Maldives Accommodation

Thousands of isles and coral reefs comprise the tropical paradise that forms the Maldives, where over one million visitors arrive each year to be spellbound by the area's beauty. The eternal honeymoon locale boasts a culture replete with South Indian, Arabic, and Sri Lankan influences. With the country warming up to independent travellers in recent years, beach houses and other comfortable Maldives accommodation options are a great way to experience this slice of paradise on earth.

What to see on your Maldives holiday

Don't skim over the capital city Malé if you're a cultural traveller. A good place to start is at the National Museum, which chronicles the eventful history of these far-flung islands. Head to the President's Palace (Mulee'aage), right by the seafront, a great spot for photo ops against the backdrop of the colourful Maldivian flag. Close by is the ornate 17th-century Friday Mosque (Hukuru Miskiiy), built from coral and limestone. The carvings, lacquer works, and tombs of royal families and national heroes are breathtaking.

After that, savour traditional black tea at the popular Royal Garden Café. For some local action, head down to the bustling Malé Fish Market, or join a Malé Walking Tour, a fun way to get acquainted with the capital's flamboyant sights, sounds and colours. Return to your Maldives beach hut after a day of adventure and relax.

Family holidays in the Maldives

While the Maldives are known as a honeymooners' paradise, they're also a great destination for families with kids. The flat-bottomed beaches of the archipelago are perfect for young travellers. Let the kids build castles from the white sand, or buy an inexpensive underwater camera to take some memorable and unique family photos.

Ask around at the local travel agency or your holiday apartment staff for information on children's treasure hunts, dolphin trips or manta ray conservation programs. Older kids can take courses in scuba diving, sailing and windsurfing, or enjoy easy kayaking through the islets. The land of blue lagoons awaits.

Excursions in the Maldives

Luminous blue waters and whiter-than-white beaches assure you a back-to-nature holiday break. The quickest way to get around the islands is by taxi boat – the more passengers, the lower the fare.

Some of the world's finest diving and snorkelling sites are in the Maldives. See beautiful underwater caves, stunning corals, and brightly coloured schools of fish glide by as you dive deep into the world of manta rays and turtles. The UNESCO Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve is home to over a thousand reef fish, and endangered hawksbill and green turtles. Snorkelling is a must while here.

Meanwhile, Hanifaru Bay is a manta ray haven, and Malé Atoll does the trick for perfect surf breaks. Alternatively, venture to South Ari Atoll, one of the most recommended spots to see whale sharks, the world’s largest fish.

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