The majority of people that come and go to the ocean islands and beaches are Maldives tourism related. The Maldives is perfectly located in the Indian Ocean with beautiful islands and tons of different locations to stay.
No matter what island you visit, which resort you decide to stay in, or what Maldivian adventures you get to experience, you’re going to have a wonderful time.
While there are Maldivian people that live in cities, villages, and in various island communities, there are tons of tourists that travel through the country as well.
We share with you all of the best resorts, activities, and more in our guides.
Here, let’s look at a brief overview of tourists and planning your Maldives adventure.
Table of Contents
History of Tourism in Maldives
The country of Maldives has been serving guests with tourism interests since 1972. This is the year that tourism first found the country.
The number of people that come from around the world only continues to grow as tourists mark the island beach vacation off their bucket list and discover just what the country has to offer.
In just the last decade, the number of resorts in Maldives has grown and so have airports, beaches, and more to accommodate the tourism demands. And yet Maldives tourism doesn’t mean you’re going to be fighting through a sea of people either.
Malé is the capital and the atoll for the most popular international airport. While travelers from India might be able to utilize some of the other airports, US travelers are currently confined to airlines that travel to Male International Airport.
Other sectors continue to develop across the archipelago and the government continues to work on development to find options to make guests welcome among the local sector.
The goal is to provide a luxury getaway on a national scale while still preserving the history and the nature of this nation.
Maldives has quickly become one of the leading tourist destination countries for luxury resorts, luxury services, and more.
This tropical location is also a top choice for honeymoon destinations.
They are also set apart for their natural beauty and their eco-friendly approach to tourist development. Learn what the eco-friendly resorts in Maldives are doing to preserve the nature around them.
Tourism in Maldives in the Indian Ocean
Tourists journey from all over the world to enjoy the coral reefs, local life, delicious food, beach activity, and atoll resort accommodations.
You can choose from coral islands, archipelago resorts, hotel locations, and other types of destinations too.
As you plan your tourist adventure, be sure to consider these Maldives tourism details:
- Where will you stay? There are tons of hotels in Maldives and resorts, and each one has different offerings to consider.
- Money conversion (USD and Maldivian currency is accepted at most locations)
- The number of guests
- Where will you be visiting to explore?
- Transport needs
- Climate Expectations
- The restaurants and food to try
When it comes to information about tourism in Maldives, there is plenty of public information to help you plan your stay.
Maldives Island Adventures for Tourists
When you head to the Maldives, there are several different islands to choose from. Tourism is prominent in the country on many local islands.
People visit Maldives islands for a number of different reasons.
Here are a few of the reasons to visit Maldives:
- Honeymoon destinations
- Romantic getaways
- Family vacations
- Business travel
- Groups of friends
- Foreign global adventure
- Tropical paradise location
- Rich history
Tourism in the Maldives is the industry that financially supports the country. The value for the money is phenomenal when you think about what visitors get for their dollar. You’re spoiled and catered to from arrival to departure.
Male tourism is perhaps the most prominent to Maldives visitors because it’s the central location that is open to the public and has plenty of things to do.
This is also where the Maldives tourist office is located.
Maldives Tourism Authority
Maldives tourism development is managed by the tourism authority. This is the official government facilitation that works to create natural solutions, look for traditional incorporation, and provide you with the best paradise experience for your travel and adventure.
This official government authority works together with other countries to promote tourism on a global scale. They also work within the industry to assist the tropical islands in building resorts, preserving marine life, and research data to appease guests with the appropriate services.
The tourism authority is primarily located in Male, Maldives. From there, guests can travel to their resort, beach, market, or even to other islands.
You will find local life everywhere and the best view of the sea all around you.
Official website of Ministry of Tourism: https://www.tourism.gov.mv/
Maldives Tourism Statistics
Here are Maldives Tourism Statistics from 2019:
- Bed capacity: 50 000+
- Resorts: 164
- Hotels: 14
- Guest Houses: 605
- Safari Vessels: 159
- Average stay: 6.3
- Most popular month: February with 80%+ occupancy
- International Tourists: 1,466 million
- Top 3 Markets: China, India & Italy
Source: Maldives Ministry of Tourism
We will update the statistics in the future.
Maldives Activities
There are a million different things you might decide to do while you’re in Maldives. Some people never leave their hotels and resorts because they have so many things on site that you can just spend your time among the water and beauty there.
There are also plenty of opportunities for adventure away from your resort as well.
These are some of the most popular activities that tourists tend to engage in Maldives:
- Maldives underwater restaurants
- Snorkeling
- Scuba Diving
- Dolphin or whale watching
- Golf in Maldives
- Hang out at the beaches by the sea
- Experience overwater services
- Spas
- Male fish market
- Airplane, seaboat, and helicopter tours
- Marine life activities
- Coral reef tours
Check with guest services at your hotel or resort to determine what activities are offered right there. You can also travel to the capital island of Male in the North Male Atolls for many activities.
If you get a chance to go to the underwater restaurant, this is a must-do activity! The food and the view are one of the best in the world. And it’s located on a small island right here in Maldives.
See our article: Things to do in Maldives
How is Maldives Climate?
One of the answers to why tourists visit Maldives is because the weather in Maldives is almost always sunny and welcoming. They do have a season where they could be more susceptible to rain and monsoons, but for the most part, the islands and resorts see the sun far more than rain.
The climate is warm and tropical. The sun shines and you will feel amazing. The monsoon season extends from approximately May to November across the Southern region, not far from India. Some people still travel in these months without a hitch and the islands and water are still perfect. Just be weather aware.
From December through April is the highest time for travelers for the most favorable climate. March tends to be a busy season, primarily related to Spring Break travel it would seem. The water will be warm and welcoming in all seasons in Maldives.
See our article: The best time to visit Maldives
Spend Honeymoon in Maldives
Thanks to the beauty of the islands throughout the Maldives atolls, this is one of the most popular honeymoon locations in the world. It’s the perfect romantic getaway and the entire Maldives stay is designed for luxury and enjoyment.
From coral reefs to activities to exquisite dining and private accommodations, romance is certainly in the air. Most locations charge a per-person rate in Maldives. The per-person rate is particularly true of Maldives all-inclusive resorts.
These are some of the best Maldives locations with reasonable per-person rates for honeymooners to consider:
- Hurawalhi Maldives Resort
- Regis Vommuli
- Anantara Veli Maldives (Adults-Only)
- Como Cocoa
- Lily Beach Resort
- Veligandu Island Resort
- Amilla Resorts in Maldives
- Six Senses Laamu
- VARU Romantic Maldives
- Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru
- Velaa Private Island Resort
Here you can find all the adults-only resorts in Maldives.
Many of these Maldives locations even have couples packages and honeymoon packages so be sure to check those options out! Here you can find the best Maldives honeymoon resorts.
Currency and Exchange
When heading to Maldives as tourist destination, keep in mind currency exchange. When you land in Male, you can exchange there at the airport. Many of the different locations will accept credit cards and you shouldn’t need a ton of cash. But it’s a good idea to have a bit.
Maldives has its own form of currency, known as Rufiyaa. Because a large percentage of the visitors also come from the US, many locations and stores will accept US currency too. Plan ahead, check out the currency exchange rates and don’t forget to stop at the exchange to have a little bit of paper money on you when you need it.
Maldives Commitment to the Ecosystem
While there isn’t necessarily any type of law that specifically requires the protection of the ecosystem, aside from some of the animals, there should be. These natural islands have to be very careful to take care of the world around them.
This helps prevent island erosion and protects endangered species, the coral reefs, and their livelihood too.
The majority of resorts will have half a million solutions that you likely will never even know about. They use natural solutions as much as possible, including coconut resources from around the island. There are tons of things you can do with a coconut.
In addition, many of the locales have moved away from plastic bottles or plastic items to reduce plastic pollution in Maldives and instead use glass, reusable materials, recycled materials, or more earth-friendly materials as well. Many of them also use their own water treatment solutions to bottle safe drinking water for their guests.
The underwater life is also important, with actions taken to protect sea turtles, coral reefs, and other Maldives wildlife that could be negatively affected by tourism if not properly taken care of.
The law does not allow you to purchase or carry anything made from shells, coral, and other similar substances.
You also cannot import your own liquor.
Transportation
One of the things you need to plan for as you travel to Maldives is transportation. You will find that Male, the capital island, is the hub. Resorts often have their own seaplane transfer partners and speedboats to help shuttle their guests.
This is often provided as a courtesy to you but be sure to check with your hotel.
If you plan activities that take you anywhere away from your destination, plan ahead for transport. Yes, there are some shuttle options but getting from island to island might require some plans and you don’t want to waste half a day figuring out how to get back to your overwater bungalow in Maldives!
Some of the transportation accommodations do charge per person as well so this is something to be aware of.
Cuisine
Maldives is its own country, which means they have their own cultural experiences. Their food and cuisine are also unique.
They use a lot of fish and produce from the ocean around them to create luxurious and tasteful dishes for guests.
These are some foods you might experience in Maldives:
- Fish Soup (Garudhiya)
- Smoked Tuna
- Tuna Stuffed Chapati
- Samosa
- Banana Flower Salad
- Fried Yams
- Lobster
- Sago Pudding
- Gulha
Here you can learn more about the food in Maldives.
These are just a few items but there are many more. Try a little bit of everything while you are here.
Maldives is a Paradise Destination
When it comes to Maldives tourism, the people of the islands take great care of their guests. They understand this is likely a once-in-a-lifetime experience and that you’re there for a luxury time.
You will be treated like family during your stay and there are tons of options for things to do while you’re here.
When are you planning your adventure to paradise?
Article main image: ©wassamon123rf/123RF.COM
FAQ
Are the Maldives Safe for Tourists?
Yes! The people are welcoming or will stick to themselves. While no location is perfect, there are very few issues that have ever involved tourists in this area. You should still practice common safety as you would anywhere you travel.
Why is Maldives Famous for Tourism?
Because it's an absolute paradise. There are no better words to explain it.
Is Maldives Open for Tourists?
Maldives is open to tourism all year long and has been since 1972.
Should You Tip for Services in Maldives?
Some services automatically charge a gratuity. However, it’s not uncommon for guests to tip when they receive excellent service for things throughout their stay.
Is it Worth it to Visit Maldives?
100% worth every penny. This will be a stay like you have never experienced before. From the people to the food to the views, you simply can’t beat it.
