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Above-water villas and white-sand beaches – holidays to the Maldives are all about living out your desert-island dream…

One for water babies

With over a thousand coral reef islands, the Maldives archipelago in the Indian Ocean officially has more beaches than inhabitants… so there’s no better place to feel away from it all. The Maldives is made for laidback breaks of a lifetime, whether you’re looking for a luxury resort with lots going on or a peaceful and private bungalow on the beachfront. Wherever you end up, it’s the best kind of cliché – the clear waters are bath temp, the sand is powdery and white, and the vibe’s chilled out. It’s easy to see why it’s a go-to for honeymoons – name somewhere more perfect to start your happily ever after… we’ll wait.

The Maldives mode

The mantra of the Maldives is ‘no news, no shoes’, and it makes sense. Once you arrive here, the outside world melts away and you’ll be ready to embrace the beach-bum lifestyle. Don’t worry, you’ll still have Wi-Fi in most of the hotels. The sand is so soft that you’ll only ever want to be barefoot, plus you can go for the dreamiest dips in the sea and soak up the year-long sun. For the full Maldives experience, stay in an iconic above-water villa for instant sea access and the most insane morning view.

Islands for days

There are 26 atolls – ring-shaped islands – to stay on in the Maldives, each with their own selling point. Think everything from aquarium-style diving conditions to the peak of gourmet dining. The Maldivian capital, Malé, is where you’ll fly into, before a boat or seaplane transfers you to your hotel. The North and South Ari Atolls are the easiest to get to, so they’re a good pick for families, and further south are the glitziest hotels, usually on their own islands. Wherever you stay, there’s loads to explore around the archipelago, and getting around by boat is pretty easy. We’re talking days spent diving and snorkelling, dolphin-watching, and island hopping to secluded sand bars. Bliss.

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Key facts

  • Capital – Male
  • Language – Dhivehi and English
  • Timezone – GMT +5
  • Population – 345,023
  • Currency – MVR:Rufiyaa
  • Flight Time – 10 hours 45 minutes from Gatwick

Best resorts in the Maldives

These islands are the closest to the Maldivian capital, Male. You can take a short speedboat transfer rather than a seaplane, so it’s a good pick for sticking to your budget or if you’re travelling with kids. Plus, you’ll have easy access to the buzzier built-up islands for daytrips and activities, and there’s a wide range of stays – from guesthouses to the classic above-water villas and beachfront resorts.

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Only 30 minutes from Male by seaplane, these atolls are some of the most popular in the Maldives. They’re known in the scuba scene for their stunning coral reefs, but if you prefer to stick to the sand, the oval-shaped lagoon is a paradise for beach lovers. And thanks to their popularity, you’ve got some seriously swish hotels and resorts to pick from, too.

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The Raa Atoll has a slightly more secluded feel. It’s a 45-minute seaplane flight from Male, and the vibes are definitely more peaceful than the buzz in the capital. There are 88 islands in total, and they’re home to some of the most diverse marine life in the Maldives – the deep ridges around the shoreline are the perfect habitat for coral and tropical fish, and it’s the best place to spot manta ray.

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A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this atoll is packed with wildlife and natural beauty. It flies pretty far under the radar – it’s separated from the other main atolls, and out of the 75 islands, only 13 are inhabited. The coral reefs are the best place in the Maldives for whale shark sightings, and the islands themselves are covered in thick forests. If you’re looking for a super private getaway, this is it.

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Top Maldives holiday deals

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TripAdvisor Rating of 4.5 out of 5 (251)

London Heathrow - 7 Nights - Half Board

Based on 2 Adults - 24 February 2025

Riu Atoll

Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives
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TripAdvisor Rating of 4.5 out of 5 (1531)

London Heathrow - 7 Nights - All Inclusive

Based on 2 Adults - 24 February 2025

Centara Ras Fushi Resort and Spa Maldives

North Male Atoll, Maldives
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TripAdvisor Rating of 4.5 out of 5 (5938)

London Heathrow - 7 Nights - Bed and Breakfast

Based on 2 Adults - 24 February 2025

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Kandima Maldives

Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives
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TripAdvisor Rating of 4.5 out of 5 (2689)

London Heathrow - 7 Nights - Bed and Breakfast

Based on 2 Adults - 25 February 2025

Bandos Maldives

North Male Atoll, Maldives
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TripAdvisor Rating of 4.5 out of 5 (4886)

London Heathrow - 7 Nights - Bed and Breakfast

Based on 2 Adults - 26 February 2025

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TripAdvisor Rating of 4.5 out of 5 (4212)

London Heathrow - 7 Nights - Bed and Breakfast

Based on 2 Adults - 24 February 2025

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TripAdvisor Rating of 4.5 out of 5 (1593)

London Heathrow - 7 Nights - Bed and Breakfast

Based on 2 Adults - 25 February 2025

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TripAdvisor Rating of 5 out of 5 (1853)

London Heathrow - 7 Nights - Bed and Breakfast

Based on 2 Adults - 24 February 2025

Cocoon Maldives

Lhaviyani Atoll, Maldives
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TripAdvisor Rating of 5 out of 5 (4125)

London Heathrow - 7 Nights - All Inclusive

Based on 2 Adults - 24 February 2025

LUX* South Ari Atoll Resort and Villas

South Ari Atoll, Maldives
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TripAdvisor Rating of 5 out of 5 (7143)

London Heathrow - 7 Nights - Bed and Breakfast

Based on 2 Adults - 24 February 2025

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Why pick Maldives holidays

UNPLUG AND UNWIND

UNPLUG AND UNWIND

It’s all about leaving your daily life at home and embracing the island life. With year-round sun and tropical beaches, it’s impossible to be stressed in the Maldives…
A WIN FOR WILDLIFE

A WIN FOR WILDLIFE

You’ve never seen nature like this. Explore the lush forests packed with colourful birds and geckos, and dive to see coral reefs teeming with marine life.
THE LUXE LIFE

THE LUXE LIFE

Above-water villas, beachfront bungalows and private islands… nowhere does luxury holidays like the Maldives, which is why it’s the ultimate honeymoon destination.
PICK YOUR PACE

PICK YOUR PACE

In the Maldives, you can do as little or as much as you like. Island hop to secluded sand bars, learn how to fish like a local, or read through six books in one week – it’s your trip.

Your guide to the Maldives

Beaches here are served one way – stunning. Whichever atoll you pick, you’re in for that bright white sand, 4K-clear water and Indian Ocean views in every direction.

  • Baros Island, North Male Atoll – The beaches here have sand made from fossilised algae, which makes it some of the softest in the world.
  • Maalhos, Baa Atoll – This small island in a UNESCO world biosphere protected area is perfect for swimming, snorkelling and diving.
  • Dhigurah Island – A local island with one of the most beautiful white-sand beaches in the Maldives and no above-water villas in sight.
  • Kanuhara Beach, Lhaviyani Atoll – One of the longest and widest in the Maldives, this beach features 1,400 metres of white sand next to a blue lagoon.

You might think Maldivian beaches are at their best when the sun’s shining, but the real show starts when it gets dark…

  • Bioluminescence – This is the blue glow you see in the shoreline at night. This natural phenomenon is caused by bioluminescent plankton which emit light when disturbed by the movement of the water.
  • Best time to see – You’re more likely to see it between May and November, as this is when the plankton are most active.
  • Popular viewing spots – One of the best places for seeing bioluminescence is Vaadhoo Island in the Raa Atoll – AKA the sea of stars.

 

Travelling with kids? Most resorts have their own beaches, so here are the islands you and your little ones will love.

  • Bandos Island, North Male Atoll – Only 15 minutes’ boat ride from Male, this beach has its own coral reef and a watersports centre.
  • Sun Island, South Ari Atoll – With shallow water and loads of watersports on offer, Sun Island’s a great pick for a family adventure.
  • Akasdhoo, South Male Atoll – Home to a Hard Rock Hotel, this island’s beach has got all your family fun covered from wakeboards and jet-skis to banana boats.
  • Siyam World Maldives, Noonu Atoll – Stunning lagoon at the north-eastern tip home to the largest floating waterpark in the Maldives.

 

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You’re about to enter your just-married era, which means you need a dreamy destination to start the rest of your life together… Enter the Maldives.

  • Adults-only stays – Honeymoons are the Maldives’ thing, so you’ve got loads of kid-free hotels to choose from. Just filter by ‘Adults’ or ‘Honeymoons/Romance’ when you search.
  • All Inclusive packages – No one wants to split the bill on their honeymoon, so say ‘I do’ to an All Inclusive trip and your drinks and food will be covered, plus some activities.
  • Special experiences – Candlelit dinners on the beach, a couples’ spa sesh or a sunset cruise… Sparks will be flying left, right and centre with some of the special experiences you can book in your resort.

You’ve found your perfect match, and these boujie options guarantee buckets of newlywed bliss.

  • Above-water villas – These iconic villas are built into the sea, so you’ll get direct access to the ocean from your deck and an unbeatable view to wake up to.
  • Beachfront bungalow – This private pick will make you feel like the only two people in the world. Step straight onto the powdery sand from your door.
  • Five-star hotels – If there’s a time to enjoy the finer things in life, it’s on your honeymoon. Go all-out and make the most of first-class facilities, top-tier service and stylish settings.

You can’t put a price on happiness, but everyone’s got a budget. Here are some tips on how you can make it work on a honeymoon in the Maldives…

  • Off-peak trip – The wet season is between May and October, but the short bursts of rain won’t bother you when you see what you’ll save. Lower demand means price tags are less spenny, plus you’ll have more privacy.
  • Pay in the Maldivian currency – Maximise on spending money by paying in Maldivian Rufiyaa when you’re out and about. Euros are usually accepted, too, but it works out cheaper in the local currency.
  • Eat like a local – If you’re not going All Inclusive, skip the swanky restaurants and eat at local cafés – AKA hotaa. It’ll be a lot cheaper, and you’ll get to taste the traditional cuisine, too.

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There’s a serious scuba scene here, so here are all the ways you can get involved in the Maldives’ underwater world.

  • Reef diving – Explore the vibrant coral gardens that wrap around the islands and the tropical fish that live there.
  • Deep-sea diving – Not your first rodeo? Go deeper to swim with the big boys, like sharks, manta rays and tuna.
  • Shallow dives – If you’re new to diving, most watersports centres offer beginners classes close to the shoreline.
  • When to dive – August to November is the best time of year for spotting manta rays and whale sharks, but you’ll get the best visibility between January and April.

If full-on diving’s not your thing, the shallows around the islands have some of the best snorkelling conditions in the world.

  • House reef snorkelling – Lots of islands have their own coral reefs, which you’ll have easy access to from the beach or under your above-water villa. Look out for clownfish, parrotfish and starfish, and you might even spot turtles.
  • Snorkelling with whale sharks – Some areas like the South Ari Atoll are known for their whale shark sightings. Don’t worry – they’re pretty gentle and only have tiny teeth.
  • Best time to go snorkelling – Snorkelling here is unreal all year round, but you’ll get the best visibility between January and April during the dry season.

 

Build out your break and book trips, tours and tickets on First Choice Experiences to see more of the Maldives.

  • Private boat tour – Set sail on a three-hour tour around the Dhaalu Atoll. You’ll get to see more of the stunning islands and ocean, stop off at secluded sandbars and drop the anchor for some snorkelling. And if you’re lucky, you might get to see dolphins.
  • Private fishing tour – Head out for three hours of fishing fun in a small group. You’ll be taken to the best spots around the Dhaalu Atoll where you’ll have the chance to catch your own lunch or dinner.

 

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The Maldives is made up of 26 atolls, and a seaplane flight is the most efficient – and cool – way to get between them. If you’re staying in the Ari Atolls or further, you might have a seaplane transfer that takes between 30-45 minutes. Sit, back, relax, and soak up the scenes as you fly over hundreds of tiny islands.

Public ferries are much cheaper than travelling by plane or speedboat, but they do take a little longer. If you’re staying in the Ari Atolls, the ferry from Male takes around 2-and-a-half hours. Regular services run between most of the inhabited islands, as locals use them as a way of getting around.

If you’re hopping between islands or going on a fishing trip, you might take a traditional wooden boat called dhonis. Speedboats are also a common way to travel across further distances, like for boat tours or transfers between Male and the Male Atolls.

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Why we love the Maldives

“I didn’t realise just how much wildlife there was everywhere. One of my fave things to do was just to sit and watch the animals – like looking out for flying fish on the speedboat, watching huge bats fly from palm to palm in the daytime and sitting on the dock at night, legs dangling over the water, watching sharks, rays and turtles.” – Lee Dasilva

“Above-water villas are so worth the hype, especially if you’re there for a special occasion or a honeymoon. The views are insane! But it’s good to know that the boardwalks between them get pretty hot, so wear shoes until you get onto the beach.” – Andy Stern

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If you want to get to know the Maldives beyond the boujie beach resorts, organise a trip to see the local community. Most stays will be happy to arrange a boat trip to Maldivian villages for you, like Maafushi, Ghuli or Dhigurah. These spots feel a world away from the sleek villas you’ll be used to seeing, with colourful streets, family-run cafés and fishing harbours.

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Most hotels on the Maldives are right on the beachfront, and lots of rooms come with snorkelling gear, so you can head out to see the home reefs and fish without booking a tour or a trip.

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Popular holiday types

Most resorts in the Maldives are on their own islands, so it makes sense to go All Inclusive. Embrace the stress-free life by leaving the spending money at home with the rest of your worries… All you’ve got to do is eat, sleep, relax and repeat here.

Luxury and the Maldives go hand in hand… just take a look at the long line-up of above-water villas, beachfront hotels and five-star hotels we’ve got on offer, with some of the biggest names in the hotel scene featuring on the list.

The beachfront location, the wildlife, the activities – the Maldives is a big family adventure waiting to happen. There are loads of huge hotels featuring family-friendly facilities like kids’ pools, entertainment and clubs – as well as adults-only spas for when you get a moment for yourself.

Looking to get away, like, now? Check out our last-minute deals to see our ASAP availability. The Maldives is a win for year-round sun, so there’s no reason not to take a look.

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Maldives FAQs

Direct flights from London to Male Airport take around 11 hours.

The currency of the Maldives is the Maldivian Rufiyaa but it’s important to know that this is a closed currency, which means you can only buy it in the Maldives – you can’t take it in or out of the country. We recommend you bring euros, which are widely accepted in tourist areas and some places do only accept cash. You can withdraw Rufiyaa with your travel money card when you get there, too.

You can enter the Maldives as a visitor for up to 30 days without a visa. Your passport’s expiry date must be at least one month after the date you arrive, and you’ll need to fill in a Traveller Declaration Form within 96 days of arriving and leaving the Maldives. For more info, visit https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/maldives/entry-requirements.

If you’re looking to switch up your holiday together, the Maldives is the ultimate family adventure. There are loads of family-friendly resorts with spacious family rooms or villas, kids’ clubs, pools with slides and fun activities and entertainment. Wherever you’re staying, you’ll be steps away from the beach, plus you’ll be making memories on daytrips like island hopping, snorkelling, kayaking or wildlife spotting.

Most places in the Maldives use type D or type G power sockets – type G is the same as in the UK, and type D looks similar but the socket holes are round. We’d suggest checking with your hotel to find out if you need to bring a type D adapter.

November to April is the dry season, so you’ll get the best weather. May to October is technically monsoon season, but the rain comes in short bursts, and it’ll be cheaper with fewer crowds. Plus, this is the best time for diving and seeing marine life, like manta rays.

Maldives holiday inspiration

Maldives travel advice

Passports and Visas

British passport holders need a visa to enter the Maldives If entering as a tourist, you will be granted a 30-day visa upon arrival. For the most up-to-date passport and visa info, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/maldives/entry-requirements.

To save time at immigration control, don’t forget to register your arrival with the authorities
https://imuga.immigration.gov.mv/traveller.

Health and safety

You should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover you while you’re away. If you’re planning on scuba diving, check that your policy covers you for this. For the latest health and safety information, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/maldives/health

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