The Maldives is the definition of paradise — a dreamscape of turquoise lagoons, white sands, and world-class resorts scattered across the Indian Ocean. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a luxury escape, or a peaceful solo retreat, this Maldives travel guide has everything you need to plan your perfect island getaway.
🏝️ When to Go
The best time to visit the Maldives is between November and April, during the dry season, when you’ll enjoy warm sunshine, calm seas, and clear skies. Average temperatures sit comfortably between 28°C and 31°C, and humidity is lower than at other times of year.
The wet season (May–October) brings more rain and wind, but it’s still warm — and you’ll often find great deals on resorts. For divers, this season can actually be ideal, as plankton attracts manta rays and whale sharks.
☀️ Related: Where to Travel in Winter for Hot Weather
More details can be found at the official Visit Maldives site.
✈️ Getting There
Flights from the UK to Velana International Airport (Malé) take around 10–11 hours, usually with a short stopover in the Middle East. Major airlines such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, and British Airways operate regular routes.
Once you land in Malé, your journey continues by seaplane or speedboat — a scenic experience in itself. Seaplane transfers are breathtaking: you’ll fly low over coral reefs and tiny islands, the colours shifting from turquoise to deep sapphire. Speedboats are used for resorts closer to the capital and often take less than an hour.
🏠 Where to Stay
One of the joys of any Maldives travel guide is exploring its wide range of accommodation. Each resort sits on its own private island, so you’re guaranteed space, serenity, and stunning sea views.
✨ Luxury Resorts
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Soneva Fushi – The original “barefoot luxury” hideaway, offering sustainability and unmatched privacy.
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Baros Maldives – Romantic overwater villas and exceptional service, perfect for couples.
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Constance Moofushi – A paradise for divers, set on a pristine atoll with incredible marine life.
🌿 Eco-Friendly & Boutique Options
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Reethi Beach Resort – A great balance of comfort and sustainability.
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Kandima Maldives – Trendy, family-friendly, and vibrant, with plenty of dining and activities.
No matter your style or budget, you’ll find that every property in this Maldives travel guide delivers that postcard-perfect experience — crystal water, swaying palms, and total tranquility.
🤿 Things to Do in the Maldives
Beyond lounging in a hammock, the Maldives offers endless activities for every type of traveller.
🌊 Water Adventures
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Snorkelling and Diving: Explore coral reefs in Ari Atoll, Baa Atoll, and North Malé Atoll. The Maldives is one of the best dive destinations in the world.
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Hanifaru Bay: Visit between June and November to see majestic manta rays gliding through the water.
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Surfing: The outer reefs offer world-class breaks, especially between March and October.
🌅 Relaxation & Romance
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Sunset cruises, spa treatments, and candle-lit dinners on the beach are signature Maldives experiences.
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Many resorts organise private sandbank picnics, where you’ll have your own tiny island for the day.
🐢 Nature & Conservation
Some resorts run marine conservation programs and coral restoration projects. Joining one is a rewarding way to give back while you explore paradise.
🌐 Learn more about marine life from Maldives Coral Institute.
🍽️ Food & Culture
Maldivian cuisine is a delicious blend of South Asian and Arabic influences, with plenty of fresh seafood, coconut, and aromatic spices.
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Must-try dishes: Mas Huni (tuna, onion, coconut, and chilli), Garudhiya (fish soup), and Roshi (flatbread).
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Visit local islands to experience Maldivian culture firsthand — markets, mosques, and traditional music known as Bodu Beru.
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In Malé, explore the Local Market for fruit, snacks, and souvenirs.
Even though resorts tend to dominate, the Maldives travel guide wouldn’t be complete without a reminder to see beyond the postcard — the culture is warm, welcoming, and deeply connected to the ocean.
🌤️ Practical Tips for Travellers
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Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), though USD is widely accepted.
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Dress code: Casual, but cover shoulders and knees when visiting local islands.
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Alcohol: Served at resorts but not on local (non-resort) islands.
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Connectivity: Most resorts have Wi-Fi, though speeds can vary — perfect for a digital detox.
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Sustainability: Bring reef-safe sunscreen and avoid single-use plastics to protect fragile ecosystems.
🧭 Related: [Best Long-Haul Winter Sun Holidays → internal link]
🌅 Final Thoughts
From overwater villas and coral reefs to sunset cruises and local charm, this Maldives travel guide shows why the islands are a once-in-a-lifetime destination. Whether you’re celebrating, unwinding, or simply chasing the sun, the Maldives offers everything you could dream of — and then some.
Before you jet off, make sure you’re covered with [Travel Insurance → internal link] — because even paradise deserves peace of mind.
