The Maldives are what dreams are made of – never-ending holidays on picture-perfect beaches and quitting your job to spend the rest of your life on an exotic island that looks like what you see on your computer’s screensaver or stock image websites.
With long stretches of white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, blue skies, and pockets of greenery spread around, the island nation is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world for obvious reasons.
Image via AirAsia
In case you didn’t know, the Maldives covers an area of more than 90,000 sq/km in the Indian Ocean and only 1% of it is land, the rest of it is sea! In fact, the country is actually made up of about 1,190 islands.
However, out of the hundreds of islands, only about 200 of them are inhabited because some of the islands are so small that they are barely a strip of sand sticking out from the water. Besides the most populous island of Male, many islands here have no more than one resort.
Image via AirAsia
Yes, your dream vacation on a remote island can finally come true when you visit the Maldives because nearly every resort here is on its own island!
So, if you’ve got this tropical paradise with nothing but sun, sea and sand on your travel bucket list, here are some notable islands you should consider:
#1 Biyadhoo
Image via Biyadhoo
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Biyadhoo is the island suited for those who love being in the water. Known as one of the underwater superstars of the Maldives and home to more than 20 dive sites, you can snorkel or dive next to marine creatures like reef sharks and turtles. Manta Point, another ideal site to spot manta rays is also located nearby.
#2 Milaidhoo
Image via Maldives Travel
Image via Instagram
Milaidhoo is an island hidden within the UNESCO biosphere reserve that is home to an abundance of greenery and breathtaking views. For couples or families who are seeking tranquillity, privacy and adventure, this island has everything you need.
#3 Kuramathi
Image via Agoda
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This island should be on your list if you want more variety because Kuramathi houses about 360 villas with a range of dining options. Whether you prefer villas that face the garden, beach or over the water, they have all you want here. For more adventure, there’s also a children’s club, diving schools, an eco-centre, and plenty of water activities.
#4 Kurumba
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Image via Instagram
Located just 10 minutes from the airport, you get great hospitality and affordable luxury at Kurumba, an island that is great for some family fun. Among the facilities and activities available here that your whole family can enjoy include painting classes, snorkelling, water skiing, diving lessons, and dolphin-spotting.
#5 Baros
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Baros is a luxurious island that offers a bespoke holiday experience that comes with gorgeous villas, private dining and relaxing spa sessions. There’s also a secluded sandbank for couples to have a romantic sunset dinner.
#6 Kandolhu
Image via Tablet Hotels
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This small and tranquil island is made for newlyweds and honeymooners. With only 30 villas in sight, you and your significant other get complete privacy. The coral reefs along the beach can be seen from miles away, giving you the best ocean view.
#7 Finolhu
Image via Finolhu
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Finolhu has one of the largest blue lagoons and the longest stretch of white sand in the Maldives. So everything on this island is basically beach, best for some lazy hours under the sun. If you walk along the beach, you’ll stumble upon random finds, like VW campers parked on the sand, glamping tents set up on the sandbank, a beach cinema, sand bubbles, and more.
#8 Veligandu
Image via Agoda
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Situated in the north of Ari Atoll, Veligandu has a different level of serenity because there are greenery and glistering waters surrounding the island. Besides the usual watersports like snorkelling and diving here, you can also go on day trips to the fishing villages nearby. This would make a good way to see how the local Maldivians live.
#9 Kuredu
Image via Prestigia
Image via Kuredu
As one of the highest rated resorts at the Maldives, Kuredu is popular for their private swimming pools that is connected to the ocean. Besides the opportunity to jump out of your rooms and straight into the sea, you can also take a plane ride flying over the island for an amazing view. And the best part about Kuredu is dining at underwater restaurant here. Just hearing that alone beats all the upcoming dinner plans we have!
#10 Maafushi
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When we talk about the Maldives, we often think of having to save up money for a decade because even considering a trip there. But there are options for budget travel here too! One of them is at Maafushi, an island that hosts your dream holiday without breaking bank. Opt to stay at a guesthouse for comfort, relaxation, clean amenities and easy access to water activities on a budget.
#11 Alimatha
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On Alimatha, there are turquoise blue waters, aquamarine lagoons, long beaches, and spa centres that make another luxurious honeymoon location. The island also offers an array of accommodation options, especially beach bungalows and overwater villas for direct access to the sea. Pack your daily schedule with watersports, Ayurvedic massage, spa, and boat trips.
#12 Vaadhoo
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While Vaadhoo is a small inhabited island at the Maldives, this place offers an out-of-the-ordinary experience to visitors, especially at night. When the sun sets, watch the waters surrounding the island transform into a mystical paradise because of the bioluminescence – light produced by living organisms – underwater. It’ll take your beach vacation to a whole other level.
Image via AirAsia
So, if you’re interested to plan a trip to the island nation after hearing about all the beautiful islands here, now everyone can fly to the Maldives, the sunny side of life!
For greater savings, log on to airasia.com now to book a return flight and hotel package from as low as RM1,200! Terms and conditions apply.