10 Islands for island hopping in Maldives
1. Hulhumalé Island:
Places to Visit: Hulhumalé Central Park, Hulhumalé Beach
Adventurous Activities: Snorkeling, Jet Skiing and many more water sports in Maldives.
Dishes to Eat: Maldivian Fish Curry, Garudhiya (Fish Soup)
Things to Shop: Local Handicrafts, Souvenirs
Approx. Cost per Person: ₹5,000 – ₹10,000
2. Male Island:
Places to Visit: Male Fish Market, Islamic Centre, National Museum
Adventurous Activities: Scuba Diving, Surfing
Dishes to Eat: Mas Huni (Tuna Salad), Bis Keemiya (Samosa)
Things to Shop: Local Handicrafts, Lacquerware
Approx. Cost per Person: ₹7,000 – ₹12,000
3. Biyadhoo Island:
Places to Visit: Biyadhoo Island Resort, Biyadhoo Beach
Adventurous Activities: Snorkeling, Windsurfing
Dishes to Eat: Seafood BBQ, Maldivian Breakfast
Things to Shop: Local Crafts, Handwoven Textiles
Approx. Cost per Person: ₹10,000 – ₹15,000
4. Fulhadhoo Island:
Places to Visit: Fulhadhoo Beach, Fulhadhoo Island Resort
Adventurous Activities: Diving, Kayaking
Dishes to Eat: Mashuni (Spicy Tuna Salad), Rihaakuru (Fish Paste)
Things to Shop: Shell Crafts, Traditional Dhoni Models
Approx. Cost per Person: ₹12,000 – ₹18,000
5. Thoddoo Island:
Places to Visit: Thoddoo Island Resort, Thoddoo Beach
Adventurous Activities: Snorkeling, Fishing
Dishes to Eat: Maldivian Fruit Salad, Garudhiya (Fish Soup)
Things to Shop: Local Fruits, Handmade Jewelry
Approx. Cost per Person: ₹10,000 – ₹15,000
6. Maafushi Island:
Places to Visit: Maafushi Island Resort, Bikini Beach
Adventurous Activities: Parasailing, Jet Skiing
Dishes to Eat: Masroshi (Stuffed Pancakes), Fihunu Mas (Grilled Fish)
Things to Shop: Local Crafts, Handwoven Mats
Approx. Cost per Person: ₹8,000 – ₹13,000
Suggested read: Which one to choose? Lakshadweep vs Maldives.
7. Gulhi Island:
Places to Visit: Gulhi Beach, Gulhi Island Resort
Adventurous Activities: Snorkeling, Paddleboarding
Dishes to Eat: Kandu Kukulhu (Tuna Curry), Mashuni (Tuna Salad)
Things to Shop: Local Handicrafts, Seashell Jewelry
Approx. Cost per Person: ₹7,000 – ₹12,000
8. Rasdhoo Island:
Places to Visit: Rasdhoo Island Resort, Rasdhoo Beach
Adventurous Activities: Diving, Snorkeling with Sharks
Dishes to Eat: Huni Roshi (Coconut Bread), Theluli Mas (Fried Fish)
Things to Shop: Local Souvenirs, Handmade Crafts
Approx. Cost per Person: ₹12,000 – ₹18,000
9. Dhigurah Island:
Places to Visit: Dhigurah Beach, Dhigurah Island Resort
Adventurous Activities: Whale Shark Watching, Snorkeling
Dishes to Eat: Maldivian Curry, Masroshi (Stuffed Pancakes)
Things to Shop: Handcrafted Jewelry, Local Artwork
Approx. Cost per Person: ₹15,000 – ₹20,000
10. Ukulhas Island:
Places to Visit: Ukulhas Beach, Ukulhas Island Resort
Adventurous Activities: Snorkeling, Night Fishing
Dishes to Eat: Garudhiya (Fish Soup), Kulhimas (Tuna Curry)
Things to Shop: Local Handicrafts, Souvenir T-Shirts
Approx. Cost per Person: ₹10,000 – ₹15,000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is island hopping in Maldives, and why is it popular?
Island hopping in Maldives involves visiting multiple islands to explore their unique beauty and experiences. It’s popular for showcasing the Maldives’ diverse marine life, pristine beaches, and luxurious resorts, offering a chance to immerse in different island atmospheres and enjoy various water activities like snorkeling and diving.
How do I plan my island hopping itinerary in Maldives?
Plan your island hopping itinerary in the Maldives by researching islands, considering travel time between them, booking accommodations in advance, and arranging transportation such as speedboats or seaplanes. Choose islands based on your interests, whether it’s diving, relaxation, or cultural exploration, to create a balanced itinerary.
What activities can I expect during island hopping in Maldives?
During island hopping in Maldives, expect activities like snorkeling amidst vibrant coral reefs, diving to explore underwater marine life, indulging in water sports like kayaking and jet-skiing, relaxing on pristine beaches, and experiencing local culture through island tours, visits to fishing villages, and sampling Maldivian cuisine.
What should I pack for island hopping in Maldives?
Pack essentials like lightweight clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes for reef walks, a waterproof phone case, snorkeling gear (if you have your own), insect repellent, a travel adapter, a camera, and any necessary medications. Opt for breathable and quick-drying fabrics suitable for tropical climates.