Explore Islands In Maldives Known For Crystal Waters, White Sands, And Relaxed Tropical Vibes

A stunning aerial view of turquoise waters and lush green islands in Maldives, surrounded by the deep blue Indian Ocean.

The islands in Maldives are a tropical haven, fascinating tourists with turquoise oceans, white shores, and colourful marine life. The Maldives is an Indian Ocean archipelago comprising more than 1,190 coral islands, located southwest of India and Sri Lanka. Malé, situated on the Malé Atoll, is a vibrant city renowned for its vibrant houses, bustling markets, and historic mosques, including the famous Friday Mosque. With a compact yet dense population, the city boasts an exclusive charm, and its equatorial location ensures warm weather. The Maldives is renowned for its luxury resorts, stunning coral reefs, and friendly people.

10 Islands In Maldives One Should Not Miss For Sunsets And Marvels Of The Ocean World

The Islands in Maldives offer breathtaking sunsets and awe-inspiring marine life, creating magical moments for all travellers.

1. Hanifaru Bay

An aerial view of one of the luxurious islands in Maldives, featuring overwater villas, white sandy beaches, and lush tropical greenery

Photo: flowcomm / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Hanifaru Bay is a treasure among the Maldives’ islands, especially for sea enthusiasts. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is renowned worldwide for its annual aggregations of manta rays and whale sharks, offering visitors an utterly mesmerising underwater experience. Snorkelling is pure magic here; imagine yourself swimming through the water of such crystal clarity that dozens of mantas whip past you, dancing in circles.

Location: Baa Atoll, Maldives
How To Get There: Local flight to Dharavandhoo Airport, then speedboat transfer
Nearest Airport: Dharavandhoo Airport (8 km)

2. Baros Island

A small tropical paradise surrounded by vibrant blue waters, showcasing the natural beauty of the islands in Maldives.

Photo: ThousandImages / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Baros Island is the epitome of luxury among the Islands in Maldives, boasting its signature overwater villas and personalised service. Visualise waking up to the gentle sound of waves caressing the exterior of your villa, walking out onto the turquoise lagoon itself, and spending your days discovering vibrant coral reefs within swimming distance. With sunset drawing near, eat on deck in solitude, ensnared by the receding sky’s palette of colour.

Location: North Malé Atoll
Nearest Airport: Malé International Airport (15 km)
Top Attractions: Overwater villas and lively house reef

3. Vaadhoo Island

Aerial view of a tropical island resort with overwater bungalows surrounded by clear turquoise water, one of the islands in Maldives.

Photo: Dr. Ondřej Havelka (cestovatel) / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Vaadhoo Island is a natural wonder of the Islands in Maldives that is famous for its magical “Sea of Stars” phenomenon. During the evening, the beach glows with bioluminescent plankton, producing an otherworldly effect that appears as stars have descended onto the sea. The uncommon phenomenon is best witnessed on nights without the moon and is an absolute bucket-list activity.

Location: Raa Atoll
Best Time To Visit: June–October
Nearest Airport: Ifuru Domestic Airport (30 km)

4. Thulusdhoo

View of a scenic island featuring white sandy shores, clear shallow waters.

Photo: Arun J / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Thulusdhoo is an island in Maldives surfer’s haven with mythical breaks such as “Cokes” and “Chickens.” Relaxation is enhanced by the island’s laid-back atmosphere and vibrant guesthouses, beachside eateries, and friendly locals. Take a sunset beach bar or beach walk on sandy shores after a surfing day. Thulusdhoo also offers snorkelling, fishing, and cultural activities, making it a perfect weekend getaway, transitioning from adventure to relaxation.

Location: North Malé Atoll
Nearest Airport: Malé International Airport (28 km)
Top Attractions: Surfing “Cokes” and “Chickens” breaks

5. Dhigurah Island

A wooden pier stretches over crystal-clear turquoise water toward a white sandy beach lined with palm trees and thatched huts.

Photo: Laika ac / Wikimedia Commons

The aspiration of each diver among the Maldivian atolls is Dhigurah Island, renowned for its proximity to whale shark spots and colourful coral gardens. The long sandy beach of the island tempts strolls, and crystal clear waters tempt diving and snorkelling. Visitors are privileged to see whale sharks, manta rays, and a diverse array of tropical fish, making each dive an unforgettable experience.

Location: South Ari Atoll
Nearest Airport: Maamigili Airport (20 km)
Top Attractions: White beach sand and whale shark diving

6. Maafushi

Tropical island town with bright blue waters, sandy beaches.

Photo: Nicolai Edgar Andersen / Wikimedia Commons

Maafushi is the most affordable and lively island in the Maldives, ideal for adventure lovers who want lots of fun with minimal expenditure. The island boasts local cafes, water sports clubs, and guesthouses along its shores, making it a more lively place with a vibrant social life. There is everything from snorkelling and diving to sunset cruises and fishing tours that tourists can enjoy.

Location: South Malé Atoll
Best Time To Visit: November–April
Nearest Airport: Malé International Airport (27 km)

7. Veligandu Island

Tropical beach with crystal-clear turquoise water, lush palm trees, one of the top islands in Maldives.

Photo: Mikhail Nilov / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Veligandu Island is the epitome of luxury among the Maldives’ islands, boasting private beaches, overwater villas, and upscale resorts. The guests are treated to gourmet meals, spa treatments, and personalised service. The sunset lounges and infinity pools on the island are the perfect places to relax and enjoy a romantic moment. The turquoise lagoon at Veligandu is ideal for snorkelling, while sunset cruises provide memories to last a lifetime.

Location: North Ari Atoll
Nearest Airport: Malé International Airport (50 km)
Top Attractions: Private resorts and sunset spots

8. Fuvahmulah

A scenic view of a tropical shoreline where turquoise waves meet a white sandy beach lined with dense palm trees.

Photo: Jiyaad Official / Wikimedia Commons

Fuvahmulah is a quiet jewel among the Maldives’ islands, renowned for its pristine purity and rich biological diversity of sea life. Its UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status has safeguarded its unique environments, including freshwater lakes and dense thicket cover. Divers enjoy the ride to this place for the possibility of spotting tiger sharks, thresher sharks, and other rare reef species.

Location: Gnaviyani Atoll (southernmost Maldives)
Nearest Airport: Fuvahmulah Domestic Airport (on the island)
Top Attractions: Tiger shark diving and freshwater lakes

9. Fulidhoo

Fulidhoo Island features clear waters and white sands, showcasing islands in Maldives.

Photo: Asad Photo Maldives / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Fulidhoo is a peaceful haven among the Maldivian islands, boasting serene beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and a rich history. Sunset sailing trips are a treat, with pink scenes of heaven on fire. The island is small in size and can be reached on foot, and guests are greeted with drumming and dance performances. Fulidhoo is ideal for anyone seeking serenity and an authentic island experience.

Location: Vaavu Atoll
Best Time To Visit: November–April
Nearest Airport: Malé International Airport (57 km)

10. Rangali Island

Rangali Island with overwater villas surrounded by turquoise ocean and white sand beaches.

Photo: Asad Photo Maldives / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Rangali Island offers the most unique experience of all the Islands in Maldives: dining underwater at the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant. Visitors indulge in gourmet meals beneath stunning views of a diverse array of fish and a vibrant coral garden. Overwater villas, private beaches, and luxury spas are amenities of the island’s upmarket resorts. The sunsets here are enchanting, with the sea mirroring all the shades of the sky.

Location: Alif Dhaal Atoll
Best Time To Visit: December–April
Nearest Airport: Malé International Airport (90 km)

Islands in Maldives are a traveller’s real paradise, complete with sunsets that take one’s breath away, lively sea creatures, and memories to last a lifetime around every bend. Whether to swim with manta rays, ride world-class waves, or just unwind on a beach, the Maldives Islands offer memories for a lifetime. Book your journey today with TripXL and start your experience in the Maldives island tale!

Cover Photo: Asad Photo Maldives / Pexels

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, some islands and resorts offer photography tours that allow you to experience the best sunsets, sea life, and islandscapes with expert guidance.
Yes, some local communities and resorts offer coral reef planting, beach cleanups, and marine conservation lessons to tourists who wish to get involved.
Yes, wellness is a speciality of some islands, offering yoga retreats, meditation sessions, and spa treatments in holistic surroundings amidst beautiful natural surroundings.
Yes! Night fishing tours are popular, offering tourists the opportunity to experience traditional Maldivian fishing and enjoy a freshly cooked meal.
Yes, a few of the islands host music festivals, cultural fairs, and art events each year, offering a lively atmosphere and opportunities to witness Maldivian creativity.

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