It’s no secret that I love the Maldives. In this post I’m going beyond just helping you plan your trip. That’s right, in this post I’m going to be helping you make the most of your time in the Maldives by sharing my favorite things to do in the Maldives.
Did you know someone actually told me one time that they didn’t want to go to the Maldives because they thought it would be boring?! Yes someone actually told me that! They told me that they felt like they could only spend so much time lying by the pool. My response was, “Are you crazy?! Lay by the pool? There are so many things to do in the Maldives you’ll wish you had an extra day just to lay by the pool”.
I realized then that people often see the gorgeous photos of overwater bungalows in the Maldives and they instantly think that’s all there is to do there. If that’s what you thought, don’t worry, I’m here to help inspire you and to help you make the most of your time on this island paradise.
If you’re already ready to start planning your trip, check out my guide here. It’s designed to help you plan the perfect trip to the Maldives, no matter what your budget is.
Today we won’t be getting into where to stay, you’ll want to go here for that. Instead, we’re going to be talking strictly about fun, relaxation and entertainment. Whether you’re after the adventure of a lifetime, a few days just to relax or a bit of both, this guide will help you plan your time spent in the Maldives.
The best things to do in the maldives
Snorkeling and Scubadiving
First things first, get in the water. Almost every resort in the Maldives has a diving/snorkeling center. More than half of the Maldives beauty lies beneath the ocean (so if you already think the Maldives are drop dead gorgeous then you are going to LOVE what lies beneath the surface).
I have never been somewhere with a more diverse coral and ocean life then in the Maldives. Trust me, one of the best things to do in the Maldives is swim, snorkel and dive. If you’ve never been diving before, they have beginner classes to help give you a taste for the experience. Or if snorkeling is more your jam, there is plenty of that to be done as well.
In my Maldives packing guide I shared that basically you’re going to need an entire suitcase just for swimsuits. Once you see how gorgeous it is under the water there, you’ll understand that. (Need help packing? Read that guide here!)
Is snorkeling not really your thing? Why not try a submarine tour? Another way to explore some of the best views of the Maldives is on your very own submarine tour. Go to depths you never thought imaginable with this exclusive adventure. Learn more about submarine tours in the Maldives here.
Enjoy Sunset
Besides diving and snorkeling, one of the absolute best things to do in the Maldives is taking in the sunset each night. There are a variety of ways to enjoy this. Most resorts in the Maldives have the coziest spots tucked around the grounds. I’m talking swings, day beds, loungers, etc. All of which provide the most stunning and romantic atmosphere for enjoying each sunset (and snagging some pretty epic photos if you’re into that). A dolphin cruise (at sunset) is another incredible way to take in a sunset. You can take a sunset cruise, have a cocktail and get in touch with the beautiful natural side of the Maldives. The first time we saw dolphins in the Maldives it took my breath away. The dolphins in the Maldives are so playful and fun to watch. Add that to a gorgeous setting sun and you’ll wonder why you’ve not spent your entire life doing exactly this.
Water Activities in the Maldives
We’ve chatted a lot about what to do under the water but most resorts in the Maldives also have a lot of things you can do over the water as well. This section is for my adrenaline junkies out there! Whether you’re interested in SUP, surfing, tubing or parasailing, the amazing resorts in the Maldives can help you fill an entire day just trying activity after activity that you’ve always wanted to do.
I recommend renting a SUP. I’ll be honest, I paddled around for a while and then just sat down on the board to watch the colorful fish and enjoy floating in the sun. It is the perfect way to spend an afternoon, trust me.
Now besides swimming at endless beaches and enjoying the pool at your resort, those activities will keep you completely entertained on your trip. But what if you’re after a more relaxing vacation? With a few less adrenaline rushes and a few more days in the sun? Here are the best things to do on your relaxing trip to the Maldives.
Plan a Romantic Dinner
It’s no surprise that the Maldives is a destination for romance. All around you you’ll see couples in love, either on their honeymoon or just renewing their love for each other in paradise. Whether you’re there with your partner, your best friend or yourself, treat yourself to a romantic dinner on the beach, at sunset. Pop some bubbly and sit in the appreciation of the beautiful place you’re getting to visit. It’ll be one of the best nights of your life, I promise.
Spend the Day at the Spa
You had to know this was coming! Spas in the Maldives are unbeatable. I absolutely loved my day spent relaxing at the spa at my resort. Massages, soaking baths, facials, and more. These people know how to pamper you! You simply can’t miss a spa day during your stay. Especially if you’re needing a vacation to really just relax and let go.
Pamper yourself. You’ll never regret a good day spent getting all your aches and pains rubbed away.
Take a Scenic Flight Over the Islands
If you’ve never been in a puddle jumper plane, then you are in for a real treat. Hop in a tiny plane just big enough for the pilot, co-pilot and a couple of passengers and see the islands from above. There’s no better way to really take in the beauty of these unique islands.
Go Island Hopping
Are you worried that you’ll get bored in the Maldives because all there is to do is sit by the beach at your resort? You could not be more wrong. And if you ever do get sick of the beaches around your resort, spend a day island hopping to various sand bars and beaches around the islands. Each one gets more beautiful than the last. Our resort, Anatara Veli, actually had three separate islands that you could access so conveniently by pontoon boat. Two of the islands were actually so close that during low tide you could literally walk across. It was such a cool experience.
Feeling inspired? Let me help you plan your trip to the Maldives today! Drop your questions in the comments below and we’ll make sure to get them answered.
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Hi.
I am travelling to the ellaidhoo island on the 29th November . I have a dolphin cruise booked and would like to do another trip ? Are souvenirs and general shopping very expensive . Will I need cash (what currency) or do they have card machines . Also do you know the entry requirements from the uk . Also we stop off in instanbul on the way. thanks