2026 Maafushi Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in January)

Shark Adventure in Maafushi with Velaa Trip! 🦈🌊 Ready for a dose of thrill in paradise? Start your day early at 07:00 with the Velaa Trip from Maafushi Island and plunge into the turquoise waters for an unforgettable shark encounter. Nurse sharks here are absolutely full of personality—curious and approachable, perfect for that once-in-a-lifetime snorkeling experience (just remember: keep those fingers tucked away for peace of mind! 😅). The standard itinerary brings you to the top spots for seeing nurse sharks swirl all around you. A must-do is snorkeling in Fulidhoo, where you’ll be surrounded by dozens of gentle sharks—an adrenaline rush plus unbeatable underwater views. Snap your signature shot with a GoPro as the sun pierces through the sapphire waves and sharks glide around you—totally insta-worthy! This half-day trip usually wraps up by 13:00, leaving your afternoon free for more island adventures or relaxing on the sand. Truly an adventure you’ll remember—and a unique side of the Maldives you’ll want to brag about! #Maafushi #SharkDiving #WaterAdventure #Maldives #TravelNotes #IslandTravel #beachlife

Affordable Maldives vacay? It’s totally possible! 🏝️✨ Let me spill all the deets on our trip to Maafushi Island and the super wallet-friendly Kaani Grand Seaview (Aabaadhee Hingun Road). If you’re dreaming of paradise *without* dropping a fortune, this spot is the move! How to Get to Maafushi 🚤 Maafushi is just a speedy 40-minute speedboat ride away from Male. Vibes are 🤩 as you zoom past dreamy resorts—book your ride in advance with your hotel for max chill. When you arrive, the Kaani Grand Seaview squad meets you right at the dock, handles your luggage, and gets you checked in fast. So easy! Hotel Location & Room Tour 🛏️🌊 This hotel sits right in the middle of Maafushi’s tourist zone, *literally* steps from Bikini Beach. It’s perfect for sunrise swims and sunset strolls! We stayed in the family seaview room—one double and one single bed, plus a balcony with ocean views that are always on point. (Quads are cheaper but tucked into the corners, so the views are not as epic.) The room had plenty of space, a nice bathroom, and a fridge—plus bonus points for the prayer Athan vibes during the day. The hotel itself is a little older, but super clean, well-kept, and totally comfy. Lots of guests rave about the room size and the views! Amenities & Activities 💆♀️🏋️♂️ You get a small gym, an on-site spa for those treat-yourself moments, and loads of tours to book right from the hotel. Prices for excursions? Shockingly good! Kaani Grand Seaview offers half-day trips from $55 per person—swimming, lunch, sandbanks, all the dreamy Maldives stuff. Just ask at reception and you’ll be set for adventure. Most people hitting Maafushi go for these affordable tours to stretch their budget! Eating & Shopping 🍽️🛍️ The area around the hotel is packed with food spots and souvenir shops. Pro tip: souvenir prices are waaaay better here than at Male airport, so browse around and snag your keepsakes. Why Kaani Grand Seaview Is the Move 🦑 This hotel is *such* a win for budget Maldives lovers. Surrounded by epic Indian Ocean views for less than what you’d expect—how is this real life? Plus, the staff is super friendly and helpful. There’s always room for improvement, but overall the service is solid and welcoming. Final Verdict ✔️ Would 100% go back—Maafushi and the Kaani Grand Seaview hit that perfect combo of affordable, comfy, and beautiful. For anyone chasing Maldives magic on a budget, this is a must-try. Book with trip.com to lock in the best deals, and let the island dreams begin! #maldiveshotel

With a budget of 5000 RMB, a trip to the Maldives may not be luxurious, but you can definitely plan a cost-effective 6-day trip to enjoy the wonderful holiday of blue skies, white sands, and crystal-clear seas. Here is a practical and fun Maldives travel guide tailored just for you～--- 🌴【Maldives 6-Day In-Depth Travel Guide｜Explore Paradise Island with 5000 RMB】🌴--- 1. Budget Allocation Reference | Item | Cost (RMB) | Description | |------------|----------------|------------------------------------------| | Airfare | 2000-2500 | Book early for special fares, choose connecting flights for cheaper options | | Island Accommodation | 1500-1700 | Choose local resident islands (such as Maafushi Island near Malé) with budget guesthouses or inns | | Food & Drink | 600-800 | Mainly local small restaurants and markets, avoid resort restaurants | | Transportation | 300-400 | Speedboat and ferry fees connecting Malé and resident islands | | Activities & Entertainment | 200-300 | Snorkeling, island tours, beach BBQs, and other budget-friendly activities | 2. Detailed Itinerary Recommendations Day 1: Arrive in Malé — Head to Maafushi Island- After arriving at Malé Airport, take a ferry or speedboat to Maafushi, about a 45-minute ride, with affordable tickets and an authentic local island experience.- Check in and rest to adjust to the time difference. In the evening, take a stroll on the island to enjoy the sunset and soak in the relaxed island atmosphere. Day 2: Snorkeling on Maafushi Island + Experience Island Life- Join a local one-day snorkeling tour to explore colorful corals and tropical fish, cost-effective without spending much.- In the afternoon, try local snacks, recommended are the local flying fish rice and coconut water, refreshing and appetizing.- In the evening, join a beach BBQ party with other travelers to enjoy the exotic atmosphere by the firelight. Day 3: Half-Day “Uninhabited Sandbank” Tour- Book the popular local “Uninhabited Sandbank” yacht day tour, relax on a private beach, take beautiful photos, and enjoy exclusive island scenery.- Lunch is usually included, experience an authentic seafood BBQ set.- Return to the island in the evening for free activities, recommended to visit the island’s café. Day 4: Malé Cultural Exploration + Blue Stairs Experience- Take a boat back to Malé, visit the Maldives National Museum, Sunday Market, and Presidential Palace to feel the charm of the small city.- Check in at Malé’s landmark—the Blue Stairs, and take trendy photos!- For dinner, try seafood BBQ stalls, delicious and affordable. Day 5: Leisure Beach Day + Relaxing Massage- Enjoy the sunshine and sea breeze at the public beaches of Maafushi Island or Malé, experience a leisurely holiday.- Recommended to have an affordable massage at a local spa to relieve travel fatigue.- Capture the sunset over the sea in the evening and prepare for the return trip the next day. Day 6: Return — End of a Wonderful Journey- Arrange breakfast according to your flight schedule and head to the airport, say goodbye to the pure waters, and return home full of memories.--- 3. Practical Tips- **Flight Booking**: Monitor special fares and connecting flight times 1-2 months in advance, flexibly adjust departure dates to save on airfare.- **Accommodation Choice**: Resident islands like Maafushi are much cheaper than resorts and offer the most authentic Maldivian experience.- **Transportation**: The Maldives mainly relies on speedboats and ferries; confirm schedules in advance to avoid waiting.- **Food Recommendations**: Avoid resort restaurants, choose street-side small eateries for authentic flavors and reasonable prices.- **Sun Protection Gear**: UV rays are strong; sunscreen and sun-protective clothing are essential!- **Safety First**: Pay attention to safety while snorkeling, do not go alone, and follow guide instructions.--- ✨This is how you can enjoy the Maldives with 5000 RMB, full of cost-effectiveness! Spend every day in pure seawater, white sand, and beautiful coral, experience a different kind of “luxury,” and feel the true “paradise” vibe. Ready? Quickly save this guide, bring your good mood, and start your exclusive Maldives island adventure!🏝️🐠☀️--- Wish you a pleasant journey～! Paradise Island Velana International Airport Maldives National Museum

So seasickness medicine is very important❗❗❗ Maafushi Island is a relatively popular inhabited island in the Maldives, about 1.4 kilometers long and 0.3 kilometers wide, with a high degree of commercialization and relatively complete facilities. At that time, I was torn between Maafushi (more people) and Fulidhoo Island (small and beautiful), and finally chose Maafushi because it is close to Malé and has many boat trips. It turned out to be the right choice. On the morning of the island landing, the weather was bad, and the public ferry was directly canceled, so we had to take a speedboat. Not exaggerating, in half a day after landing, we had already circled the island three times, but such a small island has many hotels (both built and under construction), beaches, restaurants, sports fields, supermarkets, even a prison and BMW cars. 👣 Three days and two nights itinerary Day 1: Malé → Maafushi P3-12, stay at KUE Hotel Maafushi Day 2: Maafushi day trip (Fulidhoo Island P13-14 → Shark Bay P15 → Uninhabited Sandbank P16), stay at Liyah Spa Hotel Day 3: Maafushi Island → Malé 🚢 Island transportation 1️⃣ Speedboat 📍 Pier 6, 45 minutes, $15 / 255 Rufiyaa (stops at Gulhi Island) 2️⃣ Public ferry 306/309 etc., 1.5 hours / 22 Rufiyaa (often canceled due to weather, we tried to take it both ways but it was always canceled, never caught one) 🎡 Entertainment 1️⃣ Half-day sea tour $30 / full-day tour starting at $60 (Shark Bay, Shipwreck Bay, turtles, Fulidhoo, uninhabited sandbank, etc.) includes underwater photography, simple lunch and drinking water, life jackets, snorkeling gear, towels, etc. Bargaining is possible🔪, drone photography $15 and swim ring $5 charged separately⚠ Bring seasickness medicine, Shark Bay stays on the sea for more than an hour for photo sessions, half the boat got seasick and vomited 2️⃣ Resort island day trip starting at $100, day experiences on several nearby resort islands, including hotel visits, meals, and drinks 3️⃣ Scuba diving / free diving 4️⃣ Paid activities like paddleboarding, jet skiing, banana boat rides 5️⃣ Beach lounging 🆓 Bikini Beach and Sunset Beach 🍚 Food 1️⃣ Navio: Top-ranked restaurant on Google, ordered kottu and pizza burger, pretty good 2️⃣ Sunbeach Café & Restaurant: A restaurant popular with locals, fried fish and chips, kottu, and cream soup were not to my taste 3️⃣ Hot Bite: A small place with many white customers, both Western and local dishes 4️⃣ Hiyala Mariyaad: Popular Indian restaurant 5️⃣ Sultan Mahal: Air-conditioned popular spot 6️⃣ Fish Island: Has a pizza oven at the entrance, quite a few white diners Safety first when traveling in the Maldives, especially for water activities. Whether on resort islands or inhabited islands, try to protect the environment and marine life.

Maafushi Island is a place where active and beach holidays blend perfectly! I've visited it 5 times this year, and every time I want to return! The island is home to wonderful locals! Companies offer emotional and exciting excursions! More than 50 cafes and restaurants are ready to treat you to delicious dishes! Everyone will find something to enjoy, from snorkeling to diving, active sports, or simply relaxing on the beach!

Dreaming of a place where the ocean melts into the sky? ✨ Welcome to the Maldives — a paradise of crystal lagoons, sun-kissed beaches, and luxury that floats above the sea. 🏝️ Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a friends’ adventure, or a solo soul-recharge, this weekend getaway itinerary will have you falling in love with island life: 🌤️ Day 1: Check into your overwater villa & enjoy a sunset dinner by the shore. 🐠 Day 2: Go snorkeling with reef sharks, cruise with dolphins & unwind at a beachfront spa. ☀️ Day 3: Savor a lazy breakfast before a dip in the turquoise waters — then fly home with your heart still in paradise. 💭 Top Things to Do: 1. Dive into coral reefs alive with color 🌈 2. Island hop to Maafushi or Thulusdhoo for local vibes 🏖️ 3. Dine under the sea at Ithaa or on the sand beneath the stars 🌌 Maldives isn’t just a destination — it’s a feeling you’ll never forget. #falladventures #myitinerary #resorts #familytravel #seascapes #naturalwonders #weekendgetaway

We went to maafushi three. so we made an early booking for 5 days 4 nights throughout the trip to the Maldives . Our choice was a triple room facing the sea at a price of rm2800. This hotel provides good facilities and we received good service throughout there. Opposite the hotel there is a cafe to hang out and a private beach specifically for hotel guests and you can wear a bikini on the beach. Other facilities are the provision of transport from the airport to maafushi island at a rate of usd25 and there is a shutter bus from the jetty to the hotel. The hotel also has a restaurant that provides halal food. Overall we are satisfied with staying at this hotel. #maldiveshotel #travel #maldivestrip #october2025

🌴 Maafushi Island, Maldives — Paradise with a Local Touch This island is seriously a whole vibe! Just 30 minutes by speedboat from Malé International Airport, Maafushi is THE spot for tropical views, local adventures, coconut palms, and Insta-worthy sunsets — without the boujee resort prices. If you want to dive into Maldivian culture and still chill by turquoise seas, Maafushi’s got your back! ☀️ Why You Need Maafushi on Your Bucket List - Affordable Paradise: Beachfront stays for waaay less than the luxury resorts. - Bikini Beach Bliss: Soft white sand + insane blue water = peak sunbathing and splashing. - Non-Stop Adventure: Snorkeling, dolphin cruises, sandbank picnics, jet skis, and underwater magic? Yes please! - Real Island Life: Dig into local eats, meet friendly vibes, and snap pics with epic modern buildings and cute cafés. 🏖️ Where to Stay — Arena Beach Hotel Wake up to beachy feels at Arena Beach Hotel (Beach Road, Maafushi, Maldives). The rooms are super modern with jaw-dropping ocean views from your balcony, rooftop jacuzzi for max relaxation, and a seaside grill for tasty bites. Arena Highlights: - Step directly onto Bikini Beach 🌊 - Rooftop pool + legendary sunset lounge 🌅 - On-site Coco Grill (Maldivian + international food) 🍴 - Daily excursions: Diving, dolphins, sandbanks, and more! 🐬 — Open 24/7, check trip.com for rates and booking! 🌺 Pro Tips for Maafushi Magic - Best time to visit? December to April for sunshine and chill waves. - Outside Bikini Beach, dress modestly (just respectful island style!). - Pack reef-safe sunscreen to save those tropical seas. - Bring cash for cute local shops and markets. ✨ Maafushi = Maldives for EVERYONE Sky-blue water, swaying palms, and nonstop good energy — all just a quick speedboat away. Paradise doesn’t have to break the bank, and Maafushi proves it!

#maldiveshotel Stay at the Waldorf Astoria and, in addition to luxury accommodation, have fun. The exclusive area not far from the residence is open to fishing and the sea breeze awaits the catch, which is pleasant. Snorkelling is a must, and diving into the sea in gear, surrounded by colorful coral and tropical fish, is like breaking into a fantasy undersea world. These activities are assisted by a person who doesn't have to be prepared, just immersive. Waldorf's classic sense of luxury swoops in from the moment you step into the lobby, with crystal lamps and artwork lining the space in style and warmth. The meal is even more surprising, whether it's fine afternoon tea or breakfast dinner at the restaurant, with every bite of ingenuity tucked away. I highly recommend friends who love food to come and play here. The various play project designs are very interesting. The butler service, always able to think ahead of my needs, took care of the details, it was too comfortable to stay.

The Maldives, a tropical paradise in the Indian Ocean made up of around 1,200 coral islands, is home to some of the world's most stunning beaches, overwater villas, and diving spots. Whether you're on a honeymoon, a family vacation, or a solo retreat, the Maldives offers an escape into a world of blue skies, white sands, and crystal-clear waters. 🏝️ 📸 Photos have been successfully uploaded, showcasing the Maldives' overwater villas, white sandy beaches, and breathtaking ocean views. Come and experience the charm of this dreamy island destination! --- 🗺️ Highlights of Maldives Travel Category | Recommended Activities and Locations 🌊 Ocean Adventures | Snorkeling, diving, kayaking, windsurfing, underwater walking, fishing 🏝️ Island Retreats | Overwater villa stays, private beaches, spa treatments, sunset cruises 🐠 Eco Exploration | Turtle conservation centers, shark watching, coral reef tours 🍽️ Culinary Delights | Seafood BBQ, Indian Ocean cuisine, infinity ocean-view dining 💍 Romantic Escapes | Couple's spa, beachside dinners, stargazing proposals, private island picnics --- 🏨 Hotel Recommendations (By Style) Category | Hotel Name 💎 Luxury All-Inclusive | Soneva Fushi, Baros Maldives, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli 🏄 Activity-Focused | Meeru Island Resort, Centara Ras Fushi 🌿 Eco-Friendly | Gili Lankanfushi, Six Senses Laamu 💑 Honeymoon Romantic | Hurawalhi Island Resort (Adults Only) 💰 Budget-Friendly | Maafushi Guesthouses, Kaani Palm Beach --- 📅 Suggested Itinerary: 5 Days 4 Nights in the Maldives Day 1｜Arrival + Overwater Villa Check-In • Take a speedboat or seaplane to your resort island • Check into your overwater villa → Stroll along the beach + relax by the infinity pool • Dinner at an ocean-view restaurant with fresh seafood Day 2｜Ocean Activities + Spa Indulgence • Morning snorkeling or diving → Explore coral reefs and tropical fish • Afternoon spa treatment or sunset cruise • Evening beachside candlelight dinner Day 3｜Island Hopping + Cultural Experience • Boat trip to a local island → Visit markets and mosques • Enjoy a traditional Maldivian home-cooked meal • Evening stargazing or beach party Day 4｜Free Activities + Photo Ops • Choose your activity: underwater walking, kayaking, windsurfing • Capture photos of overwater villas, beaches, sunsets, and ocean views • Dinner recommendation: private island picnic or chef's special menu Day 5｜Breakfast + Departure • Enjoy breakfast before checking out • Take a speedboat or seaplane back to Malé Airport • End your dreamy island getaway --- 💡 Travel Tips • 📅 Best Travel Season: November to April (dry season with sunny weather) • 💵 Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR); resorts widely accept USD and credit cards • 📱 Stay connected: Purchase a local SIM card or eSIM • 🧴 Essentials: Bring sunscreen, rash guards, and snorkeling gear • 🚫 Eco-Friendly Reminder: Avoid touching corals or feeding marine life • 📸 Photography Tip: Best lighting for overwater villas and beaches is during sunrise and sunset ---

🪸Life is truly incomplete without visiting the Maldives at least once. How long has it been since you experienced such a slow-paced life? Put down your phone and disconnect from the internet. Every day, just wake up and fall asleep to the sound of the waves, lying in a sea of blue and green. The island breeze and the pouring rain are both incredibly pleasant💐. Playing with the sea, colorful fish, and hermit crabs, and before you know it, another day has passed. Having a well-planned itinerary is truly wonderful. Every day, enjoy different delicious foods, snorkeling, and the perfect combination of room views and service. Recommended itinerary🏝️ 🐚Day 1: Fly from Kuala Lumpur to Malé, have lunch at Burger King, then take a ferry to Maafushi Island. After check-in, sign up for sea activities. 🐚Day 2: Dolphin watching, manta rays, lunch on the white sandbank, snorkeling at the shipwreck site, swimming with sharks. 🐚Day 3: Speedboat trip to find whale sharks and manta rays, lunch on Dhigurah Island, snorkeling at Coral Garden. 🐚Day 4: Explore and take photos on the island, enjoy the sunset on the beach, prepare mosquito repellent. 🐚Day 5: Ferry back to Malé, be sure to board the correct boat, taxi to the airport, then take a speedboat to the resort island and check into a beach villa. 🐚Day 6: Stay in an overwater villa at the resort island, admire small sharks and fish underwater, enjoy a buffet dinner followed by games and a live band performance. 🐚Day 7: Speedboat back to Malé, take the ferry to the pier, visit the city seafood market, watch fishing boats feed the stingrays at dusk. 🐚Day 8: Transit in Kuala Lumpur with visa-free entry, taxi around to explore and eat durian, return to the airport in the evening. ✈️Day 9: Fly from Kuala Lumpur to Guangzhou. ❤️Must-bring items: mosquito repellent, snorkeling gear, sun-protective clothing, waterproof sunscreen, beach shoes, sunglasses, hat, basic medicine, waterproof phone case, facial cleansing wipes.

Think Maldives is too expensive? How about this place? Maafushi Island, filled with locals, offers affordable prices and hotels, making it a great destination for a budget-friendly Maldives trip! For backpackers, we recommend the 'Kaani Grand Seaview' hotel on Maafushi. Why we recommend it 🤗 ✅ Just a 1-minute walk to the beach ✅ Around 100,000 KRW per night

My recent stay at Kaani Palm Beach Resort on Maafushi Island was absolutely unforgettable! If you’re looking for a luxury-like Maldives experience without breaking the bank, this is the place. The hotel is located right on Bikini Beach, so the ocean is literally at your doorstep. Waking up to panoramic sea views from my balcony every morning was surreal. The highlight for me? The rooftop infinity pool — it’s the tallest in the Maldives and offers jaw-dropping sunset views 🌅. I also tried their romantic beach dinner, which was magical with candlelight and the sound of waves. The staff were incredibly friendly and arranged snorkeling trips, dolphin watching, and even a visit to a floating bar. Their Infinite Café served delicious international dishes, and the breakfast buffet had great variety. Highly recommend Kaani Palm Beach for couples, solo travelers, or families seeking an authentic, affordable Maldivian escape! 🌺 #TripMoments #Maldives #Maafushi #KaaniPalmBeach #BeachResort #IslandVibes #MaldivesOnABudget #TravelWithTrip #maldiveshotel

#asiabudgetchallenge If you thought the Maldives were only for luxury resorts, think again. Maafushi is one of the budget-friendly local islands, and I absolutely loved it. White sand, turquoise water, and all the snorkeling you could want — for a fraction of the usual price! I joined a half-day island hopping tour, ate grilled fish under palm trees, and stayed at a guesthouse steps from the beach. 📍Destination: Maafushi, Maldives 💸Rough Budget: $60 (guesthouse, tours, food) 💡Top Tip: Book local tours in person — they’re cheaper than booking online!

Budget Maldives Guide: Limited Funds, Unlimited Romance I. Affordable Accommodation Recommendations Guesthouses on Local Islands: Many Maldivian islands have local residents where guesthouses offer relatively affordable stays, typically ranging from $50-$150 per night. Recommended islands: Maafushi, Hulhumale, Dhiffushi. Hostels: Hulhumale has several hostels offering dorm beds for $20-$50, ideal for backpackers. Camping: Some local islands provide camping services—bring your own tent or rent locally for even lower costs. II. Transportation Options Public Ferries: The cheapest option but time-consuming with limited schedules. Best for travelers with flexible time. Speedboats: Faster but pricier; consider sharing rides with other travelers to reduce costs. Seaplanes: Expensive but offer breathtaking aerial views of the Maldives, suitable for those with ample budgets. III. Food Recommendations Local Snacks: Affordable and delicious. Must-tries: Maldivian fish soup (Garudhiya), fried fish balls (Masroshi), coconut cake (Bambukeylu hiti). Night Markets: Hulhumale’s night market is perfect for sampling local cuisine at great prices with diverse options. Self-Catering: Some guesthouses provide kitchen facilities—buy groceries and cook to save money. IV. Free or Low-Cost Activities Beach Walks: Maldives’ beaches are free! Enjoy the sun, sand, and sea breeze. Snorkeling: Many local islands have stunning coral reefs nearby—bring your own gear or rent to explore underwater. Sunset Views: The Maldives’ sunsets are mesmerizing; find a quiet spot to soak it in. Village Visits: Experience local Maldivian life and culture for a unique perspective. V. Travel Tips Book Early: Prices for accommodation and transport rise during peak season; book ahead for better deals. Off-Season Travel: May–October is the low season with cheaper rates and fewer tourists. Compare Options: When booking activities or rentals, compare providers for the best value. Respect Local Culture: The Maldives is a Muslim country—dress modestly and avoid public alcohol consumption. VI. Sample Itinerary (5 Days, 4 Nights) Day 1: Arrive in Malé, check into a Hulhumale guesthouse, explore the night market. Day 2: Take a ferry to Maafushi, check in, snorkel or stroll the beach in the afternoon. Day 3: Join a day trip to a sandbank for picnics and snorkeling. Day 4: Immerse in local culture—visit a village and learn to cook Maldivian dishes. Day 5: Return to Malé for souvenirs before departure. VII. Budget Estimate (Per Person) Accommodation: $200–$400 Transport: $100–$200 Food: $100–$200 Activities: $100–$200 Total: $500–$1,000

💰 1. Budget-conscious? Check these 3 spending tiers! ▪️ Budget-friendly (5k-8k/person) - Local island experience: Stay at Maafushi guesthouses (¥200/night), join island-hopping tours ($50/day), snorkel with sharks + drone photoshoots on sandbanks - Pro tip: Stock up on bottled water at supermarkets ($1/bottle) – resort prices are 10x higher! ▪️ Mid-range luxury (10k-15k/person) - All-inclusive resorts: Kuramathi Island (with meals + snorkeling), featuring a glowing 1.8km sandbank - Hidden perk: Higher chance of free water villa upgrades! Book 3 nights in low season for a free sunset cruise ▪️ Splurge-worthy (20k+) - Slide villas: Soneva Jani or OZEN, with underwater restaurants + private plane tours - Exclusive experiences: Muraka underwater bedroom (5m deep blue dream!), honeymoon champagne + starlit cinema🎬 🌴 2. Top 5 zero-complaint attractions | Avoid crowds 1. Maafushi Island ✅ Swim with nurse sharks: Meet at 9AM pier, $20 for feeding + Life of Pi-style photos ✅ Blue tears nights: Rainy season exclusive! Bioluminescent beaches like scattered diamonds🌌 2. Furaveri Sandbank ✨ Instagram heaven: Walk to sea center at 4PM low tide, drone "mirror of sky" shots (wear bright dresses!) 3. Baa Atoll UNESCO Reserve 🤿 Divers' paradise: Aug-Oct manta ray storms! Meet whale shark groups (AOW certification required) 4. Velaa Private Island starlight dinner 🌠 Romance overload: Champagne + constellation cake = 99% proposal success rate💍 5. Male Fish Market 🐟 Ultimate local vibe: 6AM tuna auctions, $10 for unlimited sashimi! 🚤 3. Perfect 5D4N itinerary Day1: Island intro - Arrive Male → 30min speedboat to local island → check-in → sunset fishing (eat your catch) Day2: Ocean adventure - AM: Island-hopping + manta rays + sandbank photos - PM: Jet ski tour → night snorkel with glowing coral Day3: Dual-island day - Local island → Furaveri ($120 entry) → sandbank + glass-bottom boat → leave by 4PM Day4: Culture + chill - AM: Male mosque visit + coconut souvenir shopping - PM: Underwater spa → sunset dolphin cruise Day5: Return in style - 9AM seaplane photos → airport tuna jerky (5% tax refund) 🦞 4. Foodie guide | $30/person feasts 🔥 Local secrets - Male night market: $1 fish balls! Spicy curry soup with roshi bread - Homestay kitchens: $15 coconut crab curry (free mango sticky rice!) 🍹 Resort must-tries - Ithaa Undersea Restaurant: Lunch 50% cheaper! Lobster pasta + champagne (book window seats 1 month ahead) - Maldive Lady cocktail: Alcohol-free coconut-pineapple-mint blend 🏝️ 💣 Avoid - "Seafood platters" – often frozen. Grilled fish is safer. 🛖 5. Accommodation tips 👉 Best local island stay - Arena Beach Hotel: Prime Maafushi location with free kayaks + shark guides 👉 Top resorts - Couples: Soneva Jani slide villas (slide into the ocean!) - Families: Centara Grand's free kids club = parents' dive time

📍Location: Maafushi Island, Maldives The Maldives is a popular honeymoon resort. Do you think it's too expensive? You can actually go to the Maldives as if you were traveling to Southeast Asia🙌✨ I went there for 150,000 yen in total for 3 nights and 4 days, all inclusive! ! ! 💰: Airfare: 56,000 yen round trip from Japan This price is amazing, isn't it? I went there in mid-March on China Eastern Airlines via Shanghai. I compared daily prices on Skyscanner and booked on Trip.com. 💰: Maafushi Island Hotel: 12,800 yen per night If you don't stay in a villa or overwater cottage, there are plenty of hotels in this price range! The hotel we stayed at included breakfast and dinner, had an ocean view, was beachfront, and had a pool on the rooftop, so it was the best value for money. 📍: Triton Prestige Seaview and Spa 💰: Hotel tour US$60 per person per day = about 9,000 yen Many large hotels hold their own tours. Guests can use them at a discount. Shark swimming, dolphin watching, landing on a deserted island, and lunch are included, so you can enjoy a whole day for this price. I made a reservation at the hotel the day before 🙌 💰: Diving 2 boats US$100 = about 15,000 yen This is cheap including rental! If you are a diver, you will want to dive in the Indian Ocean at least once, and I was very satisfied with seeing various creatures. 💰: Maafushi ↔︎ Capital Male Round trip boat US$60 = about 9,000 yen Even if you add in lunch and souvenirs, the total cost including airfare was less than 143,000 yen. The sparkling sea and dinner under the stars on the beach are all great memories🏝️🌌 If you found this helpful, please leave a like or comment🙏☺️ #overseastraveltips #overseasviewintroduction #overseastransport #maldives #maldivestrip #overseastravel #overseas #beach #beachresort #diving #scubadiving #maldives #maldivestrip #beach #beachlife #scubadiving #chinaeasternairlines #040photo

#maldivestrip When people think of the Maldives, they often imagine sky-high prices and luxury resorts. But honestly, it doesn’t have to be that way! If you’ve got a high budget, sure—staying at a resort island is a dream come true. Think overwater villas, infinity pools, and days of pure relaxation. It’s the perfect spot to totally unwind and treat yourself. But if you’re on a smaller budget and still dreaming of the Maldives? Maafushi Island is your go-to. It’s a local island that gives you the full tropical experience without breaking the bank—and absolutely no regrets! One of the best parts? You can still enjoy exciting excursions like snorkeling, diving, and island hopping—without the hefty resort markup. These kinds of activities can get pretty pricey at private islands, but on Maafushi, they’re way more affordable. Location-wise, Maafushi is just a 30-minute speedboat ride south of Malé, the capital. Boats run from early morning (around 7am) to late at night (10pm), so getting there is super convenient. It’s actually one of the most developed local islands in terms of tourism, with smooth operations and good infrastructure.

Maafushi is one of the most famous islands in the Maldives, attracting tourists from all over the world with its friendly local atmosphere and diverse activities. The island features beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and shops selling fresh fruits, juices, and various local snacks. Additionally, there are numerous activities for adventure lovers, such as deep-sea diving, coral reef viewing, and beach volleyball, allowing visitors to relax and fully enjoy nature. Maafushi is an ideal destination for a simple and warm vacation.

#coupletravel We celebrated our anniversary in style at Maafushi Island, and it was nothing short of perfection! Our stunning beachfront villa offered breathtaking sunset views, while crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs beckoned us to snorkel and dive. Delicious seafood and romantic beach dinners made every evening special. The warm, attentive staff ensured a seamless stay, making our anniversary truly unforgettable. Maafushi's tranquil atmosphere, pristine beauty, and exceptional hospitality exceeded our expectations. Book a beachfront villa for unparalleled views, explore hidden coves, and indulge in sunset cruises and local seafood. Maafushi Island is a true Maldivian gem for a romantic getaway.

#coupletravel The Maldives was our first stop on the world trip, and you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy it. For example, staying on local islands like Maafushi is a budget-friendly option. Maafushi is located in the Kaafu Atoll, about 26 kilometers (16 miles) south of the capital, Malé. It’s accessible by a 30-40 minute speedboat ride or a 90-minute public ferry from Malé. ▪️Local Island: Maafushi is a local island with guesthouses, offering a more affordable and culturally immersive experience compared to the resort islands. ▪️Pristine Beaches: While it’s a local island, Maafushi still boasts stunning beaches, especially the dedicated “Bikini Beach” where tourists can swim and sunbathe in swimsuits, as the rest of the island adheres to local customs. ▪️Water Activities: The island offers a range of water-based activities, such as snorkeling, diving, jet-skiing, and dolphin-watching trips. It's also a gateway to nearby sandbanks and resorts for day visits. #100waysoftravel #Maafushi #Maldives #LocalIsland #AffordableTravel #SnorkelingMaldives

At **COMO Cocoa Island**, the food experience is as luxurious as the island itself, offering delicious and thoughtfully prepared meals throughout the day. Whether you’re starting your morning with a healthy breakfast or indulging in a delicious dinner, the resort’s dining options are guaranteed to impress. ### **Breakfast: Fresh and Energizing** Start your day at the **Ufaa Restaurant**, where breakfast is served with the ocean as your backdrop. The menu focuses on light, healthy options like fresh fruit platters, smoothies, and yogurt bowls. But if you prefer something heartier, they also offer eggs any way you like, pancakes, and freshly baked pastries. Their signature green juice is the perfect boost for a day filled with adventure or relaxation. ### **Lunch: Light and Delicious** Lunch at COMO Cocoa Island is all about balance. You can enjoy a variety of light dishes, from freshly caught seafood to Mediterranean-inspired salads. The fish tacos and Maldivian curry are crowd favorites, giving you a taste of local flavors while keeping the meal light. Whether dining by the pool or at the beachfront restaurant, each bite feels like a celebration of fresh ingredients and expert cooking. ### **Dinner: Indulgence Under the Stars** For dinner, **Ufaa Restaurant** transforms into an elegant setting, perfect for indulging in beautifully presented dishes. The menu offers a range of international cuisine with a focus on seafood, grilled meats, and vegetarian options. One of the highlights is the **Maldivian lobster**, which pairs perfectly with a glass of wine. Dining under the stars makes for an unforgettable experience. ### **Room Amenities: Thoughtful Touches** We arrived at the island in the late afternoon, and to our delight, the room was stocked with a selection of freshly made sandwiches and drinks. The room itself was stunning, featuring overwater villas with direct access to the lagoon. Thoughtful amenities, like a Nespresso machine, soft bathrobes, and fresh fruit, made our stay even more comfortable. It’s these little touches that truly set COMO Cocoa Island apart. With its exceptional dining options and luxurious room amenities, COMO Cocoa Island offers an unforgettable blend of relaxation and indulgence. #COMOCocoaIsland #CulinaryDelights #MaldivesDining

#100WaysOfTravel #couplestrip #awesomepic #indianocean #beachy #maldives #maafushi Othen than Arena Beach Hotel, the hotel under Kaani group can be one of the top option for you to go for if you are travelling to the Maldives local Maafushi island. Same as Arena, this is a 4-stars hotel as well and also located in front of the bikini beach where you can just wear the bikini to swim here (the only place to wear bikini in Maafushi) and see the sunset directly. Reminder: - Do arrange with the hotel directly for the speedboat transfer at least 3 days in advanced as this is the only way for you to come. Overall Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟

#100WaysOfTravel #couplestrip #awesomepic #deliciousfood #maldives #maafushi #indianfood This is one of the sought after Maldivian-Indian food in Maafushi island. This restaurant is just next to our Arena Star Beach Hotel, just a stone walking distance away. The waiter was so friendly and welcoming, even offer us a free drinking water since we just ordered food (actually we just done had a drink at a small stall and we are enough with drinks). We ordered Egg Briyani and Chapati, the taste was great and strongly recommend to come try it out if you are coming over to Maafushi!

#Sea travel Open the experience of going on a diving tour with sharks in Maldives. Ask how is it different from our home or other places? The tour here will allow us to swim and dive among Nurse Sharks Big nurse sharks 🦈 Take pictures with stingrays Close up If you're lucky, you'll see a large school of dolphins in the crystal clear sea! At an affordable price, starting at only 60 USD, including everything, such as Round-trip speedboat fare, staff care, complete equipment Mask, Snorkel and Fins, someone will take you underwater for free, and 1 lunch 🌟The guide will pick us up at the hotel early in the morning at 07.15. Our program today will be called Sharkbay Tour, will take us to Sandbank / Shark Point, a swimming point with nurse sharks / Take pictures with stingrays and have lunch on the island Fulidhoo / Go swimming with dolphins (depending on your luck) This price will include various swimming equipment, Snorkel mask / Fins / towel, lunch with drinking water and photography fee Underwater with free video!! ❤️If anyone wants a drone angle at any point and wants the team to take pictures for you, there will be an additional charge of 15 USD (550 baht) per person. But from what I've been to, I recommend Shark Point. It's the most worthwhile and the most beautiful. For those who have a drone and want to fly it yourself, there's no charge. 🏖️The first point we'll go to is Sandbank, a long white beach. Between the left and right seas, we'll have half an hour to take pictures. Then we'll take a boat for another 40 minutes to Shark Point. When we got there, even though we saw the real thing from the surface of the water, oh my, it's so big. But don't be afraid. The guide will advise us on how not to use our hands to swim back and forth because the fish will think that our hands are fish. Then we put on Fins and go down to the waiting point. 📸An easy way to get this picture for those who can't swim is to put on a life jacket and go down into the water. The guide will take care of us one by one. We'll have to lie on our backs in the same position as in the cover photo. Then he'll slowly pull us into the middle of the frame. Therefore, we won't see the fish. It's not scary at all. But you might be a little shocked at first because they will swim close to us sometimes. If we let them lie still, their bodies will be a bit rough. After a while, they will adjust. The team will fly the drone to take pictures for us until it's finished. The guide will come and swim back to the waiting point. 😝After everyone has finished taking pictures from the back angle, this time we will take some underwater pictures. Like Am who can't swim, she will float and snorkel instead. They will take us into the middle of the forest. 555 So close, skin to skin. They will circle into the frame and ask to take a selfie with us. So cute. After they're done, they will take us to Fulidhoo Island. When we get down They will take us to take pictures with the stingrays first. If you have a drone, you can take pictures yourself. After that, they will take us to eat. They will put it in a lunch box for us, which is rice and grilled fish, eaten with fruit salad. They will give us about 30 minutes to take pictures, swim on the island, and then take us back to the island to end the trip in a great way. If anyone comes to the Maldives and visits Maafushi Island, don't forget to try it! 🤩 #MaldivesReview #SwimmingWithSharks

#islandtours #100WaysOfTravel Maafushi island is nowadays a popular local island that the tourist will visit other than the private islands in Maldives!! No fancy resort here but you will get to enjoy the same Indian Ocean View and sunset with the same beauty level with a much more lower price. All watersports such as Parasailing, Jet Ski, Kayaking or the tour for Sunset cruise, Nurse shark tour, snorkelling tour and Dolphin cruise are available and definitely, the price is more and more cheaper making comparison with the private resort!! If you are coming to Maldives and you will be staying at least 1 week and above, do give a chance to Maafushi for a day trip OR stay for 1 night here👍🏻👍🏻 Mandatory transfer: Speedboat ( 25 min from Malé Airport) Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟

#beachcheck #100WaysOfTravel Arriving Maafushi Jetty and continue to go straight for 2-3 minutes, you will see this small stall on the left side selling the juices and smoothies. Me and my husband love it so much as we can spend like the whole hour here chilling while looking at the sea view in front of the beach !! Surprisingly, they even provide FREE Wifi so that you could surf the internet with peace of mind !!!!! A must mention thing, the boss is a young guy who is very friendly and talkative!! Had a quick chat with him and got to know that he will be moving to Bali next year as he is getting married with his Bali girlfriend soon !!! For those who visit to Maafushi this year, do not miss out this stall 👍🏻👍🏻

#poolhotel #100WaysOfTravel 💰Average Price per room: starting from RM 450 🏖️Ambiance: 🌟🌟 - hotel is strategically located in front of the Bikini Beach where you can enjoy the view and swim over the beach. - Restaurant is spacious with a lot of outdoor seating….but there are alot ….alot…alot of cats inside, although they have put a signboard saying : DO NOT FEED THE CAT, it is still a lot of cats frolicking around, for those people with Ailurophobia, you might need to be aware of this as Im the one who got into the predicament where i cant literally eat any meals in the restaurant even my package is half board!! - There are construction on-going just right opposite of our balcony, super noisy if you stay in the room for the whole day. But if you plan to do outdoor activities, then it should be fine! 🏋🏽♀️ Facilities: 🌟🌟🌟🌟 - Rooftop swimming pool is the highlight of the hotel as it is direct facing the sea view!! However, the pool is rather small so not really for swimming purpose but to take instagrammable picture😆 - buggy is available. IF It is raining day and you are reaching to leaving the hotel, they will use buggy to pick you up or drop you off!! 😍 Service: 🌟🌟🌟🌟 - Initially i would give a low rating as i had a super bad experience in the restaurant (a lot of cats) and the staffs only allow me eating in the room but my husband had to eat in the restaurant. We ended up only take a plate of foods and share at the room even it is the buffet breakfast and buffet dinner!! However, good that the front desk service is super nice that they been helpful the whole stay and even helped us with our last min arrangement of the speedboat service👍🏻 Overall experience: 🌟🌟🌟