What I Wish I Knew Before Traveling to the Maldives
PLANNING, TIPS, EXCURSIONS, AND HOTEL RECS
The Maldives has always felt like a bucket list destination, even unattainable honestly —a dreamy oasis of crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and those iconic overwater bungalows. But what I didn’t know? Planning a trip here can be overwhelming. I’m not a travel expert, just a girl who loves to explore and figure it out along the way… but trust me when I say I learned a LOT on this trip.
If you’re planning your own Maldives adventure, I’m here to save you hours of stress, scrolling, and second-guessing.
I also want to give you AFFORDABLE options to travel here where you don’t have to break the bank.
Let’s dive into everything I wish I knew—plus my best hotel recommendations and the excursions you have to book.
1. Understanding the Geography
Arriving:
You will arrive in Malé which is the capital of the Maldives and the hub of international arrivals. I would book flights so you can arrive early in the morning (before noon) and then take your speedboat, ferry, or sea plane transfer to your final destination. If you arrive after noon, it might be difficult to catch a transfer to your final destination as many leave earlier in the day. If arriving to Malé in the morning isn’t accessible, you can always opt to stay in Malé for the night, but I personally would try to avoid this. There’s no beaches, it’s a packed city, and a Muslim country (so no alcohol or a glass of wine at sunset) and overall not the tropical paradise vibe you imagine when going to the Maldives.
Here’s the deal: the Maldives is made up of over 1,000 islands spread across 26 atolls, and most of them aren’t close together. This means:
If you’re staying on one island, you very likely can’t take excursions from another.
Certain wildlife and activities are only available in specific areas. For example, whale shark snorkeling happens in South Ari Atoll, and you won’t find it in every region.
If you’re a planner like me, do some research before choosing where to stay. Decide what wildlife or excursions are on your must-do list—dolphins, nurse sharks, manta rays, turtles—and pick accommodations in the area that offers them.
Island Hopping Tip: While island hopping sounds dreamy, it’s not as quick or easy as I thought. Ferries, speedboats, or seaplanes can add up fast, and each transfer can take hours. If you’re on a budget or tight timeline, plan to stick to one main island and explore its surroundings.
Transfers: If you are going to a resort island from Malé you can contact your hotel and they will help you book your transfer (whether is be speedboat, ferry or sea plane). If you are going to a local island you will have to book this yourself. You can find info on transfers here.
2. Resort Islands vs. Local Islands vs. Liveaboards
This was the biggest “aha” moment for me. There’s three different ways to visit the Maldives and all are VERY different experiences. I’ve done ALL three multiple times and explain the pros and cons of each option below.
Option #1: Private Resort Islands
Private, luxurious, and expensive. This is what everyone pictures when they hear “Maldives”: five-star resorts with dreamy overwater villas, infinity pools, and turquoise water stretching for miles. Resorts are stunning, but they often make it difficult (and pricey) to leave for excursions elsewhere. Excursions through private resorts are easily double the price compared to those on local islands. If you want to do everything (like I did), this can quickly add up.
Pros:
The rooms are insanely nice—those bungalows really are as magical as they look on Instagram.
Resorts are designed for pure serenity and relaxation. Think “White Lotus” vibes: cocktails, poolside lounging, and zero responsibilities.
Service is next level. Transfers are often arranged for you, and everything can be paid with cards.
Depending on the property, you might be able to snorkel straight from your villa.
Cons:
Easily the most expensive way to do the Maldives, and in my opinion… overpriced.
Excursions (whale sharks, mantas, etc.) are usually insanely marked up and not always offered depending on where the resort is located.
Even with “all-inclusive” packages, there are constant upsells (cocktails, spa treatments, floating breakfasts, movie nights on the beach… $$$).
Island fever sets in quickly. You can walk around most islands in under 30 minutes and after a day or two, you’re ready for more.
Hidden transfer fees add up fast ($400+ seaplane rides or speedboat trasnfers may not be included — check with your resort before booking since this adds up).
Verdict: Perfect if you want pure luxury, total relaxation, and don’t mind paying extra for every little thing.
Option #2: Local islands
The Maldives isn’t just resorts—it’s a country with locals, culture, and vibrant island life. Staying on a local island like Maafushi gives you a totally different (and more affordable) perspective. These inhabited islands, like Maafushi, offer excursions at a fraction of the cost. They’re vibrant, authentic, and still beautiful, with access to most major wildlife tours (think: whale sharks, manta rays, dolphins, and more).
Quick Note: Local islands are Muslim culture so there is no alcohol served on this island. You also should be respectful of the culture and not walking around in a bikini. Some islands (like Maafushi) have a “bikini beach” where you can be in a bikini, but I covered up on the rest of the island.
There are other local islands other than Maafushi, but Maafushi is only a 60ish minute speedboat from Male, has all the excursions available, and is the most “lively” local island.
Pros:
Super affordable—guesthouses and hotels often under $100 a night.
Activities and excursions are way cheaper (we swam with mantas, dolphins, and nurse sharks + lunch + pro photos/video for $75 per person).
Local dining is diverse and way more budget-friendly than resort restaurants.
You actually get to experience the culture, meet locals, and shop in town.
Cons:
No alcohol on local islands (Muslim country).
Public modesty rules apply outside designated “bikini beaches.”
Still a small-island vibe, so the “island fever” sets in eventually.
You need to plan your own transfers, and cash (USD) is widely needed.
Verdict: Best for adventurous travelers who want affordability and tons of excursions.
Option #3: Liveaboards (My Personal Fave)
And now… my absolute favorite way to experience the Maldives: liveaboards.
This is easily the most underrated option and one that most travelers don’t even know exists. Instead of staying on a single island, you live on a boat for several nights, cruising through different atolls, reefs, and sandbanks. Think of it like an all-inclusive floating hotel with built-in adventure.
Most people don’t know this exists because you usually would have to do a private tour…aka book with a group that is hosting a liveaboard trip.
If you’re interested, we host an annual retreat on a liveaboard in the Maldives you can check out here.
Why it’s amazing:
You’re picked up straight from the airport, and from there, everything is handled. No stressing about transfers, packages, or piecing together excursions.
Every morning you wake up somewhere new—a different reef, sandbank, or deserted island.
You get to snorkel and dive in the most pristine spots without crowds. I can’t tell you how magical it feels to jump in and swim alongside mantas or nurse sharks while the rest of the Maldives is still sleeping.
At night, mantas and nurse sharks literally swim right up to the back of the boat—you can hop in the water for a spontaneous swim.
Sunrises are unreal on the open water. Evenings? Stargazing from the roof deck in the middle of the ocean, away from all light pollution. Absolutely unmatched.
Everything is included (meals, excursions, gear). Alcohol is available at reasonable prices since you’re on international waters.
Pros:
All-inclusive (except alcohol, which is cheap compared to resorts).
Private-feeling excursions without the tourist crowds.
Spacious boats, private ensuite cabins + bathrooms, and a mix of relaxation + daily adventure.
Great for meeting like-minded travelers—you’ll likely leave with new friends.
Cons:
It’s not always straightforward to book. Many liveaboards are run by tour groups or dive companies, so it requires a bit more searching.
You’re living with a group of strangers. Most of the time it’s amazing, but there’s always a chance you don’t vibe with someone.
Seas can get rocky—bring motion sickness meds.
Verdict: If you want the real Maldives—unbelievable wildlife encounters, adventure every day, and magical moments you’ll never forget—this is hands-down the best way to do it.
My Overall Recommendation: If you want the best of both worlds (adventure, comfort, relaxation and best value)…. I personally recommend either doing a Liveaboard experience or a split stay. Our first time visiting the Maldives, we stayed on Maafushi for our first few days, booked affordable excursions and accomodations, and then transferred to a private resort for the relaxation and luxury vibes. It’s truly the best of both worlds.
3. Hotel Recommendations
If you want to mix affordability, adventure, and luxury, here are my top picks:
Local Island: Maafushi
Where to Stay: I recommend Maafushi for its affordability and access to excursions. Hotels here are cozy, clean, and budget-friendly. Look into Kaani Palm Beach or Arena Beach Hotel for beachfront views and a relaxing stay.
Excursions to Book: I can’t rave enough about Maldives Fellas and Shadowpalm Maldives. Both companies made the booking process seamless and took us on once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Whether you want to swim with whale sharks, spot dolphins at sunset, or snorkel with nurse sharks, they’ve got you covered.
There are other local islands of course but I' haven’t been to them. I do know that Maafushi is the most lively local island and it is only a 30ish minute speedboat from Male making it very accessible and cost effective to visit.
Private Resort: Outrigger Maldives Maafushivaru Resort
If you’re ready to splurge, Outrigger Maldives is a good option Think: overwater bungalows with direct ocean access, beautiful pools, and unreal sunset views. The perfect blend of barefoot luxury, adventure and relaxation. They offer all-inclusive options (more on that below), and the luxury here is unmatched. It’s perfect for a honeymoon, romantic getaway, or even just treating yourself and is also NOT the most expensive hotel in the Maldives. I would say it is a very accessible price for a luxury stay.
Other Notable Resorts. I have not personally stayed at these, but here are some top tier resorts from travel creators that I trust:
Soneva Jani: Located in the Noonu Atoll, Soneva Jani epitomizes barefoot luxury with its overwater villas featuring private pools and retractable roofs for stargazing. The resort is surrounded by a vast, pristine lagoon, offering unparalleled tranquility.
St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort: Set in the Dhaalu Atoll, this resort combines contemporary design with natural materials, offering luxurious villas, a renowned spa, and exquisite dining experiences. The overwater library and observatory add unique touches to the guest experience.
Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru: Located in the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this resort offers exceptional marine experiences, including manta ray snorkeling and coral reefscaping. The blend of traditional Maldivian design and modern amenities provides a luxurious yet authentic stay.
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island: Spread across two interconnected islands in the South Ari Atoll, this resort is famed for its undersea residence, "The Muraka," and the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant. With luxurious accommodations and diverse dining options, it provides an unforgettable Maldivian experience.
4. Bring USD (and lots of it)
Cash is king, especially on the local islands.
I wish someone told me this sooner… Bring US dollars! The local exchange rate isn’t great, and USD is widely accepted across local islands. You’ll save money and avoid awkward situations where you can’t pay. Trust me—just bring a stack of cash.
5. Respect the Local Culture
The Maldives is a Muslim country, and while private resorts have fewer restrictions, local islands follow strict cultural norms. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Bring modest clothing for local areas (flowy pants, skirts, or lightweight tops).
Not every beach allows bikinis. Look for designated “bikini beaches” where swimwear is allowed.
Alcohol is illegal on the local islands. Only on resort islands or boats can you drink alcohol.
It’s easy to show respect while still enjoying your time—just pack smart.
6. Go All-Inclusive at The Resorts
I usually skip all-inclusive packages because I can never eat and drink enough to make it worth it, but in the Maldives? It’s a game-changer.
Private resorts are often isolated, meaning you won’t have access to other restaurants or shops.
Food and drinks can get astronomically expensive if you pay as you go. We paid nearly $100 for a dinner that was one salad, one main, and one appetizer. Drinks tend to be $20+.
My advice? Either book an all-inclusive package upfront or upgrade when you arrive. You’ll save money (and stress) in the long run… and let’s be honest, unlimited cocktails by the water just hit differently. You don’t want to be penny pinching while you’re here and the all-inclusive package will be well worth the price.
Final Thoughts
The Maldives is truly a slice of paradise—but it’s not your typical “book a flight and wing it” kind of trip. It requires some planning, budgeting, and awareness of where you’re staying. But when you finally get there? Pure magic.
If you follow these tips, I promise you’ll save yourself the overwhelm and enjoy every second of this dream destination. Swim with sharks, chase sunsets, and soak in the luxury… because the Maldives is so worth it.
Save this post, share it with a travel buddy, and let me know if you’re planning your Maldives trip soon—I’d love to hear about it!