Explore the regions of Maldives
Malé & North Malé Atoll: gateway to the Maldives and popular for luxury beach resorts
Fly into Velana International Airport in Malé, the bustling capital and heart of the Maldives. From here, the North Malé Atoll offers a wide selection of world class resorts, accessible by a short speedboat transfer. Ideal for travellers looking for all-inclusive resorts with stunning beaches and easy access to marine adventures like snorkelling and diving.
South Malé Atoll: ideal for romantic escapes and tranquil beach holidays
A short boat ride from the capital, South Malé Atoll is known for its peaceful, laid-back atmosphere and secluded luxury resorts. It’s a top pick for couples and honeymooners seeking a serene beach holiday in the Maldives.
Recognised for its unique biodiversity, Baa Atoll is one of the best places in the Maldives for eco-conscious travellers. This protected marine biosphere is famous for Hanifaru Bay, where you can swim alongside manta rays and whale sharks during the right season. If you visit between June and November, you’ll witness a wonderful phenomenon known as the plankton bloom.
Raa & Lhaviyani Atolls: secluded luxury with fewer crowds and untouched beauty
These more remote atolls are perfect for those who want an off the beaten path Maldives experience. Accessible via seaplane or a domestic flight plus boat transfer, they offer peace, exclusivity and postcard-perfect scenery.
South Ari Atoll: famous for diving and marine adventures
A favourite for diving enthusiasts, South Ari Atoll is one of the best Maldives regions for encountering large marine life. Many resorts here are dedicated to scuba diving and snorkelling, with access to deep reefs and drift diving spots.
Getting to the Maldives: how to reach your resort paradise
All international flights arrive at Velana International Airport (MLE) in Malé, the capital of the Maldives. From there, your chosen resort will organise a transfer and the options are:
- Speedboat Transfer: Great for nearby atolls, travel time 15–60 minutes. Typically, this is a complimentary service offered by the resort.
- Seaplane Transfer: For remote atolls and operates during daylight hours only. This service is more expensive but offers scenic aerial views of the islands and takes about 20 – 45 minutes.
- Domestic Flight & Boat Transfer: For distant atolls, requires a short flight to a regional airport followed by a boat connection to the specific resort. It’s more time consuming but necessary for some locations.
Maldives: accommodation options
Resorts at the Maldives are typically located on private islands and offer three main styles of accommodation:
- Beach Villas: Nestled along the shoreline, these villas offer direct beach access and privacy, ideal for a tranquil escape.
- Overwater Villas: A Maldives signature experience, these villas sit above the lagoon and offer direct access to the ocean, perfect for snorkelling straight from your deck.
- Combined Resort Options: Many resorts offer both beach and overwater villas, allowing guests to split their stay for the best of both worlds.
Ready to plan your Maldives escape?
Whether you’re after all-inclusive Maldives packages, romantic honeymoon resorts or unforgettable luxury family holidays, BKB Holidays can help you create the exceptional. Speak to our expert team today.
Travel Tip: Australian citizens receive a free 30-day tourist visa on arrival. For more information about tourist visas, head to the Maldives Immigration website.
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
Weather & Seasons
Warm all year round. Two distinct seasons - Dry Season (Dec- Apr): peak tourist season with sunny skies, low humidity and calm seas. Wet Season (May - Nov): less crowded with high humidity & tropical showers.
Currency & Tipping
Currency is Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), though most resorts accept USD. Tipping is optional. However, many people choose to tip for exceptional service, such as room attendants, waitstaff and bartenders.
Time Zone
The Maldives is GMT + 5 hours and does not have daylight savings.
Language
While the national language is Dhivehi, most Maldivians can communicate in English, particularly in tourist areas and resorts.
Transport
Transfers to resorts and islands use either seaplanes, speedboats or water taxis. In the capital, Male, Uber and Ola services are available.
Visa Info
Australian citizens receive a free 30-day tourist visa on arrival.
Cuisine
Maldivian meals are a vibrant mix of seafood, coconut, rice and cassava. There's a strong South Asian influence in their cooking with coconut milk and grated coconut frequently used in curries and desserts.
Dress Code
Dress modestly and bathers or bikinis should only be worn at the beach.
MALDIVES REGIONS
Baa Atoll
Swim with manta rays at Hanifaru Bay and stay at eco-luxury Maldives resorts in a protected marine haven.
Malé & North Malé Atoll
Luxury beach resorts near Malé with easy access to snorkelling, diving and all-inclusive Maldives packages.
Raa & Lhaviyani Atolls
Discover untouched beaches, fewer crowds and remote Maldives resorts ideal for peaceful island retreats.
South Ari Atoll
Top Maldives diving destination with whale sharks, vibrant reefs and marine-focused luxury resorts.
South Malé Atoll
Romantic overwater villas and secluded resorts, perfect for Maldives honeymoon or couples’ beach escapes.
