Best Islands to Visit in the Maldives
When planning a trip to the mesmerizing Maldives, one question always arises: what are the best islands in the Maldives? With over 1,200 islands to choose from, making a decision can feel overwhelming. In this guide, we aim to help you navigate through the stunning options and share our experiences to pinpoint the top islands for your travel adventure in the Maldives.
Choosing the right island in the Maldives depends largely on your preferences:
- If you want a local atmosphere and experience the true essence of the Maldives, you should opt for the lesser-known islands that are not featured in travel brochures.
- If you wish to swim in a bikini: While many local islands have specific "bikini beaches," it's crucial to know the local laws regarding swimwear, as some places prohibit it.
- If snorkeling or diving is your passion: The underwater world of the Maldives is among the most beautiful and diverse worldwide. Can you really miss out on that?
- If you're ready to splurge and indulge: If you have the budget, staying at a resort can offer an unparalleled experience in paradise.
Or, why not a combination of all these elements? Don’t worry; we will clarify your options and detail what we believe are the best islands in the Maldives for your visit!
Additionally, keep in mind that the WiFi on some of these islands can be unreliable, so purchasing a local SIM or eSIM may be a wise choice. For more information, check out our guide on internet access in Maldives.
Dhangheti is one of the local islands that stole our hearts during our first trip to the Maldives. While it may not be the most glamorous island, its charm lies in its authenticity and tranquility. During our visit, we were among the few tourists present, which enhanced the experience. Although the tourism scene has changed since then, Dhangheti remains less commercialized, making it a great spot for those eager to witness whale sharks from May to December.
This island will always hold a special place in our travel memories, as it showed us that exploring even the world’s most exclusive destinations can be affordable.
Pros: Beautiful, deserted beaches; a genuine local atmosphere; not overcrowded with tourists.
Cons: No designated bikini beach (although there is now a small one), and the local ferry service does not operate daily. Additionally, some areas of the island may be littered due to waste management issues.
⇒ How to get to Dhangheti Island? First, take the ferry 307 from Male (Villigili Terminal) to Mahibadhoo, then switch to ferry 308, which stops at Dhangethi. Please note that these ferries do not run every day! Check the schedules through the provided links.
Check out our experience on this local island in Maldives.
Discovering Dhiffushi: A Local Paradise
Dhiffushi is a paradise island that we had on our wishlist for ages. Why? Because of its stunning white beaches, crystal-clear waters, and the overall peaceful vibe. After finally visiting, it exceeded all our expectations. We can confidently say that Dhiffushi is another gorgeous local island in the Maldives.
Here's a detailed travel guide to Dhiffushi, covering everything you can see and do on this beautiful and budget-friendly island.
Pros: Bikini beach, stunning landscapes, minimal tourism.
Cons: Limited dining options and nightlife.
⇒ How to get to Dhiffushi Island? Route 301 connects you; check the public ferry schedules to Dhiffushi Island here.
Huraa: A Tranquil Getaway
Just an hour away by ferry from Male lies Huraa, an island wrapped in turquoise waters and abundant nature. Nearby, you’ll find luxury resorts like Club Med and Four Seasons, known for their stunning locations.
During our visit in 2019, we noticed that the island was undergoing renovations, which included expanding the previous bikini beach. As of 2024, Huraa is expected to look beautiful again, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling thanks to its vibrant coral reefs just off the shore.
For more information, check out our travel guide to Huraa.
Pros: Bikini beach (currently under renovation); local atmosphere; close proximity to Male. There are only a couple of restaurants (The Harbour and Blue Terrace) but they are quite good.
Cons: The island is currently under renovation, so it’s best to check the condition of the bikini beach before visiting.
⇒ How to get to Huraa Island? Route 301; find public ferry times to Huraa Island here. You can also take a speedboat for about 150 MVR or $10 per person, which gets you there in 30 minutes from Male.
Gulhi: A Beach Lover's Dream
If you're in search of an idyllic location to relax in stunning turquoise waters, Gulhi is the place for you. Its bikini beach is one of the most beautiful in the Maldives, and after witnessing its beauty firsthand, we can't recommend it enough!
Located in the southern Male atoll and close to Maafushi, it makes for an excellent day trip.
Pros: Gorgeous bikini beach; peaceful ambiance. Its proximity to Maafushi allows for a wonderful combo of both destinations.
Cons: If you're seeking nightlife, you might find it a bit dull, as there isn't much to do other than sunbathe and swim.
⇒ How to get to Gulhi Island? The ferry route is 311; check the public ferry schedules to Gulhi Island here.
Maafushi: The Most Famous Local Island
Located an hour and a half from Male, Maafushi is one of the most beloved local islands among backpackers in the Maldives. It offers a variety of budget accommodations, restaurants, a bikini beach, and numerous activities such as snorkeling, picnicking on sandbanks, diving, and more! We recently returned and were pleasantly surprised, especially by the wide range of affordable tours available. We can’t wait to return.
Check out our guide on what to do in Maafushi, the cheapest island in the Maldives.
Pros: Bikini beach (although we found it not very beautiful); a variety of restaurants and local eateries; diverse and affordable tours.
Cons: As a very popular island, solitude is hard to come by (especially in 2024, when it is likely to be extremely crowded). The bikini beach has hotels right next to the sand, creating more of a developed resort feel than a secluded island experience. Fortunately, however, the stunning ocean views still deliver that magical feel.
⇒ How to get to Maafushi Island? Route 310; check the public ferry schedules to Maafushi Island here. Speedboats are also available, costing about $20-25 and taking 30-45 minutes from Male.
Best Resorts in the Maldives
If you want to indulge in a luxurious stay in the Maldives, there’s good news: many resorts frequently offer enticing deals, allowing you to experience the ultimate vacation without breaking the bank. Imagine starting your adventure in a budget-friendly local island and then treating yourself to a couple of nights in a resort! Sounds like a great plan, right?
How much does it cost to stay in a resort in the Maldives? Prices can range from around €200 per night to thousands. Here are some options to consider:
- Olhuveli Beach And Spa Resort: typically costs about €520, but we’ve seen deals for as low as €280.
- Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma: usually around €400, but offers can drop to €237.
- Fihalhohi Island Resort: costs around €163.
How to choose the best resort in the Maldives? Consider the following factors based on your personal preferences:
- Accessibility to the island (Is transport included?).
- Meal inclusions (most resorts offer at least half board).
- Whether the cost is justified (Is the beauty worth the price? Are there activities that are truly worthwhile? If you enjoy snorkeling, does it have a reef?).
Extra: Male, the Capital
The capital island of Maldives is often overlooked by tourists, yet we found it to be quite an interesting city. We always recommend spending at least a day (ideally a night) there to explore another side of the country.
For more information, check out our guide on what to see and do in Male.
Map of the Best Islands in the Maldives
Below is a map that shows the location of the islands we recommend for your trip to the Maldives:
If you need help finding a place to stay in paradise, check out our post on some of the best budget accommodations in Maldives.
Are you clearer on which are the best islands in the Maldives? Do you now know how to choose the Maldives destination that fits your needs? We look forward to hearing about your adventures!
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