Best Maldives Local Islands, with Insider Travel Tips 🌊

The Maldives is a tropical archipelago in the Indian Ocean that is often described as a true paradise on Earth. Although it’s most commonly associated with fancy resorts, I had long wondered if its islands could be explored on a shoestring budget.

So, I travelled there to find out! In this article, I’ll share with you everything you need to know about 3 of the best budget islands of the Maldives, with all my insider travel tips.

When to Visit the Maldives? ☀️

Before you head to one or more of these budget islands, you should know a thing or two about the Maldives!

The good news is that the Maldives, with its pristine beaches and turquoise waters, is a popular year-round destination.

However, the best time to visit the Maldives ultimately depends on your preferences and what you hope to experience.

Here’s a summary of what you can expect in each season:

Dry Season (November to April)

This is considered the high season in the Maldives, with dry weather, plenty of sunshine, and calm seas. December to March are particularly popular months, with minimal rainfall and excellent visibility for snorkelling and diving. It’s the ideal time for beach activities, water sports, and exploring the islands.

Shoulder Seasons (May to July, September to October)

These transitional periods between the dry and wet seasons offer a mix of good weather and some rainfall. May to July can still provide relatively dry and sunny days, while September to October might see occasional rain showers. Prices during these months are often lower, and the islands are less crowded.

Wet Season (May to August)

The wet season in the Maldives is characterised by higher humidity, occasional rainfall, and stronger winds. However, it’s important to note that rain showers are typically short-lived and can be followed by clear skies. The wet season can also bring lower rates and quieter resorts, making it a good time for budget-conscious travellers.

Southwest Monsoon Season (June to August)

This season experiences stronger winds and a higher chance of rainfall. It’s worth noting that while the weather may be less predictable, some divers prefer this season due to the increased marine activity and better visibility underwater.

Overall, the Maldives offers a tropical climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (mid-20s to low 30s Celsius). Regardless of the season, expect stunning beaches, abundant marine life, and incredible opportunities for snorkelling, diving, and relaxation.

Maldives Official Language 🗣️

The official language of the Maldives is Dhivehi. It is a language spoken exclusively in the Maldives and has its own unique script. However, English is widely spoken and understood, especially in tourist areas and resorts.

Maldives Official Currency 💱

The currency of the Maldives is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR). But US dollars are widely accepted in most tourist establishments, resorts, and popular tourist areas. In fact, on the local islands we were often asked to pay with US dollars instead of MVR. Major credit cards are also widely accepted in hotels, resorts, and larger establishments.

Maldivian Culture 🎭

The culture in the local islands of the Maldives is deeply rooted in the country’s Islamic heritage and traditional way of life.

Here are some aspects of Maldivian culture that you can experience in the local islands:

• Islam: Islam is the official religion of the Maldives, and it heavily influences the culture and daily life of the local communities. Mosques are a central part of the islands, and you may hear the call to prayer throughout the day. Respect for Islamic customs and traditions is important while visiting local islands.

• Traditional Music and Dance: Boduberu is the traditional Maldivian music accompanied by drums and singing. You may have the chance to witness lively boduberu performances during cultural events and celebrations on local islands.

• Handicrafts and Art: Local artisans in the Maldives produce beautiful handicrafts, including intricate lacquer work, woodcarvings, and woven products. On the local islands, you can find these crafts showcased in markets or even visit workshops to observe the craftsmanship.

• Community Bond: Maldivian communities on local islands have a strong sense of community and close-knit relationships. If you visit the local islands, you’ll almost certainly have the opportunity to interact with locals, witness their hospitality, and learn about their customs and way of life.

Local island tip: It’s important to note that the Maldives is a Muslim country, and visitors are expected to respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting local islands. While the resort islands cater more to international tourists, the local islands offer a chance to experience the authentic culture and interact with the friendly local communities.

Best Budget Islands in the Maldives 🏖️

Local islands offer a unique opportunity to experience the Maldives rich culture, connect with friendly locals, and enjoy affordable accommodation, all while exploring breathtaking natural beauty.

Staying on islands that are usually overlooked by tourists also helps to beat the crowds and support the local community, making it a win-win situation!

The first stop on our budget tour of the Maldives was Hangnaameedhoo Island, which is located 72 km west from Male in Alif Dhaal Atoll.

This tiny island is home to only 500 people and you can truly experience local life here.

To travel from Male to Hangnaameedhoo, you have a couple of transport options. Here’s how you can get there:

• Speedboat (most convenient): The fastest way to reach Hangnaameedhoo from Male is by taking a speedboat. Speedboat transfers are available from the jetty in Male to Hangnaameedhoo and typically take around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on sea conditions. You can book speedboat transfers through your accommodation or a local travel agency. Cost $50.

• Public Ferry (cheapest): Another option is to take the public ferry from Male to Hangnaameedhoo. The ferry departs from the Villingili Ferry Terminal in Male and stops at various local islands along the way before reaching Hangnaameedhoo. The journey by public ferry takes longer compared to a speedboat, usually around 4 to 5 hours. Public ferry schedules may vary, so it’s advisable to check the timetable in advance. Cost $4.

Whichever transport option you choose, I recommend planning the journey in advance to avoid any delays or logistical issues on the day.

🛎️ Where to Stay in Hangnaameedhoo

Coral Beach Guesthouse: We paid around £350 for 10 nights at this charming (albeit rustic) guesthouse, which even included a delicious buffet breakfast and bikes to explore the island on. Despite its remote location, the Wi-Fi here was extremely fast!

However, if Coral Beach doesn’t tick all your boxes, you can easily find the best accommodation deals to suit your budget using Hotellook below:

🐠 Top Things to do in Hangnaameedhoo

#1 Snorkelling and Diving

The Bikini Beach is located just 5 minutes’ walking distance from Coral Beach Guesthouse.

At Bikini Beach, you can snorkel and dive the house reef, which has a rich diversity of corals.

Within minutes of exploring the reef, we were lucky enough to see loads of tropical fish and rays!

#2 Relax!

One of the best things you can do on Hangnaameedhoo is simply chilling out!

I recommend heading to Bikini Beach, which is well equipped with chairs, loungers, and hammocks, making it perfect to sunbathe and unwind on.

Fun fact: It’s called ‘Bikini Beach’ to let you know it’s a designated swimwear area. As the population is predominately Muslim, conservative dress is expected in some areas, although not strictly enforced.

The rest of the island is super chilled too so it’s the ideal place to get your steps in and go for a leisurely stroll, taking in the fresh air and peaceful vibe.

Exploring the island on foot or by bike is also one of the top activities in Hangnaameedhoo – I loved the slower pace of life and having a little chat with the friendly locals whenever we bumped into them!

#3 Fishing, Fishing & More Fishing!

Fishing is one of the best things to do in Hangnaameedhoo and is extremely popular both day and night.

We opted to do a sunset fishing tour, which Coral Beach arranged for us. It only cost $20 and was an amazing experience – in the space of about 20 minutes we managed to catch 3 Barracudas and then had them for dinner!

We also walked to the harbour every evening to watch local fishermen do night fishing. I highly recommend doing this as there’s a spotlight right over the water, making it easy to see all of the squid, sharks, and jack fish that come to the surface to feed everyday.

Insider tip: At 10pm all the fishermen come out and so do the fish! Watching the sea come alive at night is one of the top activities in Hangnaameedhoo.

#4 Watch the Sunset

One of the best things to do in Hangnaameedhoo is to watch the sunset from the beach and witness the sun’s spectacular display of colours.

Find a spot along bikini beach, where the sky transforms into a show of pinks and oranges.

This is for sure the most Instagrammable things to do in Hangnaameedhoo!

#5 Awesome Day Trips

There are so many day trips you can do from Hangnaameedhoo Island, which can be booked at your guesthouse.

We opted to go to Dream Island, as we were told that it’s one of the most beautiful uninhabited islands to explore in the Maldives – and it certainly didn’t disappoint!

Travelling to Dream Island from Hangnaameedhoo took around 30 mins by boat and cost $60.

Snorkelling here was truly out of this world – the reef is extremely colourful and we spotted several white tip sharks just meters from the shore!

Even if snorkelling isn’t for you, the powdery white beaches of Dream Island and its peaceful setting, make it one of the most incredible day trips in the Maldives.

🍴 Where to eat in Hangnaameedhoo

In terms of where to eat in Hangnaameedhoo, I recommend seeing what your guest house offers as the buffet food we had at ours was so tasty we ate here everyday!

The buffet food at Coral beach included things like fresh fish, a variety of veggies and sweet Maldivian bread. Even if you’re not staying here I believe you can come for a meal.

Otherwise, most guesthouses serve traditional Maldivian dishes, such as coconut fish curry and saagu bondibai (a sweet coconut pudding), which are well worth trying.

Good to know: Only resort islands serve alcohol – all local islands prohibit it.

Hangnaameedhoo Island also has several corner shops if you want some snacks. However, these tend to only be open for a few hours per day, at seemingly random times, so we only managed to buy a Magnum ice cream on a couple of occasions!

The locals are super friendly here though, so if there’s something you need to buy and the shops are shut, speak to your guesthouse manager and usually the shops can be opened specifically for you!

👍 Verdict on Hangnaameedhoo Island

Overall, Hangnaameedhoo Island is an ideal destination for travellers that are seeking natural beauty and relaxation, while on a tight budget.

This is definitely one of the best local islands in the Maldives if you’re looking for peace and quiet. The slower pace of life here is truly calming for the soul and makes for the perfect escape away from stresses of modern life.

The next stop on our budget Maldivian adventure was Maafushi. This is one of the most popular local islands in the Maldives, located in the Kaafu Atoll, about 27 kilometers from the capital city of Male.

You can get to Maafushi from Male in the following ways:

• Speed boat (the best option). This costs $25 USD and takes 30 minutes. You can book your speedboat ride on 12GO or ask your hotel to arrange it for you!
• Private Transfer: Take a 30-minute private transfer for $150 – 300 USD.
• Public Ferry (cheapest): Take the public ferry ride for $2 USD. The ferry makes stops at several other islands before reaching Maafushi. The journey takes around 90 minutes to 2 hours depending on the ferry schedule and stops along the way.

Maafushi offers a more affordable option to experience the beauty of the Maldives compared to the more exclusive and expensive resort islands. Yet it still has a lively atmosphere and is far less remote than Hangnaameedhoo.

🛎️ Where to Stay in Maafushi

I highly recommend staying at Kaani Palm Beach, which is a mid-range hotel that will cost you around £700 per week.

This gorgeous hotel boasts the highest infinity pool in the Maldives and is right opposite a pristine beach. The location of the hotel is also super handy, as it’s next to several convenience and tourist shops, as well as the main strip of local restaurants.

However, if this Maafushi hotel doesn’t tick all your boxes, you can easily find the best accommodation deals to suit your budget using Hotellook.

🍴 Where to Eat in Maafushi

In the evenings, the island comes alive with entertainment and nightlife. There are tons of great places to eat in Maafushi and many restaurants and cafes even have live music, traditional Maldivian dances, and other performances that are sure to keep you entertained well into the night.

There are dozens of reputable restaurants to try in Maafushi, such as Caviar Café and Hot Bite. However, we ate at Moonlight, a Mediterranean restaurant, almost every night because the fresh fish tacos were simply to die for. I highly recommend going here, but it’s popular so be sure to book in advance.

Note: Even though local Islands prohibit alcohol, you can go to a floating bar over the sea, just a free ferry away from Maafushi if you’re craving some tropical cocktails!

🐠 Best Maafushi Activities

What really surprised us about Maafushi was its buzzing atmosphere – it was full of fellow backpackers, primarily due to the abundance of affordable guesthouses and hostels on the island, as well as its strategic location, which is perfect for doing the most incredible day trips in the Maldives.

Here are some of the best things to do in Maafushi:

#1 Explore the Island

Due to its size, you can easily bike around the whole island in about 25 minutes, or take a leisurely stroll.

While exploring the island, there’s plenty of little cafes you can stop at to pick up some homemade ice cream, smoothies, or iced coffee (they’re usually open all day on this island!)

 Some of the top things to look for during your exploration are:

• Old Mosque: Visit the historic Old Mosque, which is a symbol of Maafushi’s Islamic heritage.
• Bikini Beach: Unwind on the gorgeous sandy shores of Bikini Beach.
• Local Markets: Immerse yourself in the island’s daily life at local markets, where you can pick out some unique Maldivian souvenirs.
• Maafushi Harbour: Experience the picturesque charm of Maafushi Harbour.
• Street Art: Check out all the vibrant street art that fills the town.
• Sandy Streets: Navigate the sandy streets – the boho vibe is awesome but be careful during rainy season as there’s lots of potholes!

#2 Snorkelling and Diving

Maafushi has long stretches of gorgeous beaches with crystal clear waters that are perfect for snorkelling and diving.

The coastline boasts a kaleidoscope of vibrant marine life and coral formations, making it an ideal playground for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts eager to explore the underwater world.

As you dip beneath the waves, you’ll find yourself surrounded by schools of tropical fish and be sure to keep your eyes peeled for some sea turtles too as they often grace these waters!

Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a novice snorkeler eager to discover the marine life, Maafushi offers an unparalleled aquatic playground for all levels of expertise.

With its warm, inviting waters and an abundance of marine biodiversity, it’s no wonder that snorkelling and diving are some of the best things to do in Maafushi.

#3 Water Sports

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a water enthusiast, there’s so much going on in Maafushi!

Besides from snorkelling and diving, you can also do a wide range of other water sports.

Some of the top water activities in Maafushi include:

➡️ Jet skiing;

➡️ Parasailing; and

➡️ Windsurfing.

#4 Chill Out at Kaani Beach

But if the thought of venturing into the water for adventurous activities seems like a bit too much effort, fear not, as there are plenty of laid-back options to enjoy right from the comfort of the shoreline!

One of the best things to do in Maafushi is simply chill out on the soft sands of Kaani Beach. It’s a slice of paradise where you can kick back, relax, and watch the world go by. You can even get pizza delivered to your sunbed!

This is the perfect way to spend an afternoon if you’re craving a chilled and slow kind of day, where the only thing on your Maafushi itinerary is taking in the sunshine, perhaps with a good book to hand.

#5 Do the Maldives Most Unique Activity

You could visit Maafushi Prison, which is one of the most unique activities to do in the Maldives!

This historical site was converted into a museum showcasing the history of the prison and the Maldives’ justice system, and it’s something totally different to experience.

Stepping foot into the former prison grounds, visitors are transported back in time, immersing themselves in the stories and narratives that have unfolded within these walls.

Visiting Maafushi Prison offers a truly unique and insightful experience that adds a fascinating layer to your exploration of the Maldives!

#6 Spot Bioluminescent Plankton

As the sun sets on Maafushi and darkness descends upon the island, a magical phenomenon unfolds along its pristine shores: The mesmerising display of bioluminescent plankton!

This natural phenomenon, caused by tiny organisms known as dinoflagellates, creates a spectacle that captivates all who are fortunate enough to witness it.

Step onto the beaches of Maafushi after nightfall, and you’ll be blown away by the beauty of nature.

Top tip: We saw bioluminescent plankton several times at around 10pm just yards from our hotel (on Kaani palm beach) and it was truly spectacular!

#7 Day Trips from Maafushi

One of the best things about Maafushi is its location – it’s in prime position to do some of the Maldives top activities.

You can do all sorts of day trips from Maafushi with the most popular tours being:

➡️ Swimming with nurse sharks;

➡️ Shipwreck tours; and

➡️ Whale shark spotting.

If you get the chance, I highly recommend doing all of them!

Book Maafushi tours online to get up to 20% off ⬇️

👍🏻👍🏻 Verdict on Maafushi Island

Maafushi really does offer something for everyone, whether you’re a culture vulture, a water sports enthusiast or simply someone looking to chill out.

The island offers a compromise between remote local life and boujee resort life, making it a great island for those seeking affordable paradise.

I have to say that this was my personal favourite local island in the Maldives, mainly due to it’s lively nature!

Thulusdhoo is charming local island in the Maldives, located approximately 25 kilometers (about 15.5 miles) north of Male.

This island promises an unforgettable adventure full of pristine white-sand beaches, amazing marine life and stunningly blue waters.

Renowned for its boho vibes and rich surf culture, it is ideal for those seeking a truly authentic Maldivian island getaway.

How to get to Thulusdhoo from Male:

• Public Ferry (cheapest): Time: Approximately 1.5 hours. This is budget friendly, costing just USD5 per person.
• Speedboat (most convenient): Time: Approximately 1 hour. This is a mid-range option, costing between USD30 to USD50 per person.
• Private Transfer (most expensive): Time: Around 1 hour. This involves a higher cost and the price is to be determined (usually in coordination with your hotel).

Thulusdhoo holds a special place in my heart as the epitome of Maldivian island life combined with untouched beauty. From the moment I set foot on this island I was in love with its laid-back, youthful and tropical atmosphere.

🛎️ Where to Stay in Thulusdhoo

We personally stayed at Season Paradise for our entire Thulusdhoo trip and it was amazing!

The infinity pool is seriously to die for. Every single day when we were relaxing in the pool we saw pods of dolphins in the sea and also witnessed some spectacular sunsets – the views from the pool are seriously magical.

Also, the staff are super friendly and the hotel is right opposite a beach where you can go snorkelling. So, I would say that this is probably the best place to stay in Thulusdhoo!

However, if this Thulusdhoo hotel doesn’t tick all your boxes, you can easily find the best accommodation deals to suit your budget using Hotellook.

🐠 Top Things to do in Thulusdhoo

#1 Spend a Day on Bikini Beach

One of the best things to do in Thulusdhoo is spend a day chilling out and swimming on Bikini Beach. It’s called this because you can wear your bikini here (whereas you need to cover up on other beaches as this is a local muslim island).

Bikini beach in Thulusdhoo is seriously one of the most stunning beaches I’ve ever seen – we were so gutted we only ventured to this side of the island towards the end of the trip as we had no idea this beach was here!

Just lying here and reading a good book is a true highlight of any visit to the Maldives and especially on this Instagrammable Thulusdhoo beach.

💡 Insider info: If you do swim on Bikini Beach be careful of the current, it can be pretty strong if you swim further out!

#2 Snorkelling

Snorkelling is easily one of the best things to do in Thulusdhoo, which you can do either on your own or with a tour.

Our hotel arranged a private snorkelling tour for us which cost $35USD. Since it was a private tour with a small group it made the experience more authentic and chilled! The local guide also took us to all the best spots in terms of marine life and corals, which we might not have found had we gone alone.

However, for a more budget-friendly option you can opt to explore the reef and corals just off Bikini Beach. We saw several people taking their own snorkelling gear out here and heading into the water to check out the vibrant reef.

#3 Explore the Island

I highly recommend doing your own little exploration of Thulusdhoo by wandering its charming streets.

When you walk around you’ll notice that the island has a very boho feel – it kind of reminds me of Tulum and has a distinctly youthful vibe.

Exploring the town is one of my favourite things to do in Thulusdhoo as you really get to experience the unique local life and it’s the perfect way to check out all the colourful buildings!

#3 Watch the Sunrise

For a magical morning, catch the sunrise. Witness the sun gracefully ascend over the Indian Ocean, painting the sky with soft hues that infuse the horizon with a beautiful glow.

During my visit, I learnt that the sunrise attracts only a few early risers, as the sun graces the sky pretty early (at around 5:45am). This peaceful setting added even more charm to the experience, away from all the tourists that often dominate sunset spots across beaches all around the world.

This is for sure one of the best things to do on Thulusdhoo and is of course totally free!

#4 Go Surfing (or paddle-boarding)

One of the top things to do in Thulusdhoo is undoubtedly surfing, as the island is actually renowned for its epic surf breaks.

Join a surf lesson or rent a board from one of the local shops, then paddle out to the famed Chicken’s Surf Point.

The consistent swells and diverse breaks cater to surfers of various skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice like me, Thulusdhoo promises an awesome surfing experience!

But, if you’re not quite ready to ride the Indian Ocean’s waves, why not go on a paddle boarding adventure instead.

Exploring the island’s coastline this way is also one of the top things to do in Thulusdhoo.

You can easily rent a paddle board for the day from one of the local providers on the island.

#5 Visit a Sandbank

Journey to Thulusdhoo’s sandbank, which is a tropical oasis right in the heart of the Indian Ocean.

Accessible only by boat, this little slice of paradise sits in the middle of the turquoise waters and is truly an out of this world experience.

We booked our visit to the sandbank from a local tour provider on Bikini Beach, which was 35 USD for the sandbank plus snorkelling.

At the sandbank, you can chill in the sun, go swimming, or simply revel in the untouched beauty of this stunning spot.

Insider tip: Visit the sandbank before the high tide arrives or it will be gone before you actually get to fully enjoy it!

#5 Swim with Dolphins and Sharks

One of the most popular things to do in Thulusdhoo is swimming with sharks.

You can easily join a guided tour to encounter tons of nurse sharks in their natural habitat.

The waters around Thulusdhoo offer a unique opportunity to witness the grace and beauty of these magnificent creatures up close, but in an ethical way and always guided by experienced professionals.

You can also opt to join a dolphin watching tour, where experienced guides will lead you to areas frequented by pods of dolphins.

As you sail through the aquamarine waters, you’ll get to witness these playful creatures leaping and dancing alongside the boat.

If your tour allows it you also might also be able to jump in and swim with them! This is truly one of the most thrilling adventures in Thulusdhoo and a quintessential Maldivian activity.

#6 Wildlife Spotting on the Pier

Head to the pier at sunset to spot all kinds of wildlife.

From pelicans to sting rays and even black tip sharks, there’s so much to see here it’s almost hard to believe!

Plus the fiery sunsets that put on a daily show make the experience even more epic.

For me, this is one of the best things to do in Thulusdhoo and also it is totally free!

🍴 Where to eat in Thulusdhoo

There are quite a few decent restaurants in Thulusdhoo, including Batuta Maldives Beach Restaurant, Aveli Restaurant & Grill, Fusion, and Santa Rosa.

However, I will admit that we went to Indulge for breakfast, lunch, and dinner pretty much every day!

This is by far the BEST restaurant on the island and serves the best acai bowls I’ve ever had in my life. It’s the perfect place to hang out and experience tropical holiday vibes.

If you’re into pop I also recommend checking out the local Coca-Cola factory, we did a free tour here and were given unlimited fizzy drinks and had a fascinating glimpse into the local industry.

👍👍👍Verdict on Thulusdhoo

For an amazing local island experience in the Maldives, Thulusdhoo is an absolute must-visit destination, attracting travellers from far and wide to experience it’s unique charm. Whether you’re a beach lover, a water sports enthusiast, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Thulusdhoo offers something for everyone.

For an unparalleled local island experience in the Maldives, Thulusdhoo is a destination that promises an unforgettable journey filled with breathtaking moments and lifelong memories!

Final Thoughts: Best budget islands in the Maldives 🌴

Overall, these budget islands in the Maldives prove that this incredible archipelago can actually be done enjoyably on a shoe string budget!

By choosing local Maldivian islands over luxury resorts, you can experience the beauty and charm of the Maldives without breaking the bank.

There’s clearly a thriving local culture that offers a more authentic and budget-friendly alternative, which is just waiting to be experienced by you! 🌞 🐠

I really hope that this blog post on the best local islands in the Maldives inspires you to visit this gorgeous part of the world one day, as it really doesn’t have to cost the earth.

If you have any questions about local islands in the Maldives please feel free to ask me in the comments below!

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