The Maldives is often pictured as an expensive resort getaway, but the real magic lies in exploring local islands with culture, beaches, water activities, and friendly island life.

In this guide, we walk through five top must-visit islands, complete with transport costs, opening hours, accommodation and food price ranges, tips for booking, and seasonal advice. This is a practical travel guide you can use to plan your trip.

Before We Start: Best Time to Visit & Travel Basics

Best Season:

- December to April — Dry season, clear skies, calm seas

- May to November — Shoulder season, lower prices, occasional rain

Currency:

Local currency is Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), but USD is widely accepted on most islands and for boat transfers.

Public Holidays:

Try to avoid major local holidays, as boats and services can be busier or limited.

1. Malé — Maldives Capital & Cultural Heart

Malé is small but vibrant, full of history, local markets, and city food.

Top Sights & Hours:

- Old Friday Mosque: Open daily mornings until late afternoon

- National Museum: 10:00 AM–4:00 PM (closed Fridays)

- Fish Market & Local Produce Market: Best activity late morning (no strict hours)

Transport:

- Airport to Malé ferry: ~10 minutes; $1–$2 per person

- Taxi: ~10 minutes; ~$8–$12

Accommodation (nightly):

- Budget guesthouses: $40–$80

- Mid-range hotels: $90–$160

Dining:

- Local cafés: $5–$12 per meal

- Sit-down restaurants: $15–$30 per meal

Tips: Most attractions are free to enter. Bring small cash for local stalls.

2. Hulhumalé — Easy Island Next to the Airport

Hulhumalé is great as an arrival or departure stop, with beaches, bikes to explore, and local food.

Transport:

- Airport to Hulhumalé taxi: ~10 minutes; $10–$15

- Bus or shared van: ~$2–$3

Beaches: Open daily, sunrise to sunset.

Accommodation (nightly):

- Budget guesthouses: $35–$70

- Mid-range hotels: $80–$120

Dining:

- Street stalls: $4–$10

- Cafés and small restaurants: $12–$25

Activities:

- Snorkel gear rental: $10–$20 per day

- Jet ski ride: $40–$80 per 15 minutes

Tips: This island is great for easing into Maldives life before hopping out to other islands.

3. Maafushi — Budget Traveler Favorite

Maafushi has lively beaches, tours, water sports, and balance between culture and adventure.

Transport:

- Shared speedboat: ~40–45 mins; $20–$30 one way

- Public ferry: ~90 mins; $2–$3 one way (slower)

Accommodation (nightly):

- Guesthouses: $30–$70

- Small hotels: $80–$120

Dining:

- Local cafés: $6–$15

- Hotel restaurants: $20–$35

Activities & Costs:

- Sandbank trip: $25–$50

- Dolphin watching cruise: $40–$60

- Snorkel tour: $35–$55

Best Time to Go:

- Morning departures for water tours when seas are calmest.

Tips: Arrive early if you want to book tours the same day.

4. Dhiffushi — Quiet Beaches and Local Life

Dhiffushi is a small fishing island with peaceful beaches, great snorkeling, and postcard views.

Transport:

- Speedboat: ~40–50 mins; $25–$45 one way

- Public ferry: ~3 hrs; $2, ideal for tighter budgets

Accommodation (nightly):

- Guesthouses: $30–$60

- Boutique stays: $70–$110

Dining:

- Local meals: $5–$12

- Simple restaurants: $15–$28

Beaches: Open daily; sunrise and sunset beaches are easy to reach by foot.

Activities:

- Snorkeling gear rent: $8–$18

- Kayak rental: $10–$18 per hour

Tips: There’s no ATM here, so bring enough cash.

5. Fuvahmulah — Deep Sea Diving & Marine Life

Fuvahmulah is one of the world’s top spots for shark diving and big ocean encounters.

Transport:

- Domestic flight from Malé: ~90 minutes round-trip; $200–$250

- Flight schedules vary by season, so booking early is key.

Accommodation (nightly):

- Dive guesthouses: $70–$120

- Mid-range hotels: $120–$180

Diving & Tours:

- Shark dive package (half day): $120–$180 per person

- Full-day dive trips: $180–$280

Best Diving Season:

- December to April for clearer water and calmer seas

Tips: Bring dive certification cards if applicable; many dive operators require them.

General Travel Tips for Our Maldives Trip

1. Booking Boats:

- Speedboat services often sell out in high season; book ahead.

- Public ferries don’t run on Fridays.

2. Packing Essentials:

- Reef-safe sunscreen

- Light, quick-dry clothing

- Small cash in local currency

3. Cultural Respect:

On local islands, dress modestly when away from beaches.

4. Budget Buffer:

Always set aside $50–$100 extra per person per day for food, tips, and incidental fees.

Let’s Plan Our Route

Lykkers, the Maldives is more than just luxury water villas. With this guide we can choose islands based on what we want to see, do, and experience — whether that’s snorkeling in clear lagoons, walking through lively markets, or diving with amazing sea life.

Which island are we starting with on our Maldives adventure? Let’s plan, pack, and go explore together — one island at a time!