Things to Do & Excursions in the Maldives

The journey into Maldivian culture begins in Malé, the lively capital where tradition meets modern island life. Visit the National Museum in Sultan Park to trace the nation’s history from the Buddhist era to the Islamic sultanates. The nearby Hukuru Miskiy Mosque, built in the 17th century from hand-carved coral stone, is a masterpiece of local craftsmanship.

Take time to wander through Malé’s bustling fish market and the main shopping street, Majeedhee Magu, where locals trade fresh tuna, coconuts, and handmade crafts. Pause at a tea house to sample sweet milk tea or try authentic dishes such as fish curry or spicy tuna pasta. Exploring Malé is one of the most rewarding excursions in the Maldives, offering a glimpse into daily island life beyond the resort.

For travellers seeking a deeper cultural connection, venture to inhabited islands such as Maafushi or Diffushi. These welcoming communities showcase the Maldivian way of life through handicrafts, music, and home-cooked meals.

Join a Club Med Maldives excursion to visit local artisans, taste palm juice, or learn how fishermen prepare their daily catch. Each visit supports sustainable tourism while letting you experience the warmth and hospitality that make the Maldives so special.

Few experiences compare to flying above the Maldives’ 26 atolls. Seaplane rides reveal breathtaking panoramas of sapphire lagoons and coral rings. From above, you can spot tiny sandbanks glowing in the sun and colourful reefs shimmering beneath the surface. Club Med can arrange scenic flights for guests who want to begin their holiday with an unforgettable view of paradise.

Every atoll in the Maldives offers its own slice of paradise. On Ari Atoll, long stretches of powder-white sand meet clear lagoons perfect for swimming or kayaking. Veligandu Atoll is ideal for quiet beach picnics under swaying palms, while Mudhdhoo Island dazzles visitors at night with its bioluminescent plankton that lights up the shoreline in an electric-blue glow. These natural wonders are at the heart of what makes a Maldives excursion so captivating.

Adventure seekers and families alike will find plenty of Maldives activities to enjoy. Glide across the lagoon on a paddleboard, harness the wind while kite-surfing, or soar above the sea on a parasail. Surfers can also take advantage of the region’s gentle swells and world-class breaks through Club Med’s Maldives surf package, perfect for both beginners and seasoned wave riders. With calm waters and year-round sunshine, the Maldives is a playground for every kind of traveller.

The Maldives’ coral reefs are among the richest ecosystems on Earth. Don a mask and fins to meet reef fish, sea turtles, and eagle rays drifting through colourful coral gardens. Experienced divers can explore deeper reefs or join night dives illuminated by torchlight, revealing octopuses, moray eels, and the shimmering patterns of plankton.

Ari Atoll and South Malé Atoll are known for encounters with manta rays and whale sharks, which create unforgettable moments for divers. For more inspiration, explore our guide to scuba diving in the Maldives.

If you prefer adventures above the surface, traditional night fishing is a cherished local pastime. As the sun sets, join local guides aboard a dhoni boat to cast lines for red snapper and grouper under a canopy of stars. Daytime dolphin-watching cruises are another highlight, where pods leap beside your boat in the open sea. For a mix of thrill and relaxation, try a catamaran sailing trip or a sunset cruise, both offering perfect ways to experience the calm beauty of the ocean.

At Club Med’s Maldives resorts, Kani and Finolhu Villas, every ocean adventure is within easy reach. Guests can join guided snorkelling safaris, sailing lessons, yoga by the beach, or day trips to nearby islands, all included in one seamless package. Diving sessions and special excursions in the Maldives can also be booked with on-site experts. With equipment, transfers, and instructors organised for you, every detail is effortless and stress-free.

The Maldives is a destination that balances tranquillity and adventure in equal measure. Days can be as peaceful as lounging by turquoise waters or as exciting as swimming with whale sharks and exploring vibrant coral reefs. From cultural discoveries in Malé to island-hopping and underwater adventures, there is no shortage of memorable things to do in the Maldives.

With Club Med’s all-inclusive approach, your only task is to choose the experiences that excite you most. Whether you are travelling as a couple, family, or group of friends, discover how easy it is to explore the Maldives at your own pace while enjoying complete comfort.

Discover the Maldives with Club Med, where every activity, excursion, and sunset is included, leaving you free to simply enjoy the moment.