Things To Do In The Maldives, An Underwater Paradise

One of the most popular holiday destinations in the world, Maldives is not just a romantic getaway. It also grabs the attention of tourist’s for its popular adventure water sports. Maldives is a paradise for those fond of deep sea diving and snorkeling. Another reason behind the popularity of this tropical nation is its marine life and coral reefs. There are so many things to do in the Maldives. The water around Maldives is replete with many species of fish and sea animals that people from all over the world come here to see. Surrounded by beaches, atolls, crystal clear water, and blue sky, this exotic place boasts a rich diversity of flora and fauna. The white sandy beaches and blue sea water makes for some truly breathtaking sights.

Where Is Maldives Located

The Maldives is an independent island country in the north-central Indian Ocean. It consists of a chain of about 1,200 small coral islands, sandbanks and atolls, of which 200 are inhabited. The small Island nation covers 820 km from north to south and 130 km from east to west.

Top Things To Do In The Maldives

As Maldives is located in the Indian Ocean, its surrounding waters is a paradise that no visitor of the place can afford to miss. Any diving and snorkeling fanatic will love to see beautiful marine animals here. The water teems with aquatic creatures such as angelfish, trumpet fish, parrot fish, crustaceans, unicorn fish, turtles, and much more. If one ventures further into the water, they are likely to stumble across swordfish, dolphins, rays, sharks, and porpoises. Here are some of the romantic and fun things to do in the Maldives Islands:

Adventure Things To Do In The Maldives

Scuba Diving

Among the premier diving spots on earth, Maldives is perhaps the best scuba diving spot for divers. However, remember that some of the diving spots here are only meant for professional divers who must be PADI certified. For non-certified divers, there are many PADI dive centers to help them wade through the deep waters of Maldives. Scuba diving, one of the popular adventure things to do in the Maldives can be experienced at some popular diving sites like, the Fish Head, HP Reef, Banana Reef and Maanta Point. Once you are down there you will be mesmerized by the over 700 species of fishes and other aquatic creatures. The best time to go diving in Maldives is between June to October and again between December to March.

Where: Maaya Thila, Banana Reef, Kuredu Express, Broken Rock, Fesdhoo Wreck, Okobe Thila

Snorkeling

If you are looking for an alternative to diving, indulge in snorkeling in the Maldives. One need not go deep underwater to enjoy the pristine and shallow reefs of this heavenly place. The shallow shimmering lagoons and house reefs close to the resorts makes Maldives the best destination for snorkeling. The colorful flock of fishes just beside you feels like you are seeing through a kaleidoscope. There are plenty of Maldives hotels and resorts that provide snorkeling services. The establishments let you enjoy the underwater beauty of Maldives while taking care of your safety. Snorkeling in Maldives between December and April literally makes you feel like you’re in heaven.

Where: Banana Reef – Kuda Kalhi, HP Reef – Malé Atoll and Manta Point -Lankanfinolhu Island

Surfing

To enjoy paradise in the most thrilling manner surfing is one of the must things to do in the Maldives. This world-class destination for surfers attracts adventure enthusiasts from around the world. Some great surfing spots like the Male Atoll, Lohi’s, Goofy’s Paradise, Chickens and Tsunami’s are known to have the best break in the world. Cinnamon Dhonveli in the Maldives is a world famous surfing spot. However, one needs to be quite experienced to surf the waters here. Best time to go surfing is from April till October.

Where: North Male – Chicken’s, Cokes and Lohis; South Male – Kandooma Right and Foxeys

Parasailing

If heights excite you, then Paragliding is a must do activity while in Maldives. This adventure activity requires one to wear an open parachute which is pulled by a high-speed boat. The feeling of having the sea wind on the face along with the aerial view of the blue Maldives water is totally worth the experience.  The atolls, serene beaches, turquoise lagoons, blue vast ocean, everything looks absolutely amazing from above. It’s your best chance to have an overview of the island, so just don’t miss this activity!

Where: Reethi Beach, Cocoon Beach and Finolhu Beach

Fun Tubing

After being pulled above in the air, get ready to be pulled over the water at high speeds by speed boats. Get out of your comfort zone to enjoy this bumpy and thrilling activity which is full of fun. The unpowered, inflatable tube will take you on a crazy ride over and in-between the waves. Though the ride is a little bumpy, it’s suitable for people of all ages. It’s a must try adventure activity if you want to enjoy some crazy and happening stuff.

Where: Maafushi, Baros and Kuramathi

Romantic Things To Do In The Maldives

Candlelight Dinner

A candlelight dinner at the most romantic destination on earth is one of the must things to do in the Maldives. Can you imagine anything more romantic than having a candlelight dinner beside breathtaking sunsets and stunning landscapes? Be it honeymoon, anniversaries, a family getaway or meeting up with friends, the resorts and hotels here will provide a setup as per your needs. Candlelight dinner at a restaurant, in your private balcony, on an Ocean reef, with a bottle of champagne, a private waiter, and a personalized meal prepared right next to you is something you cannot miss while in Maldives.

Where: Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa, Arena Beach Hotel, Kuredu Resort

Dolphin Spotting

Watching these amazing creatures swim, jump and dive into the ocean is one of the must things to do in the Maldives. With a boat ride to the dolphin watching site, you can spot these creatures frolicking in the waters of this island. This is one such activity that you can do throughout the year. If lucky, there is a chance that you’ll get to spot over 20 species of dolphins. Meemu Atoll and its Muli Channel is the only place where there are 85% chances of spotting them. December to March is ideal time to go dolphin spotting.

Where: Papa Fish Excursions, Dive Club Furaveri, ScubaCaribe, Murakabay Maldives

Sunset Cruise

For an ultimate romantic evening watch the breathtaking sunset with your loved one. An hour-long Sunset cruise offers uninterrupted views of this gorgeous island. Apart from the stunning landscape, you will also get to spot some dolphins. To save time you can club Dolphin spotting along with Sunset cruise with the Maldives Sunset Dolphin Cruise. This is one of the best things to do in the Maldives before sunset. It’s an absolute delight to see the sun sink with changing colors into the calm ocean waters.

Island Hopping

The first idea of visiting any place is to explore it as much as you can. The Maldives is made up of numerous islands, approximately over thousand small islands. Exploring exotic islands of the Maldives by Island hopping can give you a closer feel for their geographic nature. There is no public network of transport between islands, hence plan carefully to discover more of this island nation. There are many Maldivan island-hopping adventure tours to choose from. Book yourself one and go on this epic journey to know more about the island atmosphere and its residents.

Book Now: Maldives Island Hopping

Walking Tour

The best way to understand and explore the any new destinations tradition and culture is by taking a walking tour. What better way to do it than with your partner. The city of Male has many tour operators who organize romantic walks through various places of interest in Maldives. A half day walking tours will take you through various localities such as the Harbor area, oldest school in Malé, Old Friday Mosque and the tomb of Abu Al Barakaath. Don’t forget to stop for some refreshments at Royal Garden Café. By the end of your walking tour the sights, sounds and smells would have given you a perfect taste of the local life.

Where: In the city of Male

Best Time To Visit The Maldives

The Maldives has a tropical climate which is warm and sunny throughout the year. However based on what type of experience you are looking for, here’s a quick guide to help choose the right time.

For Honeymoon – December to April is the best time to visit with your partner to celebrate new beginnings. The weather is bright and sunny making it ideal for romantic dinner and walks on the beaches. The sea is also quite calm during this time, which makes it the ideal time to try your hand at some water activities.

For Family Visit – Again it’s the months between December and April. During this time little or no rain is expected. The dry weather makes it a perfect time for families to enjoy their stay.

For Water Activities – February is one of best times to visit Maldives as the days are filled with sunshine which is ideal for indulging in water sports activities and sunbathing. February is also the peak tourist season as people from all around the world come to the Maldives to enjoy the various water activities.

What To Pack For Your Holiday In The Maldives

Whatever the time of year, the weather in the Maldives is pretty much perfect. It’s not too humid nor too cold. The monsoons generally start from May and last till October. Best time to travel to the Maldives is between December and April. Keeping a packing list handy while packing for your dream destination is important so that you don’t miss out on any essential items.

Swimwear – At least two pairs is what you need, but then if you are going to spend a lot of time on the beaches, we recommend you carry at least three pairs. Bright multi colored bikinis, swim trunks and shorts will look perfect against the beautiful ocean background.

Sarong, Kaftans or Cover Ups – Sarongs or kaftans are multi-purpose garments that you should carry while on a tropical vacation. Don’t forget to add a few good shades and hats. They help cover from the harsh rays of the sun at the beach.

Dresses – Pack comfortable summer dresses like frocks, skirts, t-shirts and shorts for the day and flowing maxi dresses, printed shirts and casual pants for the evening.

Footwear – It’s best to explore the Island barefoot. But do carry a pair of sandals, flip flops, water shoes and dive shoes to protect your feet.

Dry And Wet Bag – Carry a wet bag to keep your wet clothes and swimsuits away from the dry ones. A dry bag can be used to keep all of your valuables and clothing safe during rainstorms.

Electronic And Electrical Gadgets – Kindle, Underwater Camera and Accessories, International Adaptor, mobile, laptop, drone etc.

Toiletries and Medical Kit – Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, sunscreen lotion, insect repellent, basic/regular medicines and a first aid kit.

Get Diving Lessons In The Maldives

The Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) is a training program for those who want to learn diving from professionals. Some challenging diving spots in the world are open to PADI certified divers only. If you are looking forward to diving into the waters of Maldives, ensure that you are PADI certified. Following are the accredited diving centers in the Maldives:

ProDivers: It offers certified courses in both scuba diving as well as open water diving; all the courses are PADI approved and certified.

IDive: To take diving courses at IDive, the candidate must be at least ten years old. They provide classes that teach the basics of diving, open water diving for advanced learners, scuba diving, and rescue diving.

Euro-Divers: This diving center provides educational courses for scuba diving and open water diving. All the courses offered are PADI certified.

Maldives Passion: PADI certified courses are provided here for scuba diving, open water diving, and advanced open water diving. In addition to these, it also offers diving packages, and activities for fun diving.

Also Read: Why You Should Travel To Maldives Island

Things To Keep In Mind On Your Maldives Vacation

• The locals are very particular about covering their arms and legs, hence dress modestly on inhabited islands. Swimwear and revealing dresses can be used only on resort islands.

• Be very careful of what you bring along. Things like drugs, pork, religious materials meant for distribution, and dogs are prohibited here.

• Don’t indulge in PDA on inhabited islands. Do not kiss in public or hold hands when outside the resort.

• Do be careful of what you take back home. Purchasing black corals or turtle shells is illegal and can land you in trouble.

• Avoid drinking water straight from the tap, instead opt for packaged mineral water sold in stores.

• Do not expect a free WIFI or a speedy internet service in this Paradise. It’s best to shut your gadgets and enjoy nature.

• Be ready to pay 10% service charge plus 8% goods and services tax on all things used and consumed on the Island.

• Spend three or more nights at specific properties to avail additional deals such as sunset or dolphin cruise, a movie night under the stars, romantic dinner at a restaurant or relaxing spa treatments.

The Maldives, a “Heaven on the Earth” is the dream destination for many. This is the time to chase your dreams to make it a reality and try all the different things to do in the Maldives. Guaranteed that you’ll have the best time ever!

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