The Maldives is the kind of place that looks exactly like the photos—white sand beaches, water so clear it feels surreal, and sunsets that make you forget your phone exists. But while the beauty is obvious, visiting the Maldives for the first time isn’t as simple as booking a flight and winging it. It’s not a typical holiday destination. Things work differently here, and knowing what to expect can make the difference between a good trip and an incredible one.
Here’s a straight-up guide to visiting the Maldives for the first time—no fluff, just what you really need to know.
1. It’s Not Just One Island
The Maldives is a country made up of about 1,200 islands grouped into 26 atolls. About 200 are inhabited, and around 170 are home to resorts. Most resorts sit on their own private islands—so when you book a resort, you’re booking a whole island experience.
You can’t just hop between islands like you would on a Greek island trip. Transfers must be arranged in advance, usually through the resort.
2. Choose Your Island Based on What You Want
There are two types of islands: resort islands and local islands. Resort islands are tailored for luxury and privacy. Local islands offer budget stays, cultural interaction, and more realistic prices—but alcohol is banned and modest clothing is expected in public.
Know what kind of experience you want—secluded honeymoon or culture-focused backpacking—and choose accordingly.
3. Expect a Seaplane or Boat Ride
After landing in Malé, most travelers still need to get to their final destination via speedboat or seaplane. These transfers aren’t cheap, so include them in your budget. Also, flights must align with transfer schedules, especially seaplanes, which only run during daylight hours.
4. Weather: When’s the Best Time to Go?
- High season: November to April. Dry, sunny, and in high demand—this is peak tourist season.
- Wet season: May to October. Expect more rain, but also better surf and lower prices.
Weather is warm year-round, hovering around 28–31°C (82–88°F). Even in the rainy season, storms are often brief.
5. It’s Not Just for Honeymooners
Yes, it’s romantic. But solo travelers, families, and friend groups can enjoy the Maldives too—especially on local islands. Budget guesthouses, dive centers, and surfing spots give a more active and community-based experience that doesn’t require rose petals and room service.
6. Diving: One of the Best Places on Earth
The Maldives is a world-class dive destination. Expect reef sharks, manta rays, turtles, and even whale sharks at certain times of year. Water visibility is excellent year-round.
You don’t need to be certified before you arrive. Many resorts and dive centers offer PADI courses. If you’re certified already, the options are endless: night dives, deep dives, current diving in channels (kandus), and more.
7. Snorkeling and Water Sports
Not into scuba? No problem. You can snorkel right off most beaches and jetties. Many islands offer excursions to reefs or shipwrecks. Other options include kayaking, paddleboarding, jet-skiing, windsurfing, and dolphin cruises.
8. Money Stuff: It’s Not Cheap, But It Can Be Done on a Budget
Resort stays can run into the thousands per night, but guesthouses on local islands can be found for $50–150 per night. Food, transport, and excursions are cheaper on local islands too.
USD is widely accepted, especially at resorts. Have cash for local purchases, and note that there are limited ATMs outside Malé.
9. Dietary Needs: Vegan, Gluten-Free, and More
Resorts are used to international guests and typically cater well to vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and other dietary needs—just make your preferences known in advance. On local islands, options are more limited, but you’ll still find fresh fruit, rice, lentils, and vegetable curries.
For strict gluten-free or allergy-sensitive travelers, it’s worth bringing snacks or staples with you, just in case.
10. LGBTQ+ Travel in the Maldives
The Maldives is a conservative Muslim country, and same-sex relationships are illegal under local law. However, this is rarely enforced against tourists—especially on private resort islands where discretion is key.
That said, public displays of affection—regardless of orientation—are frowned upon on local islands. On resort islands, LGBTQ+ couples are generally welcomed, especially at international chains that have inclusive policies. Still, it’s wise to keep affection low-key in public spaces.
11. Connectivity and SIM Cards
Wi-Fi is available on most resorts and guesthouses, though speeds vary. Local SIM cards (Dhiraagu or Ooredoo) with data plans are cheap and reliable. Get one at the airport for hassle-free internet across most islands.
12. Flights from the UK
Flights from the UK (usually London) to Malé take around 10–12 hours non-stop. Carriers like British Airways offer direct flights, especially during peak season. Other options with layovers include Qatar Airways (via Doha), Emirates (via Dubai), and Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul).
Malé International Airport (MLE) is the main entry point. Once there, you’ll transfer to your island by boat or seaplane.
13. Cultural Respect Matters
Local islands follow Islamic customs. That means:
- No alcohol on local islands
- Modest dress required (cover shoulders and knees)
- Bikinis only allowed on designated “bikini beaches”
Resort islands are more relaxed—you can drink, sunbathe freely, and wear what you like. But wherever you go, basic respect goes a long way.
14. It’s Not Just Beaches
Yes, the beaches are stunning—but the Maldives has more. Visit Malé to explore local markets, mosques, and museums. Go on a night fishing trip. Try traditional Maldivian dishes like mas huni (tuna, coconut, and chili, often served at breakfast).
If you’re into sustainability, many resorts offer coral reef conservation programs you can join or learn about.
Final Thoughts
First-time visitors often come for the luxury, but leave with a deeper appreciation for the simplicity and beauty of life by the sea. Know what kind of trip you want, understand the logistics, and be respectful of the culture. Whether you’re snorkeling with manta rays, watching the sunrise in silence, or eating curry with your hands on a quiet island—this place hits different.
Plan right, and your first trip to the Maldives won’t be your last.
