The very beautiful and popular Villingili Island is only 15 minutes from Male, the capital city of Maldives. If you have a day or two to spend at Villingili Island, here are some of the best activities and things to do in Villingili Island. Also, if you don’t know, previously Villingili Island used to be a prison island many years ago! Interesting? Yes, then it was repurposed into a resort Island, which attracted a lot of tourists. Also, now with the increasing population in Male city, Villingili island became an extension of the national capital, and inhabitants were progressively rehabilitated here.
So, here are the best things to do in Maldives, Villingili Island.
Villingili island is very eco-conscious, with the great dedication of local islanders that have ensured sustainability in this part of the Maldives. Going on a walking tour is the best way to make the environment-friendly attitude of this place.
You can join the 4-hour Villingili island eco walking tour which is conducted on all days of the week from 2 PM – 6 PM. It costs around USD 70 for adults, USD 35 For children between the ages of 6 and 11 years, and is free for any kid younger than 6.
You have to come here via a public ferry, and the local Maldivian tour guide will take you through the system, and tell you about the culture and other aspects of the island. It will only take an hour to complete and is a great thing to experience in nearly empty streets that are never busy!
- Stroll or relax at the Villingili Beach
This Villingili beach is open to everyone with the shimmering sands and crystal blue waters. But, you should know that these beaches don’t allow revealing beachwear, including shorts, or bikinis. Because, people here are expected to respect the Maldives’ history and culture and dress modestly even at at the beaches.
But, the bikini beaches are an exception. However, there is no bikini beach in Villingili beach, so if you are staying here you need to respect the culture over here. It is one of the best beaches in Maldives where you can relax.
Hedika tasting at a Maldivian café is like a mini adventure for your taste buds! Hedika, or “short eats,” are little bites of Maldivian magic, packed with island flavors. Imagine a table full of crispy —flaky pastries filled with spiced tuna and coconut—next to savory , a rich fish cake with coconut and rice, and , delicious grilled fish marinated in chili and lime. With each bite, you’ll taste a new layer of Maldivian spices and textures, all perfectly paired with a warm cup of tea. It’s the perfect way to soak up local flavors and feel the soul of the Maldives in every snack!
Maldives is a Muslim country and follows Islam, so exploring mosques here is a thing. You can go and see different religious sites here, with the help of a local guide that take you inside. Make sure you are dressed respectfully according to their culture.
Even if you are not able to go inside, you can also appreciate the architectural elements of the facade. So, make sure you see the heritage and culture of the place.
- Dine at a local restaurant
While staying at the beautiful Villingili island, you can have the best lavish experience in some modest hotels or guest houses in the Maldives. Also, you get the chance to try other flavors at different restaurants in Maldives, Villingili Islands.
Have a great fine dining experience with live music in the beachfront cafes that even have jolies to relax on. Some restaurants like Mc Rooster, a famous rooftop cafe and restaurants that hosts bands to entertain the people here while the other one is Xie Xie restaurant serves up delicious smoothies and subs.
The Villingili water sports area is the section of Villingili island that offers water sports activities in the Maldives.
You can participate in diving, snorkeling, and much more to have a great time. If you are on a vacation in Maldives for a longer time, you can even consider pursuing a PADI course for diving. Have fun on the day tours to spot manta rays, reef fish and intriguing corals or can simply rent a snorkel to explore the house reef by yourself. Get along with the best adventure activities in Maldives that you can experience.
- Cook By Yourself at Villingili BBQ Point
Here, you get to play chef, grilling fresh fish, juicy meats, and colorful veggies right by the ocean. It’s not just a meal; it’s a full-on adventure where you get to cook, create, and eat with your own hands!
Villingili BBQ Point is the perfect spot to relax with friends or family, with all the barbecue essentials set up for you. As you turn the sizzling skewers and smell the delicious smoke, you’ll feel like a pro chef—even if it’s your first time grilling! There’s something thrilling about cooking your own food under the open sky, surrounded by good company and ocean breezes.