The Maldives, a tropical paradise in the Indian Ocean, offers a treasure trove of experiences for travelers seeking the ultimate getaway. With its pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and luxurious overwater bungalows, this island nation has become a dream destination for many. Visitors often wonder what to do in Maldives beyond lounging on the beach, and the answer is: plenty.
From underwater adventures to island hopping and adrenaline-pumping activities, the Maldives has something for everyone. This article explores 12 unique experiences that shouldn’t be missed when visiting this stunning archipelago. Whether it’s swimming with whale sharks, dining in an underwater restaurant, or taking part in marine conservation efforts, these activities showcase the best of what the Maldives has to offer. Get ready to dive into an unforgettable journey through this tropical wonderland.
Underwater Adventures
The Maldives offers a unique array of underwater experiences that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the marine world. From dining beneath the waves to sleeping surrounded by sea life, these adventures provide unforgettable memories.
Underwater Dining Experiences
The Maldives boasts several breathtaking underwater restaurants that redefine the concept of fine dining. These establishments, built feet below the ocean surface, offer guests panoramic views of marine life through glass ceilings and walls. Ithaa, considered the best undersea restaurant in the Maldives, provides a 180-degree view of the vibrant sea life, creating an absolutely unforgettable experience. Located 5 meters below the surface, Ithaa’s name means “mother-of-pearl” in the Maldivian language.
Another popular option is the Subsix Underwater Restaurant, which doubles as the first underwater nightclub on the island. For those seeking a more exclusive experience, the SEA restaurant at Anantara Kihavah offers not only spectacular views but also an impressive wine selection spanning nine decades.
Underwater Accommodations
For a truly immersive experience, visitors can stay in underwater accommodations. The MURAKA at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is a first-of-its-kind, two-level residence with a master bedroom submerged over 16 feet below sea level. This architectural masterpiece features a 180-degree curved acrylic dome in the master bedroom, floor-to-ceiling windows in the bathroom and walk-in closet, and a dedicated tunnel viewing theater.
Underwater Spa Treatments
To complete the underwater experience, the Maldives offers unique spa treatments beneath the waves. The world’s first underwater spa, located at Huvafen Fushi, provides a dreamlike space for rejuvenation amid a kaleidoscope of marine life. Situated 8 meters below the surface, this spa features treatment rooms with glass panels showcasing the surrounding reef and aquatic life. These underwater spa treatments, such as massages and facials, take relaxation to new depths, offering a soothing experience enhanced by the natural underwater ambiance.
Island Exploration
The Maldives, an archipelago of 1,192 coral islands grouped into 26 atolls, offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors. With 200 inhabited islands and about 97 islands hosting tourist resorts, there’s much to explore beyond the typical luxury accommodations.
Visiting Local Maldivian Islands
Travelers seeking an authentic Maldivian experience can venture to local islands like Maafushi, Fulidhoo, Ukulhas, and Thoddoo. Each island has its unique charm and attractions. For instance, Fulidhoo is known for its beauty and authenticity, while Ukulhas is recognized as the first eco-friendly local island in the Maldives. Thoddoo, an island outside the 19 main atolls, offers visitors a chance to experience local life and see where much of the country’s fruit is grown.
Learning About Maldivian History
The Maldives has a rich history dating back to around the 5th century BC, with early settlers arriving from present-day Sri Lanka and India. Initially Buddhist, the islands converted to Islam in 1153 CE under Arab influence. The country’s strategic location on major Indian Ocean marine routes and its abundance of cowrie shells, once used as ancient currency, have played significant roles in shaping its history.
Maldivian culture is a blend of various influences, with strong impacts from Sri Lanka and South India. African slave ancestry has also left its mark, particularly in music and dance. The islands boast a rich oral tradition of legends and folklore, often featuring mythical sea demons and spirits, which is reflected in local craftsmanship such as lacquer works and mat weaving.
Exploring Abandoned Islands
For those seeking a unique adventure, exploring abandoned islands can be an intriguing experience. One such example is the ghost resort of Zali on Dohu Island, which was abandoned before its grand opening in 2011 due to financial issues. This unfinished resort offers a glimpse into the challenges faced by some development projects in the Maldives.
Adrenaline-Pumping Activities
Skydiving Over the Atolls
For thrill-seekers visiting the Maldives, skydiving offers an unparalleled experience. This extraordinary adventure takes place during a specific week in March when the weather is perfect for such activities. Participants have the rare opportunity to witness the breathtaking aerial view of approximately 1,200 tiny islands, most no longer than 1 km and 500 meters wide, as they leap from 12,000 feet.
The skydiving crew consists of world record holders and legends in the sport, ensuring both safety and expertise. Tandem skydiving pairs an experienced instructor with the participant, allowing for a thrilling freefall at speeds of around 120 mph before a peaceful parachute descent.
Scuba Diving Certification
The Maldives is a premier destination for scuba diving enthusiasts. Various PADI certification courses are available, catering to different skill levels:
- PADI Open Water Diver: The most popular course, allowing dives up to 18m/60ft deep.
- PADI Advanced Open Water Diver: Builds confidence and skills for more comfortable diving.
- PADI Rescue Diver: For those looking to enhance their safety skills.
These courses are offered by PADI 5 Star Centers across different atolls, including Raa Atoll, Baa Atoll, and North Malé Atoll.
Blue-Light Night Diving
For a truly unique underwater experience, blue-light night diving, also known as fluoro diving, offers a psychedelic adventure. This relatively recent scuba trend uses ultraviolet torches to interact with marine organisms’ pigments, causing them to emit fluorescent colors.
Divers wear special masks with blue lens coatings and rose-colored filters to protect their eyes and enhance the vivid colors. The experience reveals a hidden world where coral branches radiate in yellows and greens, tropical fish display electric blue stripes, and even sea turtles have a hazy halo around their shells.
This activity provides a new perspective on the Maldives’ underwater world, showcasing the beauty of marine life in a completely different light.
Marine Conservation Efforts
Coral Adoption Programs
The Maldives has initiated various coral adoption programs to combat the effects of coral bleaching and restore damaged reefs. These programs allow guests to actively participate in reef restoration efforts. At Anantara resorts, visitors can plant coral fragments onto ropes with the help of resident marine biologists. The coral fragments are then moved to nurseries and eventually transplanted to the reef or snorkeling trails. This long-term project enables guests to follow the growth of their adopted corals through photo updates or return visits.
Similarly, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort partnered with Reefscapers in 2023 to start a coral propagation program. This initiative involves attaching small coral fragments to metal frames placed around the resort’s house reef. Within six months, the corals start to grow new branches, and fish begin to return to the area.
Marine Biology Workshops
Resorts in the Maldives offer educational workshops to engage guests in marine conservation efforts. The Trainee Marine Biologist program provides a foundation for scientifically minded teens and those considering a career in marine biology. Participants work alongside resident marine biologists, learning about various aspects of marine life, including coral reefs, dolphins, whales, plankton, and manta rays.
Some resorts, like Siyam World Maldives, have in-house marine biologists who conduct regular presentations on marine life in the Maldives. These sessions focus on the importance of conservation strategies for coral reefs, manta rays, sea turtles, and whale sharks.
Reef Preservation Activities
Visitors to the Maldives can engage in hands-on reef preservation activities. At Constance Moofushi resort, guests can purchase coral frames and directly attach corals to them before placing them in the water under the supervision of a resident marine biologist. This project aims to restore the natural coral reefs surrounding the island.
Many resorts also offer guided snorkeling trips led by marine biologists, allowing guests to observe and learn about the diverse marine life in the Maldives’ reefs. These activities not only contribute to conservation efforts but also raise awareness about the importance of protecting the fragile marine ecosystems that make the Maldives a unique destination.
Conclusion
The Maldives offers a diverse array of experiences that go far beyond its renowned beaches and luxury resorts. From underwater adventures and island exploration to adrenaline-pumping activities and marine conservation efforts, this tropical paradise has something to captivate every traveler. These unique experiences allow visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty, rich culture, and vibrant marine life of this island nation.
As travelers seek more meaningful and sustainable ways to explore destinations, the Maldives stands out as a place that combines luxury with environmental consciousness. The opportunity to participate in coral adoption programs, attend marine biology workshops, and engage in reef preservation activities gives visitors a chance to contribute to the protection of this fragile ecosystem. In the end, a trip to the Maldives is not just a vacation but a chance to create lasting memories while gaining a deeper appreciation for the natural world.