Bangkok Airways Round-Up
- The Maldives is situated in the Indian Ocean, offering warm weather year-round. With rich, flourishing nature, the islands become a popular traveling destination for those seeking calm and natural experiences. As there are many activities to do, the islands are perfect for every type of getaway.
- Whether you are traveling with couples, families, friends, or even solo, the Maldives islands have all kinds of activities that cater to your desires. Each island in the Maldives offers a range of activities, from picnics on sandbanks to swimming with whale sharks.
Before flying to the stunning islands of the Maldives, it is important to choose the one that fits your travel plans. Bangkok Airways has gathered the best islands for different holiday purposes and frequently asked questions about the Maldives. With this ultimate guide, you will find the perfect islands in the Maldives that suit your desires as well as must-do activities that should not be missed.
All You Need to Know About the Maldives
Located in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is an archipelago consisting of 1,190 islands full of natural beauty to be discovered. With over 90 resorts across the islands, the Maldives is an ideal destination for those seeking all kinds of getaways.
While most of the islands are preserved in their natural state, around 200 of them are inhabited. Many of the islands in the Maldives are formed around 26 atolls, ring-shaped islands formed of coral. These islands are famous for their pristine beaches and the abundance of biodiversity, especially the underwater world, offering the unforgettable experience both above and below water.
Located across the equator in the southwest of Sri Lanka and India, the weather in the Maldives stays warm and sunny throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy the sun and lush nature while staying on the island.
The Maldives is a top choice for honeymoons and romantic getaways. The islands present beautiful scenes, especially during the sunset when the sky turns orange, reflecting onto the calm ocean waves. Because of this, many couples choose to spend their holidays in the Maldives, whether for weddings or romantic trips.
Nowadays, many resorts also offer activities suitable for families. With kids’ clubs and outdoor exploration, the islands have become another destination for both adults and children to have fun.
When talking about the Maldives, the highlight of the islands is definitely the underwater world. Because of its warm weather, the sea water remains around 29 degrees Celsius on average all year round, making it perfect for jumping in anytime. The crystal-clear waters offer a serene sight; however, the underwater world also has many more surprises to be discovered.
Best Maldives Islands for Romantic Escapes
For romantic destinations in the Maldives, some of the best islands include Baros, Kandolhu, and Medhufaru. These islands are ideal for couples seeking pristine and serene beaches with a romantic touch to complete their trip.
1. Baros Maldives Island
The island of Baros is a tropical paradise situated in the southern part of the North Male Atoll. The picturesque seascape provides an alluring atmosphere that attracts many couples around the world.
Known as one of the most romantic destinations in the world, Baros has proven this reputation by winning numerous awards, including the title of “World’s Most Romantic Resort by the World Travel Awards” and the “Indian Ocean’s Most Romantic Resort” from 2013 to 2022. With many recognitions worldwide, Baros is a perfect haven that will fulfill your romance with your loved one.
Baros is situated in the same atoll as the Male International Airport, making travel to the island convenient without transferring on a seaplane or ferry. Just 25 minutes on a speedboat from the airport, you will find yourself right at your villa and begin your romantic getaway minutes after landing.
Embrace the enchanting surroundings of coconut palms swaying and waves dancing in the turquoise ocean. This intimate island is home to one of the best house reefs in the Maldives and vibrant marine life. Take your partner’s hand and dive in to experience the underwater paradise together.
Once the sun starts to go down, set sail out in the ocean and admire the streaks of pink and orange clouds in the sky. Look out at the sunset horizon and create a romantic memory with your partner.
2. Kandolhu Maldives Island
Located in North Ari Atoll, Kandolhu Island is about 70 kilometers southwest of Male. This island is considered one of a kind, even in the Maldives, due to its perfect formation with wide sandy beaches surrounding the lush green forest in the middle.
With a variety of activities to enjoy at Kandolhu, you are free to choose from non-motorized water sports, excursions, and wellness experiences. Due to its prime location near the best diving sites in both the North and South Ari Atoll, this island is perfect for those seeking diving adventures, whether for beginners or experienced divers. As you step out of the villa, you will find yourself right at the colorful coral reefs, home to sea turtles and many species of local fish.
For couples seeking exciting water sports, Kandolhu offers a wide range of activities including stand-up paddleboarding, clear kayaks, wakeboarding, and catamaran sailing. With mesmerizing views of the oceanscape, you can also create lasting memories with your partner from the shore. Take the romance further by booking a private dining experience that allows you to design a menu with the chef and dine in a secluded area of the beach while looking out to the vast blue sea.
3. Medhufaru Maldives Island
Medhufaru is located in the Noonu Atoll. The island offers a panoramic view of scattered islands that make up the Maldives. With 51 spectacular over-water villas, Soneva Jani is where luxury meets intimacy, allowing couples to create an unforgettable experience together.
Enhance your romance in the tropical lagoon while admiring the uninterrupted views of the clear, turquoise ocean. This all-inclusive resort is the perfect place for couples to spend time and enjoy each other’s company, from ocean adventures to dining under the stars.
Best Maldives Islands for Families
While the Maldives is often seen as a romantic getaway, they are also a great holiday destination for all ages, from little children to adults. From kid-friendly resorts to adventurous excursions, the Maldives offers all kinds of fun for both little ones and adults to create memories together.
4. Kurumba Maldives Island
Just 10 minutes away by speedboat from Male International Airport, Kurumba Maldives is a serene island with calm ocean conditions and a white sand beach. As you arrive on the island, you are promised the most fun for everyone in the family.
Surrounded by breakers, Kurumba offers peaceful seawater with calm waves and currents, making it ideal for snorkeling near the island. With its thriving marine ecosystem, the island is popular for snorkeling and diving for all levels, allowing the whole family to explore the vibrant world of corals and fascinating underwater creatures together.
Kurumba is one of the most celebrated snorkeling and diving resorts in the Maldives, thanks to its nearby house reef and diving sites. The highlight is the adventurous Shark Point Snorkeling, where you get to swim alongside nurse sharks in their natural habitat. Witness the spectacular creatures up close and create a remarkable snorkeling experience with your family.
If you are looking for something more chilled, Kurumba also provides diving programs led by their PADI-certified instructors who will teach and brush up your skills. Prepare your whole family with these diving programs and observe exotic schools of fish, graceful turtles, and majestic reef sharks gliding along the rich corals.
After exploring the underwater world, the island has even more over-the-water activities to enjoy. From glass-bottom canoes to parasailing, Kurumba promises endless fun for all generations. Hop on a glass-bottom canoe and look through the clear water to observe the marine life below. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the vibrant corals without getting wet.
5. Kuramathi Maldives Island
Located in Rasdhoo Atoll, Kuramathi is part of a small archipelago, offering a wide range of things to do for families to enjoy quality time together. From ocean exploration to exciting adventures, this island has it all ready to welcome your family.
Kuramathi is approximately 1.8 kilometers long with lush gardens. The resort has many areas for you to leisurely stroll through vibrant gardens along the sandy beach. Families will find plenty to do on the island, with a sports center featuring a tennis court, infinity-edged swimming pools, a children’s pool, and a fully equipped gymnasium.
The highlight of the resort is certainly Bageecha Kids’ Club, a spacious outdoor area full of fun and exciting activities for kids. This large playground offers various play stations, including a sandpit, splash pads, a large swimming pool, and even a treehouse.
Underwater exploration is also renowned at Kuramathi because of its remarkable location, where you may have a chance to dive with manta rays and hammerhead sharks. This island is one of the few places in the world that offers this rare opportunity in marine exploration. Families can enjoy a selection of excursions to maximise their time in the Maldives, including snorkeling trips, island hopping, dolphin safaris, and private speedboat trips into the ocean.
6. Kandima Maldives Island
Kandima is a 3-kilometer-long island situated in the Dhaalu Atoll, taking about 40 minutes by seaplane from Male International Airport. This resort welcomes all types of visitors, especially families, as they have one of the largest kids’ clubs in the Maldives.
Entertainment for children is on another level at this resort. The kids’ club called “Kandiland” is managed by a team of certified child caregivers who supervise and make sure that your little ones experience fun times in safety. With various engaging activities, children are free to run around and enjoy the most popular attraction of the waterplay area.
Another wow factor is their huge pool measuring 100 meters in length. Jump into the refreshing pool water and spend quality time where the whole family can enjoy. If you are looking for more, make the ocean your massive pool as you dive under the waves or try out some water sports. Parasailing, windsurfing, jet skiing, night fishing trips, or sunset cruises – whatever you can think of, Kandima offers all kinds of activities ready for you to experience.
Best Maldives Islands for Adventure-Seekers
For thrill-seekers, the Maldives offers a wide range of adventurous experiences. Beyond romance and relaxed family time, these islands will fuel your adrenaline with a selection of activities that will leave lasting memories.
7. Meeru Maldives Island
Surrounded by glistening, clear water, Meeru Island is a tropical paradise with a stunning lagoon and an abundant marine ecosystem. Located in North Male Atoll, the island is approximately 1.2 kilometers long and 350 meters wide. Considered one of the top all-inclusive resorts, Meeru is a popular destination for comfort and excitement.
As a pioneer of Maldives Tourism, Meeru takes priority in sustainable tourism and natural conservation. The resort started the coral nursery project in 2016 to revive the reefs from coral bleaching. This project has become successful, with the growing corals situated in the lagoon attracting many species of marine creatures. This coral reef nursery is crucial to conserving the underwater life, making it a must-visit spot in Meeru.
A popular adventure on the island is sailing on an impressive yacht to snorkel, scuba dive, or spot sea turtles in the Indian Ocean. Get to know the majestic and well-preserved marine life and boost the aquatic thrills by going out into the ocean and witnessing a group of dolphins or manta rays, if you’re lucky.
8. Dhigurah Maldives Island
Located 96 kilometers southeast of Male in Ari Atoll, Dhigurah is an island that stretches almost 4 kilometers long. With a large lagoon on the west side of the island, this location is one of the few places where you have a chance to see manta rays.
Lined with palm trees, the island provides a calm ambiance with sandy beaches and a long sandbank at its southern tip. Make the most of your time at the sandbank by asking the resort to arrange a picnic on the sand overlooking the beautiful lagoon. Enjoy a barbecue on the beach and relax under the sun for as long as you like.
Near Dhigurah, there are over 30 dive sites that are home to majestic creatures like manta rays, turtles, and even whale sharks, the biggest marine animal in the world. Some of the most popular dive sites include Kuda Rah Thila, Broken Rock, Manta Point, and Maamigili Beru. At these spots, huge schools of fish come out to play, as well as rare fish species, reflecting the healthy marine ecosystem.
9. Thinadhoo Maldives Island
As one of the five inhabited islands of the Vaavu Atoll, Thinadhoo has a total population of around 250 people. Hotels and guesthouses on the island take up about one-third of the island, with a priority on cleanliness and satisfactory services.
Due to its lush, flourishing house reef, you may find sea turtles and manta rays roaming around the waters of Thinadhoo. As the house reef surrounds the island, Thinadhoo is one of the prettiest islands in the Maldives, perfect for a snorkeling excursion. Drift along the currents and observe colourful clownfish, scorpionfish, and even sea turtles dashing through the water. If you want more adventures, head out for night snorkeling near Alimatha Resort and greet the friendly, harmless nurse sharks in their habitat.
For a unique snorkeling experience, the Keyodhoo shipwreck is an interesting spot to visit. Resting in shallow water just 15 minutes from the island, this snorkeling location offers a distinct underwater exploration. The wreck is now home to healthy corals and various species of fish. Dive right in and swim through the captain’s cabin as you discover the iconic bicycle attached to the hull of the ship.
Best Maldives Islands for Wellness and Rejuvenation
Offering more than just luxury and adventure, the Maldives is ideal for those looking to unwind and recharge. Escape the stressful life and let the sound of the waves heal your mind and soul. Explore the ultimate wellness retreats, from spa treatments to oceanfront yoga classes.
10. COMO Cocoa Maldives Island
COMO Cocoa Island is located just 40 minutes away by speedboat from Male International Airport. The island takes wellness services seriously, as its COMO Shambhala Retreat is a restorative destination with treatment rooms overlooking the turquoise lagoon.
The tranquil retreat boasts its specialty with various sensorial treatments and sandbank meditation sessions. Combining modern science with ancient practices, COMO Shambhala offers holistic wellness that rejuvenates your mind, body, and spirit through massages, yoga classes, meditation exercises, and wellness talks.
From treatment rooms to exercises on the beach, you are free to join any sessions you desire. Ground your mind and body as you dip your toes into the sand while practicing barefoot walking meditation. Free your worries as you stretch and build strength in a pilates class. After activating your body, relieve the tension and wind down with a full-body massage or a hydropool session to reduce soreness.
11. Fushifaru Maldives Island
Fushifaru is located 35 minutes away by seaplane from Male International Airport, on the northeast border of Lhaviyani Atoll. The resort offers complete facilities for fitness and wellness experiences, allowing you to stay active and enhance mindfulness during your island stay.
With a 24-hour gym, guests are welcome to stay energized at any time and enjoy a full range of sports. The recreational facilities include both cardio and strength-training equipment with a stunning view of the ocean. There is no better way to work out while admiring the vast view of the Indian Ocean.
Another highlight at the resort is the Veyoge Spa. Let the professionals take you on a healing journey through therapies and massages, or experience a deep relaxation while you sit in the steam and sauna room to soothe your whole body.
12. Velassaru Maldives Island
Situated in the South Male Atoll, just a 25-minute speedboat ride from Male International Airport, Velassaru is a remarkable destination with a unique overwater retreat. Surrounded by a breathtaking lagoon, the spa offers ancient wellness traditions that will heal your mind and body.
As you step onto Velassaru, you will be greeted by the peaceful surroundings. This resort focuses on rejuvenation and relaxation, pampering all guests at their exclusive spa. One of the best treatments is the “Starlight Night Spa”. For 105 minutes, your therapist will curate a personalized massage session tailored to your preferences. Embrace the aromatic fragrance and soothing oil as your therapist relieves your muscles right under the stars.
Best Maldives Islands for Eco-Friendly Escapes
As the Maldives is home to natural resources, many islands advocate for eco-tourism and sustainability. With the beauty of white powdery beaches and rich marine ecosystems, the Maldives islands must preserve and restore the coral reefs, as well as initiate eco-friendly projects, such as a zero-waste project, to achieve a balance between the environment and tourism.
13. Dhiffushi Maldives Island
Dhiffushi is one of the inhabited islands in the Maldives. With many guesthouses and local businesses, eco-friendly practices have become widespread on the island to preserve the environment.
The crystal-clear lagoon at Dhiffushi is great for swimming. With a large area of sandbanks, the island is perfect for both onshore and underwater activities. One of the most popular snorkeling spots near the island is called “Turtle Point”. At this location, you can witness sea turtles gliding among colourful schools of fish and other marine creatures.
If you want to admire the full, splendid appearance of corals, night snorkeling is a must, as the reefs come alive after dark. Dip into the water under the stars and see how plenty of corals open up like flowers blooming in a garden.
14. Maafushi Maldives Island
Maafushi is about 26 kilometers south of Male in the Kaafu Atoll. With a length of 1.2 kilometers, the island has a population of around 2,000 to 3,000 people. Initially, the community relied on fishing; however, there has been a shift toward tourism and water sports nowadays.
Compared to other local islands of the Maldives, Maafushi offers a more developed and diverse tourism industry, as it was one of the first local islands permitted by the government to operate tourism businesses. Just about 30 minutes away by speedboat from Male International Airport, Maafushi is easily accessible for travelers. The island is renowned for its white, pristine beaches and lush coral reefs.
Maafushi has a one-of-a-kind tourism approach to an authentic Maldivian culture. Travelers will get to experience the real interactions with the locals and community activities, such as participating in beach clean-up, staying at family-owned accommodations, and joining short tours to limit emissions. The emphasis on sustainability makes Maafushi appealing and meaningful while staying in the Maldives.
15. Dhangethi Maldives Island
Dhangethi is a small island in the South Ari Atoll. While it is modest in size at just 925 meters long, the island is inhabited by about 1,000 people. The beaches at Dhangethi are famous for their white sand, as they are cleaned daily to preserve the beautiful surroundings.
Nearby Dhagenthi, there is a small “Picnic Island” that is popular for day trips and outdoor meals. Surrounded by clear, turquoise waters and healthy coral reefs, it is an excellent spot for snorkeling and diving.
The house reef near Dhagenthi is full of various marine species such as parrotfish, angelfish, clownfish, and many more. Thanks to the clean beaches and waters, you may have the chance to spot reef sharks, manta rays, and sea turtles swimming around the reefs to greet divers.
Best Time to Visit the Maldives
As the Maldives has a tropical climate, the weather stays warm with sunlight shining most of the year. However, some months may experience rainfall, making them less ideal times to visit. The peak season in the Maldives is between December and February due to the dry weather and bright sunshine.
- November to March: This is the dry season, which is the best time to travel to the Maldives. With warm weather and less chance of rainfall, this period is perfect for beach activities and ocean exploration.
- April: The weather remains hot in this month, but occasional showers are expected. This is a transitional month between the dry and wet season, meaning the humidity levels begin to rise and some rainfall is possible.
- May to October: This is the wet season, when the diving visibility is slightly reduced and the weather becomes cooler at night. Rainy days often occur in this season, but you can still enjoy the cool, calm atmosphere by spending time at a spa or restaurant.
How to go to the Maldives from Bangkok
From Bangkok to the Maldives, the most convenient and shortest way to travel is by taking a direct flight operated by Bangkok Airways. In just 4 hours and 35 minutes, you will find yourself in a tropical paradise without any hassles. With frequent direct flights to Male International Airport weekly, Bangkok Airways offers flight options, and each already includes 20 kilograms of baggage in the fare.
FAQs About the Maldives
How many islands are there in the Maldives?
There are 1,190 islands in the Maldives. This incredible archipelago is located in the Indian Ocean, with 200 of the islands inhabited by locals.
What language is spoken in the Maldives?
The official language of the Maldives is Dhivehi. However, English is widely spoken across the archipelago due to major tourism. Most resort staff are multilingual, and can speak languages such as French, German, Mandarin, Arabic, and others.
How much does a trip to the Maldives usually cost?
The cost of your trip to the Maldives depends on your travel preferences. Typically, a one-week trip may cost between 1,200 USD and 5,000 USD. If you are looking for a luxurious experience, costs can reach 10,000 USD or more per week.
Budget: Staying at affordable guest houses and eating local food may cost between 1,200 USD and 2,500 USD per week.
Mid-range: Staying at mid-range resorts and joining some tours and excursions may cost between 3,000 USD and 4,500 USD per week.
Luxury: Staying at a high-class overwater villa, experiencing private dining, and enjoying all-inclusive resort activities may cost between 5,000 USD to 10,000 USD per week.
Can I visit other islands during my stay?
You can visit other islands during your stay. Island hopping is a popular activity among travelers who want to explore beyond the island they are staying. There are many ways to travel between islands, depending on the distance, such as seaplane, speedboat, or domestic flight.
Is the Maldives good for honeymoons?
The Maldives is an ideal destination among couples around the world for honeymoons, renewal of vows, or even weddings. With the exclusivity offered by many resorts, you will enjoy plenty of quality time and romantic activities in private. If you inform the resort about your honeymoon trip, they may prepare some surprises to make your trip even more unforgettable.
Discover More Travel Destinations in Maldives
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- Top Things to Do in the Maldives: Your Ultimate Adventure Guide
- Best Times to Visit the Maldives for Perfect Weather & Activities
Travel to the Maldives, Your Dream Island Paradise, with Bangkok Airways
Discover the best island in the Maldives that suits your travel preferences. This archipelago offers a wide range of things to enjoy and promises a stunning glistening ocean view. Create lasting memories in the Maldives by flying in comfort with Bangkok Airways. Hop on a direct flight and arrive at your destination with ease.
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