House Reef Snorkelling
Resort Dependent. Snorkelling equipment is often included, but not every island has a house reef close to shore. Where there is one, turtles, reef sharks and colourful fish are common sightings.
One of the finest island destinations in the world, the Maldives is an ultimate destination for all kinds of travellers. It offers pure indulgence and effortless relaxation with multiple water and adventure activities. Popular for its luxurious resorts, the Maldives is also an exceptional place for those who wish for a romantic holiday. From the moment you arrive, the welcoming warm weather, turquoise water, world-class dining, and soothing spa treatments keep you energised and excited. Here, you can wake up in an overwater villa with direct access to the crystal-clear lagoon, snorkel alongside vibrant marine life on your doorstep, or enjoy a private sunset cruise across the Indian Ocean.
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Peak season
Dry, sunny days, calm, clear seas, ideal for snorkelling and water sports
Off-season
Lower prices, quieter resorts, rainy days cost nothing extra
From house reef snorkelling to swimming with manta rays, here's what you can do in the Maldives, what's usually included in your plan and what costs extra.
Many all-inclusive plans include selected non-motorised water sports, although the activities covered vary by resort and meal plan.
The Maldives is one of the world's great diving and snorkelling destinations. Beyond the house reef, most underwater experiences are paid extras, though some premium plans include a few.
Premium plans often include a set number of excursions. On other plans, they are easy to book once you arrive.
Wellness is rarely fully included, though premium plans often add credits towards it.
After dark, resort life slows down, though there's usually something going on.
Food and drink are a big part of any all-inclusive stay, but what's covered depends on your resort and plan.
Maldivian cooking is built on tuna, coconut, chilli and rice, and many resorts include local dishes on their menus.
The classic Maldivian breakfast. Tuna is mixed with grated coconut, onion and chilli and eaten with roshi flatbread. Many resorts serve it at the breakfast buffet.
A clear fish broth, served with rice, lime, chilli and onion. It's a staple of Maldivian home cooking.
A fish curry of tuna simmered with coconut milk, curry leaves and spices. It's usually eaten with rice or roshi and is a regular on Maldivian theme nights.
Savoury teatime snacks. Try gulha, small fried dough balls filled with tuna and coconut.
The day's catch, simply seasoned and cooked over the grill. Look out for it at beach barbecue nights.
A little planning before you book can make a big difference to your holiday and your budget.
Compare plan tiers, not just names: All-inclusive and premium all-inclusive plans differ from resort to resort, so check exactly what each one covers.
Choose a resort for how you'll spend your days: Look at the house reef, the restaurants on your plan, the transfer type and whether premium drinks are included.
Travelling with children? Look for kids' clubs, children's menus and family villas. Child pricing on meal plans varies, and Green Tax applies from age two.
Want a quieter stay? Adults-only resorts suit couples, honeymooners and anyone looking for a peaceful break.
Book peak dates early: December to April books up first, especially over Christmas, New Year, February half-term and Easter. Secure your holiday with a low deposit from £99pp, and every holiday is ATOL and ABTA protected.
Choose your meal plan before you travel: Most resorts apply one plan to your whole stay and to everyone in your villa, and upgrading after arrival can cost more.
Check your departure day: Your plan normally ends at check-out, so meals and drinks before a late flight home may be charged.
Reserve restaurants early: Book à la carte and speciality restaurants soon after you arrive, as popular evenings fill quickly.
Tipping is optional: A 10% service charge is already added to resort bills. If you'd like to tip, US dollars in cash are easiest.
The Maldives has strict alcohol laws, and they apply very differently on resort islands and local islands.
Resort Islands vs Local Islands: Alcohol is only served at licensed resorts, resort hotels and liveaboard boats. Local islands and Malé are dry, so excursions to inhabited islands won't include alcohol, even on an all-inclusive plan.
Bringing Alcohol Into the Maldives: Importing alcohol is illegal, and that includes duty-free purchases. Declared alcohol is held by customs at the airport and returned when you leave, while undeclared alcohol can be confiscated permanently.
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