When we talk about island travel, the Maldives often comes to mind first. But many guides stay too general and skip the real details we actually need.

In this article, we go step by step and make everything clear: prices, transport, opening times, best seasons, daily costs, and useful tips. Let us plan together in a simple, logical, and practical way so our journey feels relaxed from the start.

Where the Maldives Is and How the Islands Are Structured

We find the Maldives in the northern ocean, a paradise of scattered islands and turquoise seas. The country is made up of 26 coral atoll chains and over 1,000 small islands. Only around 200 islands are inhabited. Some are local community islands, while others are private resort islands.

Because the islands are spread across a wide sea area, transportation planning is very important. Distances may look short on a map, but travel usually involves boats or small planes.

Best Time to Visit the Maldives

We usually divide the year into two main seasons:

Best season: November to April

This period has less rain, calmer seas, and clearer skies. It is ideal for island activities and sea views.

Average daytime temperature: 26–31°C

Lower-cost season: May to October

During these months, there may be short rain showers and stronger winds, but prices are often lower and islands are quieter. Many travelers still enjoy this time.

If we want the best balance between weather and cost, March, April, and November are often great choices.

How We Arrive in the Maldives

All international flights arrive at Velana International Airport (MLE) near the capital Malé. The airport operates 24 hours a day.

After landing, we usually continue to our island by one of the following methods:

Public ferry:

- Price: about $2–$10 one way

- Time: 1–4 hours depending on distance

- Schedule: limited, usually once per day or a few times per week

Speedboat:

- Price: $30–$150 one way

- Time: 15–90 minutes

- Runs multiple times daily for popular routes

Domestic flight:

- Price: $120–$300 one way

- Time: 30–60 minutes

- Used for far atolls

Seaplane:

- Price: $250–$500 one way

- Time: 30–50 minutes

- Operates only during daylight hours

We should always confirm transfer type, price, and schedule before booking accommodation.

Getting Around Once We Arrive

On most local islands, we can walk everywhere within 10–20 minutes. Some islands offer bicycles for $5–10 per day. Motor vehicles are limited.

Between islands, public ferries are the cheapest option, but they do not run daily on all routes. Speedboats are faster and more flexible, though more expensive.

Where We Can Stay and Typical Prices

We generally choose between two types of accommodation:

Local guesthouses:

- Price: $40–120 per night

- Usually include air-conditioning, private bathroom, and breakfast

- Located on inhabited islands

Private island resorts:

- Price: $250–800+ per night

- Often include full services and private beaches

- Transfers are usually arranged by the resort

For budget-conscious travelers, guesthouses offer excellent value and real local interaction.

Daily Travel Costs We Should Expect

Here is a realistic daily budget per person when staying on a local island:

- Accommodation: $60–100

- Meals: $15–30 per day

- Transport: $5–20 per day

- Activities: $30–100 per activity

A comfortable daily budget usually falls between $80 and $180, depending on travel style.

Popular Activities and Their Prices

Many activities are easy to arrange directly on the island or through guesthouses:

- Snorkeling trip: $25–50, 2–3 hours

- Dolphin-watching trip: $40–80

- Sandbank visit: $40–70

- Island-hopping tour: $50–100

- Sunset boat trip: $30–60

Most activities run in the morning or late afternoon and last half a day.

Opening Hours and Daily Rhythm

Shops on local islands usually open from 9:00 to 22:00. Small cafés often open from 7:00 to 21:00. Government offices operate on weekdays, usually 8:00 to 14:00.

Public ferries usually depart early in the morning or early afternoon, so planning ahead is important.

Food, Payments, and Daily Essentials

Meals in local restaurants usually cost $5–12 per dish. Bottled water costs around $1–2. The local currency is the Maldivian rufiyaa, but US dollars are widely accepted.

Local SIM cards are available at the airport for $15–30, including data. Internet coverage is generally good across islands.

Useful Tips to Make Our Trip Smoother

- Always check ferry schedules one day in advance

- Carry some small cash for local shops

- Bring reef-safe sun protection

- Pack light, as boats have luggage limits

- Respect local customs when walking around towns

- Confirm transfer details before arrival

These small details help avoid stress and save time.

Why the Maldives Feels So Easy to Love

What makes the Maldives special is how simple life feels once we arrive. Distances are short, nature is close, and days follow a calm rhythm. Whether we stay for a few days or longer, the experience feels slow, clear, and refreshing.

A Warm Ending for Lykkers

Lykkers, we hope this detailed Maldives travel guide helps you plan with confidence. By understanding prices, transport, timing, and daily details, we can enjoy the journey without confusion. If you enjoyed this clear and practical guide, let us keep exploring the world together—one well-planned destination at a time.