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The places to visit in the Maldives in January are ideal for travellers seeking clear skies, gentle sea breezes, and uninterrupted access to some islands. This is the driest month of the year with smooth ferry transfers, vibrant marine visibility, and pleasant temperatures for walking, swimming, and exploring. Each destination during January opens up with a unique seasonal charm. From protected atolls and whale shark zones to historical villages and local islands, these places highlight both the natural beauty and cultural rhythm of the Maldives in its best weather window.
10 Places To Visit In Maldives In January
These 10 places to visit in Maldives in January are best suited for island hopping, wildlife experiences, and relaxed stays during this time.
1. Thoddoo Island, Alif Alif Atoll
Photo: Asad Photo Maldives / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Among the most peaceful places to visit in Maldives in January, Thoddoo Island is known for its lush farms, authentic island culture, and broad, uncrowded beaches. Located in Alif Alif Atoll, it offers an ideal mix of quiet local life and tropical leisure. January’s dry, breezy climate makes cycling through papaya plantations especially enjoyable. The white-sand Thoddoo Bikini Beach is spacious and clean, with safe swimming zones and crystal-clear waters. Travellers can snorkel close to the shore or book boat trips to nearby reefs for deeper marine encounters.
How To Reach: 1-hour speedboat from Malé
Cost: Rf 60 / ₹325 for ferry & Rf 600 / ₹3,250 for speedboat
Nearby Hotels: Palm Garden, Thoddoo Inn, Summer Inn
2. Hanifaru Bay, Baa Atoll
Photo: Asad Photo Maldives / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Hanifaru Bay is among the most remarkable places to visit in Maldives in January for those interested in marine conservation and underwater experiences. It is located within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and is known for its rich marine life and well-preserved ecosystem. While the seasonal manta ray gatherings reach their peak around mid-year, January offers clear water, excellent visibility, and calm seas, ideal conditions for snorkelling along the outer reef. You may see reef sharks, rays, sea turtles, and large schools of vibrant fish.
How To Reach: Domestic flight to Dharavandhoo plus speedboat
Cost: Rf 1,600 / ₹8,700 for entry permit & Rf 3,200 / ₹17,500 for snorkeling
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Nearby Hotels: Hanifaru Stay, Kiha Beach, Aveyla Manta Village
3. Villingili Island, Near Malé
Photo: Asad Photo Maldives / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Villingili Island offers a quick escape from the capital without the need for flights or speedboats. Just ten minutes by public ferry from Malé, it is a lived-in island with shaded streets, modest homes, and a relaxed pace that reflects the everyday life of Maldivian residents. January’s dry skies and soft breezes make the ferry ride smooth and the island walkable throughout the day. Visitors can enjoy a quiet swim, fresh seafood at simple cafés, and open views across the water.
How To Reach: 10-minute public ferry from Malé Jetty
Cost: Rf 5 / ₹27
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Nearby Hotels: Villingili Inn, Green Flora, Water Villa Maldives
4. Kudahuvadhoo, Dhaalu Atoll
Photo: Ishan @seefromthesky seefromthesky / Wikimedia Commons
Kudahuvadhoo is one of the few places to visit in Maldives in January, where heritage and daily life blend without outside interference. It is best known for the remains of an old coral-stone mosque, which still holds sections of finely carved masonry. You can explore the village paths, visit the mosque site, or stop by the quiet harbour where boats bring in daily catch. The hawittas, large mound-like formations, are still unexplained by researchers, and locals have preserved them with respect.
How To Reach: 40-minute domestic flight from Malé
Cost: Rf 1,200 / ₹6,500
Nearby Hotels: Kudahuvadhoo Inn, Dhaal Inn, Blue Coral
5. Himmafushi Island, Kaafu Atoll
Photo: Awshan / Wikimedia Commons
Himmafushi is one of the most engaging places to visit in Maldives in January, offering a raw, local experience just a short ride from Malé. It is best known among surfers for the Jailbreaks surf break, which draws enthusiasts from around the world. The reef close to the island also makes it a good spot for snorkelling with clear visibility during this time of year. Visitors can walk through the narrow sandy lanes, observe the workshops, or relax along the public beach.
How To Reach: 20-minute speedboat from Malé
Cost: Rf 500 / ₹2,700
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Nearby Hotels: Hulhangu Lodge, Kanbili GH, Raalhu Lodge
6. Maamigili Island, South Ari Atoll
Photo: Loamaresort / Wikimedia commons
Maamigili is one of the best places to visit in Maldives in January if you want to explore the southern atolls without a crowd. It is also known as a gateway to the South Ari Marine Protected Area, being home to the country’s first private airport on an inhabited island and serves as a base for excursions to see whale sharks. There is a designated beach area for tourists, and the house reef just offshore is rich with coral and reef fish.
How To Reach: 25-minute domestic flight from Malé
Cost: Rf 1,100 / ₹6,000
Nearby Hotels: Koimala Hotel, Whale Shark Inn, White Tern
7. Fuvahmulah Island, Gnaviyani Atoll
Photo: Asaymirus / Wikimedia Commons
Fuvahmulah is one of the most distinctive places to visit in Maldives in January. It sits alone in the southern Indian Ocean, far from surrounding atolls, and offers a landscape of freshwater lakes, fertile wetlands, and black pebble beaches. This island is famous for big-game diving, particularly encounters with tiger sharks, which can be spotted throughout the year just off the reef edge. Aside from diving, visitors can explore Thoondu Beach, which is made of rare, polished coral pebbles that shift in colour under sunlight. The two freshwater lakes, Bandaara Kilhi and Dhadimagi Kilhi, are surrounded by dense vegetation and often visited by local families for picnics.
How To Reach: 1.5-hour domestic flight from Malé
Cost: Rf 1,600 / ₹8,700
Nearby Hotels: Cottage 316, Marina Boutique, Tiger Shark Residence
8. Haa Alif Utheemu
Photo: Asad Photo Maldives / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Utheemu in Haa Alif Atoll is the birthplace of Sultan Mohamed Thakurufaanu, who led the resistance against Portuguese rule in the 16th century. Utheemu Ganduvaru, his home has been preserved as a heritage site. The wooden palace still has its original interiors, including sleeping quarters and weapon storage. Unlike resort islands, Utheemu has narrow sandy paths, simple homes, and local shops where visitors can stop for refreshments. For travellers interested in the early political history of the Maldives, this is a quiet but powerful stop.
How To Reach: Flight to Hanimaadhoo plus speedboat
Cost: Rf 1,500 / ₹8500
Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM
Nearby Hotels: Veli Inn Utheemu, Beach House Utheemu, Olive View
9. Meedhoo Island, Addu Atoll
Photo: Nattu / Wikimedia Commons
Meedhoo is one of the southernmost places to visit in Maldives in January. In the Addu Atoll it is known for its deep-rooted history and peaceful atmosphere. It is the oldest populated island in the country with a long-standing Islamic centre, ancient graveyards, and coral-stone walls. The weather in January is ideal for walking through the older quarters and exploring the cultural landmarks. The island has a curved natural harbour and a quiet beach on the western side, good for swimming and evening walks. Meedhoo is connected by a causeway to other parts of Addu City, so travellers can also explore Feydhoo, Maradhoo, and Gan without needing a boat.
How To Reach: 1-hour flight to Gan
Cost: Rf 1,700 / ₹9,200
Nearby Hotels: Charming Meedhoo Inn, Blue Wave, Pebbles Inn
10. Kelaa Island, Haa Alif Atoll
Photo: M. Hammadh / Wikimedia Commons
Kelaa Island is one of the less-visited places to visit in Maldives in January. It is located in the far north of Haa Alif Atoll. Its history includes use as a British military outpost during World War II, with remnants like old storage buildings still scattered across parts of the island. January brings clear skies and light winds, making it ideal for walking, reef visits, and discovering its quiet historical corners. The beach stretches along the eastern side, backed by thick greenery and palms, offering complete seclusion.
How To Reach: Domestic flight to Hanimaadhoo plus speedboat
Cost: Rf 1,800 / ₹9,800
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
Nearby Hotels: Tropical Sands, Hotel Kelaa, Relax View
Exploring places to visit in Maldives in January is perfect when the weather is calm and inviting. Discover vibrant marine life in Fuvahmulah, historic coral mosques in Kudahuvadhoo, and serene beaches across islands like Kelaa and Addu. Whether you stay near Malé or venture farther, every destination offers a blend of beauty and culture. Plan your Maldives trip this January with TripXL and enjoy a truly unforgettable island experience.
Cover Photo: Asad Photo Maldives / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
