Dreaming of turquoise lagoons, white sand beaches, and unmatched island beauty? The Maldives is a tropical paradise made up of over 1,000 coral islands, each offering a unique experience—from local life and thrilling water sports to luxurious private escapes. Whether you’re looking for vibrant nightlife, diving with marine life, or simply relaxing on a sun-kissed beach, the Maldives has an island for every kind of traveler.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the top 10 islands in the Maldives, complete with practical travel details, entry information, and must-do activities to help you choose the perfect island escape.
Now that you know what’s in store, let’s dive into the most stunning islands in the Maldives and discover what makes each one a must-visit.
1. Male Island
Male is the bustling capital of the Maldives, offering a mix of culture, history, and island life.
It’s the most accessible island, often the first stop for tourists landing at Velana Airport.
The city is compact, walkable, and filled with mosques, markets, and seafront cafes.
It provides a rare glimpse into the everyday life of Maldivians beyond the resorts.
Weather: 28 – 32°C
Location: Central Maldives
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fee: Free
What to do:
- Visit the 17th-century Hukuru Miskiy mosque
- Explore the Maldives National Museum
- Stroll around the bustling Male Local Market
- Relax at Artificial Beach
2. Maafushi Island
Maafushi is one of the most budget-friendly local islands open to international tourists. It blends natural beauty with cultural immersion, ideal for travellers avoiding luxury resorts.
It’s known for affordable guesthouses, turquoise lagoons, and water activities.
Tourism here supports the local economy and offers authentic experiences.
Weather: 27 – 31°C
Location: Maldives
Timings: Anytime
Entry Fee: Free
What to do:
- Go snorkelling with reef sharks
- Try jet skiing and parasailing
- Sunbathe on the Bikini Beach
- Dine at local seafood cafés
Must Read: Solo Travel in Maldives: Explore the Best Resorts, Activities & Travel Tips
3. Hulhumale Island
Hulhumale is a reclaimed island known for its modern urban planning and beachfront.
It’s connected to Male by a causeway and is a popular stop for transit tourists.
Despite development, it offers relaxing beach areas and scenic walking paths.
It’s also home to many local eateries and budget accommodations.
Weather: 28 – 32°C
Location: Maldives
Timings: Anytime
Entry Fee: Free
What to do:
- Stroll along Hulhumale Beach
- Enjoy local food trucks and cafes
- Rent a bike and explore the waterfront
- Visit the Hulhumale Central Park
Must Read: Honeymoon in Maldives – Top Romantic Places & Experiences for Couples
4. Dhigurah Island
Dhigurah is a long, narrow island known for its whale shark sightings and dive sites.
It’s ideal for eco-tourism and has a strong local community atmosphere.
This island is less commercial, perfect for nature-focused travellers.
The white sand beaches stretch for kilometres, offering peace and space.
Weather: 27 – 31°C
Location: Bay view, Dhigurah, Maldives
Timings: Anytime
Entry Fee: Free
What to do:
- Dive or snorkel with whale sharks
- Take a boat to nearby manta ray spots
- Walk to the sandbank at the island’s tip
- Explore the local fishing village
Must Read: Top 10 Beaches in Maldives: Your Ultimate Guide to Serenity and Fun
5. Thulusdhoo Island
Thulusdhoo is a paradise for surfers and one of the Maldives’ best-kept secrets.
The island boasts the famous surf break “Cokes” and a vibrant local scene.
It’s also home to coral reefs and colourful marine life.
Great for backpackers, water sport lovers, and surf travellers.
Weather: 28 – 31°C
Location: 9MF2+VH4, 2, Thulusdhoo, Maldives
Timings: Anytime
Entry Fee: Free
What to do:
- Surf the world-class Cokes break
- Snorkel among coral reefs
- Visit the local fish market
- Explore the island by bicycle
6. Fulidhoo Island
Fulidhoo is a small, quiet island known for its culture, marine life, and relaxed vibe.
It’s famous for traditional Maldivian dances and underwater adventures.
The island is peaceful with a strong sense of local hospitality.
Perfect for travellers who want culture and calm.
Weather: 27 – 30°C
Location: Maldives
Timings: Anytime
Entry Fee: Free
What to do:
- Watch Boduberu traditional drumming
- Dive with nurse sharks and stingrays
- Enjoy kayaking in the calm lagoon
- Walk along the scenic shoreline
7. Veligandu Island
Veligandu is a private island resort known for its romantic ambience and luxurious stays.
Surrounded by a house reef and white sands, it’s perfect for honeymoons.
Water villas extend over the calm lagoon, offering pure seclusion.
Expect personalised service and breathtaking sunsets.
Weather: 28 – 31°C
Location: Rasdhoo, Maldives
Timings: Open to resort guests
Entry Fee: Resort stay required
What to do:
- Stay in an overwater villa
- Enjoy a private beach dinner
- Snorkel around the house reef
- Relax with spa treatments
Suggested Read: How To Check Maldives Visa Status In India
8. Biyadhoo Island
Biyadhoo is a resort island known for affordability and one of the best house reefs in the Maldives.
It has lush greenery and easy access to diving spots.
The focus here is on natural beauty and underwater adventure.
It’s a paradise for divers and snorkelling enthusiasts.
Weather: 27 – 30°C
Location: Biyadhoo, South Male Atoll 02145, Maldives
Timings: Resort access only
Entry Fee: Resort stay required
What to do:
- Dive at the Biyadhoo Reef
- Snorkel directly from the beach
- Take a sunset boat cruise
- Join a night fishing trip
Suggested Read: Maldives Visa Photo Requirements for Indians
9. Meeru Island
Meeru is one of the largest resort islands with a wide range of activities.
It’s family-friendly and offers both beach villas and water villas.
The island blends leisure, adventure, and wellness in a scenic setting.
Great for both couples and group travellers.
Weather: 28 – 31°C
Location: Maldives
Timings: Resort access only
Entry Fee: Resort stay required
What to do:
- Play golf at the island’s course
- Enjoy sunset catamaran cruises
- Experience a traditional Maldivian spa
- Explore by kayak or paddleboard
10. Bandos Island
Bandos offers a mix of luxury and convenience, just a short speedboat ride from Male.
The island is lush, peaceful, and full of water activities.
It’s ideal for families, couples, or those short on time.
The resort is known for great diving facilities and calm lagoons.
Weather: 28 – 32°C
Location: Jazeera, Maldives
Timings: Resort access only
Entry Fee: Resort stay required
What to do:
- Dive with certified instructors
- Relax at Orchid Spa
- Snorkel near the house reef
- Take a dolphin-watching cruise
Suggested Read: Maldives Visa Rejection for Indian Nationals
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FAQs
How many islands are in Maldives?
The Maldives has around 1,190 coral islands grouped into 26 atolls. About 200 are inhabited, and over 160 are developed as resort islands.
What are the most famous islands in the Maldives?
Male, Maafushi, Hulhumale, Veligandu, and Meeru are among the most popular islands, each offering unique experiences from local culture to luxury escapes.
Are the Maldives islands open to tourists?
Yes, the Maldives is open to international tourists year-round, with a visa-on-arrival for most nationalities. Entry rules may vary slightly based on public health guidelines.
Are there any free islands in the Maldives that you can visit?
Yes, local islands like Maafushi, Thulusdhoo, and Fulidhoo can be visited without entry fees. You only pay for transport, food, and activities.
Which is the most luxurious island in the Maldives?
Veligandu Island and Baros Maldives are among the most luxurious, offering private water villas, fine dining, and exclusive spa treatments.
Which Maldives island is best for families?
Meeru Island is family-friendly, with a mix of villas, kid-friendly amenities, sports activities, and calm, shallow beaches.
What activities can you do on Maafushi Island?
You can go snorkelling with sharks, try jet skiing, relax on Bikini Beach, and enjoy seafood at local cafés.
What is the cost of staying on the islands in the Maldives?
Stays range from budget guesthouses at $30–$60 per night on local islands to luxury resorts costing $500+ per night on private islands.
