Maldives Local Islands
Experience authentic Maldivian culture and beautiful beaches without the resort price tag. Stay in guesthouses on inhabited islands and discover the real Maldives.
$50-150
Per night (guesthouses)
200+
Inhabited islands
Cultural
Authentic experience
Same
Beautiful beaches
Hulhumalé
North Malé Atoll
Modern reclaimed island near the airport. Great for layovers with beaches and amenities.
Maafushi
South Malé Atoll
The most popular local island with excellent tourist infrastructure, bikini beach, and easy access to excursions.
Thulusdhoo
North Malé Atoll
Surfer's paradise with famous breaks and the original Coca-Cola factory. Laid-back island vibe.
Dhiffushi
North Malé Atoll
Growing destination with beautiful bikini beach and excellent water activities.
Fulidhoo
Vaavu Atoll
Pristine beaches with fewer tourists. Perfect for those seeking quiet local island experience.
Vaadhoo Island
Raa Atoll
Famous for the magical 'Sea of Stars' - bioluminescent phytoplankton creating glowing beaches.
Important Things to Know
Dress Code
Local islands are conservative. Cover shoulders and knees when not on the beach.
Bikini Beaches
Many islands have designated 'bikini beaches' where swimwear is permitted.
No Alcohol
Alcohol is not sold on local islands. Resort day trips offer this option.
Excursions
Book diving, snorkeling, and island hopping trips through your guesthouse.
Visiting Local Islands in the Maldives
Until 2009, tourists could only stay at resorts in the Maldives. The introduction of guesthouses on local islands opened up budget travel and authentic cultural experiences. Today, islands like Maafushi have become popular tourist destinations offering the same beautiful beaches at a fraction of resort prices.
What to Expect
Local islands offer a different experience from resorts. You'll stay in small guesthouses (typically $50-150/night), eat at local restaurants, and interact with Maldivian residents. Most islands have designated tourist beaches where swimwear is permitted, while the rest of the island follows local dress codes.
Best Local Islands to Visit
Maafushi is the most developed for tourism with excellent infrastructure.Thulusdhoo is perfect for surfers. Hulhumalé is convenient for airport layovers. For something quieter, try Fulidhoo or Dhiffushi.