A paradise on earth as it is, Maldives offers everything one possibly dreams of from a vacation. From serene beaches and colorful reefs to eye-catching locations and upscale water villas, this is a destination that surprises you at every step. In fact, there are many things to do in the Maldives that international travelers look forward to. One can take a swim in the crystal blue waters of the place or head over to the various islands to embrace the picturesque beauty of the land.

Fancy a vacation to this paradise? Check out these top things that you can do while on your vacation in the Maldives.

Top 27 Activities In Maldives For A Fancy Vacation In The Paradise

Here are some of the top things that one can do in the Maldives.

1. Enjoy Snorkeling At Male Atoll

Enjoy Snorkeling At Male Atoll

One of the best places to visit in the Maldives, Male Atoll is a paradise for those who wish to enjoy water activities like snorkeling. Widely popular for being the largest city in all of Maldives, Male Atoll has multiple attractions to enjoy. The monsoon at this place is present throughout the year while the crystal blue and calm waters make it a perfect place to enjoy some snorkeling adventure in the Maldives.

Famous For -

  • The monsoon that lasts throughout the year
  • Snorkeling

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2. Experience Scuba Diving At Biyadhoo Island

Experience Scuba Diving At Biyadhoo Island

Admit it, a trip with best Maldives things to do list, is virtually incomplete without scuba diving. One of the best beaches in the Maldives to experience the fun of scuba diving, Biyadhoo Island is owned and managed by the Taj Group of Hospitality and there's no better place to head to for scuba diving in the Maldives. In fact, the island is often called the Scuba Diver's island.

Not only this, there are a number of other activities to do in the Maldives when on a visit to the Biyadhoo Island. One can even indulge in a number of other water activities like windsurfing, ski paddling, sailing and so much more. Besides, in case you feel dehydrated, well, there are a number of spots to savor the best of banana shakes and coconut water on your visit.

Famous For -

  • Scuba Diving
  • Windsurfing
  • Sailing
  • Ski Paddling

3. Meet Sharks & Manta Rays At Maafushi Island

Manta Rays At Maafushi Island

Fancy meeting the sharks and manta rays up close? Well, Maldives you that opportunity. A destination that is widely renowned for its marine life, one of the best things to do in the Maldives is to spend time with the sharks at Maafushi Island. A place that features fancy beaches, top of the line food, and so much more, Maafushi Island is widely popular amongst travelers. Visitors come here not only to experience the tranquility of beaches but to also experience meeting the sharks which are the main attraction of this place. Interestingly, there's a different feel about the place when you head for one of the most adventure activities in the Maldives, shark diving here.

Famous For -

  • Meeting Sharks & Manta Rays
  • Food
  • Fancy Beaches

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4. Spend A Night In The Villas At Baros Island

Villas At Baros Island

Now here's a thing, there are many resorts in the Maldives that offer fine hospitality and top of the line services to guests. These resorts and villas feature in some of the best in the world and are a major attraction for tourists coming to the country. Speaking of villas, for instance, Baros Island has to be right up there with some of the finest places to stay in the Maldives. An island that houses up-scale villas and many top of the line hotels, staying here is one of the best things in the Maldives at night. One can not only enjoy the luxurious stay but can also avail spa treatments that are top-notch in every way.

Famous For - Upscale Villas

5. Relish Canoeing At Alimatha Island

Alimatha Island

Nestled on the edge of East Maldives is another spot that one can only dream of. Alimatha Island is a perfect spot to enjoy canoeing in the Maldives. One can head to Miyaru Kandu, Fotte Kandu to enjoy the activities to do in the Maldives like canoeing, at its very best. As the place features pristine blue waters and top of the line ambiance, travelers love coming here for a visit. In fact, while canoeing is one of the top activities here, one can even indulge in a number of other activities here like diving and snorkeling. There are a number of top-notch bars, spa, massage centers, and so on that offer nothing less than a great time to visitors. Hence, there are many things to do in the Maldives as far as Alimatha Island is concerned.

Famous For -

  • Canoeing
  • Bars
  • Spa
  • Diving
  • Snorkeling

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6. Enjoy The Carnival Scenes At Artificial Beach

Artificial Beach

What's better than a carnival at the beach? Well, if you're a young soul longing for some fun, there's no better place than the Artificial Beach in the Maldives. Located in North Male Atoll, the beach is one of the best places to visit in the Maldives that attracts a young crowd from all around the world. While the young ambiance is set to blow your mind here, visitors can also consider visiting the Manta Point or Nassimo Thila to have a fun day out. Fancy swimming? The artificial island has it all for you.

Famous For -

  • Swimming
  • Carnival
  • Ambiance

7. Witness The Dolphins At Cinnamon Hakurra

Cinnamon Hakurra

One of the finest places to visit in the Maldives to experience watching the Dolphins, Cinnamon Hakurra is a place that stands out and attracts travelers from all around the country. Easily one of the go-to things to do in the Maldives, it doesn't take long to spot a Dolphin at Cinnamon Hakurra. As travelers put it themselves, watching the Dolphins here in their natural playful mood is set to make your day. So, what's the delay? The place is located about 148 KM away from the Male Airport which is one of the main airports in Maldives.

Famous For - Dolphin Watching

8. Surfing At Northern Atolls

Surfing At Northern Atolls

Another fine location in the Maldives where surfing is the name of the game, the Northern Atolls promise not one but multiple locations where visitors can enjoy surfing. In fact, as far as the fun of surfing is concerned, Maldives is considered to be one of the finest destinations in the world today. So, why ponder over things when you can enjoy surfing in this paradise? Try visiting the Northern Atolls at the Maldives and enjoy surfing here.

Famous For -

  • Big Water Waves

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9. Experience Local Shopping At Male Local Market

Male Local Market

Thinking of some interesting things to do in the Maldives, Male? Visit a popular street market in the Maldives that attracts tourists from all around the world. Male Local Market is another fine location to experience shopping. From the best of handicrafts, mementos, and gift items to so much more to add to your shopping experience. Interestingly, shopping at the Male Local Market is considered to be one of the top things to do in the Maldives on a holiday. So, do you fancy some local shopping experience? Why not visit Male Local Market and experience it all? The market is open from 8 AM in the morning and functions until 11 pm at night.

Famous For -

  • Packaged Sweetmeats
  • Home Decor Items
  • Souvenirs

10. Experience European Style Shopping At Island Bazaar

Shopping At Island Bazaar
Image is for reference purpose only

A place that is both unique and classy in every way, the Island Bazaar is another top spot to visit in the Maldives. One can find the finest of handicrafts of local artisans or home essentials like cushions, shoulder bags and so much more. One can visit here and shop for something unique for a loved one. The place can be visited from 10 AM to 6 PM in the evening while it is open from 4 PM to 6 PM on Fridays.

Famous For -

  • Handmade Jewellery
  • Scarves
  • Handmade Dishes

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11. Shop For Luxury Brands At Centro Mall

Centro Mall
Image Credit

Another fine location to experience shopping in the Maldives, the Centro Mall features more than 30 top of the line brands which are set to make your day. If you're a shopaholic coming on a vacation to the Maldives, a visit here is definitely worth a go. Not only is shopping fun here, but the place is also perfect for kids as there are game zones here to add to the joy of the kids. Besides this, one can even enjoy the best of dining experience at the Centro Mall in the Maldives. Visitors can visit here from 7 in the morning. The place is open till 12 midnight.

Famous For -

  • Garments
  • Home appliances

12. Embrace Sandbank Dining At Baros Maldives

Baros Maldives

Ever wondered about dining in the middle of the Indian Ocean? Well, there's a place that is there to make your dreams come true. A romantic escape from the bustling city of Male or other top locations of the Maldives, sandbank dining at Baros Maldives is something that one should definitely consider trying. Not only is the location majestic, the meals served too speak for themselves. So, why not try a romantic dinner with your loved one in the middle of the Indian Ocean?

Famous For -

  • Location
  • Meals

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13. Meet The Locals Living On Islands

One of the best things to do in the Maldives that one cannot miss is a visit to all the native islands where you can meet the local families. Mule Island and Naalaafushee Island are the two of the best islands in the Maldives where you can discover the lifestyle of the locals and the traditional history of Maldives.

The traditionally built houses and the concrete buildings, everything in these islands is too fascinating to be explored. You can stroll around the pavements and the downtown area where there are schools and banks, community centers, and other facilities provided for the locals living there. You can interact with the locals living there and learn about their culture and their lifestyle.

Famous For:

  • Offbeat experience
  • Local interaction

14. Pamper Yourself With Some Spa

Pamper Yourself With Some Spa

Now what’s among the fun things to do in the Maldives is to pamper yourself with some rejuvenating spa therapies. The Maldives is one of the most romantic honeymoon destinations in the world where there are number of quality spas and sauna facilities available. Whether you are staying at one of the most luxurious villas or discovering the hidden spa centers with traditional healing techniques, you can find everything you need.

Well, if you are a honeymooner, spa therapies are something that you can enjoy as a couple-thing. After a long week of all sightseeing and adventures, pampering yourself a little won't cost you much.

Best spa hotels:

  • Kuramathi Spa
  • Huvafen Fushi
  • One & Only Spa by ESPA
  • The Spa & Ayurvedic Retreat at Four Seasons Resort Maldives

15. A Helicopter Ride Above The White Sandy Beaches

A Helicopter Ride Above The White Sandy Beaches

The white sandy beaches and the turquoise waters of the ocean appear magical. Adding more thrill to your activities to do in the Maldives, you can plan a helicopter ride to witness the surreal beauty with a bird's eye view. Flying over the best beaches in here in the Maldives, you can discover the shades going from blue to aqua, to green and al again to blue. While there are islands inhabited and crowded with human footsteps, there are some isolated corners where you can discover a vast shade of blue spreading to infinity.

Helicopter rides in the Maldives are often organized by private tour operators and hotels so it is easy to book one. From a relative height, you can surely get the real taste of thrill and fascination.

  • Where: Multiple Location
  • Cost: Depends on the duration, packs, and other factors

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16. Island Hopping

Island Hopping

The islands of Maldives are one of nature's fascinations where there is beauty and diverse wilderness. From the adventurous ferry and cruise tours to discovering every wonder of the ocean, island hopping is among the top adventure activities in the Maldives. From Mahe to Alimatha Island, Biyadhoo Island and Hulhumalé Island.

Explore these islands with their popular attractions and add more to your experience by adding adventure that can never be missed. Every island houses some romantic resorts making them the best honeymoon places in the Maldives to spend a holiday.

Famous For:

  • Island tours
  • Ferry and cruise
  • Water adventures

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17. A Stay On Overwater Villas

A stay on Overwater Villas

Leisure and luxury are at its best while staying in the Maldives. This archipelagic state in South Asia is home to some of the most fascinating and luxurious overwater villas where you can spend quality time. Staying over the refreshing azure bodies is among the top fun things to do in the Maldives where there will be a luxury.

Offering every amenity of your daily need and a vast spacious living area, restaurant, and every facility of a five-star hotel, these overwater villas in the Maldives are best for every traveler living on this island. Overlooking the pristine beaches, these are the best accommodation to sought solace.

Best overwater villas:

  • Paradise Island Resort
  • Conrad Maldives Rangali Island
  • Shangri-La's Villingili Resort & Spa
  • Soneva Jani

18. Tour of The National Museum

Image Credit

National Museum of Maldives is the very first museum in the state where you can discover a plethora of art and artifacts. Well touring around this museum is among the top Maldives things to do list that will take you a step closer to the history. Located in Sultan Park in Malé, the museum is under the administration of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture of Maldives.

The museum has a vintage collection of elements like the first telephone and a gramophone. Don’t miss out on the 6-meter-long Longman’s Beaked Whale skeleton. Other collection includes ceremonial thrones, palanquins, rifles and more. This is surely the best place to visit in the Maldives for the history enthusiast.

Location: Male

Year of Establishment: 19th November 1952

Timings:

  • Monday to Thursday: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
  • Sunday: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
  • Friday and Saturday: Closed

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19. Explore The Male Island

Explore The Male Island

Male is the capital city of Maldives that makes it and fascinating destination in itself. From exploring the beaches and attractions to some breathtaking water adventures and other things to do in the Maldives at night, Male lures travelers for the most happening holiday. Plan 3 to days in this island city and experience the thrill of water adventures like snorkeling or parasailing.

Offering you more, Male houses some galleries and museums where there is a vast collection of artifacts and other interesting things. Understand the lifestyle and observe the enthralling vibes of the city as you stroll around. Even the weather and the refreshing beach vibes make it the best holiday destination to visit in the world in April.

Things to do:

  • Pay a visit to Old Friday Mosque,
  • Enjoy swimming at Artificial Beach
  • Visit National Art Gallery
  • Enjoy the nightlife

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20. Discovering The Gazillion Reefs

Discovering The Gazillion Reefs

Discovering the coral reefs is one of the best things to do in the Maldives if you are a nature lover. Bringing both adventure and thrill, scuba diving is one of the most interesting activity and adding more to your experience the Gazillion Reefs makes a perfect spot for some diving and snorkeling experience along with discovering the vibrant colonies of the corals.

Diversity can be expected as the region is home to some exotic marine life like mantas and eagles ray, fishes, dolphins, and more.

Famous For:

  • Scuba Diving
  • Coral Reefs
  • Marine Life

21. Witness The Beauty Of Glowing Beach

Witness the Beauty of Glowing Beach

The Vaadhoo Island is famous for its natural phenomenon that can be witnessed under sunlight. It is due to the presence of Planktons that the shores of the island glow in the night. This natural phenomenon is a wonder to witness where the blue waters of the sea glitter under the milky moonlight. While observing this spectacular sight is the best thing to do in the Maldives, you can even play in the water at night.

Rightly called the Sea of Stars, the island is home to some microscopic planktons, due to which this bioluminescence phenomenon can be experienced here.

Location: Vaadhoo Island, Raa Atoll, Maldives

Famous For:

  • bioluminescence phenomenon
  • Water Adventures

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22. Discover New Luxury at Six Senses Resort

Discover New Luxury at Six Senses Resort

Rediscover luxury with a stay at Six Senses resort in Laamu Atoll. This can be the fun things to do in the Maldives as you will be living amidst the serene beauty of the sea, overlooking the lush green vista and the blue and white surrounding. This is one of the best resorts in the Maldives where you have the option to choose from the Lagoon Water Villa, Ocean Water Villa with Pool, Laamu Water Villa, Sunset Laamu Water Villa, and so more.

Get pampered by the sauna and spa therapy that are provided to every guest. Now, what you cannot miss here at Six Sense resort is watersport activities like snorkeling or diving and sunset dolphin cruise.

Location: Laamu Atoll, Maldives

Facilities:

  • Luxury water villa
  • Water Sports
  • Spa

23. Dive In To Discover The Vast Colony of Corals

Dive In To Discover The Vast Colony of Corals

Corals in the Banana Reef is another attraction that is a nature’s miracle. While diving activities in Maldives are organized at most of the islands and beaches, Banana Reef is the best place for this experience. The diverse underwater world with aquatic creatures like sharks and barracudas makes scuba diving not just fun but a real adventure.

The calm and clear water makes diving easier even for beginners and if you are an expert then you can surely challenge some new depth. The diving depth starts at 5 meters and exceeds 30 meters. Don’t miss out on snorkeling at Banana Reef.

Timing: Start early by 9:00 am

Duration: 30 minutes

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24. Kayak Over Clear Waters of the Islands

Kayak Over Clear Waters of the Islands

The crystal-clear waters of the islands in the Maldives have made Kayaking a fascinating experience. Being one of the most adventure activities in Maldives, Kayaking is organized at many places. Vilamendhoo Island is the best place where you can enjoy the real thrill of Kayak. There are bottom glass kayaks that are best for witnessing the underwater beauty of the Indian ocean. So even if you are not diving, you can discover every hidden wonder of aquatic life.

As Kayak does not require the best swimming skills, this is the best activity that anyone in the Maldives can enjoy. All you need is a life jacket and some enthusiasm for adventure.

Other Places for Kayaking: Furaveri Island Resort & Spa, Dhaalu Atoll, Hulhumale Beach

25. Enjoy Jungle Cinema at Gili Lankanfushi

Enjoy Jungle Cinema at Gili Lankanfushi

An outdoor jungle cinema is a fun thing to do in the Maldives. The Jungle Cinema at Gili Lankanfushi is a lifetime experience that is not to be missed on your holidays. If you are on your honeymoon in the Maldives, this can be the best way to spend quality time together and enjoy the night watching some cinema under the open sky.

The Gili Lankanfushi is one of the best villas in the Maldives that offer its guests, an incredible experience of cinema. The jungle cinema is hidden somewhere in the foliage while every facility is provided at this isolated location. There will be meals, drinks, and comfortable seating arranged for the guests. You can get your cinema booked by the Gili Lankanfushi for an adventurous yet memorable.

Location: Gili Lankanfushi, Lankanfushi Island, North Malé Atoll Republic of Maldives

Famous For:

  • Thrilling cinema
  • Luxury experience
  • Great Surroundings

26. Kiteboarding and Kitesurfing in Mahe

Kiteboarding and Kitesurfing in Mahe

The Maldives is a romantic island destination where you can see some adventure enthusiasts and honeymooners enjoying the best of their vacation. This archipelagic destination is best known for adventure activities like kiteboarding and kite surfing.

Trying water activities in the Maldives can be the most enthralling and memorable experience of your lifetime. While there are many islands in the Maldives, you can try the best at any of the best beach resorts. Mahe and Huhumale offer an excellent kite surfing and kiteboarding experience to every visitor on the island.

The weather situation of these two islands in Mahe is perfect for your activities. Make sure you are skilled enough for this breathtaking experience. Kitesurfing requires a lot of balance while you surf through the violent waves of the ocean. There are many shops around the beaches where you can get the best gears. There are other activities like paddle boarding and surfing also available to enjoy.

Location: Beaches in Mahe

Famous For:

  • Water adventures
  • Beach resorts
  • Kitesurfing
  • Surfing

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27. Skydiving and Parasailing

Skydiving and Parasailing

Whether it's cruising over the sky or free fall from a height ofb1000 feet, there are many adventures to do in the Maldives. Skydiving and parasailing are the two best activities you can try here, even if it is your first adventure experience.

A Tandem skydive is an ideal activity for people who have no experience of skydiving. A pilot will be assisting you throughout the activity. You and your instructor will be harnessed as you fall from the relative height.

Talking about parasailing, it is as much fun as it sounds. Wearing a Parachute, you will be fastened to a motorboat. As it moves with a speed, you will be gliding across the sky. The view from the top in skydiving and parasailing makes it too fascinating that you would love to try the adventure over and over again.

The duration of Skydiving is 1 hour.

Location:

  • Koodoo Airport, Maldives (skydiving)
  • Reethi Beach, Finolhu Beach, and Cocoon Beach (parasailing)

A paradise that promises all the fun and charm of a holiday, Maldives is a place that keeps on giving surprises, and travelers coming here are set to have a great time. From surfing in the rapid waves to dining in the middle of the Indian Ocean, there are many things to do in the Maldives that offer so much more than a perfect time to the visitors. So, why ponder over things when there's a paradise that awaits you? Join the thousands of travelers booking their Maldives flights and come witness the serene beauty of the destination.

FAQs

Q1. Is it expensive in the Maldives?

Although it depends upon the travel choices of visitors, a budget traveler can still expect to spend a minimum of $30 on a daily basis in the Maldives.

Q2. How many days are enough for the Maldives?

Travelers can plan at least a 7-8 day trip to the Maldives depending on where they are planning to stay or travel.

Q3. Is a Passport required for the Maldives?

Yes, international travelers traveling to the Maldives need to have a valid passport which should be valid for at least six months upon their arrival.

Q4. Can I touch the corals while diving in the Maldives?

No, travelers trying scuba diving or snorkeling in the Maldives are advised to not touch the corals as they are delicate and can be harmed upon doing so.

Q5. What should I buy in the Maldives?

Travelers planning to go to the Maldives can look to buy a number of things like Thundu Kunaa, Lacquer Products, Dhonis, Maldivian Sarongs, Coconut Items, Traditional Jewelry, and so on.

Q6. What is illegal in the Maldives?

The following items are illegal to bring in the Maldives and travelers are advised to avoid bringing the same.

  • Explosives
  • Weapons
  • Firearms
  • Ammunition
  • pornographic material
  • Alcohol
  • Pork Products
Q7. Is it safe to swim in the Maldives?

Yes, there are many top locations in the Maldives where travelers can swim without any hassles or safety issues.

Q8. How far is Cinnamon Hakurra from Male Airport?

The place is located about 148 KM away from the Male Airport which is one of the main airports in the Maldives.