Sometimes you want a vacation filled with sight-seeing, hiking and adventure… and other times you want to GTFO of town for a while to relax. For the latter kind of getaway, look no further than the Maldives. This South Asian country is made up of 1,192 islands in the Indian Ocean.
Idyllic sandy beaches, abundant ocean life, gorgeous weather and stunning views make for an unforgettable escape. Here, your guide to vacationing in the Maldives.
Maldives Travel Guide
Where To Stay
Fairmont Sirru Fen Fushi: Slated to open in April, this resort boasts 120 villas set along one of the Maldives' largest lagoons. Sunset dolphin tours, private overnight cruises and castaway picnics are just a few of the notable experiences offered here.
Baros Maldives: The stunning beachside and water villas at this luxury resort come equipped with everything you need for a relaxing vacation. Treat yourself to an Ayurvedic spa treatment and explore the ocean in a new light—literally, as the resort offers night snorkeling.
Four Seasons Maldives: The Four Seasons offers multiple ways to experience the Maldives. They have two luxe resorts and they also offer a private island and boat that will take you from island to island.
What To Do
Many of the activities will be based on which resort island you stay on. Snorkeling and scuba diving are popular activities; the islands are surrounded by a variety of ocean life.
Other activities include watersports and boating. Many resorts will have these activities available on-site, or will be able to help you coordinate an excursion.
The Hurawalhi Island Resort recently launched a one-of-a-kind underwater yoga experience in an aquarium-like space, where you can Vinyasa flow while surrounded by manta rays, coral and sea turtles.
And if you're in the mood to simply relax and do nothing, spending the day on the white sand beaches with a book (and/or a cocktail) is always an option.
What To Pack
Because the Maldives are near the equator, temperatures tend to stay warm year round. It is a Muslim country, and therefore it's respectful to dress conservatively around the airport and the capitol, Male. Bring a scarf or wrap to cover your arms and shoulders.
Dress codes are more relaxed when you make it to the resort islands. A swimsuit and a cover up are essential for daytime; pack something nicer for dinner (but you typically don't have to go full-on glam).
Pictured above: Cult Gaia Sybil Jumpsuit, $598
Dôen Francis Open Toe Espadrilles, $115
