Top 15 Must Visit Islands in the Maldives for Perfect Beach Vacation

Published: 06 Apr, 2023By Nandini Bhattacharya

Welcome to the tropical paradise of the Maldives! With its crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine white sandy beaches, and luxurious resorts, the Maldives is a destination that’s on everyone’s bucket list. Situated in the Indian Ocean, this archipelago of over 1,000 islands is a haven for those seeking sun, sea, and relaxation. From snorkelling with vibrant marine life to indulging in spa treatments overlooking the ocean, the Maldives has something for everyone.

One of the main attractions of the Maldives is its marine life, with over 1,000 species of fish and other marine creatures residing in its waters. Besides, it is also a popular destination for couples and honeymooners, with many resorts offering romantic packages and private villas for couples seeking an intimate getaway. Many resorts also offer wedding ceremonies and vow renewals, making the Maldives a popular destination for those looking to tie the knot or celebrate a special occasion.

So, whether you are seeking a romantic getaway or an adventure-filled vacation, this tropical paradise is perfect for your ultimate beach vacation. So pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and get ready to experience the vacation of a lifetime in the Maldives. With its stunning beauty and warm hospitality, it’s no wonder why the Maldives is one of the best places to travel in the world.

Here’s the list of top 15 must-visit islands in the Maldives that will give you an idea on planning a Maldives trip on your own.

• Mudhdhoo Beach
• Bikini Beach
• Hulhumale Beach
• Cocoa Island
• Veligandu Island Beach
• Reethi Beach
• Rasfannu Beach
• Taj Exotica Beach
• Artificial Beach
• Fulhadhoo Beach
• Thoondu Beach
• Vabbinfaru Island Beach
• Lily Beach
• Dhigurah Beach
• Kurumba Beach

Also, check out the best-selling tour packages for Maldives-

• 3 Nights 4 Days Maldives Sightseeing Tour Package
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• 4 Nights 5 Days Maldives Tour with Sri Lanka

1. Mudhdhoo Beach



Mudhdhoo Beach is a stunning natural wonder located on the island of Mudhdhoo in the Maldives. Known for its crystal-clear waters and pristine white sand, this popular beach in Maldives offers visitors an idyllic tropical paradise. The turquoise lagoon is perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and diving, with an abundance of colourful marine life and coral reefs to explore. The beach is surrounded by lush green vegetation, adding to its natural beauty and making it a popular spot for nature lovers. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of activities such as kayaking, windsurfing, and jet skiing. With its serene atmosphere and breathtaking scenery, Mudhdhoo Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to the Maldives.

Special Things to Know about Mudhdhoo Beach

• The beach is near Hanifaru Bay, which is a popular spot for snorkelling and diving during the manta ray and whale shark season (June to November).
• At night, Mudhdhoo Beach is a spectacular sight to see, as the water glows with bioluminescent plankton.
• The Baa Atoll, where Mudhdhoo Beach is located, is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, which means it is a protected area that balances conservation with sustainable use.

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2. Bikini Beach



Bikini Beach, a popular tourist attraction in the Maldives is a stunning stretch of white sand and crystal-clear waters, located on the island of Rasdhoo in the North Ari Atoll. The beach got its name from the fact that it’s one of the few places in the Maldives where tourists can wear bikinis without offending local customs. The beach is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, and it’s easy to see why. The water is warm and inviting, and the beach is surrounded by lush greenery and palm trees, providing plenty of shade for those looking to escape the sun. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, and snorkel in the clear waters, and there are several shops and restaurants nearby to grab a bite to eat or purchase souvenirs.

Special Things to Know About Bikini Beach

• As the name suggests, Bikini Beach is a designated area for tourists to wear bikinis or swimwear.
• Bikini Beach is a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkelling. There are also water sports activities available, such as jet skiing and banana boat rides.
• Bikini Beach can get quite crowded during peak season (December to March).

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3. Hulhumale Beach



Hulhumale Beach, a must-visit beach in Maldives, is a stunning man-made beach located on the island of Hulhumale, which is part of the Maldives. This pristine beach is a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and white sandy shores. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkelling, with a diverse range of marine life visible just a short distance from the shore. Hulhumale Beach is also known for its picturesque sunsets, making it the ideal spot for a romantic evening stroll or a relaxing end to a day of exploring the surrounding area. In short, the beach is a perfect destination for anyone seeking a quintessential tropical paradise experience.

Special Things to Know about Hulhumale Beach

• Hulhumale Beach was built in the late 90s as part of the Hulhumale Island development project.
• The beach is located just a 10-minute drive from Male International Airport, making it a convenient destination for travellers.
• Hulhumale Beach is known for its consistent waves, making it a popular spot for surfing and other water sports.
• The beach has a calm and shallow lagoon, which makes it an ideal spot for families with young children.

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4. Cocoa Island



Cocoa Island is a small, private island resort located in the Maldives, a South Asian Island nation in the Indian Ocean. The island is situated in the southern part of the Maldives’ Kaafu Atoll, approximately 30 kilometres (18.6 miles) from the capital city of Male. The best island to visit in Maldives, Cocoa is operated by the COMO Hotels and Resorts group, which operates a number of other luxury hotels and resorts around the world. The island is especially known for its luxurious overwater villas, which offer stunning views of the surrounding turquoise lagoon. It is also home to a spa, a yoga pavilion, and a restaurant serving both local and international cuisine.

Special Things to Know About Cocoa Island

• It is located in the South Male Atoll of the Maldives, approximately 30 minutes by speedboat from Male International Airport.
• The resort of COMO Hotels and Resorts Group in Cocoa Island offers 33 luxurious villas, including 17 overwater bungalows and 16 villas on the beach.
• The resort offers a range of water activities, including snorkelling, scuba diving, windsurfing, kayaking, and fishing.
• The resort is committed to sustainable tourism and has implemented several eco-friendly initiatives, including using solar power, reducing plastic waste, and supporting local communities.
• Cocoa Island has received several awards for its luxurious accommodations and exceptional service.

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5. Island Beach



Veligandu Island Beach in the Maldives is a true tropical paradise that promises to take your breath away with its stunning natural beauty and pristine surroundings. It is a small island, located near the famous Rasdhoo Island with a resort and spa, which offers world-class amenities along with super hospitality. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters, powdery white sand beaches, and lush greenery, this idyllic island offers the ultimate escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. You can also indulge in various water activities like snorkelling, swimming, etc in this island. The nearest airport to the island is Velana International Airport from where you can easily reach by hiring a local ferry to the beach.

Special Things to Know About Veligandu Island Beach and Its Resort

• Veligandu Island Resort & Spa is situated on a private island in the North Ari Atoll, surrounded by crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches.
• The resort offers a range of accommodation options, including overwater villas, beach villas, and jacuzzi beach villas.
• Veligandu Island Resort & Spa offers guests a range of dining options, including a main restaurant that serves international cuisine, as well as a number of specialty restaurants that offer Italian, Asian, and seafood dishes.
• There are also several bars and lounges where guests can relax and enjoy a drink.
• The resort offers a wide range of activities for guests, including snorkelling, diving, water sports, and excursions to nearby islands.
• There is also a spa where guests can indulge in a range of treatments and massages.

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6. Reethi Beach



One of the finest beach destinations in Maldives, Reethi Beach is located on the Fonimagoodhoo Island, in the north-east of Baa Atoll. Baa Atoll (the administrative division) is accessible from Malé, the capital of the country. The beach is the perfect destination for those looking for a luxurious tropical escape in the Maldives. Similar to other beaches in Maldives, Reethi Beach is also surrounded by crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. There is a resort on the beach that offers luxurious accommodation options ranging from beachfront villas to overwater bungalows, all with breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving, windsurfing, and fishing, or simply relax on the white sandy beaches and soak up the sun. The island is also home to lush tropical vegetation, creating a serene and tranquil environment for those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Special Things to Know about Reethi Beach Resort and The Island:

• There are three types of villas available in the resort, Regular Villas, Deluxe Villas and Over Water Villas.
• The price per night of the accommodation starts from around INR 15,000, depending on the season.
• The resort offers five in-house restaurants including a gourmet, buffet, specialty, and sprawling bars.
• The restaurants are Rehendhi Restaurant, Reethi Grill, Alifaan Restaurant and The Saima Garden Restaurant.
• The beach has plenty of options for water sports activities, managed by Sasha Waterworld.
• You can opt various options from Dolphin Safaris, Catamaran Safaris, Diving, Snorkelling, etc.

7. Rasfannu Beach



Rasfannu Beach, another popular must-visit island in Maldives, is a stunning and pristine beach located in the heart of the capital city of Maldives, Male. The beach is known for being home to a wide stretch of pristine beach which offers breathtaking views of Laccadive Sea. Besides being a popular spot for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing, which attracts both locals and tourists alike, there are also several food stalls and cafes located on the beach, serving up delicious local cuisine and refreshing drinks.

Special Things to Know About Rasfannu Beach

• There are several places to stay near Rasfannu Beach, such as Hotel Jen Male, Samann Grand, Maagiri Hotel, etc.
• The beach is just three kilometres from Male International Airport and can be reached by road.
• You can opt for various water sports activities here such as diving, swimming, snorkelling and others.
• There are several tourist attractions near the beach where you can visit while staying in Rasfannu Beach and they are National Museum, Laguna Beach, Maldives Fish Market, Sultan Park and Full Moon Beach.
• Rasfannu Beach is home to many bars and cafes, making it a popular spot for nightlife in Male.

8. Taj Exotica Beach



Taj Exotica Beach, the best island in Maldives for couples, possesses a luxurious resort located in South Male Atoll, near the international airport in the Maldives. This stunning property boasts luxurious villas and suites, each offering breathtaking views of the turquoise ocean and white sandy beaches. Guests can reach here within 15 minutes via speedboat for their perfect Maldives beach vacation to enjoy a range of activities, from snorkelling and scuba diving to yoga and meditation, or simply unwind by the stunning infinity pool. The resort also features a world-class spa, where guests can indulge in a range of treatments to relax and rejuvenate. With its unparalleled natural beauty and luxurious amenities, Taj Exotica Beach is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat in paradise.

Special Things to Know about Taj Exotica Beach and The Resort

• There is no reef around the island so experiencing snorkelling here is a downside unlike other beaches.
• The other nearest places to visit from Taj Exotica Beach are Ocean Junkies Diving Centre, Veli Spa, OK Maldives, and Secret Paradise.

9. Artificial Beach



Artificial Beach in the Maldives is a man-made stretch of sand in Male, the capital of the country which is designed to mimic the natural beauty of the surrounding islands. It features imported sand, palm trees, and other vegetation, as well as amenities such as beach bars, loungers, and umbrellas. It is the best island to visit in Maldives for family for tourists and locals alike as it features multiple options for accommodations and dine-in. The beach is easy to access, hardly 400 metres from Hulhumale Ferry Terminal from where direct service is available to Velana International Airport.

Special Things to Know About Artificial Beach

• There is a dress code to visit the beach. No swimwear is allowed and women need to cover up while visiting the beach.
• Several carnivals and live concerts are held at the beach for public entertainment.

10. Fulhadhoo Beach



One of the best islands in Maldives for honeymoon couples, Fulhadhoo Beach is a paradise for nature lovers, beach enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful and relaxing vacation. Unlike other luxury beaches in Maldives, Fulhadhoo does not offer luxurious amenities or local lifestyle to explore, but it offers peaceful beach holidays in Mal. The beach is a long stretch of white sand which is secluded from others and there is literally nobody around which can interrupt your vacation.

Special Things to Know About Fulhadhoo Beach

• Fulhadhoo Island is known for its commitment to sustainable tourism.
• The waters around Fulhadhoo Beach are home to a diverse range of marine life, including turtles, sharks, and colourful fish.
• Fulhadhoo Island is home to a small local community that has a rich culture and history.
• It’s a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike.

11. Thoondu Beach



An unspoiled beach, away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Thoondu Beach is a popular beach tourist destination in Maldives. The beach is also famous for its soft, powdery white sand, which is perfect for sunbathing and relaxing. Besides, it boasts a diverse range of marine life including reef sharks, colourful fish and turtles, making it another best island in Maldives for snorkelling. The crystal-clear waters and a vibrant coral reef, along with plenty of options for staying and eating make Thoondu Beach a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to the Maldives.

Special Things to Know about Thoondu Beach

• The best time to visit Thoondu Beach is between November and April when the weather is dry and sunny.
• Thoondu Beach is a protected area, and visitors are required to follow strict guidelines to protect the environment.
• It is known for its stunning natural beauty, and one of the top things to do here is photography.

12. Vabbinfaru Island Beach



Vabbinfaru Island Beach is located in the North Male Atoll region of the Maldives. It is a small, private island that is about 20 minutes away by speedboat from Male International Airport. Apart from coral reefs and usual water sports activities in other islands, one of the best things to do here is surprising your partner with a seaside candlelight dinner under an illuminating sky at night. Another reason to visit this luxury beach in Maldives is the luxury resort located on the beach. It offers a range of accommodation options, including overwater bungalows, beachfront villas, and garden rooms.

Special Things to Know About Vabbinfaru Island Beach

• The most popular accommodation to stay here is Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru.
• You can indulge in international and local cuisines in some beachview restaurants, Ilaafathi Restaurant or Naiboli Bar.
• The distance of the beach from the Male International Airport is 25 minutes via speedboat.
• You can also visit other attractions from here, such as Whale Submarine and Sultan Park.

13. Lily Beach



A private beach of Lily Beach Resort & Spa, Lily Beach is located in Huvahendhoo Island, one of the most beautiful islands in Maldives. The beach is in Ari Atoll, close to various popular dive sites as it is home to crystal clear water and a beautiful coral reef. Apart from the luxurious resort there are various romantic places to dine-in, near the beach. After experiencing different water activities, you can also stroll around the beach and explore nearby attractions, such as Whale Submarine, Beach Swings and Big Head Coral.

Special Things to Know about Lily Beach and Its Luxurious Resort

• The resort features 119 luxurious villas, including beach villas, lagoon villas, and overwater villas.
• It is approximately a 25-minute seaplane ride from Male International Airport.
• Lily Beach Resort and Spa offers a range of dining options, including a main buffet restaurant, an a la carte restaurant, and several bars.
• The resort also has a wide range of activities and facilities, including a spa, a fitness centre, water sports, and diving.
• There is also a kids club and a babysitting service available for families travelling with children.

14. Dhigurah Beach



One of the best beaches in the Maldives to visit, Dhigurah Beach is located on a secluded island. The beach is a perfect destination for budget travellers and peace-seekers. It is situated on the southern side of the Ari Atoll, and it is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. The beach is relatively secluded and less crowded than other popular beaches in the Maldives, which adds to its charm. The water is shallow and perfect for swimming, and the beach is ideal for long walks, sunbathing, and relaxing under the palm trees.

Special Things to Know about Dhigurah Beach

• The beach is an ideal place to spot whale sharks.
• You can wear swimwear in some parts of the island and swim with the sharks.
• TME Retreats is one of the popular places to stay on the island.
• You can also find several guest houses here, ideal for budget-travellers.

15. Kurumba Beach



One of the most beautiful island holiday destinations in the whole Maldives, Kurumba Beach is an ideal spot for honeymoon couples. The beach is named after the Kurumba tree, which is a coconut tree native to the Maldives. The beach is characterised by its crystal-clear turquoise waters, soft white sands, and the lush green vegetation that surrounds it. The calm and peaceful waters of Kurumba Beach make it a perfect place for swimming, snorkelling, and other water-based activities. This pristine beach is one of the oldest and best beach resorts in Maldives, and it’s been a popular destination for tourists from all over the world for many years.

Special Things to Know About Kurumba Beach

• The beach is the nearest to Male International Airport.
• It looks crowded almost every time of the year, hard to find a secluded place.
• Scuba Diving, Veli Spa and floating in the water are some of the best things to do here.

Maldives is truly a paradise for beach lovers, with its crystal-clear waters, powdery white sand, and stunning coral reefs. With so many breathtaking beaches to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which ones to visit. We’ve highlighted some of the top beaches in Maldives, each with its unique charm and appeal. From the tranquil and secluded Fulhadhoo beach to the lively and vibrant Cocoa Island beach, there’s a beach for every type of traveller. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Maldives has it all. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for an unforgettable beach vacation in the beautiful Maldives!

Other Important Maldives Tourism Links

• Maldives All Inclusive Tour Packages
• Best Time to Visit Maldives

Quick Answers to Some Frequently Asked Questions:

How to reach Maldives from India?

The most popular way to reach Maldives from India is by air. The major airports in India that have direct flights to Maldives are Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kochi, Chennai, and Hyderabad. Another option is to take a cruise from India to Maldives. There are several cruise operators that offer cruises from Mumbai and Kochi to Maldives.

Which is the best time to visit Maldives?

The best time to visit the Maldives is generally between November and April. During these months, the weather is usually dry and sunny, with lower humidity and less rainfall. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds.

How to plan a Maldives Trip?

Here are some important steps to remember while planning a Maldives trip:
Decide on the type of accommodation you want.

• Choose your travel dates.
• Book your flights.
• Choose an island or beach.
• Book your accommodation.
• Plan your activities.
• Check visa requirements.
• Pack your bags.

Are there any special tips for travellers for a Maldives Trip?

Here are some suggestions for travellers going to Maldives:

• Plan your trip well in advance.
• Pack for the weather.
• Respect local customs.
• Try local cuisines.
• Explore the underwater world.
• Respect the environment.
• Learn some local phrases to communicate.
• Relax and enjoy.