If you’re planning your first trip to the Maldives…
It can feel overwhelming. Too many islands, too many transfers, and every photo looks like paradise. After visiting over a dozen islands, from ultra-luxury resorts to locally owned guesthouses, I’ve learned something simple.
The Maldives is less about where you go, and more about how you go, and what truly aligns with your energy.
Here are a few travel tips and hotel highlights to help you plan your dream stay, whether it’s your first visit or you’re returning for the calm these islands naturally bring.
(Think: no traffic, no rush.)
Before You Go
Weather:
A decade ago, monsoon seasons were predictable. Now, like everywhere, the weather has shifted.
You might visit in January and get days of rain, or go in July and experience sunshine.
I’ve visited in late September and October. Some years were rainy. This year was mostly clear. I've also visited in February, March, April and May, and have experienced both the best and worst of Maldivian weather.
Best approach:
Choose dates that work for your life and energy. If you’re flexible, low-season rates are wonderful, and the weather can still be beautiful.
If you’ve booked a honeymoon and it pours, this will be heartbreaking, yet possible.
Most hotels don’t refund for weather, so check forecasts through these apps:
- Windy
- Zoom Earth
- AccuWeather
Also helpful: Maldives Meteorological Service on Facebook for real-time updates.
Atolls, Islands, and Island Hotels:
The Maldives may look small on a map, but it’s actually a vast island nation made of 26 natural atolls stretching across the Indian Ocean. The country spans over 500 miles north to south, which means choosing the right atoll can shape your entire experience.
A simple way to understand it:
- Malé Atoll is where the international airport (MLE) is located.
- Northern Atolls sit above Malé — more remote, quieter, often requiring longer speedboat rides or additional domestic or seaplane flights plus speedboat transfers.
- Southern Atolls are below Malé — also remote, culturally rich and quieter, and reached by domestic or seaplane flights plus speedboat transfers. You could also cross the equator and receive a certificate!
- Local Island Hotels exist throughout the entire country. They’re spread across northern and southern atolls, offering everything from simple guesthouses to boutique, design-forward stays.
Instead of thinking “which hotel is best,” think:
- How far do I want to travel after arriving?
- Do I want something easy and close to MLE, or am I craving the feeling of being far, far away?
- What matters most right now: rest, adventure, design, diving, or travel connection?
Your answers will naturally narrow your list, and you’ll begin to notice which islands feel aligned.
Arriving to MLE
(Velana International Airport)
Note: This guide is based on arrivals through the original terminal at Velana International Airport. A new wing with jet bridges has recently opened for select domestic and international flights. Once I’ve personally experienced the new terminal, I’ll update this review with fresh details.
Go before you leave.
The best airport bathrooms are in baggage claim. They are clean, spacious, and far nicer than those in the public arrivals area.
ATM
There’s an ATM immediately to the left after after you exit Immigration + baggage claim, in the arrivals hall. Perfect for:
- local islands
- small tips
- small purchases
Arrival VIP (CIP Service)
If you want a peaceful start, book CIP. You’re met at the plane, brought to a private lounge where you'll clear Immigration, and enjoy comfort, Wi-Fi, and food and beverages, while your luggage is brought to you.
Private CIP transfer waiting at the aircraft stairs.
Comfortable seating in the CIP lounge, and clean washrooms.
Transfers: Speedboat or Seaplane?
Most luxury resorts are reached either by speedboat or seaplane, depending on the atoll.
- Speedboat transfers (10–90 minutes) are comfortable and convenient, especially for properties near Malé. Ideal if you prefer to arrive and settle in quickly. If you're traveling to a local island, the speedboats are less comfortable than the luxury hotel speedboats. They also vary in seating arrangement.
- Seaplane transfers (15–60 minutes) take you into the remote atolls and offer beautiful views. They can involve waiting times, and flights depend on daylight hours.
Public ferries exist for local-island travel, but if you're visiting luxury resorts, you’ll use resort-arranged transfers for ease, comfort, and safety.
Arriving at Night?
If your resort can’t arrange a transfer until morning, stay one night in Malé or Hulhumalé.
Where to Stay in Malé
Executive Room at JEN Maldives by Shangri-La.
Rooftop pool and dining with panoramic views of Malé.
Hulhumalé
A little New York in Hulhumalé. No, I didn’t go in. Yes, I laughed.
A public beach in Hulhumalé.
Hulhumalé Rhythm
It’s slower and more lived-in than resort islands.
Perfect for an overnight before your seaplane, or flight home.
Important:
Hulhumalé beaches are not bikini beaches.
Wear rash guards and leggings out of respect for local customs.
If you need guidance, I’ve stayed on both islands, so feel free to ask questions.
Local Island Etiquette
If you visit non-resort islands:
- As a Muslim nation, alcohol is not served on local islands.
- Cover shoulders and knees when walking about.
- You’ll hear the call to prayer several times a day as it’s part of daily devotion.
- Move with respect; it’s their home, and you’re a guest.
Choosing the Right Island
Your ideal island depends on:
- Proximity
- Privacy
- Price
- Purpose
My Top Picks for Luxury & First-Time Travelers
Gili Lankanfushi
20 minutes by speedboat from MLE.
Barefoot luxury. Rustic charm. Villas that feel like home. A boutique property with 45 overwater villas.
Overwater villa deck at Gili Lankanfushi.
Fun places to sleep or hang out in a Gili Lankanfushi Residence.
Milaidhoo
35 minutes by seaplane from MLE. Maldivian-owned. A combination of overwater and beachfront villas. Gentle, intentional, refined.
This beautiful beach villa hit all marks. Full review here.
Other Great Choices
Velassaru - A fantastic first-time or mid-luxury option near Malé, managed by Universal Resorts (who also own Milaidhoo). A beautiful introduction to Maldivian island life at a more accessible price point. The water is the most gorgeous blue I’ve ever seen, with plenty of space to lounge and breathe.
Holiday Inn Kandooma - Excellent for families and all-inclusive travelers. Don’t let the name fool you; this isn’t your usual Holiday Inn. It’s stylish, beachy, and well run; just not luxury-luxury.
Patina Fari Islands - Ultra-luxe, modern, and deeply considerate. My butler noticed I loved to write and gifted me a Patina-branded journal and pens. This small gesture meant a lot. Thoughtful, contemporary, and near the airport (under 45-minutes by speedboat).
JOALI Maldives & JOALI Being - Architecturally stunning and built for indulgence. That said, JOALI Being lacks authentic wellness; the concept feels performative, and staff energy didn’t reflect true balance. Perfect for design lovers who prioritize aesthetics over depth.
Final Thoughts
Every Maldivian island has its own personality. Some are social, others serene. The right one depends on what you need most right now, whether it is rest, connection, or inspiration.
If you already know where you want to stay and simply want extra benefits, you can use my VIP Yourself Travel Service to book select hotels in the Virtuoso network directly through my Virtuoso site. There is no extra fee to you, and you receive added perks available only through Virtuoso Advisors.
If you have a few simple questions, feel free to ask. For more in-depth guidance, custom suggestions, or itinerary support, I offer Travel Advising services at a fee.
My Experience & Perspective
Having visited over a dozen islands, from intimate local guesthouses to ultra-luxury resorts, I’ve experienced the many sides of Maldivian hospitality. These reflections come from genuine stays, not sponsorships, so you can trust that each recommendation is honest and heartfelt.
Where I’ve Stayed in the Maldives
(For perspective and transparency; these impressions are based on first-hand stays.)
Gili Lankanfushi • Baros • Four Seasons Kuda Huraa • Velassaru • Milaidhoo • Patina Fari Islands • COMO Cocoa Island • Amilla • Joali Maldives (day site visit) • Joali Being • SO/ Maldives • Hilton Amingiri • Thoddoo (KingsWay Guest House) • Paradise Island (Nautica) • Malé (JEN Maldives by Shangri-La) • Hulhumalé (Samann Host Hotel)
’Til next time
Thanks for reading, and may your Maldives holiday be exactly what you need.
