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Next-Level Things to Do in the Maldives
Written by Rebecca Ellwood
We all know the Maldives is one of the dreamiest places on earth: but what are its most out-of-this-world experiences?
Travellers head to the Maldives in search of relaxation, adventure and luxury, but above all – to have their breath taken away. This slice of postcard perfection is one of Mother Nature’s most spectacular feats and luxury resorts are constantly innovating to come up with new ways for visitors to engage with its splendour.
There are plenty of experiences to be found for those who search out the extraordinary, from diving under the cover of darkness to glamping in an inflatable pod. Here are our picks.
Try a water-propelled jet pack
If the Maldivian breeze doesn’t already have you flying high, Ifuru Island’s X-Jet-Blade ride will. With the innovative water-propelled jet board, aquatic adventures can soar several feet above the sea during this adrenaline-fueled flight. It’s the closest you’ll come to a 007 moment.
Dine with sea life in an underwater restaurant…
You’re pretty much guaranteed a breathtaking sunset over dinner in the Maldives – but did you know you can also eat underwater? Conrad Maldives Rangali Island led the charge with the world’s first-ever undersea restaurant, Ithaa, which sits five metres below the surface. Through its glass walls, guests enjoy a front-row seat to the Indian Ocean’s aquatic playground, where colourful fish, turtles, stingrays and dolphins dart around intricate coral gardens.
…Or sleep underwater too
At the ever-enchanting Pullman Maldives Maamutaa, the underwater adventure doesn’t stop there. In The Aqua Villa, you can witness the rainbow colours of marine life from the comfort of your bed. This dual-level retreat ensures you get the best of both worlds: an aquarium on the bottom and an overwater villa on the top, featuring an open-air bathroom and private infinity pool.
Watch a movie under the stars
Island living should be equal parts adventure and relaxation. Raffles Maldives delivers this recipe in abundance, offering movie nights on the beach beneath the stars. There’s no better way to round off an action-packed day in the water than with your toes buried in powdery white sands, a cocktail in hand and a nostalgic movie on the big screen. Bliss.
Go diving in the black of night
We all know that the Maldives is one of the most sought-after places in the world for scuba diving and snorkelling – but if you’re looking for that extra thrill, give it a try at nighttime. At Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa, reef specialists will guide you through the enchanting dark depths, where fluorescent light sticks illuminate nocturnal marine life in neon colours. It’s a completely different way to observe life beneath the surface and a real bucket list experience.
Watch the marine wildlife, without getting wet
Perhaps diving isn’t your thing. Don’t fret, you can peek beneath the water’s surface with Finolhu Baa Atoll Maldives’ semi-submarine excursion. With minimal disruption to the wildlife and no diving skills needed, you’ll uncover the Maldivian marine wonderlands through the boat’s glass bottom, all while your tour guide offers expert commentary on the resident species.
Swim with whale sharks
Swimming in the brilliant-blue waters of South Ari Atoll is already a once-in-a-lifetime experience – but you can level it up by doing it with the company of Whale Sharks. The largest fish alive, these slow-moving, gentle giants allow humans to swim nearby. Much like a fingerprint, each whale shark is covered in a distinctive, white-spotted pattern that is spectacular to see glisten as they gracefully glide. Give this sought-after snorkelling experience a try at OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort.
Freefall over the islands on a skydive
The Maldives archipelago is one of the dreamiest landscapes on earth, and there’s no better way to take in its beauty than from a bird’s-eye view. Take to the skies from Ifuru Island’s private island airport, and experience the adrenaline rush of an initial freefall drop, before gliding peacefully over azure lagoons and emerald islands. You’ll never feel more alive.
Go glamping in an inflatable pod by the ocean
Amilla Maldives offers a quirky way to experience the Maldives. In addition to the traditional overwater villa option, you can go glamping in a completely clear, inflatable pod that sits beside the lapping waters of the lagoon. Offering 360-degree views of the stars and surrounding scenery, this secluded, climate-controlled pod certainly offers more luxuries than you’d find on your average camping trip. Indoor and outdoor showers, a plunge pool, steam room and sauna are all on hand. Where do we sign up?
Search for dolphins
Picture this: It’s the crack of dawn, the sky is golden-hued and you’re setting sail towards the horizon. After patiently bobbing along the water, a pod of charismatic Spinner dolphins appear and dance alongside the boat. This idyllic adventure awaits at Avani+ Fares Maldives. While it’s a dry excursion, it’s bound to make a splash on your time in the Maldives.
Looking for more inspiration? Read about the Maldives’ best all-inclusive resorts.
