Maldives: Which islands for snorkeling and accessible by ferry from Malé?

Hi there, I have my flight to Malé from February 3rd to 15th. I want to visit Malé first, then head to 2 or 3 nearby islands. I’d like to take the ferry to keep costs down. I’d love to be able to snorkel right from the beach. Which atolls or islands would you recommend? Thanks for your help!

Good evening! The only atoll I’ve stayed on is the Club Med one near the airport. However, check if you can get there by boat—I think you can. You can enjoy the beach without staying there. In any case, just one word: amazing!

Hi Matthews, thanks for the info! Unfortunately, my flight on January 6th was just canceled by Air India... Huge bummer since there’s no replacement flight.....but there are worse things in life.....

Have a great trip anyway. The Maldives is one of the most fascinating destinations I’ve ever visited in my life.

Was it January 6th or February 3rd for the departure? We’ll be there in early February for a few days, and we’re interested in the answer too. Unfortunately, I haven’t seen many replies...! If you’ve found any info elsewhere, feel free to share. Thanks.

Hi Anne, Unfortunately for me, it won’t be Sri Lanka or the Maldives, as my January flight has just been canceled. I had booked stays on three local islands, not resort islands where you’re alone in the world. In Malé, I was staying two nights in Hulhumalé to visit the capital. Then I was heading to Rasdhoo by ferry. Tickets are on 12Go, but you can also buy them on-site or through your hotel. Next was Gulhi, where a ferry is possible, and I was finishing with Maafushi for four nights. There are ferries to reach these islands, but I don’t have the schedules. The best is to check with your hotels—they usually pick you up at the port and bring you back. From these islands, you can snorkel right from the beach—no need to take a boat, though you’ll see more if you venture farther from shore.

Just a heads-up: 4 days before arriving in the Maldives, you need to fill out an entry authorization form. It’s free, and they’ll give you a QR code.

Have a great trip, and share your news when you get back—I might go later!

Thanks so much for the info.

Do you know these islands well—have you been there before? Or is it from someone you know?

Hope your trip isn’t canceled for good!

No, I don’t know those islands, but I’ve done a ton of digging online and on all the forums.....