The Maldives is an archipelago consisting of more than 1000 coral islands in the Indian Ocean. They are known for their stunning beaches, clear blue waters, and lush vegetation. It’s a paradise for beach-goers and nature lovers alike, with plenty to explore and experience during your stay. With its crystal clear waters, powder-soft beaches, and luxurious resorts, the Maldives is a dream destination for many travelers. But if you’re looking to do more than just relax on the beach, there are plenty of things to do. From swimming with manta rays to visiting local markets, here are the best things to do in the Maldives. Let’s dive in!
1. Snorkeling and Diving
If you’re looking for an unforgettable underwater experience, the Maldives is the perfect destination for snorkeling and diving. The crystal clear waters of the Maldives are home to an abundance of marine life. Tropical fish, dolphins, and sea turtles all can be seen in the Maldives. You can explore coral reefs, shipwrecks, and stunningly vibrant underwater gardens.
The Maldives is home to an abundance of marine life that can be explored through snorkeling and diving. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, there’s something for everyone to discover beneath the waves. There are over 2000 reefs in the Maldives that are teaming with fish and marine life.
Ari is known as one of the best atolls for snorkeling in the Maldives. In Ari atoll, you’ll find beautiful shallow waters and dramatic coral walls that are easily accessible from the shore. Here you can swim with dolphins, observe colorful reef fish, and discover exotic aquatic life. For a more intense experience, book a scuba diving trip to explore deeper into the underwater world. You can find experienced dive instructors who will lead you to the best dive sites in the area.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, the Maldives offers something for everyone. With its warm temperatures and vibrant marine life, it’s no wonder that this tropical paradise is considered one of the best snorkeling and diving destinations in the world.
2. Go Whale Watching
From May to October, you can go whale watching and spot humpback whales and sperm whales. Blue whales are seen regularly from November to May as they migrate through the area. From June to October, the most commonly seen whales are humpback whales. Whale sharks can also be seen from May to December on the western side of the Maldives. They then move to the Eastern waters from January to April.
3. Visit Local Islands
The Maldives is home to a plethora of islands, with each offering its own unique beauty and charm. If you’re looking for a more authentic experience of the Maldives, then visiting a local island is a must. And there are plenty of local islands to explore in The Maldives, from deserted sandbanks to lush vegetation and mangroves. Take a day trip to explore some of the neighboring islands and enjoy an exciting jeep ride. You can take a boat tour, visit a stilt fishing village or simply enjoy the views. The most popular local islands are Mathiveri, Thoddoo, and Gulhi. All three islands offer a range of activities for visitors and are great places to get off the beaten track.
Mathiveri is renowned for its abundant marine life and crystal clear waters, making it a popular destination for snorkelers and divers alike. You can also rent a kayak or canoe and explore the mangroves or take part in a guided tour of the local village.
Thoddoo is the most populated island in the Maldives and has a vibrant culture, with a range of traditional stores, shops, and restaurants. The island is particularly known for its delicious seafood dishes and local fruit smoothies.
Gulhi is located close to the capital city of Male, so it makes for an easy day trip. The island is renowned for its pristine white sand beaches and is home to an array of wildlife, such as hermit crabs, starfish, and seabirds. Visitors can also explore nearby uninhabited islands and experience some of the best snorkeling and diving sites in the archipelago.
No matter which local island you choose to visit, you’ll be sure to experience the Maldives in its full glory!
4. Explore Local Markets
From fresh fish to local handicrafts, take some time to explore the local markets and get an insight into the Maldivian culture and way of life. Local markets show you how locals live and are one of my favorite things to see when traveling. Chances are you’ll see quite a few things you’ve never seen before. And if you’re adventurous like we are, getting to try local foods is really an exciting experience.
5. Fishing
The Maldives is a great spot for fishing enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities to catch barracuda, tuna, and other species. As one of the top big-game fish destinations in the world, you can easily find a charter for the day. Avid anglers can look forward to catching dorado, marlin, and sailfish, as well as tuna, and wahoo from November through March.
6. Sunset Cruises
Nothing quite compares to the beauty of watching the sunset over the horizon in the Maldives. Take a sunset cruise and watch as the sky transforms from vibrant oranges and pinks to deep blues. You can sit back and relax while you watch the sun go down and take in all the stunning views of the surrounding islands and atolls.
Your tour guide will be able to tell you about the local flora and fauna, as well as point out any marine life that may be visible along the way. Dolphins are often spotted in the waters around the Maldives, so keep an eye out for them! Onboard, you can enjoy some tasty snacks and drinks as you watch the sun go down. It’s a great way to end a day in the Maldives. So if you’re looking for a peaceful and romantic evening activity, make sure to add a sunset cruise to your itinerary!
7. Relax by the beach
This may sound like a given, but we’re including it anyway. The Maldives is home to some of the world’s best beaches with soft sand and pristine waters. So while you’re visiting, make sure you take some time to enjoy one of the many beaches in the Maldives.
8. Take a ride in a glass bottom boat
If you’re not a fan of snorkeling or diving, one of the best things to do in the Maldives is to take a ride in a glass-bottom boat. These boats are designed with a clear view of the stunning coral reefs and marine life below. You’ll have the opportunity to observe all sorts of aquatic wildlife, from colorful schools of fish to friendly sea turtles. The best part about taking a glass-bottom boat ride is that you don’t need any special equipment or diving experience. All you need is a pair of comfortable clothes, some sunscreen, and your camera! Depending on the boat and tour company, you may also get the chance to snorkel during your ride.
When choosing a glass bottom boat tour, be sure to read up on the reviews and choose a reputable company. Also, be sure to ask if they have a maximum capacity, so that you can ensure an enjoyable experience. The Maldives offers some of the most beautiful scenery in the world and taking a ride in a glass-bottom boat is a great way to take it all in.
9. Take a Dolphin Cruise
If you want to see some of the most majestic creatures in the world, then a dolphin cruise is a must while in the Maldives. On these boat rides, you will be able to observe and learn about the lives of dolphins and other sea life, as well as get up close and personal with these amazing animals.
The waters of the Maldives are home to over two dozen species of dolphins. This makes it an ideal spot for dolphin-watching. There are several tour companies that offer boat tours around the Maldives. These boat rides usually last between 1-2 hours. If you’re lucky, you’ll even have the chance to swim with these gentle creatures in their natural habitat. These tours are a magical experience that will be one of the highlights of your trip to the Maldives. So, if you’re looking for a unique way to explore the area, take a dolphin cruise!
10. Take a Cooking Class
If you’re looking to explore the traditional cuisine of the Maldives, why not take a cooking class? Many resorts offer private or group cooking classes with local chefs and instructors. Find a class where you can learn how to make some of the Maldives’ signature dishes. Most cooking classes also include a hands-on element, giving you the opportunity to practice your knife skills and follow recipes step-by-step.
At the end of the class, you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious meal with your instructor and other participants. Plus, you’ll walk away with the knowledge that will last a lifetime. We love taking cooking classes when we travel! And always make the dishes we learned about a few times a year at home.
No matter what you choose to do in The Maldives, you’re sure to have a wonderful time exploring the beautiful islands and creating lasting memories. So don’t wait any longer – start planning your trip now! Choose your vacation rental with cozycozy, where you have plenty of options to compare!