100 Best things to Do in the Maldives: An Ultimate Guide


1. Snorkeling

The Maldives offers some of the most spectacular snorkeling in the world. This is due to the abundance of coral reefs in the region, as well as extremely clear waters. There are, in fact, close to 70 distinct species of coral reefs and more than 700 species of marine life. This means when you snorkel here you are sure to see an amazing variety of flora and fauna. Just some of the species you are likely to see include reef sharks, various kinds of turtles, rays, napoleons and morays. Whether you are an expert on marine life or not, you can still appreciate the colorful array of creatures you will be able to observe. Snorkeling highly recommended thing to do in Maldives.

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Snorkeling

2. Diving

The Maldives has become one of the world's best scuba diving destinations because of the white sand beaches, coral reefs, clear warm waters, numerous scuba diving sites and rich marine life.

Most holiday resorts in the Maldives have a scuba diving facility and there are a number of liveaboard operators offering scuba diving cruise holidays that take guests to many dive sites all over the Maldives. Many scuba divers are keen to dive in the Maldives because of the presence of whale sharks, manta rays, eagle rays, reef sharks, hammerhead sharks and moray eels, as well as many smaller fish and coral species. Diving is one of the best thing to do in Maldives.

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maldives diving

3. Stay in an Overwater Bungalow

Experience luxury at its finest by staying in an overwater bungalow. Enjoy direct access to the ocean, stunning views, and the ultimate in privacy and comfort.

over water room maldives

4. Explore Malé, the Capital City

Malé, the bustling capital of the Maldives, offers a mix of modernity and tradition. Visit the markets, explore the local culture, and see the historical sites.

maldives capital male city

5. Swim with Manta Rays

Join a guided tour and swim with these gentle giants. The Maldives is one of the best places in the world to encounter manta rays, especially around the Hanifaru Bay.

Manta-Point-Lankanfinolhu-Island

6. Enjoy a Private Beach Dinner

Treat yourself to a romantic dinner on a secluded beach. Many resorts offer this exclusive experience, complete with gourmet food and stunning sunset views.

Private Beach Dinner

7. Visit a Traditional Maldivian Village

Get a glimpse into the local way of life by visiting a traditional Maldivian village. Learn about the culture, customs, and daily activities of the islanders.

Traditional Maldivian Village

8. Take a Seaplane Tour Over the Atolls

See the Maldives from above with a seaplane tour. The aerial view of the turquoise waters, coral reefs, and white-sand islands is breathtaking.

take a Seaplane Tour

9. Try Night Fishing

Experience the traditional way of fishing in the Maldives by going on a night fishing trip. Catch your own fish and enjoy a barbecue under the stars.

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try Night Fishing

10. Relax in an Underwater Spa

Indulge in a unique spa experience at one of the Maldives' underwater spas. Relax as you watch the marine life swim by through the glass walls.

Relax in an Underwater Spa

11. Experience a Sunset Cruise

A sunset cruise is a perfect way to end your day in the Maldives. Watch the sky turn vibrant shades of orange and pink as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean.

Experience a Sunset Cruise

12. Dine at an Underwater Restaurant

For an unforgettable dining experience, visit an underwater restaurant. Enjoy gourmet cuisine while being surrounded by the ocean's beauty.

Dine at an Underwater Restaurant

13. Visit a Sandbank

Spend a day on a secluded sandbank surrounded by nothing but the azure ocean.

Visit a Sandbank

14. Visit the Hukuru Miskiy (Friday Mosque)

This ancient mosque, built in 1658, is a must-visit in Malé. Its intricate coral stone architecture and wooden carvings make it a unique historical site.

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Visit the Hukuru Miskiy (Friday Mosque)

15. Explore the Maldives Islamic Centre

The Maldives Islamic Centre, with its golden dome, is an iconic landmark in Malé. It serves as a center for religious and cultural activities.

Explore the Maldives Islamic Centre

16. Attend a Maldivian Cultural Show

Experience the rich culture of the Maldives by attending a traditional music and dance performance. The bodu beru drums are a highlight of these shows.

Attend a Maldivian Cultural Show

17. Dive with Whale Sharks

The Maldives is one of the few places where you can dive with whale sharks, the largest fish in the ocean. These gentle giants are often found around the South Ari Atoll.

Dive with Whale Sharks

18. Participate in Coral Reef Conservation

Join a coral reef conservation project and contribute to preserving the Maldives' delicate marine ecosystem. Many resorts offer guest participation in coral planting programs.

Participate in Coral Reef Conservation

19. Kayak Through Mangroves

Explore the unique mangrove forests of the Maldives by kayak. Paddle through narrow channels and observe the diverse flora and fauna.

Kayak Through Mangroves

20. Visit Vaadhoo Island for Bioluminescent Plankton

Vaadhoo Island is famous for its bioluminescent plankton, which lights up the shoreline at night. This natural phenomenon is a mesmerizing sight.

Visit Vaadhoo Island for Bioluminescent Plankton

21. Enjoy a Floating Breakfast in Your Villa

Start your day with a luxurious floating breakfast in your private villa pool. This indulgent experience is offered by many of the Maldives' top resorts.

Enjoy a Floating Breakfast

22. Visit the National Museum in Malé

The National Museum in Malé houses a collection of artifacts that tell the story of the Maldives' rich history and culture. It's a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Visit the National Museum in Malé

23. Go on a Dolphin Watching Tour

The Maldives is home to several species of dolphins, and a dolphin watching tour is a great way to see them in their natural habitat. Watch as they playfully swim and jump alongside your boat.

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Go on a Dolphin Watching Tour

24. Experience Traditional Maldivian Fishing

Join local fishermen on a traditional fishing boat and learn the art of fishing the Maldivian way. This hands-on experience is both fun and educational.

Experience Traditional Maldivian Fishingg

25. Indulge in a Luxury Spa Treatment

Pamper yourself with a spa treatment in one of the Maldives' many luxury resorts. From massages to facials, you'll find a range of treatments to rejuvenate your body and mind.

Indulge in a Luxury Spa Treatment

26. Watch the Sunrise from a Secluded Beach

Rise early and head to a secluded beach to watch the sunrise. The tranquility and beauty of the morning light make it a peaceful start to the day.

Watch the Sunrise from a Secluded Beach

27. Go Big Game Fishing

For thrill-seekers, big game fishing is a must. Head out into the deep sea and try to catch marlin, tuna, and other large fish.

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 Go Big Game Fishing

28. Try Water Skiing

The calm, warm waters of the Maldives are perfect for water skiing. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, this activity offers thrills and fun.

Try Water Skiing

29. Windsurfing in the Maldives

With its warm waters and steady winds, the Maldives is an ideal place for windsurfing. Many resorts offer equipment and lessons for beginners.

Windsurfing in the Maldives

30. Explore Shipwrecks While Diving

The Maldives is home to several shipwrecks that have become popular dive sites. Explore these underwater relics and the marine life that now inhabits them.

Explore Shipwrecks While Diving

31. Go Parasailing Over the Indian Ocean

Parasailing offers a bird's-eye view of the Maldives' stunning scenery. Soar above the islands and take in the panoramic views of the turquoise waters.

Go Parasailing Over the Indian Ocean

32. Enjoy a Beachfront Yoga Session

Start your day with a peaceful beachfront yoga session. The serene surroundings and the sound of the waves create a perfect atmosphere for relaxation and mindfulness.

Enjoy a Beachfront Yoga Session

33. Explore Local Markets in Malé

Discover the local way of life by visiting the bustling markets in Malé. The fish market is especially lively, with fresh catches being sold daily.

Explore Local Markets in Malé

34. Enjoy a Family-Friendly Snorkeling Trip

Take the whole family on a Maldives snorkeling adventure. The shallow lagoons of the Maldives are perfect for kids to explore the underwater world safely.

Enjoy a Family-Friendly Snorkeling Trip

35. Take a Cooking Class in Maldivian Cuisine

Learn how to prepare traditional Maldivian dishes by taking a cooking class. You'll get hands-on experience with local ingredients and techniques.

Take a Cooking Class in Maldivian Cuisine

36. Discover the Marine Life at a Research Center

Visit a marine research center and learn about the efforts to protect the Maldives' unique marine ecosystem. Some centers offer guided tours and educational programs.

Discover the Marine Life at a Research Center

37. Explore Malé’s Historical Sites

Discover the history of Malé by visiting its historical sites, such as the Old Friday Mosque, the Sultan Park, and the Mulee Aage Palace.

Explore Malé’s Historical Sites

38. Visit Utheemu Palace

Utheemu Palace, located on Utheemu Island, is the birthplace of Sultan Mohamed Thakurufaanu, a hero in Maldivian history. The palace is now a museum.

Visit Utheemu Palace

39. Experience a Full Moon Beach Party

Join a full moon beach party, a popular event in the Maldives. Dance under the stars to live music and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Experience a Full Moon Beach Party

40. Try Deep Sea Fishing

Deep sea fishing in the Maldives is an exciting adventure. Head out into the open ocean and try your luck at catching big game fish like marlin, tuna, and sailfish.

Try Deep Sea Fishing

41. Capture Stunning Photos on a Photography Tour

Join a photography tour and capture the beauty of the Maldives through your lens. Whether you're an amateur or a professional, the Maldives offers endless photo opportunities.

Capture Stunning Photos on a Photography Tour

42. Take a Catamaran Sailing Trip

Sail around the atolls on a catamaran and enjoy the stunning views of the Maldives from the water. Many trips include stops for snorkeling and swimming.

Take a Catamaran Sailing Trip

43. Explore the Lhaviyani Atoll

Lhaviyani Atoll is known for its pristine beaches and excellent diving spots. Explore this lesser-known atoll and discover its natural beauty.

Explore the Lhaviyani Atoll

44. Watch a Movie Under the Stars

Many resorts in the Maldives offer outdoor movie screenings on the beach. Enjoy a classic film while lounging on the sand under the night sky.

Watch a Movie Under the Stars

45. Experience Flyboarding

Try the adrenaline-pumping activity of flyboarding in the Maldives. Hover above the water and perform tricks with the help of a water-powered jetpack.

Experience Flyboarding

46. Visit the Maldives Fish Market

Pamper yourself with a traditional Maldivian spa treatment. Many resorts offer massages and therapies using local ingredients like coconut oil and seaweed.

Visit the Maldives Fish Market

47. Explore the Artificial Beach in Malé

The Artificial Beach in Malé is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It's a great place to swim, relax, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Explore the Artificial Beach in Malé

48. Relax in a Lagoon-View Jacuzzi

Unwind in a jacuzzi with a view of the lagoon. Many resorts offer private jacuzzis where you can relax and soak in the stunning surroundings.

Relax in a Lagoon-View Jacuzzi

49. Try Kitesurfing

Kitesurfing is a thrilling activity that combines surfing and kite flying. The Maldives' steady winds and clear waters make it an ideal destination for kitesurfing enthusiasts.

Try Kitesurfing

50. Take a Speedboat Tour

Explore the atolls on a speedboat tour. These tours are fast-paced and exciting, offering a different perspective of the Maldives' beautiful islands.

Take a Speedboat Tour

51. Visit a Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center

Learn about sea turtle conservation efforts by visiting a rehabilitation center. These centers rescue and care for injured turtles before releasing them back into the wild.

Visit a Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center

52. Learn to Surf in the Maldives

The Maldives is an excellent destination for both beginner and experienced surfers. Many resorts offer surfing lessons, and the waves are perfect for riding.

Learn to Surf in the Maldives

53. Explore the Maldivian Wildlife

The Maldives is home to a variety of wildlife, including tropical birds, flying foxes, and geckos. Take a nature walk and discover the islands' unique flora and fauna.

Explore the Maldivian Wildlife

54. Scuba Diving at Banana Reef

One of the most famous dive sites in the Maldives, Banana Reef is known for its stunning coral formations and diverse marine life. Dive into the deep blue and discover a world teeming with life.

Scuba Diving at Banana Reef

55. Join a Guided Island Hopping Tour

Discover the diversity of the Maldives by joining a guided island hopping tour. Each island has its own unique charm, from luxury resorts to local villages.

Join a Guided Island Hopping Tour

56. Participate in a Marine Biology Workshop

Many resorts offer marine biology workshops where you can learn about the unique marine life of the Maldives and the importance of conservation.

Participate in a Marine Biology Workshop

57. Experience Glamping on a Private Island

Combine luxury and adventure by glamping on a private island. Enjoy the comforts of a luxury tent while being surrounded by nature.

Experience Glamping on a Private Island

58. Visit a Maldivian Souvenir Shop

Buy local handicrafts and souvenirs to take home.

Visit a Maldivian Souvenir Shop

59. Try Wakeboarding

Wakeboarding is a thrilling water sport that involves riding a board while being towed behind a boat. The Maldives' calm waters make it an ideal spot for beginners and experts alike.

Try Wakeboarding

60. Visit a Sustainable Resort

Stay at a sustainable resort and learn about the eco-friendly practices used to protect the environment. These resorts often offer educational programs and activities.

Visit a Sustainable Resort

61. Explore the Southernmost Atolls

The southernmost atolls of the Maldives, such as Addu Atoll, offer a unique experience with their own culture, history, and natural beauty. Explore these less-visited islands for a more off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Explore the Southernmost Atol

62. Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a fun and relaxing way to explore the calm lagoons of the Maldives. Paddle at your own pace and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding

63. Visit the Maldives Whale Submarine

The Maldives Whale Submarine offers a unique underwater experience for those who prefer to stay dry. Take a dive and explore the coral reefs without getting wet.

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Visit the Maldives Whale Submarine

64. Attend a Local Festival

Experience the vibrant culture of the Maldives by attending a local festival. Festivals like Eid and the Independence Day celebrations are marked with traditional music, dance, and feasts.

Attend a Local Festival

65. Take a Jet Ski Safari

A jet ski safari is an exhilarating way to explore the Maldives' islands and atolls. Speed across the water and discover hidden coves and secluded beaches.

Take a Jet Ski Safari

66. Visit the Maldives Victory Wreck

The Maldives Victory Wreck is a popular dive site for experienced divers. The shipwreck, which sank in 1981, is now home to a variety of marine life and coral formations.

Visit the Maldives Victory Wreck

66. Experience the Maldives’ Nightlife

While the Maldives is known for its tranquility, there are still opportunities to enjoy the nightlife. Many resorts offer beach parties, live music, and themed events.

Experience the Maldives’ Nightlife

67. Take a Sunset Photo Tour

Capture the beauty of the Maldives' sunsets with a guided photo tour. Learn tips and techniques from a professional photographer while exploring the islands.

Take a Sunset Photo Tour

68. Visit a Local School

Visit a local school and learn about the Maldivian education system. This is a great way to interact with local children and understand their way of life.

Visit a Local Schoolg

69. Relax on the Beach

Sometimes the best thing to do in the Maldives is simply to relax on the beach. With miles of white sand and crystal-clear water, you'll find your perfect spot to unwind.

Relax on the Beach

70. Explore Hidden Lagoons by Canoe

Discover the Maldives' hidden lagoons by canoe. Paddle through serene waters and explore the tranquil beauty of the islands.

Explore Hidden Lagoons by Canoe

71. Sky Dive Maldives Ifuru

Tandem skydiving is a thrilling activity in which a willing person is paired with an accomplished skydiving instructor. Joined at the hip, they ride an aircraft to frightening heights and then jump out into the wide sky. An exhilarating rush of adrenaline and breath-taking panoramic views combine to create an incredible sensory explosion as they freefall at speeds of up to 120 mph. When the teacher opens the parachute, there's a peaceful descent and a victorious landing. Unmatched excitement for individuals looking for a memorable, risk-free skydiving introduction.

Sky Dive Maldives Ifuru

72. Visit the National Art Gallery in Malé

The National Art Gallery in Malé showcases the work of local artists and provides insight into the Maldives' vibrant art scene.

Visit the National Art Gallery in Malé

73. Discover the Maldives’ Blue Holes

Dive into these underwater sinkholes for a unique Maldives diving experience, exploring their depths and encountering diverse marine life.

Discover the Maldives’ Blue Holes

74. Stay at Underwater Hotel

The Conrad Maldives Rangali Island resort's THE MURAKA is a unique luxury two-story home with a master bedroom submerged in the Indian Ocean over 16 feet below sea level.

Stay at Underwater Hotel

75. Experience a Traditional Maldivian Tea Ceremony

Join a traditional Maldivian tea ceremony and sample local teas and snacks. This cultural experience is a great way to learn about Maldivian hospitality.

Experience a Traditional Maldivian Tea Ceremony

76. Relax in an Overwater Hammock

Unwind in a hammock suspended over the water. Many overwater villas in the Maldives feature hammocks where you can relax and enjoy the ocean breeze.

Relax in an Overwater Hammock

77. Visit the Tsunami Monument in Malé

The Tsunami Monument in Malé commemorates the victims of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. It's a poignant reminder of the power of nature.

Visit the Tsunami Monument in Malé

78. Go Paddleboarding in the Crystal-Clear Waters

Paddleboarding is a fun and relaxing way to explore the Maldives' calm waters. Many resorts offer paddleboards for guests to use.

Go Paddleboarding in the Crystal-Clear Waters

79. Attend a Maldivian Wedding Ceremony

Witness a traditional Maldivian wedding ceremony, complete with local music, dance, and customs. Some resorts offer packages for couples to renew their vows in this unique way.

Attend a Maldivian Wedding Ceremony

80. Ride a Dhoni (Traditional Maldivian Boat)

Sail the waters of the Maldives on a dhoni, a traditional wooden boat used by local fishermen. It's a great way to experience the local way of life.

Ride a Dhoni (Traditional Maldivian Boat)

81. Take a Semi-Submarine Tour

Explore the underwater world without getting wet by taking a semi-submarine tour. These tours allow you to see the coral reefs and marine life from the comfort of a dry cabin.

Take a Semi-Submarine Tour

82. Attend a Traditional Maldivian Dance Performance

Experience the rhythm and energy of a traditional Maldivian dance performance. The bodu beru drums are a highlight of these shows.

Attend a Traditional Maldivian Dance Performance

83. Tour the Southern Atolls by Bicycle

Explore the southern atolls of the Maldives by bicycle. Ride through local villages, along the coast, and through lush vegetation.

Best-things to do in maldives

84. Experience a Beach BBQ

Enjoy a beach barbecue with freshly caught seafood and local dishes. Many resorts offer this dining experience as part of their all-inclusive packages.

Experience a Beach BBQ

85. Take a Day Trip to Hulhumalé

Hulhumalé is a reclaimed island near Malé that offers a mix of modernity and natural beauty. Explore its beaches, parks, and local markets on a day trip.

Take a Day Trip to Hulhumalé

86. Fun Tubing

Isn't the name intriguing enough on its own? We don't think anyone needs more reasons to like this pastime—the word "fun" is right in the name. Fun tubing, in contrast to many other water sports in the Maldives, involves climbing into an inflatable, unpowered tube that will shoot you through the water quickly. The rocky ride you'll have on the lake is the best part. We assure you that it is definitely worth the effort. Among the best things to do on the ocean in the Maldives is this.

Fun Tubing

87. Try Underwater Photography

Capture the beauty of the coral reefs and marine life with an underwater camera.

Try Underwater Photography

88. Banana Boating

This fun activity involves speeding across the deep blue oceans of the ocean while strapped into a large boat to prevent you from falling over. In the Maldives, this heart-pounding team exercise is a must-do. So, minions, eat a banana a day to stave off holiday hunger!

Banana Boating

89. Take a Walking Tour of Malé

Discover the capital city of Malé on a walking tour. Visit landmarks such as the Maldives Islamic Centre, the National Museum, and the fish market.

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Take a Walking Tour of Malé

90. Day Visit to Resorts

One of the most popular attractions in the Maldives are the overwater villas that have direct access to the sea. All I can say is that it's one of the nicest things to do in the Maldives and a wonderful experience to stay in one. The rooms are huge, with the most plush beds; a sundeck, plunge pool, and jacuzzi are located at the rear of the apartment. All that is audible is the sound of the breeze and the water. Moreover, the vista is magnificent.

Day Visit to Resorts

91. Virgin Islands Excursion

Go to a desolate island in the Maldives for food and festivities after catching a great catch. Enjoy the wildness of nature all around you, take leisurely strolls along immaculate beaches, and go swimming in crystal-clear waters when the entire island is yours to yourself.

Virgin Islands Excursion

92. Stingray Feeding

Hundreds of stingrays gather in Male fish market jetty daily, and visitors can buy baitfishes and feed them.

Stingray Feeding

93. Experience the Maldives’ Local Cuisine

Maldivian cuisine is a reflection of the country's rich cultural heritage and its close relationship with the sea. The food is characterized by the use of fresh ingredients, particularly fish, coconut, and rice, which are staples in the Maldivian diet.

Experience the Maldives’ Local Cuisine

94. Explore the Maldives’ Underwater Caves

The Maldives is not only known for its stunning overwater scenery but also for its fascinating underwater landscapes. Among these are the mysterious underwater caves, which offer a unique and thrilling diving experience. These caves, formed over thousands of years, provide a habitat for a diverse range of marine life and are a must-visit for experienced divers looking for adventure.

Explore the Maldives’ Underwater Caves

95. Go on a Manta Ray Safari

Join a guided safari to snorkel or dive with manta rays in their natural habitat, often during feeding or cleaning sessions.

Go on a Manta Ray Safari

96. Experience Scuba Diving at Night

Discover the nocturnal marine life and the vibrant coral reefs after dark, illuminated by your dive torch.

Experience Scuba Diving at Night

97. Go on a Whale Watching Tour

Spot whales migrating through the waters of the Maldives, with the possibility of seeing species like blue whales and sperm whales.

Go on a Whale Watching Tour

98. Take a Private Yacht Cruise

Enjoy a luxurious day on the water with a customized itinerary, including stops at secluded beaches and snorkel spots.

Take a Private Yacht Cruise

99. Explore the Thilafushi Island

Known as the “garbage island,” Thilafushi offers a unique insight into waste management and the environmental challenges faced by the Maldives.

100. Visit the Hanifaru Bay

Snorkel in this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, famous for its large gatherings of manta rays and whale sharks.

activities to do in maldives