Maldives

Plan This Trip

Search flights and hotels for the Maldives right here — no extra tabs.

Prefer another search engine? Kiwi.com →

Why go

The Maldives is roughly 1,200 coral islands grouped into 26 atolls, strung across the equator south-west of India. Most visitors pick between a private-island resort, reached by speedboat or seaplane, and a guesthouse on a local island — same lagoons, far lower prices. Either way, the main event is under the surface: house reefs, turtles, rays and reef sharks.

Where to Stay — Maldives

Pick your style first: a private-island resort for overwater villas and all-in dining, or a local-island guesthouse for lower prices and a closer look at everyday life.

Veligandu Maldives Resort Island

A small, adults-oriented island in Rasdhoo Atoll (North Ari), about 20 minutes by seaplane from Malé, with overwater villas arranged in a wide arc around the lagoon and a house reef off the beach.

Meeru Maldives Resort Island

On Meerufenfushi in North Malé Atoll, about 55 minutes from the airport by speedboat. A large, easygoing island with a long jetty of overwater villas, reached without a seaplane.

Overwater Villas with a Slide

Look for villas with a plunge pool and a slide straight into the lagoon — the Maldives’ answer to a family suite. They go first in the dry-season peak, so book early.

Jacuzzi Water Villas

Often a more affordable way to get a private plunge pool over the water than a full pool villa, with a jetty walk to the beach and the restaurants.

Reefs, Sandbanks & Local Islands

Every island has its own reef, so plan your days around the water. Most resorts and guesthouses run short boat trips to the best snorkel spots.

Sharks, Rays & Turtles

Nurse sharks and stingrays are common in shallow lagoons and used to snorkellers, and turtles often graze on the reef flats. Keep a respectful distance and never touch or feed the animals.

Malé Fish Market — see the day’s tuna catch come in. It’s the quickest way to understand why fish is on every menu.

Grand Friday Mosque, Malé — the gold-domed landmark of the capital. Check visiting times and dress modestly.

Where to Eat

Resort dining is expensive and often set-menu; on local islands, fresh tuna and reef fish in a café cost far less. Try mas huni (tuna with coconut and onion) and garudhiya (clear tuna broth).

Undersea Restaurants & Beach Dinners

A handful of resorts serve dinner in glass-walled undersea dining rooms, and most can set a table on the sand. Reserve before you travel — seating is small and fills quickly.

Getting There

Velana International Airport (MLE)

On Hulhulé island, a short drive across the bridge from Malé. Resorts transfer you onward by speedboat, seaplane (daylight only) or domestic flight; guesthouse islands are reached by public ferry or speedboat. Book your transfer before you land.

A Simple 7-Day Route