Best 7 Local Islands to Visit in Maldives

Looking for the best local islands to visit in the Maldives? You’re in luck! In this article, we’ll take you on a virtual tour of the top 7 local islands that offer a unique and authentic Maldivian experience.

From pristine beaches to vibrant coral reefs, these islands have it all. Get ready to discover the hidden gems, indulge in local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Maldives.

So, pack your bags and let’s embark on this unforgettable adventure!

Introduction – Best local islands in Maldives

Are you ready to explore the hidden gems of the Maldives?

In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey to the best 7 local islands to visit in the Maldives.

You’ll discover why these islands are worth exploring, and the unique experiences they offer that you won’t find in the popular resort areas.

Overview of the Maldives

The Maldives is a tropical paradise with stunning white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. It’s a dream destination for those seeking a beach getaway. But beyond its luxurious resorts, the Maldives also offers the opportunity to explore local islands and experience the country on a budget.

Visiting local islands allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and interact with the friendly Maldivian people. It’s a chance to see a different side of the Maldives, away from the touristy areas. These local islands are dotted across the archipelago and offer beautiful beaches that rival those found in the more famous resort islands.

 Why choose local islands

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the Maldives by choosing to explore lesser-known islands.

While the popular resorts offer luxury and comfort, local islands in the Maldives provide a unique and authentic experience. These beautiful islands offer a chance to witness the true essence of Maldivian life, away from the tourist crowds.

Not only do local islands offer a more affordable option for accommodation, but they also boast some of the best beaches in the Maldives. With crystal-clear turquoise waters and powdery white sand, these beaches are truly breathtaking. It is great for those who wants to Maldives on a budget.

Additionally, visiting local islands gives you the opportunity to interact with the friendly locals, sample traditional Maldivian cuisine, and participate in cultural activities.

Island Selection Criteria

When selecting an island to visit in the Maldives, there are several criteria to consider.

First, you’ll want to look at the beach quality, as the Maldives is known for its pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters.

Additionally, the natural beauty of the island is another important factor, as many local islands offer stunning landscapes and breathtaking views.

And there are local islands with specific wildlife, like manta rays and whale sharks, islands with more youth and single tourists, some islands closer to the airport with cheaper tours, and far away islands where you can be the only tourist around.

Factors to consider when choosing a local island

Consider the size and amenities of the local island you want to visit.

When choosing a local island in the Maldives, there are several factors to consider.

First, think about the size of the island. Do you prefer a small, intimate island or a larger one with more activities?

Next, consider the amenities available. Are you looking for luxurious resorts or a more laid-back atmosphere?

Another important factor is the beauty of the island. The Maldives is home to many beautiful islands, each with its own unique charm.

Lastly, think about your preferences for island hopping. Do you want to visit multiple islands during your trip or stay in one place?

In my opinion, every time I visit Maldives I try to book hotels in 3 or 4 different islands. Usually 5 nights is enough to stay in one place to enjoy everything it has to offer. If you decide to stay 10 days in the same place you will be bored! Trust me, I tried in a fancy resort with lots of activities.

Top local islands based on beach quality

You’ll love the pristine beaches on these top local islands.

When it comes to beach quality, the Maldives offers some of the most beautiful islands in the world. If you’re looking for the perfect beach getaway, these top local islands are a must-visit.

One of the top local islands to visit in the Maldives is Maafushi. With its crystal-clear waters and soft white sand, Maafushi is a paradise for beach lovers.

Another top local island is Fulidhoo, known for its untouched beaches and vibrant coral reefs. For a truly secluded beach experience, head to Dhigurah, where you can find long stretches of untouched shoreline.

Other top local islands to consider include Ukulhas, Thoddoo, and Rasdhoo. Each of these islands offers its own unique beach experience, making them perfect destinations for beach enthusiasts.

Local islands with stunning natural beauty

If you’re a nature lover, exploring the local islands will treat you to stunning natural beauty. One beautiful island that you must visit in the Maldives is Maafushi. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, Maafushi offers a picturesque setting that’s perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Another local island that boasts stunning natural beauty is Fulidhoo. Known for its untouched coral reefs and vibrant marine life, Fulidhoo is a paradise for snorkelers and divers.

Thoddoo is yet another local island that’s worth visiting for its lush greenery and expansive fruit orchards. With its breathtaking landscapes and diverse flora and fauna, Thoddoo is a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Other local islands such as Dhigurah, Ukulhas, Dhiffushi, and Hanimadhoo also offer their own unique natural beauty that will leave you in awe.

Best Local Islands in the Maldives

If you’re looking for the best local islands to visit in the Maldives, you’re in luck.

Dhifushi Island offers pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, making it a perfect spot for snorkeling and diving.

Maafushi Island is known for its vibrant local culture, with colorful houses and bustling local markets to explore.

Vadhoo Island is famous for its bioluminescent beach, where the sand glows at night, creating a truly magical experience.

Dhangheti Island is a hidden gem, offering secluded beaches and a tranquil atmosphere.

Lastly, Fulidhoo Island is a paradise for nature lovers, with its lush greenery, coconut palm-fringed beaches, and rich marine life.

Dhifushi Island – Best cost benefit island

Dhifushi Island is a popular destination known for its pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs. It is a small island, and a quiet island.

When you visit Dhifushi Island, you’ll be greeted by stunning white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The island is perfect for those looking to relax and soak up the sun, as well as for adventure seekers wanting to explore the underwater world through snorkeling or diving.

Dhifushi Island is one of the best local islands to visit in the Maldives, offering a glimpse into the local way of life, with its friendly locals and charming village atmosphere.

You can also enjoy island hopping from Dhifushi, as there are many nearby islands that are easily accessible.

Don’t miss the chance to experience the beauty of Dhifushi Island and its surrounding local islands during your visit to the Maldives.

Maafushi Island – Budget place for tours

Now let’s move on to Maafushi Island, one of the best local islands to visit in the Maldives. When planning your trip to this tropical paradise, Maafushi Island should definitely be on your list. Maafushi is an island located close to Male Airport.

Known for its stunning white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Maafushi Island offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and local culture. You can spend your days relaxing on the pristine beaches, snorkeling in the vibrant coral reefs, or exploring the island’s charming streets.

In my opinion, Maafushi is good only for those who are single, or maybe those who wants cheap tours. I have visited Maafushi during New Year´s Eve in Kani Beach, a hotel with an amazing rooftop swimming pool. They hosted this beach party with fireworks for the event. Maafushi has tours to visit a nice shipwreck where you can snorkel and take that nice picture with an underwater bike. They also have cheap scuba diving tours.

And Maafushi is the only place where you can find a beer or wine. But don´t try to go to a restaurant for it. You need to get a speed boat to take you to a boat in international waters, where they sell alcohol and have a dance club.

But Maafushi is not exactly what you dream about Maldives. Big buildings, regular beach and ocean, and too many tourists everywhere. So it is a great stop to get tours, but don´t ever let this be your only island in Maldives.

Maafushi Island also offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxurious beachfront resorts. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family-friendly vacation, you’ll find a hotel on the island that suits your needs.

Vadhoo Island – A sea of stars

When you step foot on Vadhoo Island, you’ll be mesmerized by the bioluminescent glow of the beach at night. Located in the Maldives, Vadhoo Island is one of the most beautiful local islands to visit. Its beach is famous for its unique natural phenomenon called ‘sea of stars,’ where the plankton in the water emits a blue glow, creating a magical and ethereal atmosphere.

This stunning display of bioluminescence is best seen at night when the darkness amplifies the effect. Apart from the beach, Vadhoo Island also offers opportunities for snorkeling in its crystal-clear waters, allowing you to explore the vibrant marine life and colorful coral reefs.

One of the best hotels on the island is the Vadhoo Resort, known for its stunning beachfront location and exceptional service. The resort offers luxurious rooms and suites, each with their own private balcony or terrace overlooking the crystal-clear waters. The on-site restaurant serves a variety of delicious local and international dishes, catering to every palate.

Another top option is the Vadhoo Beach Villa, a charming boutique hotel with spacious rooms and a tranquil atmosphere. Guests can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and take advantage of the hotel’s amenities, including a swimming pool and a spa. Both hotels provide a peaceful and relaxing environment, perfect for those looking to unwind in the beauty of Vadhoo Island. 

Dhangheti Island – To swim with Whale Sharks, the gentle giants

If you’re looking for a secluded and untouched paradise in the Maldives, Dhangheti Island is the perfect destination for you. This beautiful island is located in the southern part of the country and is known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters.

This atol is known by the local whale sharks! You can snorkel with them everyday, and it is almost guarantee you will find those gentle giants. While you could get a tour from Maafushi Island to come here, that will take 2 hours by speedboat just to arrive, so much less time to look for the sharks. If you really want to experience this encounter, you need to stay where they live.

Another option in this Atoll is Dhigurah, but between these 2 islands, Dhangheti is smalles with less tourists.

While there are no fancy resorts on Dhangheti Island, you can find a few local guesthouses that offer comfortable accommodations. Don’t miss the opportunity to try some delicious local dishes at the island’s charming local restaurants.

Fulidhoo Island – The Wow Atoll

You’ll love exploring the pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters of Fulidhoo Island in the Maldives. This local island is a hidden gem, perfect for those looking to experience the true beauty of the Maldives away from the crowded tourist resorts.

Fulidhoo Island is a part of the Vaavu Atoll and is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life. The island is a popular destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, as it offers some of the best diving spots in the Maldives.

Fulidhoo is only 700 metres long by 200 metres wide, and only 200 people live on it. Fulidhoo Island is also known by its traditions. The have a great festival where all the men from the island dress like demons and play drums. 

Fulhadhoo Island – One of the best beaches in the world

As one of the least populated islands in the Maldives, this beautiful island offers a unique and tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The local residents warmly welcome visitors, allowing you to experience the true essence of Maldivian culture. Go for a leisurely stroll along the shoreline and witness the breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky in hues of orange and pink.

The island also offers fantastic snorkeling and diving opportunities, with an abundance of vibrant coral reefs and colorful marine life to explore.

The key elements of a vacation on Fulhadhoo are its empty, pristine, and vast sandy beaches. Ranked 22nd on the list of the top 50 beaches worldwide, it’s nearly impossible to put into words the breathtaking beauty of Fulhadhoo’s beaches. The crystal-clear water is even more stunning than what you would find at luxurious five-star resorts you may have previously visited. Naturally, photographs cannot capture the true magnificence. You can enjoy the privilege of having the beaches all to yourself for an entire week, without having to share with anyone else. The island boasts a private bikini beach for relaxation, as well as another beach that is ideal for snorkeling. 

Dharavandhoo Island – Hundreds of manta rays swimming together

With its stunning beaches and vibrant coral reefs, Dharavandhoo Island offers a captivating escape in the Maldives. Located in the Baa Atoll, this local island is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. As part of an island hopping adventure, Dharavandhoo Island is a must-visit destination for beach lovers and snorkel enthusiasts, especially the Manta lovers!

The island boasts a beautiful beach, perfect for sunbathing and enjoying the crystal-clear turquoise waters. You can spend hours relaxing on the soft white sand or take a refreshing dip in the ocean. But the real highlight of Dharavandhoo Island is its remarkable coral reefs. Grab your snorkeling gear and dive into the underwater paradise. Swim alongside colorful fish, spot majestic manta rays, and marvel at the intricate coral formations.

Dharavandhoo is inside UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, a place more than 200 manta rays call home. In the morning, local rangers text guesthouses to let everyone know how many mantas are swimming in the lagoon.  It happens to have more than 100 rays in my first day, and snorkeling was amazing. We even get some drone footage of it.

Accommodation and Facilities on the Best Local Islands in the Maldives

Facilities and amenities on local islands

If you want to make the most of your stay on the local islands in Maldives, you can take advantage of the facilities and amenities available to enhance your experience.

These local islands offer a range of options to cater to your needs. Whether you’re looking for luxurious resorts or budget-friendly guesthouses, you’ll find it all here.

Most accommodations on local islands provide facilities such as swimming pools, restaurants, and bars. You can also enjoy amenities like spa treatments, water sports activities, and fitness centers.

For those interested in exploring the underwater world, many resorts offer diving and snorkeling facilities.

Comparison of resorts and local island accommodations

Now that you’ve learned about the facilities and amenities available on local islands in the Maldives, let’s compare them to the resorts.

When it comes to accommodations, local island accommodations offer a more authentic experience compared to the luxurious resorts. While resorts provide lavish villas and private beaches, local island accommodations offer a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture and interact with the friendly locals.

The beautiful island scenery can be enjoyed from both types of accommodations, but the local islands provide a more budget-friendly option. Resorts may offer more amenities such as spas, swimming pools, and fine dining options, but local islands compensate for this with their vibrant local markets, traditional restaurants, and affordable activities.

Ultimately, the choice between resorts and local island accommodations depends on your preferences and budget.

Tips for Visiting the best Local Islands in the Maldives

When visiting local islands in the Maldives, there are a few tips to keep in mind.

Firstly, the best time to visit is during the dry season, which falls between November and April, to enjoy the sunny weather and avoid heavy rainfall.

Secondly, there are various transportation options available to reach local islands, including ferries and speedboats, depending on your location and budget.

Lastly, it’s important to be aware of the cultural norms and rules on local islands, such as dressing modestly and respecting local customs, to ensure a smooth and respectful experience.

Best time to visit the Maldives

You’ll want to plan your trip to the Maldives during the dry season for the best weather and optimal beach time.

The Maldives is known for its beautiful islands and pristine beaches, making it a popular destination for travelers looking for a tropical paradise.

The dry season in the Maldives typically runs from November to April, with little to no rain and plenty of sunshine. During this time, you can enjoy clear blue skies, calm seas, and perfect beach weather.

It’s also a great time for activities like snorkeling, diving, and island hopping.

Whether you’re looking to relax on the beaches in the Maldives or explore the local islands, visiting during the dry season will ensure you’ve the best possible experience.

Check our post about the best time to visit Maldives.

Transportation options to reach the best local islands in the Maldives

To reach the local islands in the Maldives, you can choose from various transportation options such as speedboats, public ferries, or seaplanes.

Island hopping is a popular activity among tourists who want to explore the different islands of this tropical paradise.

If you prefer a budget-friendly option, the local ferry is the way to go. It may take longer than other modes of transportation, but it offers a unique experience and allows you to interact with the locals.

Another option is to take a speed boat from Male, the capital city of the Maldives. This is a faster and more convenient way to travel between islands.

For a truly breathtaking experience, seaplanes are available for those who want to enjoy stunning aerial views of the islands.

With these transportation options, visiting the Maldives and exploring its local islands has never been easier.

Important cultural norms and rules on the best local islands in the Maldives

It’s important to be aware of the cultural norms and rules on the local islands to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience.

When island hopping in the Maldives and visiting local islands, it’s essential to understand and respect the local customs and traditions.

One of the most important cultural norms is to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or interacting with locals.

Public displays of affection should be avoided, as they’re considered inappropriate in the Maldivian culture.

It’s also important to remove your shoes before entering homes or religious places.

Additionally, it’s customary to ask for permission before taking photos of the locals.

As a visitor, following these cultural norms and rules will help you immerse yourself in the local culture and have a memorable experience in the Maldives.

Conclusion – Best local islands to visit in Maldives

In conclusion, visiting local islands in the Maldives offers a unique and authentic experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and way of life.

The seven local islands mentioned earlier provide a range of options for travelers seeking a more authentic and budget-friendly alternative to the luxury resorts.

Whether you’re looking to relax on pristine beaches, explore vibrant coral reefs, or interact with friendly locals, the local islands in the Maldives offer it all.

Final thoughts on visiting the best local islands in the Maldives

If you’re looking for a unique and authentic experience in the Maldives, visiting local islands is definitely worth considering. Island hopping allows you to explore the hidden gems of this tropical paradise and immerse yourself in the local culture.

The Maldives isn’t just about luxury resorts; the local islands offer a different perspective with their charming communities and beautiful beaches. You can interact with friendly locals, taste authentic Maldivian cuisine, and learn about their traditions and way of life.

Whether you’re interested in snorkeling, diving, or simply relaxing on pristine beaches, the local islands have it all. The experience of staying in a guesthouse and supporting the local economy adds a special touch to your visit.

Recommendations for the best local island experience

To make the most of your time in the Maldives, consider exploring lesser-known islands for an authentic experience.

While the popular tourist destinations in the Maldives offer stunning resorts and breathtaking beaches, venturing to local islands can provide a more intimate and immersive experience. With over 1,000 islands in this island nation, there are plenty of hidden gems to discover.

Whether you’re interested in diving, snorkeling, or simply relaxing in a tranquil setting, the Maldives has a beautiful island to suit your preferences. Island hopping is a popular activity that allows you to explore multiple islands and experience the unique culture and charm of each one.

By visiting local islands, you not only support the local economy but also get a chance to interact with the friendly locals and learn about their way of life.

Frequently Asked Questions