The Best Beaches of Maldives

The Maldives is renowned for its breathtaking beaches, pristine blue waters, and breathtaking marine life. Here are some of the best beaches in the Maldives that offer a perfect mix of scenic beauty, recreational activities, and seclusion:

  • Bikini Beach/Maafushi Island Beach: One of the most popular beaches, this beach offers picturesque views of turquoise blue waters and is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The beach is also known for being clothing-optional.
  • Fulhadhoo Beach: This isolated beach boasts crystal clear water, white sand, and an unmatched atmosphere of tranquility. You can enjoy swimming, stargazing, surfing, and even spot dolphins and manta rays.
  • Veligandu Island Beach: This baby powder-soft beach of the Veligandu Island resort is perfect for couples who want privacy as they bask in the sun or swim in the lagoon.
  • Reethi Beach: This beach is perfect for those who love water activities such as swimming, watersports, diving, and snorkeling. You can enjoy the breathtaking view and relax on the luxurious sun loungers.

Whether you are looking for excitement or want to relax in seclusion, the Maldives’ beaches have something for everyone.

North Male Atoll

The North Male Atoll is one of the best beaches in the Maldives, known for its crystal clear waters and white sand beaches. There are plenty of activities here, such as snorkeling and diving. Moreover, it is also an excellent spot for relaxation with its idyllic beauty and tranquil atmosphere.

Let’s take a look at all the attractions that North Male Atoll has to offer:

Banana Reef

Banana Reef in North Male Atoll is one of the most sought-after beaches in the Maldives, known for its stunning coral gardens and abundant marine life.

Here’s what you can expect when you visit Banana Reef:

  • Scuba diving: the reef boasts deep channels, caves, and overhangs, making it a popular destination for scuba divers. Expect to see schools of colorful fish, reef sharks, rays, and turtles.
  • Snorkeling: if you’re not a certified diver, you can still enjoy the beauty of Banana Reef’s coral gardens by snorkeling. The shallow waters are home to various fish and other sea creatures, making it an ideal spot for underwater photography.
  • Beach relaxation: After exploring the reef, unwind on the beach and soak up the sun. The beach is relatively secluded, with soft white sand and clear turquoise waters.

To fully appreciate the beauty of Banana Reef, plan to spend a whole day here with a packed lunch and snacks.

Lankanfinolhu Island

Lankanfinolhu Island is a beautiful retreat in the North Male Atoll area of Maldives, known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters.

The island offers a range of activities, such as snorkeling, diving, and water sports, along with luxurious accommodations, world-class dining, and unparalleled hospitality.

Some of the best beaches on Lankanfinolhu Island include:

  • Sunrise Beach offers a breathtaking view of the sunrise.
  • Sunset Beach comes alive with magical hues during sunsets.
  • Family Beach is perfect for families with kids.

Each beach has a unique charm and is a must-visit for beach lovers.

Pro tip: Try the local Maldivian cuisine and indulge in a relaxing spa session at Lankanfinolhu Island.

Coral Garden

North Male Atoll in the Maldives is home to some of the best beaches in the world, including Coral Garden, a must-see destination for beach lovers and snorkelers alike.

Coral Garden boasts crystal-clear waters and abundant marine wildlife on the eastern side of Bandos Island. Snorkelers can explore the reef’s diverse ecosystem, including colorful coral formations, schools of fish, and even sea turtles.

Try diving or surfing at Coral Garden if you want an adrenaline rush. Or, relax on the white sand beach and soak up the sun’s rays while enjoying the stunning ocean views.

Whether you’re an experienced traveler or a first-time visitor to the Maldives, Coral Garden is an unforgettable destination that should not be missed.

South Male Atoll

Located in the South Male Atoll, just 6 km from the Maldives International Airport, it is a beautiful beach perfect for any traveler seeking sun, sand, and relaxation.

The South Male Atoll beach is known for its picturesque white sandy beaches, crystal clear blue waters, and tranquil atmosphere. It is the perfect spot to relax, swim, and snorkel.

Cocoa Island Beach

Cocoa Island Beach, located in South Male Atoll, is undoubtedly one of the best beaches in the Maldives, offering visitors a stunning tropical paradise.

With its crystal clear turquoise waters and pristine white sandy beaches, Cocoa Island Beach is an excellent spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. In addition, you can explore the nearby coral reefs and swim with colorful fish, sharks, and rays in their natural habitat.

Cocoa Island Beach is the perfect destination if you are looking for a peaceful and exotic getaway with scenic beauty. Pro tip: Don’t forget to bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral reefs and marine life.

Anantara Dhigu Beach

Anantara Dhigu Beach is one of the best beaches in the Maldives in South Male Atoll. This white sandy beach is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts and sun seekers alike, with crystal clear waters and vibrant marine life.

At Anantara Dhigu Beach, you can indulge in various water sports, such as snorkeling, diving, surfing, jet skiing, and parasailing. For those seeking a more laidback experience, lounging on the beach with a cocktail and soaking up the sun is always an option.

The beach also offers convenient access to nearby resorts, luxurious spas, and fine dining restaurants, making it an ideal destination for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure in paradise.

Pro tip: Book your stay well in advance, as Anantara Dhigu Beach is a sought-after destination, particularly during peak travel seasons.

Embudu Village Beach

In South Male Atoll, Embudu Village Beach presents a perfect picture of a serene tropical getaway with its clear blue waters, white sand, and lush greenery. It offers an ideal beach experience for travelers who appreciate natural beauty and seclusion.

Embudu Beach also provides excellent opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving with its rich marine life and stunning coral reefs. The beach area is clean and well-maintained, with comfortable sun loungers and parasols for relaxing and soaking up the sun. The crystal-clear waters near the beach are great for swimming and water sports.

With a stunning location, warm hospitality, and endless natural beauty, Embudu Village Beach in South Male Atoll is a must-visit destination for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Baa Atoll

Baa Atoll is well known for its majestic turquoise waters and white sand beaches. It is located just 100 kilometers away from Male, the capital of the Maldives.

This destination is ideal for a luxurious beach holiday because of its crystal-clear water, charming beaches, and amazing coral reefs. Let’s find out what more Baa Atoll has to offer!

Fulhadhoo Beach

Fulhadhoo Beach is a stunning beach in Baa Atoll, one of the most beautiful destinations in the Maldives. The beach features crystal-clear turquoise water, pristine white sand, and stunning palm trees that sway in the breeze.

Fulhadhoo Beach is the perfect destination for tourists looking to enjoy a peaceful and relaxing beach vacation away from the hustle and bustle of popular tourist destinations. The beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and romantic walks along the shore. Visitors can also explore the local island life, enjoying fresh seafood and engaging with the friendly locals.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to bring your snorkeling gear, as Fulhadhoo Beach is home to a colorful coral reef and a wide variety of marine life.

Hanifaru Bay Beach

Hanifaru Bay Beach is undoubtedly one of the best beaches in the Maldives, situated in the Baa Atoll. Its crystal-clear waters, pristine sand, and breathtaking marine life offer a unique experience.

What makes this beach so unique is the opportunity to witness the throngs of manta rays and whale sharks who come here to feed during the monsoon season, with nearly 200 whale sharks often present simultaneously.

The beach is also renowned for its coral reefs and diverse marine ecosystem, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. So whether you are interested in lounging on the beach, exploring the underwater world, or simply enjoying the stunning natural scenery, Hanifaru Bay Beach is a must-visit destination for any traveler to the Maldives.

Dharavandhoo Beach

Dharavandhoo Beach is one of the top beaches in the Maldives, located in Baa Atoll. The beach offers stunning views of crystal-clear turquoise water and is surrounded by lush vegetation.

The beach is known for its long stretch of white sand, perfect for sunbathing and relaxing. It also offers ample opportunities for water activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and diving. The beach is particularly famous among snorkelers because of its proximity to Hanifaru Bay, where people can experience swimming with manta rays and whale sharks.

Visitors can stay in the nearby resorts or guest houses, which offer comfortable accommodations and easy access to the beach. Plan your visit during the dry season (November to April) to enjoy the beach to its fullest potential.

Alifu Atoll

Alifu Atoll is one of the most sought-after holiday destinations in the Maldives. Blessed with lush greenery and crystal blue waters, it is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Indian Ocean.

So it’s no surprise that many visitors flock here to enjoy its idyllic scenery, making it a popular tourist spot.

Let’s take a closer look at what this gem in the Indian Ocean has to offer:

Maafushi Island Beach

Maafushi Island Beach is one of the most stunning beaches in the Alifu Atoll region of the Maldives, offering visitors crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and a range of water-based activities.

Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving in the waters surrounding the beach. The beach is also popular for paddleboarding, kayaking, and windsurfing.

In addition to its natural beauty, Maafushi Island Beach is home to various restaurants, cafes, and bars serving up local and international cuisine.

Visitors can extend their stay in the Maldives by booking a stay at beachfront guesthouses or luxurious resorts just a few steps away from the beach.

Dhangethi Beach

Dhangethi Beach, located in Alifu Atoll, offers some of the most breathtaking views and crystal-clear waters in the Maldives, making it one of the best beaches.

With pristine white sand and palm trees lining the shore, visitors are treated to a secluded and peaceful environment to relax and unwind.

The beach also offers a range of water and beach activities, including snorkeling, diving, and sunbathing, making it the perfect destination for adventure enthusiasts and beach lovers alike.

Visitors can stay at the beachfront resorts or guesthouses across the island and enjoy traditional Maldivian hospitality while indulging in the island’s beauty.

Dhigurah Island Beach

Dhigurah Island Beach, located in Alifu Atoll, is considered one of the best beaches in the Maldives. Famous for its stunning turquoise waters, pristine white sand, and diverse marine life, this beach is a popular destination for travelers looking for a relaxing tropical paradise.

Visitors can enjoy a range of water activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, and diving, to explore the rich underwater world of the Maldives. One can also stroll on the beach, enjoy the stunning sunsets, or indulge in a luxurious spa treatment.

The Dhigurah Island Beach offers a perfect blend of natural and man-made beauty and is ideal for those looking for a laid-back, secluded island getaway.

Laamu Atoll

Laamu Atoll is an extraordinary destination for those seeking a secluded yet beautiful beach getaway. This remote part of the Maldives offers some of the most stunning beaches in the region, each offering a unique adventure or activity to explore. So whether you are looking for a relaxing day under the sun or an adventure-filled exploration, Laamu Atoll has something for everyone.

Olhuveli Beach

Olhuveli Beach is one of the best beaches in the Maldives, located in the Laamu Atoll, known for its pristine turquoise waters and soft white sand. The beach is ideal for leisurely walks, sunbathing, or dipping in crystal-clear water.

The Laamu Atoll is less developed than other areas in the Maldives, making it a perfect spot for a tranquil and relaxed getaway. Visitors can enjoy activities like snorkeling with turtles and whale sharks, scuba diving, and boat excursions to explore the surrounding reefs.

Olhuveli Beach is home to luxurious resorts that offer private overwater villas and beachfront bungalows that provide breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean.

Visitors can indulge in various spa treatments, yoga sessions, and fine dining experiences.

Maamigili Beach

Maamigili Beach, located in Laamu Atoll, is one of the best beaches in the Maldives, providing an unblemished, tranquil experience. The beach is characterized by its white sand, clear blue waters, and lush palm trees that adorn the landscape.

Visitors can indulge in water activities on this pristine beach, such as snorkelingdiving, and surfing. This beach is known for its rich marine life and colorful coral reefs, making it a popular spot for snorkelers and divers.

Maamigili Beach is easily accessible by boat, and various resorts are on the island. The island’s natural beauty and charm make it a perfect destination for travelers seeking a peaceful, secluded getaway.

Guraidhoo Island Beach

Guraidhoo Island Beach is a stunning beach in the Laamu Atoll, known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and pristine coral reefs, making it one of the best beaches to visit in the Maldives.

This beach offers visitors various activities and amenities, including snorkeling, diving, and surfing. In addition, Guraidhoo Island Beach boasts some of the best surf breaks in the Maldives and provides an excellent opportunity for tourists and locals alike to catch some waves.

Visitors can also indulge in local cuisine, stroll along the island’s narrow streets or visit the local souvenir shops.

This beach is easily accessible via boat or seaplane from the capital city of Male and is a must-visit destination for any beach lover visiting the Maldives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the best beaches to visit in Maldives?

A: Some of the best beaches in Maldives are Nalaguraidhoo Beach, Bikini Beach, Reethi Beach, and Veligandu Island Beach.

Q: Is it safe to swim on the beaches of Maldives?

A: It is generally safe to swim on the beaches of Maldives, but be cautious during strong currents and avoid swimming at night.

Q: Can I go surfing in the Maldives?

A: Yes, Maldives is known for its world-class surfing spots, such as Chickens, Cokes, and Sultans.

Q: Are there family-friendly beaches in the Maldives?

A: Many family-friendly beaches in the Maldives, such as Meeru Island Beach and Kuredu Beach.

Q: What is the best time to visit the beaches of Maldives?

A: The best time to visit the beaches of Maldives is between November to April, which is the dry season and offers the best weather for beach activities.

Q: Are there any private beaches in the Maldives?

A: Yes, most Maldives resorts have private beaches, which offer guests a secluded and exclusive atmosphere.