Places To Visit In Maldives

There often comes a time when you feel the need to escape bustling cities, crowded metros and endless work emails. Today’s fast paced world is evolving at every waking moment. It is a necessity and a privilege to afford a break from this mundane routine. Since we thrive best in our natural environment, it is crucial that we take a break, detox and connect with nature. Constantly surrounded by concrete buildings and man-made escapisms can get tiring after a while, hence a place for total bliss and relaxation amidst nature is a must. Maldives is a tranquil paradise on planet Earth. Its beauty, serenity, and abundance is breathtaking. The hotels, resorts, guesthouses, villas, beaches in Maldives are as sublime as it gets. Totally pristine and untouched, commercialization has not hindered Maldives’ ecological balance. The island nature is a perfect blend of comfort that comes with advancement and natural beauty. Maldives is famous for being a romantic honeymoon destination although it serves all kinds of people. From solo travellers, friend groups to families and honeymooners, Maldives embraces everyone, offering a range of tailored Maldives holiday packages to suit diverse preferences and travel styles.

Places to visit  in Maldives for Honeymoon : 

1. Finolhu Bubble Tent

 Possibly one of the best places in Maldives to visit for honeymooners one could ask for. Maldives is determined to offer you the best stay of your life with your loved one. Glamping under the clear stellar sky is bound to be a core memory for its guests. The transparent bubble tent has well furnished rooms, bathrooms and Air conditioning. Sleeping under the night sky by the beach is the ultimate dream scenario for honeymooners. The bubble provides them privacy hence couples enjoy staying in their “own bubble”.

2.  Vaadhoo Island

 Making your nights in Maldives even more special, the marine life systems are set to charm you with its intriguing natural phenomenon of bioluminescence. Certain chemical reactions occur between the sea life, specifically the planktons combined with the motion of the waves, the sea water illuminates in a soft blue glow at night. Vaadhoo Island’s shore  lit up during the peak season (December-January) making it an unusual sight to behold. Honeymooners can definitely enjoy this place while strolling by the beach due to its romantic atmosphere. Make sure your honeymoon itinerary has included Vaadhoo island in its places to visit in Maldives’ list. 

3. Hulhumale  Beach

Close your eyes and soak in the soft sunbeams of golden hour at Hulhumale beach. Not so far from the capital city Male, Hulhumale beach is a man made paradise. The quaint beach, mesmerising palm trees, sparkling clear waters and a stunning sunset create a calming ambience. A walk at Hulhumale with your loved one is the best kind of detox. This is one of the most recommended places in Maldives for couples who seek quality time together. 

4. Male

A trip to the capital is a mandatory element of a good itinerary. Undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Maldives, Male is home to culture, heritage, history, art, adventure and innovation. The city is bursting with vibrant local markets, the dazzling marina and elegant fine dining  restaurants. The art galleries, museums and gardens are hubs for beauty and grace, a perfect match for couples in love. 

5. Maafushi Island

 The island’s majestic sandbars along its coast makes Maafushi an island with the longest coastline in Maldives. The island has one of the few public beaches in Maldives that allow tourists to wear bikinis and beachwear. Maafushi Island is the most inhabited island in Kaafu Atoll as its resorts and hotels are the best pick for couples travelling on a budget in Maldives.

Places to Visit in Maldives for Families :

1. Addu Nature Park 

 Families travelling with kids in Maldives cannot miss out on Addu Nature Park. The is one of the best places in Maldives to educate children about mother nature, rich flora and fauna. The Nature Park is located on Hithadhoo island, which also hosts the second largest wetlands in Maldives known as Eydhigali Kithi. The protected area has cycling routes, guided nature tours, canoeing and lots of opportunity to spot exotic wildlife. This is one of the best places in Maldives for families with kids, as adventure amidst the wild can turn into a quality time as well as children get to learn about their environment. 

2. Hukuru Miskiiy

 Learning history is important for younger generations. Also learning the history of the place you are visiting is the done thing to do. Hukuru Miskiiy holds immense importance for Maldives in terms of their history, culture and religion. The mosque was a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2008, for its intricately carved coral walls, handcrafted wooden work and lacquer. The monument is a symbol of the rich art and culture of Maldives and it is one of the oldest structures to exist in Male. 

3. W Maldives

W Maldives is an upscale resort in Maldives that offers utmost comfort to its guests. Majority of resorts in Maldives are flooded with couples and honeymooners. W Maldives ensures that you and your kids have the best family time you were expecting to have over the summer holidays. The resort has a kids area, babysitting services, personal butlers, spacious rooms and lavish dining facilities. There are even private pools in the villas which are a great source of entertainment and enjoyment for kids. 

4. Himmafushi 

 Spotting dolphins, whale sharks and manta rays is always an exciting activity to do for kids and family. Himmafushi island is a hub for cheap souvenir markets and traditional villages. Maldivians are known for their warm hospitality and service. Taking a walk through the traditional Maldivian villages might open up opportunities to engage in interesting conversations with the locals. It is one of the best places to visit in Maldives as kids are exposed to new cultures, people and places which inturn will help them be more open minded. 

Places in to visit in Maldives for solo travellers/ friends:

1. Banana Reef

 Vacationing with friends has never looked better. North Male Atoll consists of one of the oldest reefs in Maldives that has immense natural beauty and natural treasures. Scuba diving at Banana reef is one the best activities to do in Maldives with your friends. Make unforgettable memories at Banana reef by diving into the deep blue sea. The underwater views of the vibrant corals, colourful fishes, alluring caves, sharks, sting rays are not to miss out on. The special thing about diving at Banana Reef is that amateurs as well as expert divers can have fun. The underwater visibility is clearer than ever, so take in all the magnificent sights you witness and make the best of your vacation in Maldives.

2. Maafushi Island  

 Maafushi Island is one of the best places for budget travellers. The hotels, resorts and guest houses on this island are the best pick for friends travelling on a tight budget. The friend groups often pool in their money in order to get an all round experience of Maldives. Majority of them aim at spending their money in adventurous activities without burning a hole in their pockets. In addition to offering pocket friendly accommodations, hotels, guesthouses and resorts in Maldives do not compromise on awesome views and warm hospitality. Plan a Maldives trip that finally makes it out of the friends group chat. 

3. Subsix Underwater Restaurant

Maldives have redefined partying with friends and took it to the next level. Subsix is an underwater restaurant in Maldives that is all set and ready to take you on an unusual ride. Have the best time partying at Subsix as you sip through refreshing cocktails. This one of a kind underwater restaurant and nightclub  is one of the best places in Maldives  to spend your night. The restaurant has a mind blowing decor heavily inspired by marine life and corals. Another thing that makes Subsix the best pick for friends travelling in Maldives is its pocket friendly menu. 

Places to visit in Maldives for Couples/ Older couples : 

1. Dhigurah Island 

Dhigurah Island in Maldives is a mellow island with thick tropical trees, mangroves and huge sandbars. The island is home to one of the rare Bikini beaches in Maldives. It also has a huge local market along its main street where you can buy cheap souvenirs, several cafes where you can relax and many more. The sandbars often connect to LUX* Maldives, a luxury resort in Maldives which makes it the best place to visit for older couples. 

2. Thulusdhoo Island

Thulusdhoo is a safe option if one wishes to explore islands around Male. The island is home to yet another bikini beach in Maldives which makes it one of the best places to visit in Maldives for couples. The island consists of a decent amount of guesthouses with a handful of beaches. Couples can opt to sunbathe on the Bikini beach which is otherwise not possible at public beaches. The island is not particularly buzzing with local markets, rather its calm and quiet features attract the tourists. The postcard-worthy views of Thulusdhoo Island often make the tourists speechless. 

3. Friday Grand Mosque

A little bit of culture could help one gain a new  perspective. Soothe your souls at the beautiful Grand Friday mosque in Male. The mosque was built in 1984 with plain,  simple white marbles and golden domes. The wooden panels inside of the prayer hall are immaculately carved with intricate designs. Mosque’s doors are open to all tourists from 9AM to 5PM where men and women are expected to dress modestly with  clothes that cover their whole body. 

4. JOALI Maldives

 Escape the busy world at JOALI Maldives. Cozily nestled on Muvarandhoo island in Raa Atoll, JOALI is a portal to a serene dimension. Far away from the concrete jungles, JOALI offers you a stay in nature’s warm embrace. This is one of the best places in Maldives for couples which provides a total detox and a wellness retreat. This is an upscale, high end resort in Maldives where couples are assured their privacy, comfort and luxury. 

All in all, the majority of the places in Maldives offer you a  peek through the curtain into the island’s lifestyle. The local markets,  village walks and guided tours are the best ways to connect with the locals and exchange stories. For souvenir shopping, there are beautiful boutiques, malls, and street markets like Majeedhee Magu where you can buy exquisite handicrafts, imported goods and intricately carved wooden panels. The restaurants in Maldives  are known for their lip smacking seafood, multi-cuisine meals and fusion food. Don’t forget to taste the authentic Maldivian dishes that are filled with aromatic spices and meat. 

Here are some of the best restaurants in Maldives : 

• Ithaa Undersea Restaurant – Experience fine dining in Maldives under the sea. Ithaa Undersea Restaurant is a one of a kind restaurant that offers 180 degree views of the world underwater as you enjoy your delicious meal. 
• Oishii- The house of Sushi – Needless to say, this Japanese restaurant in Male tingles your taste buds with its divine dishes. There are authentic Japanese dishes you can try like sushi, ramen, soups, curry rice, tempura etc. 
• Sala Thai – Sala Thai impresses a lot of tourists with its open terrace dining, refreshing Thai cuisine and relaxing vibes. Sip refreshing lemon juice at Sala Thai or chow down on papaya salad when you get tired from the shopping spree in Male. 
• Meraki Coffee Roasters – Best place for all the coffee lovers visiting Maldives. The cafe has a hint of vintage decor and aesthetic vibes. This laid back cafe is right in the heart of Male. Enjoy a lovely evening coffee date with your loved one at Meraki Coffee Roasters. 
• Citron by Lemongrass – A meal by the bay is a mandatory activity in Maldives. Citron by Lemongrass sits perfectly by the sea where you can have the best time of your life. 
• Sessions (Hard Rock Hotel) – For all the music lovers, Sessions by Hard Rock Hotel is the jam!  The theme of this restaurant is musical and lively. It is one of the most vibrant and colourful restaurants in Maldives.