Maldives Holiday Guide - Everything You Need to Know

Best Time to Visit the Maldives

• Dry Season (November to April): The Maldives enjoys warm, sunny weather with little rain during the dry season, making it the best time for outdoor activities and exploring the beaches. December through April is especially popular, with sunny days and low humidity.

• Wet Season (May to October): Expect occasional rainfall and higher humidity during the wet season, though the islands still enjoy periods of sunshine. If you’re looking for lower prices and fewer tourists, the wet season may be the perfect time to visit.

Why Visit the Maldives?

The Maldives is an archipelago of 1,190 coral islands grouped into 26 atolls, known for its crystal-clear waters, luxurious private resorts, and secluded overwater villas. Whether you're celebrating a honeymoon, planning a high-end family holiday, or seeking a wellness escape, the Maldives offers ultra-personalized luxury in a postcard-perfect setting.

Arriving in Paradise

 International Access

• Main Entry Point: Velana International Airport (MLE) in Malé

• Visa: 30-day visa on arrival free for most nationalities

• Customs Tip: Alcohol is not allowed to be brought into the country (available only at resorts)

 Resort Transfers

• Seaplane (15–60 mins): A scenic flight from Malé to your resort’s jetty. Operates only during daylight (6 am – 4 pm).
  E.g., Soneva Jani, Joali Maldives, Velaa Private Island

• Speedboat (20–60 mins): Direct from the airport. Convenient and available 24/7.
  E.g., Baros Maldives, Gili Lankanfushi, Ozen Life Maadhoo

• Domestic flight + speedboat (60–90 mins): Used for more distant southern resorts.
  E.g., The Residence Maldives, Ayada Maldives

Tip: Transfers are not included in room rates and must be booked with your stay.

Where to Stay in Maldives?

Types of Islands & Resorts

All resorts in the Maldives are on their own private islands, ensuring complete privacy and exclusive experiences. No crowds. No traffic. Just you and the ocean.

 Accommodation Types

• Beach Villas: On the sand, surrounded by lush vegetation and steps from the beach.

• Overwater Villas: Built on stilts over the lagoon, often with private pools and slides.

• Residences/Retreats: Multi-bedroom villas with living spaces, ideal for families or groups.

Top Luxury Resorts – Curated by Category

• Cheval Blanc Randheli – Sophisticated French luxury, exceptional service, and artful design.

• Velaa Private Island – Hyper-exclusive, tailored experiences with private golf and submarines.

• Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi – Grand-scale villas, 11 restaurants, and private yacht transfers.

 Best for Honeymooners

• Soneva Jani – Iconic overwater villas with waterslides, open-air cinema, and stargazing observatory.

• Six Senses Laamu – Remote, romantic, and eco-chic with barefoot luxury and marine-rich surroundings.

• COMO Cocoa Island – Serene and intimate, ideal for couples seeking tranquility and privacy.

 Luxury Family-Friendly Resorts

• The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands – Elegant, spacious villas, with a top-tier kids’ club and curated family experiences.

• Joali Maldives – Artistic, playful, and luxurious with large villas and a strong family program.

• Soneva Fushi – Robinson Crusoe-style villas with massive space, kids’ activities, and exceptional service.

 Premium All-Inclusive Luxury

• Kudadoo Maldives Private Island – Ultra-all-inclusive concept with unlimited spa, dining, and excursions.

• Ozen Reserve Bolifushi – Private butler service, fine dining, and elegant villas with slides.

• Heritance Aarah – Strong gourmet focus, overwater restaurants, and luxurious overwater suites.

Fine Dining in Paradise

Culinary Highlights:

• Underwater Restaurants:

  • Ithaa – Conrad Maldives

  • 5.8 Undersea Restaurant – Hurawalhi

• Private Dining:

  • On a sandbank, in a lagoon pavilion, or a candlelit jungle path

• Michelin-Star Influence:

  • Resorts bring in world-class chefs for seasonal pop-ups & curated tasting menus

Note: Many resorts accommodate dietary needs (halal, gluten-free, vegan, kosher) with prior notice.

Wellness & Rejuvenation

• World-Class Spas: Overwater suites, glass floors, Ayurveda, hammam rituals

• Wellness Programs: Detox, sleep therapy, yoga, sound healing

• Dedicated Wellness Retreats:

  • JOALI BEING – Maldives' first fully immersive wellness island

  • COMO Maalifushi – Renowned for its COMO Shambhala holistic wellness

Activities & Excursions

Snorkeling/Diving : House reefs, manta rays, coral gardens, dive with whale sharks

Water Sports :Jet skiing, parasailing, kite surfing, transparent kayaking

Excursions :Sunset dolphin cruises, fishing trips, island-hopping, submarine tours

Cultural :Visit local islands, mosques, and Maldivian craft markets

What to Pack

• Swimwear (3–4 sets)

• Light tropical wear (linen, cotton)

• Rash guard or dive skin for sun protection

• Sun hat, reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses

• Flip-flops/sandals + 1 smart casual outfit for dinner

• GoPro / underwater camera

• Plug adapter (most resorts use UK-style Type G)

Tip: Leave your heels and formals behind — barefoot luxury is the Maldivian way.