13 Best Islands in Maldives That Must Visit for Every Type of Travellers
The Maldives is a tropical heaven. Islands in the Maldives brag distinctive joy and peach. With over 1,000 coral islands, this idyllic destination has clean white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lively aquatic life. From the lavish resorts of Malé Atoll to the peaceful, remote islands like Thulusdhoo and Maafushi, tourists can relinquish world-class diving, snorkeling, and leisure. The Maldives vows an exceptional getaway loaded with stunning sunsets and the pacifying sounds of the sea.
Find Your Perfect Paradise: Which Maldivian Island Matches You?
| Need | Best Islands |
|---|---|
| Budget-Friendly | Hulhumalé, Maafushi, Thoddoo |
| Luxury Stay | Milaidhoo, Baros, Veligandu |
| Adventure & Diving | Alimatha, Biyadhoo, Nalaguraidhoo |
| Romantic Escape | Milaidhoo, Baros, Fihalhohi |
| Unique Natural Wonder | Vaadhoo (Sea of Stars), Thoddoo (Farming) |
| Cultural Experience | Maradhoo, Malé |
Top Islands in the Maldives:
1. Male Island:

Male is the vivacious capital of the Maldives. It proposes a fantastic combination of culture and urban life. Tourists can probe into the Grand Friday Mosque and the Old Friday Mosque (Hukuru Miskiy). These mosques showcase Islamic architecture. The National Museum furnishes discernment into Maldivian history. The local fish and produce markets offer a peek into day-to-day life. Male is also a gateway for scuba diving, snorkeling, and island hopping. Spend your leisure hours at the Artificial Beach.
| Best Experiences | Explore the Grand Friday Mosque, Hukuru Miskiy (Old Friday Mosque), and the National Museum. Visit local fish and produce markets for an authentic experience. |
| Best Time to Visit | November to April for pleasant weather. |
| How to Reach | Fly into Velana International Airport (MLE), located on Hulhulé Island, which is connected to Malé by a causeway. |
| Nearby Places to Stay | Hotel Jen Malé, Hotel Ocean Grand, and Samann Grand. |
| Nearby Restaurants | The Sea House, Sala Thai, and The Red Snapper. |
Read Also: The Ultimate Travel Guide to Maldives for Indian Tourists
2. Hulhumalé Island:

Hulhumalé is often considered the cheapest Island in the Maldives. It is a suitable gateway due to its nearness to the airport. It offers a rejuvenating mix of regional life and beach peace. This artificial Island brags an exquisite public beach ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Tourists can take a stroll via Central Park, discover regional mosques, or relish various water sports. It’s an excellent base for budget travelers desiring precise Maldivian experiences.
| Best Experiences | Enjoy the artificial beach, visit Central Park, explore local mosques, and indulge in water sports. |
| Best Time to Visit | November to April for optimal weather conditions. |
| How to Reach | Accessible via a short drive or bus ride from Velana International Airport. |
| Nearby Places to Stay | Hotel Ocean Grand at Hulhumalé, H78 Maldives, and The Park House. |
| Nearby Restaurants | The Red Snapper, Cloud Signature, and The Coffee House. |
3. Alimatha Island:

Alimatha Island is a hidden gem. It is often considered the best public Island in Maldives. If you are seeking leisure and adventure, you would love it. It boasts spotless white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. It is famous for diving and snorkeling activities, particularly at the well-known Miyaru Kandu dive site. The island teams with echoing marine life and coral reefs. Further, visitors can relish canoeing, windsurfing, and relaxing at luxurious resorts.
| Best Experiences | Renowned for diving and snorkeling at Miyaru Kandu, canoeing, windsurfing, and enjoying resort amenities. |
| Best Time to Visit | November to April during the dry season. |
| How to Reach | Accessible by seaplane or speedboat from Malé. |
| Nearby Places to Stay | Nakai Resort Alimatha. |
| Nearby Restaurants | Faru Café, Dream Hut Fulidhoo, and Lee Bois Cherry. |
4. Biyadhoo Island:

Biyadhoo Island is one of the lesser-known islands in the Maldives. It is a harbor for diving and snorkeling lovers. Well-known for its dynamic house reef, it proposes immediate access to a kaleidoscope of aquatic life. Hence, it is a diver’s paradise. Beyond its underwater marvels, tourists can unwind on its unspoiled white-sand beaches. Enjoy windsurfing and canoeing, or de-stress amidst the dense tropical vegetation. It’s an ideal retreat for those desiring a subdued, nature-focused Maldivian experience.
| Best Experiences | Explore the vibrant house reef, engage in diving and snorkeling, and relax on pristine beaches. |
| Best Time to Visit | November to April for the best weather. |
| How to Reach | Approximately 30 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport. |
| Nearby Places to Stay | Biyadhoo Island Resort. |
| Nearby Restaurants | Kaani Palm Beach, Miss Olive Oyl Pool & Bar, and Hiyala Mariyaad Café. |
5. Fihalhohi Island:

Fihalhohi Island is a breathtaking destination in the Maldives. It is famous for its scenic beaches and fiery coral reefs. The Island offers snorkeling, scuba diving, and other water sports. It allows travelers to troll its rich oceanic life. Visitors can unwind in hammocks under coconut palms or relish sunset sails. The Island’s dense landscape delivers a tranquil vibe, making it ideal for unwinding. Fihalhohi is loved for its welcoming ambiance, providing an idyllic getaway for nature lovers.
| Best Experiences | Snorkeling, scuba diving, sunset sails, and relaxation under coconut palms. |
| Best Time to Visit | November to April during the dry season. |
| How to Reach | Accessible by speedboat from Malé. |
| Nearby Places to Stay | Fihalhohi Island Resort. |
| Nearby Restaurants | Caviar Café & Restaurant, Palm Grove Restaurant, and The Reef Café. |
6. Maafushi Island:

Maafushi Island is one of the most attractive gems in the Maldives. It is renowned for its local culture and surprising natural beauty. Tourists can do activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and thrilling water sports. The coral reefs swarm with marine life. The Island hosts lovely guesthouses and reasonable Maldives island resorts. Thus, it is an ideal destination for budget travelers. Attractions like the untouched Kaani Beach and the local market immerse visitors in genuine Maldivian experiences, guaranteeing an exceptional getaway.
| Best Experiences | Snorkeling, scuba diving, water sports, and exploring local markets. |
| Best Time to Visit | November to April for pleasant weather. |
| How to Reach | Public ferry or speedboat from Malé. |
| Nearby Places to Stay | Kaani Palm Beach, Arena Beach Hotel, and Kaani Grand Seaview. |
| Nearby Restaurants | Arena Beach Restaurant, Café Maafushi, and Kandoo Restaurant. |
7. Veligandu Island:

Veligandu Island is a captivating island in the Maldives. It is recognized for its spectacular beaches and coral reefs. Tourists can enjoy snorkeling, diving, and sunset cruises here. We recommend exploring the affluent aquatic life that flourishes in its transparent waters. The Island’s scenic sandbanks, including the famous Veligandu Beach, propose an excellent time-out site. Further, the grand resorts offer different luxuries, making it an outstanding retreat for honeymooners and tourists pursuing a serene escape in a tropical location.
| Best Experiences | Snorkeling, diving, sunset cruises, and enjoying the serene beaches. |
| Best Time to Visit | November to April for the best weather conditions. |
| How to Reach | Approximately 20 minutes by seaplane from Malé. |
| Nearby Places to Stay | Veligandu Island Resort & Spa. |
| Nearby Restaurants | Dhonveli Restaurant, Madivaru Restaurant, and The Lighthouse Restaurant. |
8. Nalaguraidhoo Island:

Nalaguraidhoo Island is known as “Sun Island”. It is a dazzling Maldivian destination famed for its fiery deep-sea life. Visitors can enjoy panoramic sunsets and leafy landscapes. Soak yourself in a myriad of water sports. Give your adventure buds a treat of diving, snorkeling, canoeing, and kayaking. You can also enjoy the night fishing here. It allows guests to relish freshly caught meals under the stars. It is an excellent combination of peaceful and thrilling activities.
| Best Experiences | Diving, snorkeling, canoeing, kayaking, and night fishing. |
| Best Time to Visit | November to April during the dry season. |
| How to Reach | Accessible by seaplane or speedboat from Malé. |
| Nearby Places to Stay | Sun Island Resort & Spa. |
| Nearby Restaurants | Maaniya Restaurant, Sun Star Restaurant, and The Reef Restaurant. |
9. Vaadhoo Island:
Vaadhoo Island is one of the best islands to visit in Maldives. It is primarily recognized for its fascinating “Sea of Stars” phenomenon. At night, bioluminescent plankton brighten the shoreline. They create a surreal, luminous effect that compares a celestial sky to the ocean. Beyond this mystical show, tourists can relish fantastic snorkeling and scuba diving here. Spend some time exploring local culture or relaxing on clean white-sand beaches. It’s indeed a special and indelible Maldivian escape.
| Best Experiences | Witness the “Sea of Stars” bioluminescent plankton phenomenon, snorkeling, and exploring local culture. |
| Best Time to Visit | November to April for optimal conditions. |
| How to Reach | Seaplane or domestic flight from Malé. |
| Nearby Places to Stay | Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma, Adaaran Prestige Vadoo Resort. |
| Nearby Restaurants | Farivalhu, Fannu Cafe’, and Fico Restaurant. |
10. Milaidhoo Island:

Milaidhoo Island is considered the best Island to visit in Maldives for couples. It offers a premier and close-knit escape. This boutique extravagance resort is planned for romance and solitude. It boasts astonishing overwater and beachfront villas with private pools. Couples can indulge in customized dining experiences, including romantic dinners on remote sandbanks, couples’ spa therapies, and exciting diving and snorkeling on the vibrant house reef within a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Milaidhoo indeed curates memorable moments for two.
| Best Experiences | Private dinners on sandbanks, couples’ spa therapies, and diving in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. |
| Best Time to Visit | November to April during the dry season. |
| How to Reach | Seaplane transfer from Malé. |
| Nearby Places to Stay | Milaidhoo Island Resort. |
| Nearby Restaurants | Ba’theli Lounge & Restaurant and The Lighthouse. |
11. Baros Island:

Baros Island is located in the Maldives. It is a tropical heaven. It is known for its exquisite white-sand beaches and clear waters. This small, picturesque Island boasts echoing coral reefs. It makes it a famous destination for snorkeling and diving fanatics. Luxury resorts and private villas offer visitors exceptional amenities amid luxuriant greenery. With its spectacular sundowns and peaceful aura, Baros Island is excellent for utopian getaways, adventures in nature, or absolutely fleeing the rush of everyday life.
| Best Experiences | Snorkeling, diving, sunset cruises, and enjoying the tranquil beaches. |
| Best Time to Visit | November to April for the best weather conditions. |
| How to Reach | Approximately 25 minutes by speedboat from Malé. |
| Nearby Places to Stay | Baros Maldives. |
| Nearby Restaurants | The Lighthouse Restaurant, Cayenne Grill, and The Reef. |
12. Thoddoo Island:

Thoddoo Island is one of the lesser-known Islands in the Maldives. It offers a distinctive mix of loveliness and peace. It is known for its dense greenery and squeaky-clean beaches. It is an excellent destination for those desiring leisure and adventure. The Island is renowned for its farming roots, especially its watermelons, which flourish in the productive soil. Travelers can probe dynamic coral reefs through snorkeling and diving and experience the warm hospitality of the local residents. Thoddoo vows memorable moments in heaven.
| Best Experiences | Snorkeling, diving, exploring local farms, and enjoying the serene beaches. |
| Best Time to Visit | November to April during the dry season. |
| How to Reach | Ferry or speedboat from Malé. |
| Nearby Places to Stay | Thoddoo Retreat, Thoddoo Inn, and Thoddoo Beach Holiday Inn. |
| Nearby Restaurants | Maracuya Restaurant, Mint Garden Restaurant, and Palm Garden Café. |
13. Maradhoo Island:

While many Maldivian islands cater to couples, Maradhoo Island delivers an amazing and genuine experience for those desiring something exceeding the usual resort. Located in Addu Atoll, it’s famous for its dynamic regional life and spectacular untouched beauty. Couples can absorb themselves in cultural experiences, see age-old mosques, and relish standard Maldivian cuisine. The isle also brags excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities on its house reef, making it an outstanding choice for adventurous pairs peeking to hook up with regional culture and aquatic life.
| Best Experiences | Diving, snorkeling, exploring local culture, and enjoying the untouched beauty. |
| Best Time to Visit | November to April for optimal weather conditions. |
| How to Reach | Domestic flight from Malé to Gan International Airport, followed by a short drive. |
| Nearby Places to Stay | Equator Village, Canareef Resort Maldives. |
| Nearby Restaurants | Cherry Tea and Palm Village. |
What Every Traveller Wishes They Knew Before Visiting the Maldives:
- Best time to visit: November to April for dry, sunny weather.
- Try This: Go for night fishing at Nalaguraidhoo or bioluminescence spotting in Vaadhoo.
- Local Dish to Try: Mas Huni (tuna coconut salad) + Roshi (flatbread)
- Tip: In guesthouse islands like Maafushi, wear modest clothes in local villages.
- Packing Must-Haves: Sunscreen, reef-safe snorkel gear, power bank, light cottons.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Maldives have a collection of spectacular islands. Each offers exceptional joys and adventures. From the dynamic aquatic life around Maafushi to the luxury retreats of Soneva Fushi, the country’s multifarious islands cater to every traveler’s wishes. Whether aspiring for adventure, ease, or artistic immersion, the top 13 islands showcase the remarkable beauty and peacefulness of this tropical paradise. Visiting these stunning destinations ensures unforgettable memories and emphasizes the natural marvels of the Maldives.
FAQs:
Malé Island is the capital and offers a mix of culture and city life. You can visit mosques, the National Museum, local markets, and enjoy beach fun or water sports.
Alimatha Island is perfect for both. It has clean beaches and is famous for snorkeling and diving, especially at Miyaru Kandu dive site.
Biyadhoo Island is a hidden gem for divers. Its house reef is full of colourful marine life, and it also offers a peaceful nature stay.
Maafushi Island is ideal for budget travelers. It has affordable guesthouses, good beaches, and local markets with true Maldivian vibes.
Hulhumalé Island is close to the airport and is considered budget-friendly. It has a beautiful beach, local parks, and water sports, making it good for low-cost travel.