The Maldives is a must-see attraction for travelers of all kind. Whether you’re a tropical island lover in need of some calming beach time, or an avid adventurer seeking some thrill in your stay, the Maldives checks the list. With the right amount of planning and determination, you can fit in many exciting activities in 5 days at the Maldives.

Day 1: Explore Male and arrive at resort

Fly into Male

Male is an extremely populated city that is packed with shoulder to shoulder buildings. Although it’s much less laid back than the islands, Male can be a great way to see local culture. Feel free to browse the capital’s local markets, restaurants, and shops. Grab a bite to eat at Kurumba Cafe or Thila, both less than 2 miles from the airport. If you have some extra time to spare, explore markets, festivals, and any other events occurring that day. Check out some of Male’s cultural destinations such as The National Museum, Tsunami Monument, and authentic art galleries. You could spend all day discovering the sights of Male, but depending on the time of arrival, you may want to head straight to the islands. 

Head to resort by seaplane

Resorts are accessible by seaplane or sometimes ferry. A 40 minute seaplane ride will take you to several top resorts in the Maldives, including Hurawalhi Island Resort and Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. Check out our list of best Maldives resorts here 

Enjoy resort amenities and relax by the beach

Each resort boasts an impressive batch of amenities that you’ll want to take advantage of right away. Examples include full service spas, yoga classes, saunas, and oceanside bars. Enjoy fresh seafood at your resort’s restaurant and sip on creatively concocted drinks. 

Day 2: Boating and snorkeling

Boating and snorkeling excursion 

It’s impossible to visit the Maldives without wondering what kind of life resides under the endless miles of sea. Luckily, there are more than enough ways to explore the Indian Ocean, from undersea restaurants to scuba diving far below the surface. On your second day in paradise, embark on a snorkeling and boating excursion journey.

Important planning information

Reservations should be booked far in advance, as excursions tend to be bought out quickly. Depending on where you stay, you may have to take a seaplane back to Male or another island to get to the excursion’s starting point. 

Maldives Snorkeling Excursions

Snorkeling with Nurse Sharks 

This exciting expedition allows you to swim closely with nurse sharks and schools of fish in the Indian Ocean. Once you plummet down into the water, the ocean’s transparent beauty quickly becomes evident. Coral reefs and giant turtles, and even dolphins may also make an appearance on this trip. This excursion is a great way to see diverse marine life of different species, as well as the natural beauty the Maldives presents. Lunch, drinks, and fruit are all included. 

Read more about Snorkel with Nurse Sharks and Explore Vaavu Atoll Maldives here

Snorkeling and Sunset Cruise 

The sunset in the Maldives may be completely unmatched, and while your resort will likely present some remarkable views, nothing is more breathtaking than seeing the sunset right from the ocean itself. This excursion is a small-group tour that consists of a cruise, snorkeling, and relaxing beach time. Along the way you may catch some jovial dolphins, reef sharks, colorful schools of fish, rays, and sea turtles. The perfect mix of relaxation and excitement. 

Read more about Sandbank Snorkeling and Sunset Cruise here

Perhaps one of the most unique and invigorating tours, this 45 minute long excursions takes you underwater in a submarine. Descending 100 feet below the water’s surface, you’ll see some wild species of the Indian Ocean while gazing out the boat’s window. 

Read more about 2-Hour Maldives Submarine Tour From Male here

Adventure Cruise 

If you can clear your plans for the day, go all out with the Maldives Adventure Cruise. You’ll begin by boarding a traditional Maldivian dhoni cruise, and travel through a calming ocean route which includes the islands of Felidhoo and Meemu, as well as South Male. Other stops include local fishing villages in which guests can learn about daily life in the Maldives and a snorkeling and swimming detour. Guests even have an opportunity to step on uninhabited islands off the coast.

Dolphin cruises, yacht tours, snorkeling, and casual sailboat riding can all be booked from Viator 

After the adventure-filled day begins to wind down, eat, drink, and reminiscence about your wild experiences. Maybe even reserve a facial appointment, or wade in the ocean for an after dark dip. 

Visit the Adventure Cruise site here

Day 3: Island Hopping 

Island hopping is a great way to get outside your resort bubble and experience the culture of the archipelagic country. One of the easiest ways to explore neighboring islands is by booking nights at different resorts. For example, if you choose to stay at 3 different resorts all on separate islands during the duration of your stay, you’ll have the opportunity to explore different areas. Otherwise, you can book short excursions that depart from other islands, or visit diving/beach spots around the islands as well. This way, you can stay at one resort the entire time instead of jumping from one place to the other. 

Day 4: Cooking and surfing 

Take a cooking class 

Reserve part of your fourth day on the islands for learning how to cook like a local. Learn about the authentic, local Maldivian cuisine and do some taste testing along the way. You can book a spot here

Surf, paddle board, or suntan 

Each of the Maldives islands promise stunning views and lavish beaches, which are a great way to wrap up the day. Consider renting a surfboard, paddleboard, or kayak, and independently roam the waters around sunset. 

Day 5: Enjoy your resort and island’s restaurants 

Savor your resort’s amenities and luxury setting on the last day of your trip, and don’t feel stressed to fit in as many activities as possible. Visit the spa or sauna, get a workout in at the hotel’s fitness center, and take a plunge in your suite’s pool. As your last day continues, make sure to visit some of the greatest restaurants in the Maldives, such as Reethi Restaurant or Mandhoo (reservations necessary ahead of time). Enjoy some midday cocktails by the beach, and don’t forget to take photos of the glistening tropical vista.