Maafushi

Maldives, Asia

Maafushi, a vibrant island in the Maldives, is renowned for its stunning white-sand beaches and azure waters, making it an ideal destination for sun-seekers and adventure lovers alike. It's one of the few local islands allowing tourists, showcasing authentic Maldivian culture alongside cozy guesthouses and eateries. Explore vibrant coral reefs through snorkeling and diving, indulge in thrilling water sports, or relax on pristine beaches—Maafushi offers an alluring blend of relaxation and adventure for all travelers.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Island

Vibe

Active

Airport

Male

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

12 Best Things to Do in Maafushi

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Snorkeling at Coral Gardens

Explore vibrant marine life in crystal-clear waters.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Maafushi Beach

Relax on stunning sandy shores with clear blue waters.

No booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Dolphin Watching Tour

Witness playful dolphins in their natural habitat.

Booking required
4

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Sandbank Picnic

Enjoy a private picnic on a secluded sandbank.

Booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Local Markets

Experience local culture and shop for unique souvenirs.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Water Sports Activities

Try jet skiing, kayaking, and more water fun.

No booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Adults only

Visit Maafushi Prison Museum

Learn about the local history and prison system.

No booking required
8

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Scuba Diving

Dive into the deep blue and explore coral reefs.

Booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Sunset Cruise

Sail into the sunset for breathtaking views.

Booking required
10

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Mosque

Experience local culture at the main mosque.

No booking required
11

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Spa Day

Indulge in luxury with a relaxing spa treatment.

Booking required
12

Est. 4 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Fishing Trip

Experience traditional fishing in beautiful waters.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Included in bill

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

No data

LGBTQ+ safety score

-11 (#162 globally)

Cost

Very Expensive

Currency

Rufiyaa

Majority religion

Muslim

Language

Dhivehi

(50-80% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Garudhiya and Fish Dishes

Fish soup served with rice. (National dish)

Mas Huni

V

Tuna salad with coconut and onion.

Fihunu Mas

Grilled fish with spicy sauce.

Rihaakuru

Thick fish paste, often eaten with rice.

Kulhi Boakiba

Spicy fish cake, deep-fried.

Phrases to learn

English

Dhivehi

Hello

Assalaamu Alaikum

(Ah-sah-lahm Ah-lay-kum)

Yes/No

Aan / Noon

(Ahn / Noon)

Thank you

Shukuriyaa

(Shoo-koo-ree-yah)

Excuse me

Ma-aafu kurey

(Mah-ah-foo koo-ray)

How much?

Kihineh?

(Kee-hee-neh)