While many may be content with a flop-and-drop holiday in the Maldives, this collection of breathtaking islands is home to a wealth of incredible experiences for couples, families and friends alike. From stargazing to snorkelling, picnics to padel tennis, there are countless things to do across the archipelago’s 26 atolls – the hardest part will be choosing what to do first.
Read on for our list of things to do in the Maldives.
Best resort we’ve ever stayed at . Everything is included, staff and amenities fantastic. Food and drink unbelievable. The only downside is that it takes a monumental journey to get there and back ( we basically wasted our first and last day of the trip in transit)
10.0
Jorge V.1 escape · 1 review
Stayed at the Pullman for my honeymoon and I can’t say enough good things. It’s a long journey there (from Canada) but so worth it. Food was delicious, villas are stunning, activities are endless. This is a true 5 star experience. My only regret is not staying longer! Do 7 nights minimum!
10.0
Calli T.3 escapes · 1 review
A stunning resort and overall experience. We had peace of mind with all flights and transport taken care of by the wonderful Luxury Escapes team. Once we arrived, we know the Pullman was the epitome of relaxation and luxury. We stayed in a sunrise overwater villa with a pool – absolutely worthwhile. The room is luxurious with an outdoor bathroom and stunning vista and amenities. The dining was all fabulous, expansive range of foods and drink, with everything freshly made. The breakfast pastries at Melange are to die for, and the atmosphere, food at Phat Chameleon delicious and unique & Souq Oven’s pastas were just divine. All inclusive and unlimited dining and drinks is exactly what you would dream of. All of the staff are friendly, helpful (but not overbearing). Our package included a complimentary photoshoot, excursion and activity, we selected a sunset cruise (stunning views) and massage at Pullman Spa. The staff were very attentive to our needs and made us even more relaxed (which we didn’t think was possible after a few nights here)! What a time! Thank you Pullman Maldives & Luxury Escapes for an unforgettable experience!
10.0
Craig R.16 escapes · 1 review
Pullman Maldives All inclusive Villas really is 100% all inclusive – 5 star resort at it's best with first class professional and friendly staff who can't do enough to ensure guests have a first class island resort experience. The reality is every bit as displayed in the glossy advertising brochures.
Simply can't rate this resort highly enough. Well done Pullman Maldives and Luxury Escapes!
10.0
Kathryn R.10 escapes · 1 review
Absolutely amazing holiday, firstly I must mention how friendly, accommodating and professional all the staff were, exceptional service from all staff., they always went out of their way to make sure we had everything we needed and more. We stayed in the beach villa with private pool for first 5 days. Very spacious, great outdoor areas and large outdoor pool surround by tropical plants and just steps away from the crystal clear beach. Then stayed in the over water villa with private pool, watched glorious sunrises over pristine water, surrounded by precious sea life, watched turtles, stingrays, reef sharks and many types of tropical fish swim by. Both villas were very well appointed, mini bar replenished twice daily along with house keeping.
So many activities to do or just relax with a cocktail. Superb food and drink menus at all restaurants and bars. We absolutely did not want to leave and planning to return with family so they experience how amazing the Pullman is.
Zip-line to dinner at Soneva Fushi
Tighten your harness, it’s time to take to the skies before dinner at Flying Sauces – the world’s first fine-dining zip-line experience at Soneva Fushi. Glide from The Den along a 200m zipline, taking the scenic route to the elevated dining platform sitting 12m above the ground. Gaze upon the sparkling ocean as you savour a seasonal menu inspired by ingredients picked from the resort’s organic gardens and seafood caught by local fishermen.
SO/Maldives exceeded all expectations, the jaw dropping photos are more stunning in reality. The team members went above and beyond to ensure our stay was flawless, highly recommend this resort.
10.0
SERGEY S.AU · 2 escapes · 1 review
SO/ Maldives is exceptional. Room, ocean, food and service. Our special thaks to Maria.
10.0
George G.AU · 6 escapes · 2 reviews
Our over water, ocean villa was spectacular. The staff, facilities and location were all 5 star.
10.0
Flossy P.AU · 15 escapes · 7 reviews
We recently spent a week in a Beachfront Pool Villa at SO/Maldives, and we absolutely loved it! From the moment we were met at Male Airport, to the ease of the speedboat transfer, to the smiling welcoming committee, to meeting our brilliant Butler Limar, we couldn't have been more impressed. We loved the location of our Villa, which was totally private surrounded by lush gardens with direct access to the beach and blue water, and spotlessly clean and modern. Easy walk or cycle to the resort facilities & restaurants. The food & beverages on offer are fantastic, the Spa is so serene, the facilities are great and the staff are all friendly & professional. This is a super stylish modern resort. We loved our stay. Thank you! Terry & Flossy
10.0
Flossy P.AU · 15 escapes · 7 reviews
We absolutely loved our stay at SO/Maldives in early August. We chose a beachfront pool villa, which was perfectly positioned with total privacy encased in lush greenery, and direct access to the beach. It was modern, exceptionally clean and easy walking or cycling to the resort. From the time we were met at Male Airport by a staff member, to the speedboat transfet to resort, the friendly welcome by resort staff, and introduction to our brilliant Butler Limar, it was all perfectly timed and so easy. The food & beverages on offer were wonderful and all the staff are friendly and professional. The Spa is totally serene with beautiful therapists. This is an ultra modern, stylish resort and we highly recommend for a relaxing get away. We loved SO/Maldives! Thank you
Take a glass-bottom canoe adventure
Paddle across the sparkling blue ocean while admiring the wonders that lie beneath with a glass-bottom canoe adventure at Kagi Maldives Resort & Spa. When it comes to things to do in the Maldives, there should be no compromise – admire the crystal-clear waters from above, while also glimpsing at the underwater wonderland below. Wave hello to tropical fish as you paddle, admire the colourful coral, or simply take in the stunning views from your perfect perch.
Glamping under the stars
Take front-row seats to all the night-time action at Amilla Maldives, where you can sleep under the stars in a high-tech immersive pod. Hide away in the lush jungle in a private bubble, complete with a plunge pool, steam room and sauna, and wait for the sun to set. Spend the evening gazing up at the millions of stars across the clear night skies, before waking to sights and sounds of birds and butterflies. Enhance your stay even further with added packages: a private barbecue dinner or cinema screening with popcorn and pizza for two. Available exclusively for hotel guests.
Truly exceptional! Everything about this place is next level – the room, the view, the facilities, the food, the staff…. And all-inclusive actually means just that! We didn’t want to leave!
10.0
Paul R.AU · 1 escape · 1 review
Fantastic resort, great facilities and welcoming staff. The sea-life while snokling is amazing. Highly recommend.
10.0
Jeff J.AU · 1 escape · 1 review
From arrival at Kooddoo airport to departure our stay at Mercure Maldives Kooddoo was absolutely perfect. Staff were so welcoming and professional and the resort exceeded our expectations in every aspect. We took the all inclusive package and could not fault the quality and selection of all meals and drinks. Our overwater bungalow was exceptional – supremely comfortable, quiet, very private and well appointed. We felt privileged to be in such a wonderful, beautiful and relaxing resort.
10.0
Anne H.AU · 1 escape · 1 review
We had an amazing time! Staff were so lovely and helpful. Our beach pool villa was stunning and we will definitely recommend it to everyone and be back one day
10.0
Wayne D.AU · 6 escapes · 3 reviews
Friendly service. was amazing , the food was outstanding and the accommodation beautiful.
Live like a mermaid
Delight your inner child by becoming a mermaid for the day at Pullman Maldives Maamutaa Resort, donning an iconic tail while earning a PADI diploma. With four skill levels to choose from, even those with no diving or snorkelling experience can take part. Visit the Suvadiva Diving Centre to collect your full-sized tail and meet the expert instructor, who will share their top tips to get you gliding through the water just like Ariel. If living out your mermaid dreams wasn’t on your list of things to do in the Maldives already, it should be.
Best resort we’ve ever stayed at . Everything is included, staff and amenities fantastic. Food and drink unbelievable. The only downside is that it takes a monumental journey to get there and back ( we basically wasted our first and last day of the trip in transit)
10.0
Jorge V.1 escape · 1 review
Stayed at the Pullman for my honeymoon and I can’t say enough good things. It’s a long journey there (from Canada) but so worth it. Food was delicious, villas are stunning, activities are endless. This is a true 5 star experience. My only regret is not staying longer! Do 7 nights minimum!
10.0
Calli T.3 escapes · 1 review
A stunning resort and overall experience. We had peace of mind with all flights and transport taken care of by the wonderful Luxury Escapes team. Once we arrived, we know the Pullman was the epitome of relaxation and luxury. We stayed in a sunrise overwater villa with a pool – absolutely worthwhile. The room is luxurious with an outdoor bathroom and stunning vista and amenities. The dining was all fabulous, expansive range of foods and drink, with everything freshly made. The breakfast pastries at Melange are to die for, and the atmosphere, food at Phat Chameleon delicious and unique & Souq Oven’s pastas were just divine. All inclusive and unlimited dining and drinks is exactly what you would dream of. All of the staff are friendly, helpful (but not overbearing). Our package included a complimentary photoshoot, excursion and activity, we selected a sunset cruise (stunning views) and massage at Pullman Spa. The staff were very attentive to our needs and made us even more relaxed (which we didn’t think was possible after a few nights here)! What a time! Thank you Pullman Maldives & Luxury Escapes for an unforgettable experience!
10.0
Craig R.16 escapes · 1 review
Pullman Maldives All inclusive Villas really is 100% all inclusive – 5 star resort at it's best with first class professional and friendly staff who can't do enough to ensure guests have a first class island resort experience. The reality is every bit as displayed in the glossy advertising brochures.
Simply can't rate this resort highly enough. Well done Pullman Maldives and Luxury Escapes!
10.0
Kathryn R.10 escapes · 1 review
Absolutely amazing holiday, firstly I must mention how friendly, accommodating and professional all the staff were, exceptional service from all staff., they always went out of their way to make sure we had everything we needed and more. We stayed in the beach villa with private pool for first 5 days. Very spacious, great outdoor areas and large outdoor pool surround by tropical plants and just steps away from the crystal clear beach. Then stayed in the over water villa with private pool, watched glorious sunrises over pristine water, surrounded by precious sea life, watched turtles, stingrays, reef sharks and many types of tropical fish swim by. Both villas were very well appointed, mini bar replenished twice daily along with house keeping.
So many activities to do or just relax with a cocktail. Superb food and drink menus at all restaurants and bars. We absolutely did not want to leave and planning to return with family so they experience how amazing the Pullman is.
Snorkel with a marine biologist at Soneva Jani
Discover the biodiversity of the Noonu Atoll with a snorkelling adventure led by a marine biologist at Soneva Jani. Keep an eye out for native sea turtles and manta rays as you admire magnificent Maldivian marine life, creating new memories with the entire family. For a unique experience, wait for the sun to set to join the creatures below for a night snorkel. Available exclusively for hotel guests.
Embrace your competitive side at One&Only Reethi Rah
A list of things to do in the Maldives shouldn’t just include water-based activities: there’s plenty to pique your interest on land too. At One&Only Reethi Rah, play is the name of the day at the exclusive Club One. Choose from padel, tennis, beach volleyball, pétanque and football, with dedicated courts for each dotted around the tropical gardens. Looking for an individual activity? The outdoor climbing wall, The Rock, is sure to challenge your upper body strength. Available exclusively for hotel guests.
Wooow, serenity, healing, service on another level, I mentioned I didn’t like the Oatmilk brand at the Buffet, the next day they changed it.
We loved every dish we ate.
The buffet spoils you with immense variety.
The Mocktails are incredible and bursting with flavour and freshness, special mention to Bilal his concoctions.
I trusted all the staff with my drinks and ordering and just said “surprise me”, they never disappointed.
I did a painting, special thanks to Hridoy Khan who was a great teacher and made a memorable clip.
Thanks to Yusuf, Shaq, Mohammed, Hamza and Shan for bring so welcoming.
The Chefs were also brilliant and visited my table.
10.0
Zamilah D.US · 4 escapes · 1 review
It was amazing especially the staff . They were so attentive much hospitality. I highly recommend this hotel they made the maldives an experience of a lifetime. The bungalows and beach villas were absolutely beautiful . The food was amazing as well.
10.0
Alison M.AU · 3 escapes · 1 review
Outstanding service and the best holiday ever! Staff went above and beyond – the food was amazing, the room so clean. Would highly recommend to anyone looking for an exception hotel in the Maldives!!
10.0
Keely C.AU · 3 escapes · 1 review
Our stay at The Standard Maldives was absolutely amazing from start to finish. The resort and its surroundings are breathtaking—no matter how many photos you take, they simply don’t do the scenery justice.
One of the highlights was being able to step straight off the back of our villa and snorkel in the crystal-clear water. Our villa was beautiful, the food was exceptional, and every member of staff made us feel genuinely welcome. A special mention must go to Shaq, who was exceptionally attentive and helped make our stay even more memorable.
We also had so much fun riding around the island on the provided bikes. Half the adventure was never quite knowing whether your bike would still be where you left it—or whether you’d simply be choosing another one for the trip back!
The entire experience was luxurious, relaxed and fun, and we honestly couldn’t fault a thing. We were very sad to leave and would return in a heartbeat.
10.0
amanda S.AU · 1 escape · 1 review
The Team at The Standard were all amazing, in particular Yusef & Sharn they made our stay extra special and welcomed us into their paradise with open arms. This place was heaven on earth and we will definitely be returning. The accommodation was beautiful, food and beverage options a plenty and the most stunning waters we have ever seen!
Learn the lost art of lacquer at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort
Small-scale arts and crafts have fallen out of fashion the world over, but the artisans of Thulhaadhoo are working to keep the art of Maldivian lacquer handicraft alive. Play your part as you join local craftsmen to discover the technique behind ‘Liye Laajehun’ at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort. Watch as these talented artisans demonstrate this unique skill, before trying your hand at your own lacquerware pieces. You can even take a souvenir piece home with you, a great way to remember a fantastic holiday. Available exclusively for hotel guests.
Greet the sunrise at The Signature Collection by Hideaway
Start your day with an unforgettable sunrise cruise at The Signature Collection by Hideaway. Board a traditional Maldivian-style Dhoni boat before the sun peeks out from behind the horizon, and watch the surrounding landscapes come to life as the light hits the azure waters and lush jungles. Enjoy the simplicity of one-on-one time with your beloved or family, before returning for breakfast at The Oasis. Available exclusively for hotel guests.
Cast away with a picnic at Six Senses Kanuhura
This private island experience will have you adding ‘cast away’ to the top of your list of things to do in the Maldives. Live like Robinson Crusoe on the deserted Massleggihuraa Island, just a 10-minute boat ride from Six Senses Kanuhura. Embrace the luxury of space and time as you relax under coconut trees, swim in the turquoise waters, or say hello to the tropical fish below via snorkel. The resort chefs will make sure you don’t go hungry, with a light lunch, dessert and bottle of wine to keep you fed and watered throughout your visit. Available exclusively for hotel guests.
Great experience flying into Six Sense via Singapore Airlines. Our greeter Nishan from Six Sense was really gracious at the airport, went out of his way to help our entire transit process.
We had fun the first day and our snorkeling guide James has been really helpful.
We took the boat to a remote island and had lunch there. Our waiter Shifou was professional and gracious and we loved the food, especially grilled octopus and lobster dishes.
We had a wonderful Turtle Safari snorkeling session yesterday and we had fun!!! Our snorkeling guide, Abraham from Ocean Team, was a professional diver and snorkeling guide and brought us to see dolphin, shark, turtle, as well as sting ray in the nearby water. Thank you, Abraham.
Every morning we had breakfast at Market and our waiter Ahmed has been very attentive to details. Thank you, Ahmed.
10.0
Tanya A.
It was the first time I was leaving a hotel with a feeling of sadness… and that probably says everything about how special our stay at Six Senses Kanuhura was.
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the hotel management for making every effort to ensure our stay was as comfortable and memorable as possible. You can truly feel the care in every detail — from the warm welcome to the heartfelt farewell.
The island itself is incredibly green, beautiful, and well-maintained. There is a wonderful sense of tranquility, privacy, and natural harmony everywhere. The staff were exceptionally friendly, attentive, and genuinely kind — and it’s the people who create the magic that makes you want to come back again.
The food deserves a special mention — delicious, diverse, and thoughtfully prepared. And the ice cream became our daily joy and a lovely little tradition during our stay.
We would be absolutely delighted to return again.
A special thank you to Patrick, Janko and Executive Chef Kevin Fawkes, who made the culinary experience truly outstanding.
Thank you to the entire Six Senses Kanuhura team for the beautiful memories, warm atmosphere, and the feeling that this is a place you truly don’t want to leave — and can’t wait to return to again.
10.0
Christie S.
The most incredible stay on this island. Our GEM Sameeh was amazing, we will miss him so much! James the islands very own marine biologist!! All the staff made this trip so unforgettable. The Island is beautiful, food fantastic and we saw soo much sea life- much more than other islands in the Maldives. Six Senses really is a very special place!!
10.0
Melanie B.
Unfortunately, we had to leave this dream island today. My family and I spent eight wonderful days here. From the very first moment, we felt incredibly comfortable and welcomed, as if we had arrived in paradise.
All the staff members are exceptionally kind, attentive, and warm-hearted. The food was outstanding, and the breakfast buffet truly left nothing to be desired, a real feast. The island itself is stunning, with beautiful vegetation, and the beach is simply breathtaking.
We would especially like to highlight Zhanna. She took such wonderful care of us, was always helpful, and made everything possible that we needed. We would also like to mention the restaurant manager Vel, who was always charming, attentive, and took great care of us as well.
We would also like to thank Diba from the bar. She was always friendly, attentive, and made every effort to look after us. We have truly taken you all to our hearts.
We will definitely come back. Thank you for this unforgettable experience!
The Bindella Family
