water sports from snorkeling to kayaking, and a quaint local culture, Maldives is truly a beach paradise. With so many things to do and a range of options, the Maldivian atoll is the perfect destination for a bustling family holiday as well as a quiet getaway to luxuriate on the beach.
What makes the Maldives such a stunning beach destination? For starters, it is made up of a number of natural atolls or a ring-shaped reef that is coralline in origin with a coral rim. Around 26 natural atolls make up the Maldives. These atolls have formed a chain-like structure, giving the islands the appearance of a long and narrow country, especially evident in the northern and central atolls. The abundant reefs support a diverse marine life – you can even spot a whale shark among the waters. Its various atolls include Baa atoll, Huraa island and Laamu atoll among others.
If you are wondering when is the best time to visit the Maldives and how to plan your island sojourn, then turn to our destination experts. Here is a list of the top things to do in the Maldives curated by our Enchanting Travels specialists, which should definitely be part of your Maldives travel guide!
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1Sample Local Culture in Male
The capital of Maldives is the island of Male, which, despite its small size, offers a number of sights, starting with its quaint avenues, squeaky clean streets, restaurants and imposing skyscrapers.
Experience the true Maldivian spirit, with bright lights, quirky bars, a maze of local markets that sell everything under the sun, and mosques that bear testament to the city’s Islamic heritage. Male is also home to the main airport in the country, the Male International Airport.
2Go Diving in the Maldives
The abundant underwater world of the Maldives makes the archipelago a true paradise for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. Luminous corals, exotic fishes and turtles abound in the azure waters of the Indian Ocean. With a bit of luck, you can even see dolphins and whales! Beginner or novice, there are loads of options available. And don’t forget to carry your camera if you enjoy a sport of underwater photography.
One of the most popular things to do in the Maldives, apart from diving and snorkeling, is to go swimming with the dolphins in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Head out on a cruise to go dolphin spotting in the open seas and then, if you are lucky, you can enjoy swimming beside the. The Bottle Nose Dolphin is the most popular variety that is found in these waters. Meanwhile, the South Ari Atoll, a Marine Protected Area, is one of the best places in the world to swim with a whale shark. The Banana Reef in the north atoll is a popular diving site, while the Baa Atoll is also known for its mesmerizing marine life.
3Enjoy your Honeymoon in the Maldives
The fantastic tropical weather, the fine sandy beaches and the romantic sunsets are just some of the reasons why honeymoons are so popular in the Maldives. Exclusive honeymoon hotels will provide you with a romantic and highly cherished experience. What better way to enjoy a truly romantic vacation than surrounded by some of the stunning natural scenery, while you are ensconced in the midst of luxury?
You can also go on a romantic cruise that will allow you to savor the stunning beauty of the islands on a traditional sailboat called a dhoni. The dhoni resembles the traditional Arab sailboat, the dhow.
Enjoy a relaxing spa treatment in your luxury resort, savor fine cuisine and enjoy a romantic sunset cruise – the ingredients for a perfect honeymoon!
4Stay in a Luxury Beach Resort in the Maldives
A highlight of the Maldives are its luxurious beach resorts, many of which are situated on their own island. Relax away from other visitors and regenerate your body and mind with exclusive wellness treatments. Some of the best luxury beach resorts in the Maldives include Kanuhura Maldives, Fihalhohi Island Resort, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon and The Taj Exotica.
Enjoy a range of treatments and massages such as the Traditional Maldivian Theyo Dhemun Massage or a Balinese Massage – one of the best things to do in the Maldives! Most of the luxury resorts usually offer a range of water sports that you can indulge in – from snorkeling among the stunning reefs to jetskiing, your options are aplenty.
5Relish Delicious Seafood in the Maldives
Daily fresh fish and seafood of excellent quality are the main ingredients of the local cuisine and make the Maldives a feast for gourmets. The fish markets in the Maldives are always a hub of activity!
The traditional cuisine of the Maldivians draws from three main items – coconuts, fish and starches. Some of the most popular local dishes include the mas riha, a curry made with fresh tuna, Garudhiya, a fish broth served with rice, lime, chili and onions, Mas huni a popular breakfast dish made with shredded smoked fish, coconuts and onions and Fihunu mas or barbecued fish that has been basted with chili.
There are several underwater restaurants that you can eat at including the hugely popular all-glass Ithaa Undersea Restaurant!
6Enjoy a Range of Watersports in the Maldives
Apart from diving, there is a whole range of water sports that can be enjoyed in the Maldives. These include snorkeling, paddle boarding and jet skiing among others.
Villingili island is a popular destination for kitesurfing. We suggest you follow your activity session with a round of indulgence and relaxation at your resort spa!
Discover all the best things to do in the Maldives by booking your vacation with our experts at Enchanting Travels. Contact us for your tailor-made and obligation-free tour itinerary.
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One of the very best travel experiences I have ever had. We even got updates once at 3 am! He also made one change in one day’s itinerary to accommodate our wishes which was very wonderful. For business, I have traveled to Europe, Russia, all over Asia and South Africa but was blown away by all the beautiful sites in Argentina and Chile.
All the little touches made by our Enchanting Travel consultant, Amelia Edwards, were noticed and recognized by my wife and I. Thank you for making our milestone trip (25th wedding anniversary) such a memorable one! We look forward to engaging Enchanting Travels again for our next South American adventure!!
This was my first adventure as a solo traveler. But while I may have traveled on my own, I was never alone. I was well taken care of by a superb team of planners, trip coordinators, guides and drivers.
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