There are many things to do in the Maldives, perfect for all kinds of travelers. Whether looking for a relaxing holiday or for a bit of adventure, the Maldives are an incredible place to visit.
The Maldives is one of the most popular and picturesque tropical destinations in the world. Most people are attracted to the white sand beaches, palm trees, clear waters, and incredible sunsets. But in addition to the picture-perfect scenery, there are also so many fun things to do in Maldives.
Known as the perfect holiday and honeymoon spot, the Maldives is certainly a place to relax. I definitely did a lot of that when I visited – and I have been twice, once spending time in severak resorts and another time in local islands.
However, this paradise on earth has a lot more to offer, and it is suitable for any kind of traveler.
Before moving on, let me sum up here the best day trips and activities in the Maldives that can be booked online:
- Maldives: Private Male’ City Walking Tour—This private tour gives you a lot of flexibility while exploring the island city with an expert guide who can teach you about the history and take you to the best sites.
- Maafushi: Kite Surfing & Wind Surfing—This is the perfect tour for adventure travelers who want to try a new water sport.
- 3 Point Snorkeling Safari—This is an excellent snorkel tour. You’ll visit three different spots near Male in the Maldives.
- Sandbank Snorkeling and Sunset Cruise—This exciting sunset and dolphin-watching cruise is one of the best things ocean lovers can do in the Maldives.
Finally, here is a summary of all the things to do in the Maldives that anybody can enjoy. Adventure seekers, honeymooners, and those looking for a more local experience will find plenty of inspiration for their trip here.
16 Incredible Things To Do In Maldives
Snorkeling
One of the reasons I love swimming is that there’s no talking to be done. It’s just me and the noise of water in my ears, its taste in my mouth. Besides, I grew up by the sea, in Sardinia, and not a weekend in the summer goes by without going to the beach.
Snorkeling is one of my favorite activities, and rumor has it that it reaches a whole different level in the Maldives.
I guess that rumor was right. One of the biggest Maldives attractions is its marine life, and one of the best things to do in Maldives is snorkeling. Within moments of getting in the water, you will spot an incredible variety of colored fish and corals.
You might even get lucky and come across some rays, sea turtles, reef sharks, or even dolphins. The Indian Ocean is truly an excellent place for snorkeling fun. It can’t get any better than that.
I recommend this popular 3 Point Snorkeling Safari around the Maldives. The tour takes you to three different snorkel spots, includes all rental equipment, and a lovely boat ride to the various spots from Hulhumalé Ferry Terminal in Malé.
If that isn’t enough, this Sandbank Snorkeling and Sunset Cruise is another great sunset snorkeling option. You’ll visit two different snorkel spots and have a good chance of spotting some playful dolphins around sunset.
Water flying
Resorts such as Adaaran Hudhuranfushi offer activities such as water flying (or flyboarding), which is one of the most fun things to do in the Maldives.
Water flying, or flyboarding, has become the most trendy watersport in the region lately. Basically, you wear a hydrojet hoverboard that propels you several feet above the water.
While it’s pretty hard to get the hang of, it’s a lot of fun and a unique activity in Maldives. I recommend giving it a try—even if you won’t be able to stand for a long time.
Water flying requires a lot of strength in the legs and abs, which you may or may not have. It honestly is a blast. It is definitely what to do in the Maldives for a good laugh and something new.
Tubing in the Indian Ocean
One of the best things to do in the Maldives for adrenaline junkies is fun tubing. Fun tubing is also known as just tubing, inner tubing, bumper tubing, water tubing, or towed tubing, and it’s exactly as you’d imagine.
If you haven’t done it before, it’s basically a large inflatable tube in the water that gets towed by a boat. You sit on the tube and hold on for dear life.
I also tried it in Eilat in Israel, and let me tell you, it was one adrenaline-filled experience.
It is an intense 8 minutes of laughter and screaming. Fun tubing has to be one of the craziest things to do in the Maldives. It’s a million miles away from the romantic picture that most people have of this paradise archipelago and yet so much part of it!
Parasailing
Even if you think you are not afraid of heights (I didn’t think I was, after having been ziplining in Argentina), parasailing is bound to take your breath away. Literally.
A quick boat ride and the sail will be spread for you, and you will be up in the air. It is a breathtaking 15 minutes. You will likely spend the first minute thinking it is rather cool. Then, you realize the boat down there is way too small.
If you’re anything like me, you’ll wish you didn’t look that way, and you will need to close your eyes and take some very deep breaths. But despite that feeling, I’m still so happy I did it! It’s a great way to really see Maldives from up in the sky.
I promise you it is an incredible thing to do – seeing the Maldives from above is a must! It really is one of the nicest things to do in Maldives.
If you’re up for the adventure, I recommend this Maafushi Parasailing Experience. You can choose either a solo or double parasailing adventure. So, if you’re traveling with a partner or friend, you can share the experience together. If you’d rather have the seat to yourself, that’s okay too, though!
Diving
Diving is a must when visiting the Maldives. The calm and crystal-clear waters provide the perfect backdrop for beginners and experienced divers alike. It’s a lively aquatic ecosystem with colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and other marine animals.
Without a license, you can only go 12 meters deep, but even then, the marine life is absolutely stunning—you can see sharks, eagle rays, and many other species. If you’re licensed, the world is your oyster, basically. There are so many great dive sites all right off the coast and many PAD-Certified dive centers in town.
TIP: If it’s your first-time scuba diving, just stay calm! When in the water, make sure to remain calm and take slow breaths. This will make the experience last longer!
Surfing and SUP
The Maldives have some of the best waves in the world. I didn’t try surfing myself because, apparently, the waves are for quite advanced surfers, but a lot of people go there specifically in search of waves.
I heard April through June is the best time for surfing. The water is usually very clear, and there are consistent swells all around the Maldives. The
If surfing is not your thing, you can still try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). The water is very smooth, and you get to see the corals and fish below! SUP is definitely one of my favorite things to do in Maldives because of the great views. It’s really one of the most fun yet relaxing water sports, and almost anyone can do it!
If you want something even more challenging, I also recommend this Maafushi: Kite Surfing & Wind Surfing activity. You can rent gear for up to 90 minutes and receive some lessons if you’re a beginner. Kite surfing and windsurfing have also gained a lot of popularity, and the Maldives is a great place to try them.
Fishing
Fishing has been commonplace in the Maldives for centuries. In fact, some believe that traditional pole-and-line fishing originated in the Maldives years ago. And to this day, fishing is an important piece of the economy.
Tuna is the country’s primary export, and fishing is the second largest industry in the economy (behind tourism). The Maldives set an example for much of the world with its continued use of “pole and line” fishing, as it prevents overfishing that happens so easily with nets and mass production.
Resorts and local islands organize fishing trips, usually around sunset. You head out a bit before the sun is about to set and admire the most incredible views from the water. You are then provided with all the necessary equipment to fish.
The waters are packed with fish, and regardless of your level of expertise, you are bound to capture many.
Relaxing spa treatments
If you’re visiting Maldives for a tropical getaway, a romantic holiday, or for some peace and quiet, you’ll definitely want to schedule a spa treatment.
Resorts such as Adaaran Prestige Vadoo have spas where you can enjoy many treatments, including a Balinese massage. Other treatments include facials and manicures.
No matter which you choose, you’ll surely leave relaxed and ready for the next adventure. A nice spa treatment is the perfect complement to the soothing white-sand beaches and healing waters of the Indian Ocean.
Admiring a splendid sunset (or sunrise)
Nothing sounds more quintessentially romantic than watching the sunset or sunrise. And it is well known that one of the nicest things to do in the Maldives is admiring that special light at the end of the day.
For perfect results, I suggest doing so from the plunge pool of an overwater bungalow—most resorts in the Maldives have them. The effect is fantastic, and you’ll definitely remember the beautiful rays for years to come. Alternatively, head out by boat and watch it directly from the water!
Going to a sandbank
Sandbanks are scattered everywhere in the Maldives. They are truly unique places – literally a tiny island entirely made of the whitest sand you can imagine, surrounded by pristine, clear waters and coral reefs.
You need to get a boat ride there – captains usually know where to find them. They are fun places to spend a few hours. You really can’t stand longer than that as the sun is fierce and there is hardly anything to protect yourself from it.
Boats usually carry umbrellas or gazebos that can be placed on the beach to create shade. Make sure to hang out there any time you are not in the water, cover your head with a hat, wear lots of high-protecting factor sunblock, and possibly a T-shirt—your shoulders will thank you.
There are sandbank trips leaving daily from around the tourist spots in the Maldives, but you can also check out this Sandbank, Snorkeling, Dolphin Cruise, Picnic, Local Island Tour. The tour includes a visit to a sandbank in its action-packed itinerary and many other great ocean activities.
Eating local cuisine, seafood, and fresh fruit
If there’s one thing that is not missing in the Maldives, it is good food.
The cuisine in the Maldives tends to be quite similar to that of Sri Lanka, but there is also an incredible variety of international food.
Local cuisine tends to focus heavily on fish, which is literally served for breakfast. There are also lots of mild curries.
From fresh tropical fruit to delicious fish, from barbecued meat to Japanese or Italian cuisine, one of the greatest things to do in the Maldives is eat.
Having lunch right on the water
Speaking of eating, there is one thing that you can only do when there is no wind, and the tide allows it. But if you manage, it’s a great experience.
You can literally eat with your feet and legs in the water. Many beachfront restaurants have tables (and an umbrella to create some much-needed shade) mounted on the shallow shores. You will be served a delicious lunch in a fantastic setting.
If you’re looking for a luxurious beach dining experience, the Maldives is the perfect place for you. The Beach Shack by Ritz Carlton on Fari Islands is one of the most well-known beachfront restaurants and lounges. You can even organize a private picnic on a sandbank, in a hidden garden, or simply on the beach right there.
It’s not on the beach, but Ithaa Undersea Restaurant by Conrad on Rangali Island is possibly the most viral restaurant in Asia. The restaurant serves food five meters below the surface of the Indian Ocean, so you feel like you’re eating a romantic meal inside a real aquarium. Because of the unique and inspiring ambiance, it’s one of the best things to do in Maldives for couples.
If you’re looking for something more casual and affordable on the beach, there are plenty of options. There are dozens of great ones in different parts of the Maldives, so I recommend walking around the main beach closest to your accommodation and finding a more local Maldivian cafe on the beach that catches your eye.
Visiting a local island
Not many people who venture to the Maldives visit the islands where the locals live. It’s a shame, really. The tourist hot spots are great, but it’s really something else to get more of a feel for local living, culture, and even natural beauty.
These are lovely places to explore, with nice beaches (often separate for tourists and locals, who are Muslim and won’t wear swimsuits), small local cafés, mosques, schools, and friendly people hanging around. Make it a point to go!
It’s hard to tell you exactly which islands to visit, though. The Maldives consists of 1,190 coral islands grouped into 27 atolls and spread out over 90,000 square kilometers.
Malé Island, Hulhumalé Island, Maafushi Island, Maradhoo Island, and Biyadhoo Island are just some of the many popular tourist islands.
If you’re looking for something more “off the beaten path” in the Maldives, you can check out Fulfadhoo Island, Keyhodoo Island, and Mahibadhoo Island, which are less visited and have more of a local vibe.
Read my post A Complete Guide To Visiting The Maldives On A Budget. You should have a good idea of the country and culture before visiting more local areas.
Visiting Malé
The capital of the Maldives is hardly a popular tourist destination, but if you are looking for a truly local experience, make it a point to visit.
The most interesting places to visit are the local fruit and vegetable market and the nearby fish market. You will be able to catch lots of action there and take a glimpse of the main products of local cuisine. I was particularly intrigued by the incredible skills fishermen show at cutting fish!
Other popular Maldives attractions include Independence Square, Tsunami Monument, Artificial Beach, and Majeedhee Magu.
But there’s really a little something of everything, and as one of the most populated islands in the Maldives, it provides such a good glimpse into the daily living of the locals.
I highly recommend joining a guided tour to make the most of Malé, like this Maldives: Private Male’ City Walking Tour. The tour is very flexible, so you can adjust things as you see fit. But you’ll be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who will help you make the most of your day exploring Malé.
Enjoying a gorgeous resort
The Maldives went viral on the internet for their incredible underwater villas with direct access to the sea. Staying in one is an incredible experience and definitely one of the top things to do in the Maldives.
If you book a reputable hotel, like the Adaaran Prestige Water Villas, you’ll find spacious rooms with comfortable beds and great amenities. This specific hotel also has a plunge pool, a deck for sunbathing, and a jacuzzi at the back. The only noise one can hear is the breeze and the sea. And the view is simply spectacular.
As I mentioned, staying in overwater bungalows and beautiful rooms is one of the things to do in Maldives on honeymoon. I suppose it is good to point out the best resorts in Maldives.
Here’s a selection of the nicest places to stay:
- Adaaran Select Huduranfushi is suitable for all sorts of budgets and also for sports junkies, as it offers cheaper tourist packages and is located on an island that gets excellent waves. Like most over-the-water bungalows in the Maldives, it’s also an all-inclusive resort with plenty of good restaurants and such.
- Adaaran Prestige Vadoo is located on a tiny island and is perfect for a romantic or relaxing getaway. There is a spa and a diving center that offers dives directly from the shore.
- Bandos Maldives is located in Kaafu Atoll and offers all the nicest things to do in Maldives at really competitive prices.
- Constance Halaveli is possibly the most luxurious all all the best resorts in Maldives.
There are so many incredible resorts in the Maldives, spread out across many different islands. You can’t really go wrong with any of them. Remember, the Maldives has gained so much popularity partially due to the high-end, luxurious resorts and ocean bungalows.
For more accommodation options, check out my post, The Best Maldives Accommodation Guide For All Budgets. You’ll find all sorts of different places to stay for varying budgets and preferences!
Maldives National Museum
Most people visit the Maldives for its beautiful beaches and natural beauty, but the Maldives National Museum in Malé is a great place to learn more about the country’s history and culture.
The museum has hundreds of ancient artifacts covering the entire history of the islands. One of the museum’s unique characteristics is the wide variety of cultures represented. You’ll find ancient Buddhist relics alongside Islamic scriptures and traditional objects alongside royal clothing.
Whether you spend a day touring around Malé or not, you should try to find some time to visit the Maldives National Museum so you can understand the history just a little more while enjoying your tropical vacation.
Final Remarks
I went to the Maldives for the beauty and was just a little shocked by the endless Maldives activities and tourist attractions. There are many more things to do in Maldives than I had expected.
And despite its reputation as a popular honeymoon or romantic getaway, there’s something for everyone. It’s also a haven for solo travelers, adventures, and even friends who love to travel!
If you have the budget to splurge, you will love it. And even if you don’t have that budget, there’s still plenty to do. Believe it or not, it’s possible to visit the islands on a budget. Find out more about budget travel and cheap things to do in Maldives here.
Are you thinking of going to the Maldives? What are the things to do in Maldives that you are most looking forward to?
Legal Disclaimer: I was a guest of Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi, Adaaran Prestige Vadoo, and Maldives TV during my stay in the Maldives. All the views and opinions expressed are my own and based on my personal experience. They are honest, factual, and without bias.
Pint It For Later!
I’m so happy to find a list of things for a single woman to do in the Maldives. I thought I would have to wait until I met the man of my dreams to go. Now I just need to learn how to swim. Lol
OMG I’ve been dreaming of this destination for way too long!! Why don’t I just book flights? :O Are the fancy villas very expensive though? that i guess has been he main reason stopping me so far 😀
That you can do anywhere! Good plan to visit Maldives!!
Actually, there’s all sorts of resorts. Some aren’t that expensive. You can stay in a beach villa which is cheaper and still enjoy all the things to do in Maldives!
Envious you got to try out so many activities in Adaaran. I would have loved to go parasailing! And why don’t you post the video of you and JJ? That was hilarious!
At least you got to enjoy a proper over water villa!!
Great idea for a post. The country is missing a trick by not marketing itself to young professionals and also families. I utterly loved the food there, it was amazing. I spent a week there several years ago (with my other half!) and just snorkelled and ate. It’s a fabulous destination.
I think they are working on it and really making an effort to diversify their offer and attract also singles and younger people who don’t have that much money!
From candlelit dinners on the beach to couple’s spa packages, every activity on this collection of islands is designed to keep that love bubble shiny and inflated until you get back home. It’s the perfect backdrop for romance, really. With palm trees swaying gently in the breeze, dazzling white sand as soft as fluffy carpet and vivid turquoise blue sea with water that’s startlingly clear, this is paradise, pure and simple.
Yes, pretty much paradise!!
Oh wow, this post is definitely travel inspiration! Being single is a reason iIve avoided the Maldives but may just have to go solo!
See? I am telling you: just go!
Great post, I’ve been to the Maldives once and want to go back now!
Tell me about it!
Hello Claudia!
Maldives are on my bucket list for sure and your article convinced me again that it is a great idea to go to this destination. I cannot wait to see it on my own eyes!
Wish you all the best!
Bye Renata
It is a slice of paradise on earth!
Excellent post Claudia! The Maldives is surely an eye feast. Especially underwater. I have been to this beautiful island called Rasdhoo and saw some really amazing underwater creatures like sharks, manta rays, snappers, stone fishes and so many more creatures I don’t even know the names of!
This looks amazing guys, definitely want to try some diving out there when we get the opportunity.