Maldives

1. Banana Reef

West of Farukolhufushi Island in the North Malé Atoll is where divers, snorkelers, and swimmers will find the magnificent Banana Reef. Shaped like a banana (how it got the name), it’s perfect for both advanced and beginner divers; the reef offers small canyons, overhangs, and soft coral. In the center of the reef is a large overhang formed by the ocean’s currents. Here, divers and snorkelers will see large schools of oriental sweet lips, snappers, and fusiliers. On the south end of the reef there’s a wall with some smaller caves filled with red tooth trigger fish. Banana Reef is a protected marine area.

Itha Wathanee Hingun K., Thulusdhoo, Maldives

2. Hulhumale

Hulhumale sits north of Malé and the airport, which it is connected to by a causeway. It is essentially an extension of Malé proper. Hulhumalé is a manmade island – coral and sand were dug up from the lagoon and laid across the top of the reef, forming about a 1.8 square kilometer island. The project was set in motion in 1997 to relieve some of the population growth occurring on Malé. Guests will be able to enjoy an authentic Maldivian dining experience with a local family or take a trip out to the local reef for some snorkeling and afterward enjoy some Maldivian tea on the sandbank.

3. Artificial Beach Male

On the eastern side of the island of Malé, Artificial Beach Male is a favorite of the locals, as it’s the only swimmable beach in the capital city of Malé. This is made possible because of the breakwater that protects the beach. Guests will find a limited number of travelers here in comparison to locals, and revealing swimwear such as speedos and bikinis are prohibited. This beautiful beach has become more than just a place for relaxation and leisure swimming. It is starting to become a hub for entertaining cultural activities like parades, carnivals, and live music. Travelers can catch a sunset followed by a bite to eat at Breakwater, Dinemore, or Oxygen Café.

Capital city of Malé, North Male’ Atoll, Maldives

4. Male Fish Market

Located on the island of Malé along the inner harbor on the north side of the island, Male Fish Market is west of Republic Square. This is truly one of the best ways to connect with the locals here as well as see how the Maldivians go about their daily business. With no set hours, the best times to visit the market are in the afternoon and early evening, since that is when most of the fisherman come in with their catch of the day. Tuna is the most popular fish caught and sold here. Visitors can grab some fresh fruit and fish for a delicious and authentic Maldivian dinner.

188 Ibrahim Hassan Didi Magu, Malé, Maldives

5. Mulee'aage Palace

This beautiful colonial-style building is located in the historic center of Malé. It was built in 1906 by the Sultan Mohammed Shamsuddeen III for the purpose of his son’s residence, but he was overthrown before that could happen. The building then became the private residence for the President of the Republic of the Maldives. It is still the president’s private residence and is therefore not open to the public. Medhu Ziyaarai, tomb of Abul Barakat Yousef Al-Berberi, who brought Islam to Malé, is on the property. Intricate white carvings on the exterior of Mulee’aage and a well-manicured landscape make it interesting to see.

Mulee'aage Palace, Medhuziyaarai Magu, Henveiru, Malé, Maldives

6. National Museum

The National Museum is located on the island of Malé. It sits inside the Sultan Park, and was previously a part of the Sultan’s Palace. The museum was opened for public display in November, 1952. Visitors will find a large collection of historical artifacts that belonged to the Sultans, some of which include paper and cloth manuscripts, dress worn by kings and queens, photographs, armor, arms, and anthropological objects from the pre-Islamic era. The lower level of the museum is dedicated to medieval periods, and the upper level displays objects representing the modern era, including the famous Maldivian lacquer boxes.

Chaandhanee Magu, Malé, Maldives, Phone: +96-03-32-22-54

7. Secret Paradise

Secret Paradise is headquartered on the manmade island of Hulhumalé, which is an extension of Malé proper that sits just north of the airport. Secret Paradise puts an emphasis on experiencing local Maldivian culture and tradition. Travelers can visit Hurra Island to learn about how locals live a simpler life. While there, visitors can check out the freshwater lake and mangrove swamps. On the way back, they can lie on the ferry roof and soak in the starry night sky. Guests may also enjoy a full day of island hopping, a walking tour on the smaller island of Villimale, or a dinner experience with locals in their home.

Huvandhumaa Hingun, Maldives, Phone: +96-03-35-55-90

8. Tsunami Monument

Located on the southeastern part of Malé Island on the Boduthakurufaanu Magu, Tsunami Monument is dedicated to those who lost their lives in the tsunami caused by the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake. The core has vertical iron rods symbolizing the lives of those lost, the steel balls represent the country’s 20 atolls, and the upwards design signifies the rising waters. The victims’ names are engraved on the monument. The waters surrounding the monument provide some of the best surf in Malé. Local street vendors sell beverages and local foods near the monument.

Thin Ruh Park, Boduthakurufaanu Magu, Malé, Maldives

9. Fulhadhoo Beach

Fulhadhoo Beach is located on the island of Fulhadhoo. The island itself is located in the Southern Maalhosmadulhu Atoll, about two hours northwest of Malé by speedboat. It is nearly uninhabited, as there are only about 250 people who reside in a small village on the east side of the island, and guests will really feel like they’ve found a little piece of paradise in this remote location. With bright white sandy beaches, abundant palm growths, and blue and turquois colored lagoons, guests will be left in awe at just how special this beach is. The island is equipped with a medical center and several rural shops.

Fulhadhoo Island, Southern Maalhosmadulhu Atoll, Maldives

10. Maadhoo Beach

Maadhoo Beach is located on the island of Kuda Finolhu, which sits just south of the island of Maadhoo, in the South Malé Atoll. This uninhabited island is is a little more than half a mile long, and about 165 yards wide. Day trips can be arranged to this beach for guests to enjoy a one-of-a-kind picnic experience with beautiful sandy white beaches, plenty of vegetation, and crystal clear waters in the lagoon. There are beautiful walking paths for visitors to explore at this idyllic location. The picnics are customizable to the size of your group and the duration of your stay on the beach.

Location: Kuda Finolhu Island, South Malé Atoll, Maldives