A Maldives honeymoon is a great way to celebrate your marriage. The country prides itself on mesmerizingly blue waters and great year-round weather, with December to April as the peak season. Popular tourist spots include Banana Reef, Bandaara Kilhi, and the capital city of Male.
The Maldives is nothing but a paradise on Earth. Located in the Indian Ocean (around 1,270 miles from India’s southern edge), it has around 1,200 coral islands grouped in gorgeous atolls.
At 116 square miles, it is the smallest Asian country. But make no mistake: This tiny nation is a top honeymoon destination — thanks to its turquoise waters, white sand beaches, swaying palm trees, and abundant luxury honeymoon resorts.
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Is Maldives a Good Place for a Honeymoon?
When you think of a tropical-themed honeymoon, the Maldives will likely be one of your first thoughts. It’s the ultimate destination for beach-loving newlyweds. Apart from its crystal clear waters, you can enjoy many water sports, indulge in a laid-back life (even for a week), and get up close and personal with its beautiful marine life and equally beautiful Maldivian culture.
What Activities Can You Do on a Honeymoon in Maldives?
99% of the Maldives is water. Hence, it’s the ideal one-stop destination if you want to lounge by the beach, sandbank, or any of its turquoise lagoons — or shake off those wedding planning stressors by engaging in aquatic adventures.
Whether you want to go kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving in a coral reef or a house reef, surfing, or paddle boarding, most accommodations will have you covered. If you’re feeling adventurous, go on a unique underwater adventure that includes swimming with manta rays and whale sharks.
You can rejuvenate your mind and body by experiencing different wellness and spa treatments, spending quality time on a dhoni or catamaran sunset cruise, island hopping, or enjoying a sumptuous meal through private dining.
3 Best Cities to Honeymoon in Maldives
1. Male
If you’re a first-timer in the Maldives, there’s no better place to stay than the country’s capital. Explore its heritage and culture, experience shopping at the local market, and stroll around its many establishments.
Located on the southern tip of North Male atoll, you take a trip to the nearby artificial island Hulhumale, which boasts an array of spectacular beaches. Other popular spots in North Male Atoll include Manta Point, Banana Reef, and HP Reef.
Where to stay: Many opt to stay on Hulhumale, but some prefer to book accommodations in a resort in the city proper.
Suggested duration: 1 week
2. Fuvahmulah
If you want to stay in the south of the Maldives, choose the capital city of Gnaviyani atoll. It’s home to two freshwater reserves: The Bandaara Kilhi and the Dhadimagi Kilhi lakes. These regions are blessed with dense vegetation and a tranquil place to hear the cooing of birds.
The city also has its fair share of diving centers where you can learn and partake in unforgettable dives with locals.
Where to stay: Divided into eight districts, some of the most popular accommodations in this city are found in the Maadhadu and Dhoodigan districts.
Suggested duration: 1 week
3. Maafushi
Located just six miles off Male, this island in South Male atoll has many gorgeous sandbars and historical monuments to explore. In South Male atoll, the Maafushi Reef is also one of the best spots for diving.
Though not exactly a city (there are only four recognized cities in the Maldives, including the two above), Maafushi is a constant in lists rounding up the best places to visit in the country.
Where to stay: The island is split into three areas; the southern end is dedicated to tourists, full of hotels, gift shops, tour companies, and restaurants.
Suggested duration: 1 week
What Is the Best Month to Visit Maldives?
The peak season in the Maldives is from December to April. Year-round, the temperature in this tropical country hovers at around 80 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
However, the rainy season is May to September. If you don’t mind a little rain and choose to travel off-season, you can save on accommodation and travel expenses. If you’re staying in southern atolls, remember they receive more rainfall than northern ones.
What Types of Honeymoon Accommodations Are Available in Maldives?
The Maldives is a dream getaway for many couples. The country follows a one island, one resort concept — so you’ll enjoy the privacy of being on a semi-private island.
There are many world-class island resorts that are perfect for a romantic getaway.
Six Senses Laaumi is a Maldives resort offering stunning overwater villas complete with overwater netting hammocks and private pools. At the five-star Soneva Fushi, you can stay at a beach villa surrounded by water and lush greenery.
Hurawalhi Island Resort boasts overwater bungalows, while Baros has a stunning infinity pool. If you’re looking for an all-inclusive package, try Anantara Veli and LUX South Ari Atoll. On the other hand, Centara Ras Fushi is one of the best adults-only resorts.
For those who want to save on accommodations and spend more on touristy experiences, the Maldives also has boutique hotels, inns, and villa-style properties you can rent.
Is a Honeymoon in the Maldives Expensive?
A typical Maldives honeymoon lasts a week. During your seven-day stay, expect to spend $5,000 at the very least. Most Maldives honeymoons cost between $10,000 and $20,000 (or more), including accommodation and transportation expenses. The final price tag will depend on the activities you’ll do and if you’re staying at a luxury resort or not.
How to Plan a Budget Honeymoon in Maldives
First, consider traveling off-season.
Secondly, look for a comprehensive or all-inclusive honeymoon package to maximize the Maldives’ glorious sunshine and waters. It typically includes airfare, food and beverage, accommodation, transfer fees, access to aquatic adventures, and extras like a cruise and a private dining experience.
Stay tuned for online deals and discounts that a resort offers. If you don’t mind missing an overwater experience, you can stay at island villas as they are relatively cheaper.
Also, double-check your itinerary with ferry schedules. If you miss a trip, you are not likely to receive a refund.
What Is the Best Way to Travel to the Maldives?
If you’re headed to this paradise, prepare for a long flight. It will be anywhere from 18 to nearly 24 hours, depending on which state you come from.
There’s no direct flight from the United States, so expect a layover, with Dubai and Sri Lanka as the common stops. From your layover, you will arrive at the Velana International Airport in the capital city of Male.
Then, from the Male airport, you will travel to your resort via a speedboat or a seaplane. Your resort will take of the logistics and coordination with the airport. Note that some islands are accessible only by seaplane (e.g., Baa atoll).
Traveling Within the Maldives
To get around the islands, consider public ferries or domestic airlines. You can hail taxis, ride buses, or rent scooters or bicycles on an island.
Is Maldives Safe to Visit?
Especially if you’re only staying in your island resort, the Maldives is a generally safe place to stay. As there is some civil unrest and threats of terrorism, follow these tips:
- Leave your valuables in a secure location.
- When at the beach, use safe-deposit boxes (if available).
- Monitor local media to check where protests and demonstrations could be happening; avoid such areas.
- Especially when traveling in public spaces, be cautious of pickpockets.
- Beware of strong tidal currents that could cause you or your partner to drown.
What to Pack For a Honeymoon in Maldives
When traveling to the Maldives, your travel essentials should include lightweight clothes, swimsuits, cocktail wear, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, passport, credit cards, pocket money, hotel vouchers (if any), and your travel outfit.
Remember that as the Maldives is a Muslim country, you must wear conservative clothes unless you’re on your resort, a sandbank, or a dive boat.
3 National Foods to Try While Honeymooning in Maldives Islands
Be sure to try these national foods from Maldivians:
- Gulha. This national dish is a deep-fried pastry ball filled with fish, onions, and desiccated coconut.
- Garudhiya. An aromatic fish soup cooked with water and salt served with lime, chili, onions, and rice.
- Mas huni. A staple breakfast dish, it’s an indulgent combination of tuna, shredded coconut, onions, and hot chili peppers.
Do You Need a Visa to Visit Maldives?
All nationalities are entitled to a tourist visa upon arrival in the country, good for 30 days. You must satisfy basic entry requirements such as a passport with at least 1-month validity, confirmed return or onward tickets, and confirmed pre-booking at a registered hotel.
Practical Tips For Your Honeymoon In The Maldives
Here are some more helpful reminders before your dream Maldives honeymoon:
- Bring bottled water (or buy one), as tap water in the Maldives is desalinated seawater. While it’s safe to drink, it might not taste great. You can use it, however, for brushing your teeth.
- Bring sufficient cash as ATMs are scarce and travelers’ checks are not widely used. The official currency is Rufiyaa ($1 is 15.36 Rufiyaa at the time of writing), but dollars are also accepted throughout the island nation.
- Dhivehi is their local language, but most Maldivians can communicate in English.
- Remember that Friday is a holy day in Muslim countries, so establishments might operate differently during this time (e.g., lunch hour could be late).
- Local islands don’t have pork products, but these are available on your private resort island.