The Maldives is one of the most beautiful places in the world – and a dream destination for so many. But you don’t have to spend thousands to enjoy the Maldives by visiting one of the luxury resorts. Instead of visiting a resort, consider visiting a local island in the Maldives and staying at a local Maldivian guesthouse. You can still enjoy the amazing Maldives underwater life, from turtles to sharks to dolphins, that makes the Maldives one of the best places to visit…For a fraction of the price.
Trust me, I’ve done it – and it was the best trip ever! Ever since my budget trip to the Maldives, I’ve been sharing tips and tricks to visit the Maldives on a budget.
By visiting my curated list of local Maldives islands, you can plan the perfect budget trip to the Maldives for the whole family. Of course, visiting local islands in the Maldives won’t be a luxury experience… But you’ll still have an amazing time, I promise. Without further ado, here’s my list of the 11 most beautiful local islands in the Maldives.
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The Best Locals Islands in the Maldives
The Maldives comprises more than 1,000 islands – and many of them are local Maldivian islands, the perfect spot for a budget trip to the Maldives. These are my favorite local islands to visit in the Maldives if you’re planning a budget trip to the Maldives!
1. Kendhoo
Nestled into a multi-island chain in Baa Atoll, Kendhoo is perhaps one of the most unique and most beautiful local islands in the Maldives. This small local island is relatively new to tourism, but offers so much to visitors looking to experience the true Maldivian culture and beauty on local Maldives islands.
For outdoor lovers, there’s so much to see and do nearby, including stunning snorkeling spots with so much underwater life, pristine sandbanks, lots of fishing and uninhabited islands – all within short distance. During the late summer and fall, you can also visit Hanifaru Bay to see the Manta rays dancing. And while you’re here, don’t forget to visit the ancient Kendhoo Mosque (built in the 16th century from coral stone); this island was one of the first to embrace Islam in the Maldives.
In addition, Kendhoo has a renowned Maldivian medicine healer known for her success in working with a variety of ailments; she specializes in female infertility and arthritis, among other illnesses.
You can find my full island guide here.
Where to stay: Dhoani Maldives Guesthouse, without a doubt. We stayed here and honestly loved every second thanks to their amazing staff.
How to get there: 25-minute domestic flight from Malé to Dharavandhoo, followed by a 30-minute speedboat ride. Alternatively, a 2 hour 15 minute speedboat ride.
2. Dharavandhoo
Located in the heart of Baa Atoll in the Maldives, Dharavandhoo is perhaps one of the most quaint islands in the Maldives. If you’re picturing sandy dirt roads, bikes everywhere and long stretches of white sand – you’re picturing the beautiful local Maldivian island of Dharavandhoo.
The best time to visit Dharavandhoo – especially if you love underwater life – is between September and October to spot the manta rays at Hanifaru Bay, just 15 minutes from Dharavandhoo. During peak seasons (particularly full moon and new moon, when plankton rises to the surface), you can see over 100 manta rays dancing on the surface of the water.
The second best spot to see manta rays is right off the coast of Dharavandhoo, and the good people at Biosphere Inn have a drone they send out during mornings and afternoons to spot manta rays for their guests.
Alternatively, there are many amazing snorkeling spots nearby with turtles, sharks and colorful schools of fish. The island of Dharavandhoo is also located in a key area of fishing, and right off the coast, due to fish migration patterns, you can often catch big game fish. The local house reef at Dharavandhoo is also thriving, which is amazing.
Where to stay: Biosphere Inn was by far my favorite place on the island – and the staff go above and beyond, especially with excursions.
How to get there: 25-minute domestic flight from Malé to Dharavandhoo Airport, or a 2 hour direct speedboat.
3. Maalhos
You’ll find Maalhos close to Dharavandhoo and Hanifaru Bay, and this quaint local island is perhaps one of the most charming. Maalhos is known for their quaint and picturesque island, with a beautiful bikini beach and stunning underwater life nearby. If you stay on Maalhos, you can’t skip Hanifaru Bay (if it’s in season). There are also plenty of beautiful reefs nearby.
Maalhos is also renowned for its environmental initiatives, including a ban on single-use plastics. Its serene beaches and rich cultural heritage make it a hidden gem in the Maldives.
Where to stay: Maclura Residence
How to get there: 25-minute domestic flight from Malé to Dharavandhoo, followed by a 10-minute speedboat ride; alternatively, a 2 hour 20 minute speedboat ride.
4. Dhigurah
Located in the Alif Dhaal Atoll, Dhigurah is widely known for its beautiful beaches and whale shark spotting. This long island stretches out for three kilometers, surrounded by crystalline waters and white sand beaches. Dhigurah is especially well known as whale sharks can be spotted right off the coast pretty much year-round; in fact, this is one of the best spots to see whale sharks in the Maldives. Nearby, you’ll also find fantastic places to spot turtles and manta rays.
Where to stay: Dhiguveli Maldives
How to get there: 20-minute domestic flight from Malé to Maamigili, followed by a 30-minute speedboat ride. Alternatively, 1 hour 30 min. speedboat ride.
5. Thoddoo
Located on its own atoll, Thoddoo is perhaps one of the most popular local islands in the Maldives – especially with Russian tourists. Thoddoo also boasts the longest and largest bikini beach of any local island, and they expand it each year. The beach here is pristine, with calm, blue waters; thanks to the well of fresh water under the island, there are also fresh water showers by the beach and toilets. In addition, the island grows a lot of produce – meaning the fruit and veggies you’ll have here are amazing. Thoddoo is truly a beautiful place, and we loved our stay here.
One of the biggest downsides to Thoddoo is the house reef, which is mostly dead corals until you reach the farthest reaches (after a good swim). However, the house reef is known to have turtles and we saw several turtles swimming here when we snorkeled. Nearby, however, there are excellent places to see nice reefs, dolphins and nurse sharks.
Where to stay: We stayed at Veli Villa and loved it – and they have so many new properties (think: luxurious villas with pools!) coming up around the island!
How to get there: 90-minute speedboat ride from Malé.
6. Ukulhas
Located in the Alif Alif Atoll, Ukulhas is the perfect local island for tourists seeking out the sweet spot: something not too touristy, but still well-established with good restaurants. It’s also a popular pick with Russians.
Ukulhas is known as one of the Maldives’ most eco-friendly islands, and their bikini beach is simply stunning – in no small part thanks to their environmental initiatives. Nearby, you’ll also find an excellent manta ray spot in addition to beautiful snorkeling and diving.
Where to stay: Ranthari Hotel and Spa is a lovely beachfront property with an infinity pool on the roof. SeaLaVie Inn is also lovely.
How to get there: 90-minute speedboat ride from Malé
7. Thinadhoo
Perhaps one of the most beautiful local islands in the Maldives, Thinadhoo is a hidden gem in the Vaavu Atoll. This beautiful island is tiny – you can walk from one side to the other in 20 minutes tops – but offers a stunning stretch of bikini beach, perhaps the most beautiful one I’ve seen on local islands.
Nearby, you’ll find the famous Vaavu Shipwreck (which has a fantastic reef growing on it), the most popular spot to snorkel with nurse sharks and a beautiful lagoon with more than 10 dolphins. The nature here is simply outstanding.
Where to stay: Plumeria Maldives is the place to stay here; their affordable luxury concept is an amazing value.
How to get there: 1.5-hour speedboat ride from Malé; Plumeria Maldives runs their own speedboat.
8. Fulidhoo
Fulidhoo is right next to Thinadhoo in Vaavu atoll, and it’s another stunning local island with pristine beaches. Nearby, you’ll find the famous Vaavu Shipwreck (which has a fantastic reef growing on it), the most popular spot to snorkel with nurse sharks and a beautiful lagoon with more than 10 dolphins, similar to Thinadhoo. You can also watch Traditional bodu beru drumming, a Maldivian classic.
If you do take a speedboat to Thinadhoo or Fulidhoo, you’ll find the water is exceptionally calm due to the way the reef protects the waters from waves. It’s a great option for those who get sea sick.
Where to stay: Galaxy Sunrise Guesthouse is a lovely spot
How to get there: 1.5-hour speedboat ride from Malé
9. Rasdhoo
If you’re visiting the Maldives, Rasdhoo deserves a spot on your list. Located in the Alif Alif Atoll, Rasdhoo is known for its stunning beaches and thriving house reef. Right across the bay, you’ll find a stunning collection of sandbanks, too. The island is also located close to excellent diving and snorkeling – especially if you’re looking to visit Hammerhead Shark Point. Rasdhoo is famous among divers for the stark abundance of marine life.
Where to stay: I would recommend Ras Village, which is close to the beach, or Rasdhoo Coralville.
How to get there: 1-hour speedboat ride from Malé
10. Fuvahmulah
If you speak with local Maldivians, you’ll hear them recommending Fuvahmulah time and time again – and for good reason. Located at the very south of the country, Fuvahmulah is a unique island that sits as the singular island in its own atoll. The unique geography here includes freshwater lakes (Bandaara Kilhi and Dhadimagi Kilhi), lush vegetation, long stretches of beautiful beaches.
But Fuvahmulah is perhaps best known for its tiger shark diving locally and internationally. If you’re an adventurous diver, you can’t skip the tiger shark diving opportunities in Fuvahmulah, making it one of the best local Maldives islands.
Where to stay: Don’t miss AIG Grand or Fuvahmulah Central Hotel.
How to get there: 1-hour domestic flight from Malé to Fuvahmulah Airport
11. Mathiveri
Mathiveri is perfect for travelers seeking a mix of tranquility, cultural immersion, and adventure. Its balance of natural beauty and warm hospitality makes it one of the most enchanting local islands in the Maldives. The small size of the local Maldivian island and its relaxed pace make it ideal for families and couples.
You don’t have to go far to experience the beautiful underwater life: the house reef boasts a wide array of fish, turtles and nurse sharks. Nearby, you’ll also find pods of dolphins roaming around, the Mathiveri shipwreck, uninhabited islands and stunning sandbanks.
Where to stay: Capital Island Villa is the best guesthouse on the island!
How to get there: Mathiveri is accessible via a 90-minute speedboat ride. Alternatively, you can take a domestic flight to the nearby airport on Maamigili, followed by a short speedboat ride.
Samantha Tatro is a Czech-American third culture kid who grew up living and traveling abroad. Many years later, after living in California and working as a journalist, she decided to take the leap and move abroad again…this time to Prague, Czech Republic. Samantha started Undiscovered Path Home to help couples and solo female travelers find the courage to visit countries – and locations – off the beaten path. Her work has appeared in Bon Appetit, NBC News, The Adecco Group, and more.
27 comments
I’ll also add Maafushi! I did this as a day trip from my resort and really liked it. So interesting visiting the local islands
I have not been to Maafushi, hence the reason I did not add it, but I’ve also heard it’s not the best place to visit from many locals. That’s one of the reasons we didn’t go!
I have been to Maafushi and didn´t really like it that much. It is great for daytrips and diving, but the island itself is not that pretty. It is however more bustling and the off shore party boat is a great addition. I was there 3 times. 2 times it was a bit quiet, but on the weekend the party was pumping. Also nice – you get beer cans/long drings at the boat! I bought a couple of cans (USD 5) and took them back in my backpack to enjoy them on other islands 😉
Interesting insight! I had always heard it was a bit of a party island. Unfortunately many of their excursions are so long – it’s usually much better to stay on one of the closer local islands 🙂
I’ve always wanted to visit the Maldives, this is a great guide – I’d love to see all the underwater sealife!
The underwater life is UNREAL! Absolutely something to add to the bucket list 🙂
So many unique tips and beautiful pics. You can’t go wrong with pictures taken by the beach!
Could not agree more! This country is so beautiful and so photogenic!
Definitely want to visit the Maldives someday! Such a great list and photos.
Thanks so much! These islands are really the best 🙂
This is so helpful! I was feeling so overwhelmed at the number of islands available.
It can be so overwhelming!! But honestly … you can’t go wrong 🙂
Dharavandhoo looks like my kind of island. Thanks for the great tips to help pick the best island for our trip.
You’re so welcome!
What beautiful scenery. Love the tips for each stop.
Thanks so much for reading! 🙂
I’ve never considered traveling to the Maldives because I always thought it was too expensive. But your posts make it very accessible. It sounds like there’s some great places to snorkel.
It is SO doable and such a beautiful place to visit 🙂
Do you have a blog post with your itinerary? What was the order that you visited the islands in and how did you travel between them? That would be really helpful and interesting!
I did not, but I should write one – I have visited 3 different times. In general, my first trip I went Kendhoo > Dharavandhoo > Thinadhoo > Thoddoo > resort. Then the next trip, I visited Omadhoo > Dhiffushi > Fulidhoo. The transit time makes it tricky, I wouldn’t necessarily repeat my trip in that way given what I know now. You should expect to spend at least half a day transiting around.
I do have one blog post about how to plan a budget trip to the Maldives & one on how to get around the Maldives – it goes into extreme detail on transport between each island, which will be very helpful 🙂 Check that out!
I have never been to the Maldives but it is on my bucket list. These are great options and I never knew about some of them. The area is beautiful and I love that you focused on the local islands since traveling to me is about see “real” and not the touristy parts.
You absolutely have to go, it is the most incredible place!! I totally agree, it’s more authentic this way 🙂
This post is absolutely stunning! The Maldives has been on my bucket list for years, but I hadn’t realized there were so many incredible local islands to explore beyond the luxury resorts. The photos are breathtaking, and your detailed tips make it sound so much more accessible for travelers who want an authentic experience. I’m definitely adding Kendhoo and Dhigurah to my must-visit list — now I just want to go there as soon as possible!
Thank you so much for the kind words!! It is THE most incredible place — and the local islands are so different and so authentic 🙂
All of the islands you’ve talked about look incredible! I plan on traveling there in the next few years and this is a great read for me to figure out what to include on my itinerary!
Ahhh it’s going to be such a beautiful trip – I hope this helps 🙂