Maldives hotels

Party and nightlife in Maldives

Known for its vivid coral reefs and vast expanses of white sand beaches, the Maldives might seem an unconventional choice for those in search of a vibrant nightlife. Yet, a blooming party scene can undoubtedly be found here, especially in its busy capital city Malé, and the private island resorts which often host events and famous DJ performances.

Malé is distinctly different from the quiet tranquillity of the islands that surround it. It harbours a more traditional party atmosphere. The hubs for this lively atmosphere include the likes of the Jazz Café and Lemongrass Fifth Restaurant, both located centrally in the city. The Jazz Café is a distinctive destination that carves out its space for Maldivian music aficionados with local and international jazz performances offering an array of auditory pleasure, also serving a variety of cocktails and palatable dishes. Lemongrass Fifth Restaurant flaunts a more sophisticated scene in a sky bar setting, providing panoramic views, food and an extensive drinks menu.

Contrary to the compact area offered by Malé, larger resort islands offer spacious venues. The most prominent among these include One and Only Reethi Rah, the W Maldives and the Niyama Private Islands, with each offering a different spectrum of Maldivian nightlife.

One and Only Reethi Rah, a popular resort among celebrities, has a lively bar with an extensive cocktail menu to unwind and relax. Frequented by tourists and locals, it offers the right balance of high spirits and soothing atmosphere.

Meanwhile, Niyama Private Islands take the experience to a unique level with the Subsix, an underwater club. Here, parties are held six meters below sea level with surrounding coral reefs adding an interesting twist to the affair.

However, for those in search of more relaxed evenings, places like Meeru Island Resort & Spa offer a beachside bar setting. Here, among reefs illuminated with lights, people can relish soothing drinks while watching nocturnal marine activity.

The Maldives might be a cluster of thousand small islands offering a tranquil paradise by day but as the sun sinks beneath the horizon, the vibrant nightlife begins to emerge, proving that a party in Maldives is as multifaceted as the island itself.

Must-sees in Maldives

Located in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is a mesmerising archipelago of over a thousand coral islands, each one more beautiful than the last. Known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches and luxurious overwater villas, the Maldives is a dream destination for many. Here are some of the top sights, attractions and places to visit in the Maldives.

Let's start with the capital city of Malé, the vibrant heart of the Maldives. Despite its small size, Malé is home to some of the country's top attractions, including the Grand Friday Mosque, the largest mosque in the Maldives and a spectacular example of Islamic architecture. Another must-see in Malé is the National Museum, which houses a fascinating collection of historical artefacts, including royal thrones, ancient weapons and religious statues.

For those seeking a more relaxed and tranquil experience, the Maldives offers a plethora of secluded islands and private resorts. One of the most popular is the island of Baros, known for its stunning beaches, lush greenery and world-class diving spots. Visitors can stroll in the warm sun, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, or indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment overlooking the ocean.

No trip to the Maldives is complete without experiencing its underwater wonderland. The archipelago is home to some of the best diving and snorkelling sites in the world, with an abundance of colourful marine life and vibrant coral reefs waiting to be explored. One of the most famous diving spots is the Banana Reef, where water lovers can swim alongside schools of tropical fish, eagle rays and even sharks.

For a taste of the Maldivian culture and way of life, a visit to a local island is a must. One such island is Dhigurah, where holidaymakers can immerse themselves in the traditional way of life and witness local crafts, music and dance. Delicious Maldivian cuisine is on offer, which is a fusion of Indian, Sri Lankan and Arabic flavours.

Last but certainly not least, the Maldives is also renowned for its stunning sunsets. The islands' secluded location and unobstructed views make for a magical experience as the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant hues.

Where to Stay in the Maldives

For Proximity to Popular Attractions

• Thulusdhoo Island: Known for some of the best surfing in the country, Thulusdhoo is reachable by a local ferry from Malé and offers a mix of cultural and aquatic experiences.

Best for Families

• Dhaalu Atoll: This southwest region houses contemporary resorts and is relatively new to tourism, offering a modern and family-friendly environment.

• : Located on the Baa Atoll, this resort is ideal for families, offering various lodging options, including popular villas with private pools. Activities for kids include beach activities, guided nature walks, and a Junior Marine Biology program.

• Constance Halaveli: Situated in the North Ari Atoll, this resort boasts a fantastic kids' club with activities like crab hunting and pizza making, making it a great option for families.

Budget-Friendly Options

• Maafushi - South Male Atoll: Offers great value accommodation options and a variety of activities and dining experiences suitable for families on a budget.

• Samman Host, h78: These are some of the cheapest hotel options with excellent reviews, costing around $100.

For Solo Travellers

• Maafushi: This island is a great choice for solo travellers looking to experience the Maldives off the beaten path. It offers a variety of affordable accommodation options and is home to the second-highest population of all the atolls.

Best Places to Stay in the Maldives

• North Ari Atoll (Alifu): Popular with couples, this area boasts exclusive resorts and offers romantic sunsets and epic diving locations.

• Baa Atoll: Known for its proximity to the UNESCO bio reserve, it's a fantastic place for diving and offers a range of beautiful resorts.

When planning your trip, remember to consider the type of transfer you'll need to get to your chosen resort, as some are accessible by speedboat and others by seaplane. Also, take into account that the Maldives is a Muslim country, so local areas have certain restrictions, but resorts typically have more relaxed rules regarding swimwear and alcohol consumption.