Dreaming of the Maldives? 10 Islands That Make It Possible on a Budget
Skip the fancy welcomes and pricey resorts—there’s a more down-to-earth way to enjoy the Maldives. On the local islands, you can find real beauty on a budget. For around $30, you’ll get a comfy guesthouse, and a fresh seafood dinner with ocean views might only cost you $10.
Maafushi
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Maafushi nails the sweet spot between affordable and unforgettable. Just 90 minutes by ferry from Malé for about $3, this island gives families a wallet-friendly way to experience paradise. Guesthouses start at $43 a night, and the fun keeps flowing—from snorkeling at Renee’s Coral Garden to paddleboarding along calm shores.
Thulusdhoo
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Thulusdhoo doesn’t try to impress—it just does. This bright little island, floating 17 miles north of Malé, offers $3 ferry rides, $53 guesthouses, and a front-row seat to two of the Maldives’ most famous surf breaks. Even the Coca-Cola factory is worth keeping an eye out for.
Gulhi
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Golden sand, clear water, and $2 ferry rides—this is how you stretch a dollar in paradise. Gulhi offers rooms for $37 a night and a beach where you can enjoy the rays without breaking any local customs.
Dhiffushi
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Just 45 minutes from Malé by speedboat ($35 gets you there), Dhiffushi offers guesthouse stays starting at $37, plus reef snorkeling, dolphin cruises, and sandbank escapes. Need a sunset drink? There’s a floating bar bobbing offshore. There’s also easy access to dolphin cruises and sandbank picnics.
Guraidhoo
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Guraidhoo brings you close to coral reefs, curious reef sharks, and the heartbeat of Maldivian village life—all without wrecking your wallet. Visitors can zip over from Malé in 30 minutes by speedboat ($25) or take the $2 ferry and soak in the views.
Ukulhas
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Ukulhas makes eco-conscious travel easy. Rooms at family-friendly spots like West Sands start around $101. The island offers the rare chance to snorkel with sea turtles, swim beside manta rays, or dig into fresh Maldivian seafood. It’s also known for pioneering waste management and earning the Green Leaf Award.
Rasdhoo
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If you’re dreaming of a Maldivian getaway that’s both budget-friendly and full of adventure, Rasdhoo’s where it’s at. At a 1.5-hour boat ride from Malé ($49), this island is a diver’s dream, with more dive shops per square foot than anywhere else in the Maldives. That means lower prices and tons of options—perfect for beginners and pros alike.
Fulidhoo
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Fulidhoo is where culture meets adventure without breaking the bank. It has family-friendly stays at places like Luau Beach Inn starting at just $59 a night. Aside from beaches, it also proudly displays its local culture with mesmerizing Langiri drum performances and vibrant coral reefs.
Omadhoo
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Omadhoo Island is a slice of paradise with powdery beaches, clear waters, and a house reef that’s bursting with turtles, sharks, and rays. Dive, snorkel, or even swim with whale sharks—all without the luxury price tag.
Dhigurah
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For a mix of whale shark encounters and sun-soaked beaches, Dhigurah Island is the place to be. It features budget-friendly stays with cozy family rooms from $80 a night. Plus, you can get a taste of local culture with a cooking class to whip up traditional Maldivian dishes.
Dharavandhoo
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Crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and serene beaches–Dharavandhoo Island is everything great about Maldives. The island is easy to reach; take a 20-minute flight or a scenic 8-hour ferry ride. Stay at LVIS Village for only $54 a night, then plunge into unforgettable snorkeling with manta rays or explore the lively house reef.
Himmafushi
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Himmafushi Island is just a short 20-minute boat ride from Malé—and the ride only costs around $10. This lively little island is full of local culture and perfect for a laid-back, family-friendly escape. You can stay at places like Jail Break Surf Inn for about $75 a night. While you’re there, try surfing the famous “Jailbreaks” wave, snorkeling around clear reefs, or just enjoying some delicious local food.
Feridhoo
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Feridhoo Island should be at the top of your list for a gorgeous but affordable trip. It’s a paradise for those who love quiet beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and epic snorkeling. Swim with reef sharks, eagle rays, and colorful fish just off the shore.
Mathiveri
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For about $50, you can take a scenic 1.5 to 2-hour boat ride from Malé to Mathiveri Island. At this destination, tourists can snorkel right off the beach or unwind at the quiet Mathiveri Finolhu sandbank—it’s the perfect spot to relax. Guesthouses start around $75 a night.
Fulhadhoo
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This is a Maldives getaway where the only thing more stunning than the turquoise waters is the price tag. Fulhadhoo Island is known for its pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and loads of breathing room. The rooms start at $85 a night, pricier than most others on the list but totally worth it.