Maldives Local Islands : How To Plan A Budget Maldives Honeymoon
Wondering is it possible to plan a budget Maldives honeymoon? Let’s talk about staying on the Maldives local islands…
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The sublime beauty of the Maldives, the turquoise waters, swaying palm trees, and powdery white sands – it is the ultimate haven for couples seeking stunning scenery and the most romantic beach destination.
But admittedly for couples seeking to keep honeymoon costs on track, finding a budget Maldives honeymoon can be a challenge!
That’s where the Maldives local islands come in. Beyond the luxury resorts that dot its atolls, the Maldives is the perfect destination for intrepid couples to immerse in the local vibe and enjoy these paradise islands!
Why stay on a local island in the Maldives? You can explore this beautiful archipelago at a more affordable cost. Ideal for couples who aren’t adverse to leaving the luxury behind for a few days.
You can mix and match – stay a few days on the Maldives local islands with a few days in a lavish resort.
Let’s get planning a trip to the Maldives local islands and learn how to plan the ultimate budget Maldives honeymoon!
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Good to know about the Maldives
Time Zone: GMT +5
Language: Dhivehi
Capital: Malé
Population: 550,000
Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa MVR / US$ Dollar widely accepted
A few phrases in Dhivehi:
Hi: Assalaamu alaikum
Please: Adhes kohfa
Thank you: Shukuriyaa
Goodbye: Dhanee
Visa Required: Most nationalities do not need to obtain a visa prior to arrival for the Maldives. However, you need to have a valid passport with at least 6 months validity and a confirmed return ticket. If you need help to obtain a visa, check out iVisa.com.
Travel Insurance: Here at The Honeymoon Guide, we want you to have the best honeymoon possible. Safety is paramount, particularly if you’re planning a Maldives honeymoon itinerary. It’s important to have travel insurance in place when you book your honeymoon. If you don’t have travel insurance, check out WorldNomads.com to learn more.
World Nomads provide travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance from World Nomads.
Travel Health: The Maldives is a malaria-free honeymoon destination although it is on the list of Zika destinations. Travel vaccinations are needed. We encourage you to visit the Centers for Disease Control website for up-to-date travel vaccination recommendations or speak to a Tropical Medicine Specialist.
About the Maldives
The Maldives is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka and India.
The country consists of over 1,000 islands, of which around 200 are inhabited. These are grouped into 26 atolls (tiny coral islands).
These inhabited islands are known as local islands, and they offer a glimpse into the Maldivian way of life.
The islands are spread over 800 kilometres and sits below sea level. There are no mountains or rivers and the islands are mostly flat with sand and jungle.
The capital is Malé and approximately 40% of the population live there.
The Maldives is a Muslim country, with a culture that’s influenced by its location and history and Indian, African, and Arab roots. Sharia is enshrined in law meaning no alcohol (except in private island resorts), pork products and there is a dress code everywhere except luxury private island resorts.
Best Time To Visit the Maldives
The best time to visit the Maldives is during the dry season from December to April.
During the rainy season from May to October you can be lucky and get consecutive days of rain but you can be unlucky and experience overcast days and frequent thunderstorms.
During the low season, prices are a fraction of the high season.
May, September and October are the rainiest months but in June, July and August the rainfall decreases a little.
One of the downsides to planning a stay on the Maldives local islands during the rainy season is that if you’ve only a few days and it’s raining the whole time there really isn’t much to do as everything is beach and ocean based.
If you’re planning a budget Maldives honeymoon during the rainy season we’d recommend a resort stay for the whole time as if you get rainy days you have more options for activities including the spa, bars and dining options, a villa you can hang out in and so on!
Maldives Luxury Private Island Resorts & Maldives Local Islands
Tourism in the Maldives is relatively new and only began in 1972 when Kurumba Island opened as a resort (which is still going strong!).
These days there are over 150 and growing luxury private island resorts in the Maldives, ranging from 3*+ to ultra luxury 5+* (some you could even describe as 6-star!).
Each resort sits on its own island and the concept is one island: one resort.
Although there are a few exceptions.
Some resorts have two islands, for example Sun Siyam Olhuveli and Oblu Select Sangeli have adjacent adults only islands.
You’ll also find some resorts are connected to social island hubs created for tourists. Hard Rock Hotel Maldives and Saii Lagoon connect to Crossroads Marina which has an array of shops and dining options near the capital and you can take a day trip to explore this island.
Ultra-luxe havens The Ritz Carlton Maldives and Patina Maldives and soon to open Capella Maldives, are connected to Fari Marina Villa which is a more upscale luxury island with yacht marina, boutiques and dining options.
90% of couples will fly into the tiny capital Malé and and head straight to their resort, only leaving to take sunset cruises, snorkelling or scuba diving and maybe to visit a local island on a short excursion.
However since 2009, the government has allowed hotels and guesthouses to open on the Maldives local islands meaning that a more independent or budget Maldives honeymoon is possible.
There is currently a building boom on Maldives local islands with hotels and guesthouses opening (and you will see some building work on small construction sites on parts of the local islands).
This means that there are now a few options to stay. The hotels and guesthouses on Maldives local islands are a fraction of the cost of a luxury resort.
One important aspect of planning a trip to the Maldives local islands is knowing that outside of the 150+ luxury private island resorts; the Maldives is a conservative Islamic country.
For example, alcohol sales are prohibited (whereas you can drink alcohol in private island resorts).
Another aspect is that the call to prayers is important to the people so on the Maldives local islands you’ll find shops and restaurants closed in the early afternoons and also during Ramadan.
Many businesses and services are closed on Fridays and Saturdays as this is the weekend (Friday is like Sunday in the west!)
While women visiting the Maldives are not expected to wear a hijab or abaya, relative modesty is not only expected, but is also the law.
For example, covering knees and shoulders is the norm for both male and female tourists. Light loose fitting trousers, maxi skirts and t-shirts are ideal.
There is usually a dedicated beach for bikini and sunbathing on Maldives local islands.
This wouldn’t be the case in the private islands resorts where (almost) anything goes. Although even in the resorts you are expected to be dressed if visiting a restaurant!
Also, the resort islands get sprayed for mosquitos which doesn’t happen on local islands, so pack extra anti bug spray!
Ultimately we’d recommend a mix of both the Maldives local islands and a stay in a luxury resort if you’re planning a budget Maldives honeymoon.
Getting around the Maldives on a budget
The main airport in Maldives is Velana International Airport (airport code: MLE) which is located on an island adjacent to Malé, the island capital city.
If you’re staying in a private island resort, a resort representative will be waiting to whisk you off to your speedboat, seaplane or domestic flight transfer.
However there is no doubt that these options are one of the most expensive aspects of a Maldives honeymoon. Seaplanes average $300-1500 per person although they are a unique way to arrive in your resort!
If you’re staying on a Maldives local island, you can opt for a local dhoni boat / public ferry which only cost a few dollars, but they are slower and as they are infrequent may not be available at times that suit.
The best option is a local shared speedboat. You can book most routes on 12GO Asia or they can be arranged through your Maldives local islands hotels and guesthouses.
Luxury resorts tend to use their own transfer services but if you’re already on the islands, you shouldn’t need to get back to the airport for a pick up.
Local island hotels and guesthouses will help you arrange not only your transfer from the airport to the island but from their island to the luxury resort.
This will inevitably be cheaper than organising through a luxury resort.
Maldives Luxury Resorts vs Local Hotels & Guesthouses
The Maldives is known for its luxury resorts and we encourage you to spend at least 4 nights in a luxury resort to fully experience the Maldives (this will give you at least 3 full days of luxury!).
Ideally choose an overwater villa but beach villas can be excellent value too.
Resorts are sanctuaries of tranquillity, designed to provide an exclusive and intimate experience.
They are the epitome of luxury, ranging from spacious beachfront villas to overwater villas with private access to the azure waters below.
These resorts pride themselves on their world-class facilities, including spas, infinity pools, and a variety of fine dining options, each offering a diverse array of international cuisines.
Activities are curated to offer the utmost in relaxation and indulgence, from private yacht excursions to underwater dining experiences, ensuring every moment is laced with luxury.
Maldives luxury resorts have the highest level of service and luxury found anywhere in the world.
Resorts can average $1000+ per room per night for an all inclusive villa. Sometimes it’s less and sometimes more depending on the standard of your chosen resort, inclusions and time of year.
Many resorts offer all-inclusive packages, which can be a good value.
On Maldives local islands, guest houses and small hotels are ideal for couples planning a budget Maldives honeymoon.
As the concept of local island hotels is a recent one, a lot of the hotels are new. They tend to be clean, modern and bright with air conditioning and usually include breakfast.
They are run by local people and although the facilities will be basic, they are a great option and range from $50-200 per room per night.
You will get WI-FI although it will be slower than at home. Purchase a local SIM card from the airport or Male city.
If you’re staying on a private island resort in the Maldives it’s not necessary to bring lots of cash and having some US$ is best.
However, on the Maldives local islands it’s a different story. Most islands don’t have an ATM and even the ones that do the network can be patchy and they don’t always work.
Credit cards may not be accepted by your local hotel so check before travel. Beware of additional card surcharge fees, too.
In the Maldives everything (whether staying in a local island or luxury resort) is priced as ‘price + +’. This means you have a base price plus 8% GST (Goods and Services Tax) and a 10% service charge.
The local currency in Maldives is Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR). However, US Dollars are widely accepted on Maldives local islands but some MVR is best for small purchases like ferries and shops. You can’t change MVR back into USD.
It is recommended to carry cash in USD and MVR. Withdraw cash from the airport or Male city before heading to the local islands. Don’t forget to notify your bank you’ll be away!
If you’re opting for a budget Maldives honeymoon and going to stay on some local islands in the Maldives, then make sure you do the local island FIRST. You want to save the best for last (or save the luxury for last!).
When booking your accommodation in the Maldives, don’t just turn up and make sure your accommodation is booked in advance.
Island Attractions and Activities
Whether you’re choosing a budget Maldives honeymoon or a lavish no-expense-spared Maldives honeymoon, this archipelago is all about the water!
The islands are home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. However, things vary between the Maldives local islands and the luxury resorts.
You will find powdery white sand, palm trees and crystal-clear waters on the local islands. However, the beaches are more wild and rustic compared to resort beaches which are kept spotless and pristine.
Seaweed and things that wash up on the beaches are regularly removed on a private island whereas this doesn’t happen as often on a local island.
As already mentioned, most importantly, you can only wear bikinis and other swimwear on the dedicated tourist beaches aka on a bikini beach.
Where the Maldives local islands come into their own is excursions which are a fraction of the resort prices.
If you want to go snorkelling, scuba diving, fishing etc, you’ll pay about 30% less than on a resort.
Boat trips start at around US$30 for a sandbank tour to $100 for a couple of dives. Discover the rich marine life and swim with manta rays, and whale sharks
All local hotels and guesthouses will offer the same daily tours and they are easily organised on arrival.
Although bear in mind tours are weather dependent and the same tours don’t happen daily.
Now staying in a resort will be a totally different experience. Most resorts will have a dedicated water sports centre which will include complimentary non-motorised water sports.
A resort will also have an array of things to do that don’t include the sea or ocean. From cooking classes and art classes to fitness and wellness programmes.
Eating and Drinking in the Maldives
When it comes to dining on the Maldives local islands vs in a luxury resort, things could not be more different.
On a local island in the Maldives you’ll find a small selection of restaurants usually attached to the hotels. Hotels and guesthouses will include a simple breakfast selection.
The food will be simple but relatively cheap in comparison to the luxury resorts. Maldivian cuisine is a fusion of Indian, Sri Lankan, and Arabic influences with curries, rice and seafood aplenty.
You usually won’t spend more than $10-20 on a meal on the Maldives local islands. Restaurants usually close for prayer time in the afternoon.
On the luxury private island resorts, things are more lavish with huge buffet breakfast spreads, insta-worthy floating breakfasts and other private dining options.
Think candlelit beach dinners or cinema under the stars and buffet dinners along with specialty a la carte options from around the world.
The food in the luxury resorts is excellent and one of the best things about a honeymoon in the Maldives. Don’t miss a few days in a luxury resort if you’re foodie kind of people!
Maldives Local Islands To Visit
There are quite a few local islands, in fact almost 200 are inhabited.
The capital is Malé and this bustling island city is densely populated. Most couples will bypass the capital and go straight to another local island or resort.
We’ve included the best Maldives local islands below, how to get there and the nearby luxury resorts to tag on to your budget Maldives honeymoon.
Let’s go…
Maafushi
A pioneer in local tourism, Maafushi in the Kaafu Atoll blends local culture with tourist amenities.
This is a more built up island and brilliant for water sports and affordable guesthouses. It’s the best Maldives local island for activities and is close enough to the capital and is easy to get to. You’ll find water sports and snorkelling and diving and you can book day passes to some luxury resorts.
Popular dive sites like Kandooma Thila and Guraidhoo Corner are nearby. The island’s popularity, however, means it can feel crowded compared to more secluded locales. This is for couples looking for a lively rather than tranquil atmosphere.
How to get there: 30-minute speedboat
Where to stay on Maafushi: Arena Beach Hotel
Combine with: Anantara Veil Maldives Resort | Sun Siyam Olhuveli
Dhigurah
Dhigurah is a long island famed for its extensive sand bank and close encounters with whale sharks.
It’s a haven for couples and those seeking a quieter island retreat than Maafushi and close to some great resorts.
How to get to Dhigurah: 30-minute speedboat
Where to stay on Maafushi: Bliss Maldives
Combine with: LUX* South Ari Atoll Resort | Nova Maldives
Ukulhas
Ukulhas is a small island located in the Alif Alif Atoll, known for its commitment to environmental sustainability.
The island has snorkelling and scuba diving and is home to one of the most beautiful bikini beaches on any of the Maldives’ local islands.
How to get to Dhigurah: 30-minute speedboat
Where to stay: Ostrov Hotel Ukulhas
Combine with: Kuramathi Maldives
Dhangethi
Dhangethi is a picture of Maldivian tradition with lovely unspoiled coral reefs. It’s ideal for those looking to dive into both culture and sea.
The island’s tranquillity is a significant draw, though amenities are more limited than other Maldives local islands.
How to get to Dhangethi: 2-hour speedboat ride
Where to stay: PERLA Dhangethi
Combine with: Lily Beach Resort & Spa
Feridhoo
Feridhoo has untouched beaches and a peaceful village atmosphere. The island’s coral reefs are perfect for snorkelling and diving.
This Maldives local island is worth the journey if you’re looking for wild vegetation and crystal clear waters.
How to get to Feridhoo: 90-minute speedboat ride
Where to stay: Villa Rosa
Combine with: W Maldives
Fulidhoo
Fulidhoo is small in size but packs a quiet punch with its tranquil environment and stunning beaches. It’s not too far from amazing dive sites and has a stunning sunset bikini beach.
How to get to Fulidhoo: 1-hour speedboat ride
Where to stay: Kinan Retreat
Combine with: Sun Siyam Olhuveli | Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives
Dhiffushi
Dhiffushi was one of the first Maldives local islands to offer budget accommodation. Well located, just north of the capital and surrounded by luxury resorts.
Banana Reef, one of the best dive sites, is nearby.
Thulusdhoo is another local island ideal for surfing, just south of Dhiffushi. It has some of the Maldives most famous surf breaks like Chickens and Cokes.
How to get to Dhiffushi: 40-minute speedboat ride
Where to stay: Araamu Holidays & Spa
Combine with: Joy Island Maldives by Cocoon Collection | Meeru Maldives | Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa
Rasdhoo
Rasdhoo is a small island located in the North Ari Atoll, known for its spectacular diving spots.
The island is surrounded by a beautiful coral reef, making it a haven for marine life. You can expect to see a variety of fish, including hammerhead sharks, and even turtles during your dives.
How to get to Rasdhoo: 80-minute speedboat ride
Where to stay: Rasdhoo Island Inn
Combine with: Kuramathi Maldives
Thoddoo
Thoddoo offers a unique insight into Maldives life – you’ll find a blend of beach life and agritourism.
The island’s lush greenery and local fruit farms are a draw. You’ll find mango, papaya, and watermelon.
You can also enjoy snorkelling, diving, and other water-based activities, making it a great choice for those who want to explore both the land and sea.
How to get to Thoddoo: 80-minute speedboat ride
Where to stay: Holiday Cottage Maldives
Combine with: Kuramathi Maldives
Keyodhoo
Keyodhoo’s tranquillity and authentic Maldivian lifestyle make it a hidden gem. The island is perfect for experiencing local life and fishing traditions.
Its off-the-beaten-path nature means fewer tourist facilities, ideal for adventurers but perhaps inconvenient for those seeking a more catered experience.
How to get to Keyodhoo: 80-minute speedboat ride
Where to stay: Wow Inn Keyodhoo
Combine with: Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives
Maldives Sailing Experiences
If you’re seeking something unique then you can opt for a live aboard sailing trip. ScubaSpa is a great option with a scuba diving and spa focus with 4 and 7 night itineraries to choose from.
But for couples planning a budget Maldives honeymoon escape, then G Adventures has to be on your shortlist.
The Honeymoon Guide has worked with G Adventures for years as a former travel agent and has travelled with them in Asia. Their commitment to authentic travel is unparalleled.
Spend 6 nights / 7 days aboard a traditional dhoni boat visiting local islands in the Maldives.
You get to experience the islands in an authentic way and give back to the communities. You can finish up with a few days in an overwater villa in a luxury resort for the complete Maldives honeymoon experience!
So that’s it for planning a budget Maldives honeymoon and staying on Maldives local islands. Would you consider mixing it up? Let us know in the comments!
Happy Planning x
Related Maldives honeymoon articles:
Ultimate Maldives Honeymoon Guide
