Maldives Travel Guide 2025 – Islands, Food & Experiences
Plan your perfect island escape with our Maldives travel guide – explore stunning islands, exciting activities, what to eat, and the best Indian restaurants in Maldives.
The Maldives, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, is known for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, overwater villas, and vibrant marine life. Whether you’re on your honeymoon, a luxury retreat, or just craving serenity, the Maldives is the ultimate tropical getaway.
📍 Top Places to Visit in the Maldives
- Male City – The compact capital with mosques, local markets, and waterfront cafés. Visit Hukuru Miskiy and Male Fish Market.
- Maafushi Island – One of the most budget-friendly local islands with water sports, beach cafés, and diving.
- Hulhumale Island – A reclaimed island near the airport known for its clean beaches and local guesthouses.
- Baa Atoll (UNESCO Biosphere Reserve) – Ideal for diving with manta rays and snorkeling in Hanifaru Bay.
- Ari Atoll – A popular choice for honeymooners with luxurious resorts and rich marine life.
- Vaadhoo Island – Known for the magical “Sea of Stars” bioluminescence effect at night.
- Resorts like Soneva Fushi, Baros, and Vakkaru – If you’re looking for privacy, luxury, and unmatched service.
🍽️ What to Eat in the Maldives
Maldivian cuisine is simple, flavorful, and largely influenced by Indian, Sri Lankan, and Arabic dishes.
Must-Try Local Dishes:
- Mas Huni – Tuna, coconut, onion, and chili, served with flatbread (roshi)
- Garudhiya – Traditional Maldivian fish soup
- Fihunu Mas – Grilled fish with spices
- Rihaakuru – A thick fish-based paste
- Hedhikaa – Maldivian short eats (snacks) like fish rolls and bajiya (samosa-like)
🥥 Tip: Coconut, tuna, and rice form the base of most dishes.
🧭 Top Things to Do in the Maldives
- 🏄♂️ Snorkeling & Diving – Explore coral reefs, manta rays, and whale sharks at Ari Atoll, Maaya Thila, and Hanifaru Bay.
- 🧘 Spa & Wellness Retreats – Experience oceanfront massages and Ayurvedic treatments in luxury resorts.
- 🛥️ Island Hopping – Visit nearby local islands to explore culture and daily life.
- 🏖️ Private Sandbank Picnics – Enjoy lunch on a tiny strip of sand in the middle of the sea.
- 🌌 Stargazing & Bioluminescence – Vaadhoo Island offers a magical glow-in-the-dark beach experience.
- 🐬 Sunset Dolphin Cruises – A romantic and serene boat ride at dusk.
- 🎣 Big Game Fishing – Deep-sea fishing with local guides.
🍛 Best Indian Restaurants in the Maldives
Even in paradise, you can enjoy the comfort of Indian food! Most resorts and local islands have Indian options:
🥘 In Male & Hulhumale:
- Symphony Restaurant (Male) – One of the oldest and most popular with North & South Indian dishes.
- Bombay Darbar (Hulhumale) – A top-rated pure Indian restaurant with vegetarian options.
- Tandoori Flames (Male) – Authentic curries, kebabs, and biryani.
🥘 In Maafushi & Other Local Islands:
- House of Blue (Maafushi) – Multi-cuisine menu with Indian veg/non-veg options.
- Fine Bake by Suzy – Offers Indian-style snacks, rotis, and rice meals.
🥘 In Resorts:
Most luxury resorts like Taj Exotica, Soneva Jani, and VARU by Atmosphere have dedicated Indian menus or chefs on request.
🧳 Travel Tips: Do’s and Don’ts in the Maldives
✅ Do’s:
- Pack light cotton clothes, sunscreen, and reef-safe swimwear.
- Respect local customs when visiting inhabited islands – dress modestly.
- Use reef-safe sunscreens to protect marine life.
- Carry USD – it is widely accepted everywhere.
❌ Don’ts:
- Don’t bring alcohol to local islands (only available in resorts)
- Don’t touch or step on coral reefs – they are fragile and protected
- Avoid public displays of affection on local islands
- Don’t litter – the Maldives is serious about eco-tourism
The Maldives is more than just a romantic destination—it’s an experience of nature, luxury, and tranquility. With pristine islands, vibrant reefs, delicious food, and warm hospitality, it offers unforgettable memories. Whether you want to relax or explore, this Maldives travel guide will help you plan the ultimate island escape with ease—plus, plenty of Indian dining options await to make you feel right at home.
