For many, paradise is imagined with closed eyes — but in the Maldives it’s simply a matter of opening them to the calm, turquoise expanse that surrounds you.
Sitting southwest of India and just west of Sri Lanka, the Republic of the Maldives appears on maps like scattered pearls on the Indian Ocean. In truth, the nation comprises more than 1,190 coral islands arranged into 26 natural ring-shaped reefs, or atolls, stretching toward the equator.
The Maldives has an unmistakable postcard appeal: waters that gleam in shades of sapphire and sand so fine and white they resemble powder. While the islands experience wet and dry seasons like other tropical locales, temperatures stay steady year-round, averaging between 77 and 84 degrees Fahrenheit.
Known for decades as a top honeymoon destination, the Maldives became synonymous with private overwater bungalows where couples retreat amid vibrant marine life. Increased air connections from hubs such as Dubai and Sri Lanka have broadened the visitor base, and today families, solo travelers and business visitors also find the islands accessible and appealing.
Tourism in the Maldives is relatively young: the first resort opened in 1972 on Kurumba Island. Of the country’s roughly 1,190 islands, only 187 are inhabited by the nation’s approximately 341,000 residents; the remainder are either untouched or developed as private resort islands, each offering its own character and services.
A red octopus in the Maldives © ROSTISLAV AGEEV | DREAMSTIME.COM
Some islands are tiny — no larger than the span of a hammock — yet each contributes to the culture and atmosphere of the atolls. Only four islands host international airports; the largest is Ibrahim Nasir International Airport (commonly known as Malé International Airport) on Hulhulé Island.
Hulhulé sits just a short 10-minute boat ride from Malé, the nation’s compact capital and cultural center. Visitors who stay in Malé can explore landmarks such as the Islamic Centre (open to visitors outside prayer times), Sultan Park and the National Museum. Maldivian law follows Sunni Muslim traditions, which generally prohibit alcohol and pork on local islands; resorts operate under different rules, which is why many tourists travel directly from the airport to private resort islands rather than spending time in the capital.
Unlike many beach destinations, the Maldives functions largely as a chain of private luxury retreats, where selecting a resort is synonymous with choosing an island. Accommodation options span from ultra-luxury villas to more modest apartment-style rentals. Island hopping is less common, as travel to each island — by seaplane, domestic flight, ferry, speedboat or traditional dhoni — is part of the experience.
From the airport, resort transfers whisk guests to secluded retreats for days spent snorkeling among thousands of tropical fish, scuba diving with whale sharks, or relaxing on quiet beaches. Some islands focus on high-end pampering, offering branded spas and gourmet dining, while others emphasize adventure with easy access to dive sites and natural exploration.
Bolifushi Island from seaplane © MARCO LIJOI | DREAMSTIME.COM
Bolifushi Island, just a 20-minute speedboat ride from Malé Airport, blends luxury and adventure. Home to Jumeirah Vittaveli, the island features one of the region’s top snorkeling reefs and five shipwrecks within close range. The resort reflects the luxury reputation of its parent group, offering spacious villas, exceptional dining and wellness facilities.
The name vittaveli evokes “vastness of space” and “eternal light,” appropriate for a destination built around open vistas and luminous surroundings. Guests can explore the island by bicycle or on foot, dine in overwater restaurants such as Fenesse, or enjoy private candlelit Aqua Dinners for an intimate evening.
Jumeirah Vittaveli
ocean suite © JUMEIRAH INTERNATIONAL LLC
Vittaveli provides 89 villas and suites, many with private pools and direct beach or lagoon access, from one- and two-bedroom beachfront or overwater villas to secluded ocean suites reachable by 24/7 boat shuttle. The resort includes a large kids’ club, an overwater fitness and yoga center, and the Talise Spa, which offers treatments using natural, locally made coconut oil among other specialized therapies.
With 99 percent of the country covered by water, aquatic activities dominate the Maldivian experience. Popular pursuits include wakeboarding, sailing, paddleboarding and kite surfing, while fishing trips range from deep-sea excursions to traditional hand-line outings on dhoni boats; catches can be prepared by resort chefs to the angler’s preference.
Renowned for some of the world’s best snorkeling and scuba diving, the Maldives hosts extraordinary marine biodiversity close to shore. Colorful reef fish, reef sharks, moray eels and eagle rays are commonly sighted. Many resorts, including Vittaveli, provide PADI-certified dive centers with courses for all ages and skill levels, from introductory sessions for children to advanced and rescue diver training.
The Maldives offers a rare combination of simple island life and refined hospitality. Whether you seek solitude, family-friendly activities, adventure or luxury, the islands deliver an immersive escape defined by crystal seas, gentle breezes and spectacular sunsets.
Maldives Info to Go
Malé International Airport on Hulhulé Island is the primary gateway. From major international hubs you can connect to Malé and then take a short ferry to the capital island, Malé, or transfer directly to resort islands by seaplane or speedboat.
Where to Stay in the Maldives
JUMEIRAH DHEVANAFUSHI Located on a remote island just south of the equator, this resort is known for privacy and tranquil surroundings. Meradhoo Island, Gaafu Alifu Atoll $$$$$
JUMEIRAH VITTAVELI A luxurious retreat on Bolifushi Island offering 89 villas and a strong wellness and dining program. Bolifushi Island, South Malé Atoll $$$$$
KURUMBA MALDIVES The first resort in the Maldives, operating since 1972 and known for reliable high-end hospitality. Vihamanaafushi, North Malé Atoll $$$$$
Restaurants in the Maldives
AQUA DINNER A bespoke, romantic dining experience under the stars, set at the main pool on Jumeirah Vittaveli. Jumeirah Vittaveli, Bolifushi Island, South Malé Atoll $$$$$
FENESSE French cuisine served on a romantic pier above the Indian Ocean, blending gourmet flavors with Maldivian ambience. Jumeirah Vittaveli, Bolifushi Island, South Malé Atoll $$$$
ITHAA UNDERSEA RESTAURANT An iconic undersea dining experience and one of the Maldives’ most sought-after reservations. Conrad Maldives Rangali Island $$$$$