123 Stars

Maldives

Indian Ocean

Welcome to the Maldives, a myriad of little islands straddling the equator.

Overview

Welcome to the Maldives, a myriad of little islands straddling the equator, where the sands are as white as the smiles of the locals, where fish swim happily in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, where the weather is a dream and where the warm rays of the sun await.

Each island resort is reached by speedboat or seaplane and is blessed with relatively deserted beaches of the softest powder-white sand and is surrounded by shallow, yet brilliant blue, lagoons and colourful coral reefs. Below the ocean is a unique world waiting to be discovered, a kaleidoscope of over 900 species of exotic fish, turtles, sharks, dolphins, whales and manta rays - a haven for divers. Exclusive island hideaways with beach or over-water villas and award-winning spas are the perfect honeymoon escape, while a wide variety of water sports offer activities for the whole family to enjoy.

Highlights

The warm Indian Ocean is the perfect playground, offering world-class snorkelling, surfing and diving or simply the ideal backdrop for relaxing in paradise.

Diving with sharks and manta rays

Baa Atoll is famous for Hanifaru Bay, which is a congregation site for giant manta rays and whale sharks. During the south west monsoon season, May to October, it's possible for divers to see these gentle giants in various dive sites scattered over the atoll.

Dolphin spotting

The Maldives is ranked in the top 5 places on earth for watching dolphins. Enjoy a sunset dolphin cruise like no other on a traditional Maldivian dhoni while watching the colourful sun set below the horizon as dolphins swim alongside the boat.

Meet the locals

Visit the inhabited island of Gadhdhoo, in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, to gain an insight into the traditional way of life in the Maldives. The local women of Gadhdhoo Island weave colourful patterned mats, Thundu Kunaa, which make a beautiful souvenir.

When to visit

The Maldives is a great destination to visit all year round, but the best weather with little rain, low humidity and blue skies can be found between December and February. The good weather continues in March and April and kicks off the surf season which lasts until October. Storms and rain are most likely between May and November, however the weather is still warm and the marine life is most varied at this time.