Maldives
Maafushi
Maafushi is a local island with a relaxed vibe, offering a glimpse of local Maldivian life. While it’s less picturesque compared to islands like Fulidhoo, due to increased tourism and ongoing hotel construction, it offers the most affordable excursion prices. It’s an ideal stop on an island-hopping tour, as you can enjoy cheaper activities than on other islands. If you can only visit one island, Maafushi is a good option—it's the most budget-friendly and still has a pleasant atmosphere. This island is also relatively close to Malé airport, just an hour and a half by speedboat.
Exploring the island
Upon arriving in Maafushi, we took a walk to explore the island. There are small supermarkets where you can buy affordable food and drinks if you prefer to cook for yourself or grab some snacks. The ATMs on the island only allow you to withdraw Maldivian rufiyaa, so if you need US dollars, it’s best to get them at the airport or bring them from home. You can choose to pay in either US dollars or the local currency. Along the beach, you'll find various tour operators offering similar excursions, including jet ski rentals, parasailing, wakeboarding, paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkeling gear, diving, snorkeling tours, and even kiteboarding equipment. There are also local restaurants where you can eat very cheaply, as well as more upscale, Western-style restaurants catering to tourists that are a bit pricier.
Vaavu Atoll excursion
Our day started at 7 AM as we set off on a beautiful tour with Shadowpalm Tours. First, we swam with nurse sharks, then visited Fulidhoo island to see the stingrays. We had lunch on a stunning sandbank with some of the clearest, bluest water I’ve ever seen. After that, we swam with manta rays and dolphins. We were back by late afternoon. The tour cost $60 and included lunch, water, towels, and snorkel gear.
Diving with Maafushi Scuba
The underwater world of the Maldives is absolutely breathtaking, and diving is a perfect way to experience it. If you've never dove before, a discovery dive is a great way to start. You'll dive with an experienced instructor at a beginner-friendly spot. If you're lucky, there won't be many other people, and you'll have a private dive. You'll see beautiful, colorful fish and experience the vibrant marine life up close. It's a must-do for anyone looking for a bit of adventure and an unforgettable underwater experience.
Whale shark Adventure
Our day started early, as it was quite a long boat ride to the area where whale sharks are commonly spotted. We had the amazing experience of snorkeling with these magnificent creatures, as well as manta rays—definitely a bucket list moment in the Maldives. Watching the manta rays dance underwater is truly magical. Afterward, we visited the local island of Dhigurah for lunch and enjoyed some time in the sun on its stunning white sandy beaches. The tour provided towels, water, lunch, and snorkeling gear. At $100 this is a slightly more expensive excursion, but it’s absolutely worth it if you’ve always wanted to see a whale shark.
Sunset evening walk
You can end the day by taking a walk around the island at sunset. It’s a calm and pleasant way to finish the day. You'll see the boats arriving in the harbor, with beautiful views and a relaxed atmosphere.
