The Maldives is famous for its luxury resorts and brilliant beaches. That reputation is well earned, but it only tells part of the story. For travellers who want more from their time in the archipelago, there is a whole side of the Maldives that is active, exploratory, and truly exciting.
Diving and Snorkelling the House Reef
Every good resort in the Maldives sits above a reef, and exploring it is one of the easiest and most rewarding things you can do. The house reef at most resorts drops steeply into deeper water, where the marine life is very different from the shallow lagoon. Reef sharks, eagle rays, turtles, and schools of colourful fish are common things to see. For certified divers, the outer atolls open up world-class wall dives and channel dives that are among the best in the Indian Ocean.
Water Sports and Other Adventures
Luxury villas in Maldives come with access to a range of water sports that go well beyond swimming. Kitesurfing, windsurfing, jet skiing, and stand-up paddleboarding are available at most well-equipped resorts. There are also resorts like OBLU Xperience Ailafushi that take this further with a strong focus on active experiences. Such places offer guests an extensive range of water sports and above-water activities that keep energy levels high even on the most relaxed of holidays.
Island Hopping and Local Culture
Visiting a local inhabited island gives your trip a different vibe that a resort stay alone cannot provide. Local markets, small cafes, and the daily workings of life in the Maldives are a rare experience for many visitors. Many resorts arrange guided excursions to nearby islands.
