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Curator’s statement
Let’s be honest, the Maldives can be found on every beach lover’s bucket list. I mean, if you’re a fan of white sand and turquoise blue water, why wouldn’t you want to visit this island country that is made up of 26 atolls and over 1,000 islands that are spread out across the Indian Ocean? Not to mention that the area makes up almost 5% of the planet’s reefs and is home to a thousand species of fish, including manta rays and whale sharks. However, the island is also home to ultra-high-end luxury resorts, making this paradise out of reach for some.
But, what if I told you that you can stay on the local island of Maafushi (an island located in the Kaafu Atoll and is easily accessible for Velana International Airport), enjoy the beaches and water sports, and also island hop to a few five-star resorts using a day pass?
The Fora Difference
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Killer perks
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Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Maafushi
Crystal Sands Maafushi
Crystal Sands is a boutique hotel located on the beach offering rooms with City or a Sea view and also has a popular onsite restaurant with a wide selection of food choices.
Velana Beach Hotel Maldives
It is an upscale hotel near the beach offering rooms with City or a Sea view and a restaurant that has international cuisine along with local flavors.
Unlock perks by contacting Angela to book your trip.
Things to do in Maafushi
Snorkeling: there are many opportunities to snorkel while in Maafushi. You can snorkel the Anantara reef and get close to colorful fish, majestic sea turtles and many other underwater creatures. There is a shipwreck site that you can explore and a nurse shark's natural habitat.
Island Hopping: Island hop to islands such as Gulhi, where the white sand and calm blue water of Bikini Beach will leave you in awe. On Guraidhoo island, you can observe the local lifestyle of the Maldives. There’s also a sandbank that you can spend time on.
Water Sports: You can jet-ski, parasail, go kayaking, ride tubes, kite & wind surf, water ski and even experience flyboarding. There’s also a submarine tour for those who don’t want to get wet.
Resort Day Passes: There are a few five-star resorts in the area that offer one-day passes, including Adaaran Prestige Vadoo (adults only), Adaaran Club Rannalhi, Club Med Kani and Crossroads Maldives. Each of these resorts offer a day pass that includes use of amenities such as the pool and a sun bed. Most will also include access to a buffet lunch and unlimited selected beverages.
Places to eat & drink in Maafushi
Kaalamaa Restaurant located in Velana Beach Hotel has a variety of international cuisine along with vibrant local flavors.
Caviar Café & Restaurant is known for its seafood. They also offer live music.
Melon Restaurant located in Maladiwa Beach & Spa Hotel has a buffet that features fresh seafood and Angus beef.
Symphony Lagoon located in Crystal Sands Beach Hotel offers a selection of Italian and Asian cuisine.
Travel Advisor
Angela Myers
Get in touch with Angela
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can normally expect a response from Angela within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Bending the Golden Circle.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Maldives.