Wrapped around the blues of the Indian Ocean, Maldives is a beautiful island famous for many things. Thus, there are a lot of things to explore here, ranging from the soft white powdered beaches to the sea shacks and fishing hamlets. While most travellers come to Maldives to witness the pulsing city of Male, others are interested in trying the hurt-thumping seaplanes and underwater experience.

So, make a bucket list for your next trip by looking at what is Maldives famous for. Here you will find a list of things, places and activities worth trying at least once. Let's dig in!

For those who are travelling to Maldives for the first time, should remember that you need to exchange your currency to Maldivian Rufiyaa. This will save your time while shopping or exploring the local areas, where you might not find an ATM. As of November 2022, MVR 1 equals to INR 5.31.

Below are the famous places to visit in Maldives:

1. Male City

Spread just across six sq. km., Male city is one of the smallest cities in the world and one of the top things what Maldives is famous for. People come here from different parts to enjoy its rich heritage, bustling markets, pristine beaches, and narrow lanes. Moreover, though it is small, it fits some awe-inspiring sights like the gold-tipped Islamic centre, 17-century Friday Mosque, Male market, etc.

2. Artificial Beach

Snuggled in North Male Atoll, Artificial Beach is one of the most popular places to visit in Maldives. It offers the best swimming destination in the archipelago and organises many amazing carnivals every year. It is a perfect place for both food aficionados and adventure buffs as you get various cafes and barbeque options here, along with opportunities to try water activities.

3. National Museum

Another top suggestion you will encounter when finding what Maldives is known for is the National Museum. With all the unique and well-kept artefact collections maintained here, tourists get a chance to take a peek into the rich history of this island. For example, you will witness an extensive assortment of royal antiquities here depicting the era of Buddhism and Islam. Also, you will find ornaments and costumes of royals, armours, manuscripts, thrones, etc.

4. Addu Atoll

Also known as Seenu Atoll, Addu Atoll is another famous place in the Maldives, containing numerous serene beaches. Some to mention are Gan Island, Meedhoo Island, Feydhoo Island, etc. Moreover, each of these islands is densely populated with clean local villages and lined with tall shady coconut trees. Apart from this, it offers water activities like fishing, snorkelling, etc.

5. Maafushi Island

Counted among the famous places in Maldives, Maafushi island is blessed with lip-smacking delicacies and offers a broad spectrum of water activities. The site also appeals to honeymooners as one can find many cosy guesthouses and hostels for a romantic stay. This island also flaunts its azure water filled with colourful beaches and corals.

6. Grand Friday Mosque

Grand Friday Mosque is one of the most popular things in the Maldives that attracts not only architectural admirers but also spiritual seekers. This shrine was established in 1984 and is an iconic Islamic centre containing a white marble and modern structure. Its hall witnesses almost 5000 worshippers; thus, it is advised to avoid visiting it during prayer time and visit between 9 and 5 for a better experience.

7. Fulhadhoo Island

Fulhadhoo Island is one of the most famous places in the Maldives, packed with swaying palm trees, clear lagoons and white-sand beaches. It is popular for its tranquillity and has an isolated beach with many hidden treasures yet to be explored. However, to enjoy the fullest, try the water activities offered here, including diving, snorkelling, dolphin spotting and more.

8. Sinamale Bridge

Sinamale Bridge, better known as the China Maldives Friendship bridge, is another popular attraction built to deepen the relationship between Maldives and China. This is also one of the biggest bridges in Male, with six lanes connected to it. Two of these lanes are for 4-wheelers, while four others are for 2-wheelers and pedestrians. Many Maldivian couples were also granted permission to marry on this bridge with their preferred theme.

9. Banana Reef

Ornated with majestic cliffs, colourful coral reefs and beautiful caves, the Banana reef is counted as one of the most famous places in Maldives. The dash of groupers, sharks and barracudas makes it exciting to explore life underwater. Moreover, the calm currents and clear visibility make it perfect for seasoned divers and beginners exploring the ocean world. The water temperature is also accommodating (24 to 29 degrees).

10. COMO Cocoa Island

The Maldives is a bearer of many gorgeous islands, yet COMO Cocoa Island remains the most charming. Tucked away in a cosy position, it is a tropical paradise where people come to relax and rejuvenate. Moreover, there are luxurious villas also offering 5-star hospitality for pampering and self-love. Other attractions include snorkelling, scuba diving and a spa retreat.

11. Gan

Gan is primarily known for containing the second-largest airport in the Maldives and a former airbase operated in WWII by the British Royal Air Force. However, this is not it. Gan attracts tourists from worldwide with its earthy little fishing restaurants and small stretches of shining sands. Also, you will experience local cultural life and stay in luxurious resorts here.

12. Whale Submarine

One of the most famous things in the Maldives is to take a 45-minute underwater cruise in the whale submarine. It offers a sneak peek into the rich aquatic life by letting you tour the wonderful garden. Here, you will encounter many marine creatures like Shark Rays, Yellow Boxfish, Common Lionfish, Turtles, Yellow and Blue Snappers, etc.

13. Trying Water Activities

Maldives is world-famous for its wide spectrum of marine life, and one of the best ways to explore it is by snorkelling or scuba diving. The activities allow you to swim freely in the Indian Ocean to explore the colourful arrays of corals, reef sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, and others. In addition, there are other water sports, including jet-skiing, sea bobbing, rollerblading, etc.

14. Staying in Over-Water Bungalows

When planning a trip to Maldives, the first thing that comes to mind is over-water bungalows. These destinations usually have a panoramic view of the turquoise water, so you wake up listening to the musical sound of waves thrashing the stilts of your villa. Moreover, many bungalows have glass-panelled floors to enjoy an uninterrupted view of marine life.

15. Eating Seafood

Another thing what Maldives is famous for is its collection of seafood. Though most of its dishes contain the influence of Sri Lankan and Indians, you will also find an international cuisine touch. So, enjoy the Maldivian Curry with fresh Tuna by the placid blue lagoon or gorge on the famous Garudhiya. It is a fish soup locals serve with lime, rice, onion, chilli and curry leaves.

16. Riding Seaplane

Flying on board a seaplane is one of the ultimate things to experience and the most famous thing about Maldives. Seaplanes are often used here to transfer passengers to remote resorts of the archipelago. Moreover, during this over-the-water tour, you get the best bird's eye view of the Indian Ocean surrounding the islands.

17. Experiencing Underwater Restaurants

Magical as it sounds, Maldives is highly popular for hosting the best underwater restaurants in the world. Moreover, when we say eating underwater, we do not mean beach dining. There are five restaurants in the Maldives containing stunning acrylic structures with glass rooftops so people can enjoy the spectacular views of the breathtaking corals whilst they eat.

18. Spotting Whale Sharks & Mantas

Witnessing small-sized reef sharks lurking peacefully on the surrounding lagoons of the resort or in the coral atolls is another popular thing about Maldives. Though these sharks are native throughout the area, the chance to encounter them increases near Baa, Maaya Thila and Ari Atolls. They are also very punctual in arriving across shore during their feeding time.

19. Watching Bioluminescent Water under Stars

When finding what is so great about Maldives, one of the things capable of mesmerising you is watching bioluminescent water under a starry night. Vaadhoo Island in Raa Atoll contains a playful sea of stars that glows because of the water's marine microbes (phytoplankton). These microscopic beings emit vibrant blue light, which has an ethereal effect

20. Having a Candlelight Dinner on Beach

Though it sounds cliché, having a candlelight dinner on the beach under the stars is one of the things Maldives is famous for. The powdery sand, shimmering blue lagoons fringed by swaying tall palms and the balmy year-round temperature upgrades the overall experience. Moreover, thanks to the secluded resort villas, you can expect this dinner to be private.

To conclude, searching for what Maldives is famous for you will notice that there are tons of things worth mentioning . The list can go on, but you won't be able to enjoy them all. So, refer to the list to experience the best of the bests. Moreover, if you incorporate them into your itinerary, you will secure a memorable experience.