Maldives travel guide
The Maldives is a nation of about 1,200 coral islands in the Indian Ocean, grouped into atolls. Many resorts sit on their own island, and local islands now also offer guesthouses.
Best time to visit Maldives
December to April is the dry northeast monsoon season, with the sunniest weather and calmest seas; it is also the busiest and highest-priced period.
May to November is the wetter southwest monsoon, with more rain and wind but fewer visitors; the water stays warm all year.
Getting to Maldives
All international flights land at Velana International Airport (MLE) on its own island next to Malé. There are no nonstop flights from the US; most routes connect through the Middle East, Europe or Asia. From the airport, resorts arrange speedboat, seaplane or domestic-flight transfers, and public ferries serve local islands.
Recent round-trip fares Aviasales travellers found recently. Tap a route to see that trip and today's price on Aviasales.
Getting around
Speedboats and seaplanes
Resorts near Malé use speedboats; farther atolls are reached by seaplane (daylight only) or a domestic flight plus a boat. Transfers are usually booked through your resort.
Public ferries
Government ferries and shared speedboats link Malé with many local islands, an option for guesthouse stays.
Top things to do in Maldives
1. Snorkelling and diving on the house reef
Coral reefs, reef sharks, turtles and rays; many resorts have a reef you can swim to from the beach.
See tours & prices ›2. Manta rays and whale sharks
Seasonal trips to see manta rays (Baa Atoll's Hanifaru Bay is a UNESCO biosphere reserve) and whale sharks in South Ari Atoll.
See tours & prices ›3. A sandbank picnic
Boat trips to small sandbanks in the middle of the lagoon for swimming and a picnic.
See tours & prices ›4. Malé city
The compact capital, with the Old Friday Mosque, the fish market and the national museum.
See tours & prices ›Practical tips
- The Maldives is a Muslim country: on local islands dress modestly away from designated bikini beaches, and alcohol is generally only available at resorts.
- Resort transfers can cost as much as a night's stay; check them before you book.
- Seaplanes fly in daylight only, so late arrivals may need a night near Malé.
- Entry rules can change; check the official immigration site before you travel.
Maldives travel FAQ
When is the best time to visit the Maldives?
December to April for the driest weather and calmest seas; May to November is wetter but quieter.
How do you get from Malé airport to your resort?
By speedboat for nearby resorts, or by seaplane or domestic flight for farther atolls; resorts usually arrange it.
Can you visit the Maldives without staying at a resort?
Yes. Many local islands have guesthouses, reached by public ferry or speedboat from Malé.