A Tropical Escape: The Best Things To Do In The Maldives
The Maldives conjures up a postcard-perfect vision of swaying palms, powder-white sands, and turquoise lagoons. This Indian Ocean archipelago truly is a tropical paradise. However, it isn't just a destination to spend days on the beach; there is plenty more on offer within the islands.
Comprising over 1,200 captivating coral islands and sandbanks, this island nation offers various activities to indulge in. From world-class snorkeling and diving amidst vibrant reefs teeming with marine life to private dining under the star-studded sky, there are endless things to enjoy. Whether you seek the height of romance or the thrill of uncharted adventure, The Maldives can host your perfect vacation. Here are some of the best things to do when traveling the Maldives:
Uncover the Maldives' Aquatic Wonders
Look beyond the postcard-perfect beaches, and you'll discover a captivating underworld teeming with a dazzling array of marine life. At resorts like Anantara Dhigu and the InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau, you can embark on guided excursions to spot nurse sharks and manta rays up close, led by knowledgeable marine biologists.
For another level of luxury, charter a private yacht and jump into the ocean whenever you desire to be mesmerized by the vibrant schools of tropical fish dancing across the reefs.
Immerse Yourself in Maldivian History and Culture
Venture beyond the glitzy resort enclaves and uncover the Maldives' rich cultural tapestry. At the Dutch Onion Museum in Cora Cora Maldives, artifacts dating back centuries shed light on the islands' storied past, from ancient stone water tanks to rare onion-shaped bottles.
Meanwhile, the Maldivian Village at Heritance Aarah transports guests to the archipelago's earliest inhabited days, showcasing the traditional ways of life of its indigenous people.
Dine, Drink, and Detox Beneath the Waves
The Maldives takes undersea indulgence to new depths—literally. At resorts like Conrad Maldives and Hurawalhi Island, diners can enjoy gourmet meals with unparalleled ocean vistas, while oenophiles can sip vintages aged underwater at Emerald Maldives.
For the ultimate in relaxation, head to Huvafen Fushi, home to the only underwater spa in the Maldives, where you can indulge in revitalizing treatments as marine life drifts by.
Skydiving in Paradise
The Maldives is upping the ante on adventure, becoming the first destination in the Indian Ocean to offer permanent skydiving facilities.
Thrill-seekers can soar over the archipelago's dazzling atolls before touching down next to a chilled bottle of Champagne at Ifuru Island's dedicated drop zone. Just be sure to book your jump at a resort within the same atoll to make the most of this one-of-a-kind experience.
Explore Local Island Life
While the Maldives is renowned for its lavish resorts, hundreds of the archipelago's islands remain home to vibrant local communities.
Many hotels, including the Fairmont Maldives and Cora Cora Maldives, offer guests the chance to visit these hidden gems, offering a rare glimpse into the realities of Maldivian life beyond the Instagram-perfect beaches.
Get Your Diving Certification
With its warm, calm waters and abundance of marine life, the Maldives stands tall as one of the world's premier diving destinations. Resorts make it easy for both beginners and experts to earn their certification, with on-site instructors and easy access to the ocean.
For qualified divers, the archipelago continues to raise the bar with experiences like the mesmerizing blue-light night dives at Siyam World.
Under the Starry Skies
As the sun dips below the horizon, the Maldives reveals an entirely new realm of enchantment. At Soneva Jani's "Cinema Paradiso," guests can cozy up under the stars for movie screenings complete with gourmet treats and cocktails.
Meanwhile, lovebirds can savor a private castaway dinner on a secluded sandbank or the piano deck at Baros Maldives, surrounded by nothing but the sound of gently lapping waves.
Adopt a Coral, Restore the Reef
With their stunning reefs facing mounting environmental pressures, the Maldives' resorts have become champions of coral conservation.
Across the archipelago, guests can get hands-on, whether planting their own coral fragment or assisting marine biologists in logging data about the vibrant house reefs. It's a uniquely rewarding way to leave your mark on this paradise and ensure its preservation for generations to come.
