Maldives

The Maldives is a paradise of idyllic, palm fringed coral islands with white sand beaches surrounding glistening turquoise lagoons: you too can enjoy the beauty of this archipelagic nation both on land and underwater

A small, low-lying nation comprising 26 natural ring-like atolls in the Indian ocean, together comprising 1,190 coral islands spread over 90,000 square kilometres across the equator. Around 200 of the islands are inhabited by locals (principally the capital, Male), whilst around 112 are developed as single resorts. The beautiful beaches and languid lagoons make the Maldives the ideal destination for ultimate relaxation and privacy – a popular favourite amongst couples, honeymooners and families alike.

Nearly every island is fringed by a house reef, directly accessible from shore rather than requiring a boat trip. Providing protection to the resorts against wind and wave, the reefs also provide a safe habitat for many marine species. Some house reefs are better than others, with healthier corals and a wider variety of species. With many hundreds of resorts in the Maldives from which to choose, we focus on those resorts with the best house reefs in order to provide you with the best snorkelling and diving experiences.

Along with an abundance of reef fish, marine turtles, reef sharks, nurse sharks and several ray species are commonly sighted in house reefs and the deeper dive and snorkel spots further from the islands. However, the kings of Maldives marine fauna are the whale sharks, the world’s biggest fish, and the incredible manta ray, which can be found at various times in specific resorts. Some offer boat trips to see these gentle giants in the appropriate seasons – an experience that should not be missed.

Maldives resorts are mainly of 4- and 5-star standard, with some providing the height of luxury and others which hark back to when the islands were first developed. We offer a range of price categories, making this bucket list destination accessible for guests on differing budgets. Due to the nature of the islands, resorts tend to operate on an all-inclusive basis, and some will have several dining options available. There also tends to be an attractive variety of leisure activities and water sports on offer, such as gyms and SUPs, but the main draw has to be the exceptional marine wildlife.

Have a look at our selection of the best resorts with good house reefs and let us show you the beauty of the Maldives. We suggest one sample itinerary where the Maldives is combined with Sri Lanka (see below; India is also a good choice). Or just spend your entire time on the islands: have a look at all our selected resorts with good house reefs and choose one or more to combine for a great Indian Ocean holiday.

STOP PRESS: We have just learned that Virgin Atlantic is starting a thrice-weekly direct service to the Maldives from London Heathrow. The first flights depart on 22 October 2023 but booking are open now.

When To Visit Maldives

Spanning the equator, the Maldives enjoys a tropical climate with consistent hot and often humid weather. There are however distinct wet and dry seasons, with Southwest monsoon rains often lasting from May into November. Such monsoons have the largest impact in the Northern atolls. December to April has the lowest rainfall and longest hours of sunshine, with March to May having the hottest temperatures (consistently into the low 30s). From late April and into May the rains begin to increase, and there is the highest risk of stormy conditions. Between October and November the winds change to the North East, signalling the end of the wet season and beginning of hotter drier conditions.