The average person spends $8,600 on a 7-day trip to the Maldives 🤯 After way too many hours of research, I’m sharing my top tips on booking the Maldives, so you don’t have to waste time OR money.
Here's how you can cross off this bucket list destination for much less:
Local Islands vs. Private Resorts
Two worlds, two price points! In the Maldives, you can either stay at luxurious private resorts or opt for the super affordable local islands. Believe it or not, I found hotels for as little as $22 a night (!!!). Plus, when you stay on a local island, you can hop on a public ferry instead of taking a private transfer (more on that in #2).
Transfers: What They Don't Tell You
Most international flights land in Malé, but your resort isn’t on the same island. You'll need to pay for either a speedboat or seaplane transfer to your final destination. These are often not included in the booking price and can be super pricey—like minimum $400 per person for a round-trip seaplane. So you may want to book a resort or hotel closer to Malé and skip the seaplane, and take a private speedboat instead (~$150 per person round trip). Local ferries are another option and are much more budget-friendly, though they won't take you to a private resort.
Weather: It's Not All About the Dry Season
The Maldives has a dry season (November to April) and a wet season (May to October). I went during the wet season, and while there were some rainy moments, I got a great deal on my hotel. If you're not afraid of a few showers, this is definitely the time to go if you're looking for savings.
Hidden Costs: Read the Fine Print!
Almost every initial price you see does not include the additional taxes and service charges. It's usually a 10% service charge and an 8% GST (Goods and Services Tax) on top of the price displayed on menus. And alcohol usually has additional tax on top of that. Also, watch out for sneaky environmental fees and resort taxes that some hotels (especially on booking platforms) might not mention upfront. I found that while a scuba dive may be listed as $60 on a resort's website, extra fees like boat transfers, equipment rentals, and taxes could easily add another $100+ to the final price.
Meal Plans
Many resorts offer no food, half-board (breakfast and dinner), or full-board (all three meals) plans when you book. So if you book the cheapest price and don’t get a meal plan, you could be stuck on a private island where the resort’s restaurant is outrageously expensive. Do your research, and select a meal plan if you want to avoid paying $30+ for a simple lunch!
Alcohol Rules (And Why You Can't Bring That Champagne)
Maldives is an Islamic country, and that means no alcohol on local islands. You also can’t bring alcohol into the country, so if you’re planning a trip for your honeymoon and come with a special bottle of champagne—it’s getting confiscated at the airport. Luckily for unknowing tourists, you can check it at the airport for no additional cost and pick it up on your way out. Resorts and liveaboard boats have alcohol but be prepared to pay resort prices. And if you're staying on a local island, you likely won't have access to any alcohol, so plan accordingly.
Respect Local Culture
If you’re staying on a local island, you'll need to respect the local customs. Local beaches require more modest attire—cover your stomach, shoulders, and knees. Bikini beaches exist, but they are the exception, not the rule, so pay attention to the signs and which beach your hotel is located near if you choose to stay on a local island.
Departure Day
Get to the airport early! You’ll have to wait in four separate lines: one to get into the airport, one to check your bags, one for border control, and one for security. I'm usually that person who cuts it close, so figured I would share this. If you're staying on a resort island, they’ll help you schedule your transfer to Malé and ensure you have plenty of time.
Booking with Points
We all know one of the most expensive parts of travel is usually the long-haul international flights. I haven't paid for one of these flights in 2 years 😱 That is thanks to credit card points and airline miles. And now, you don't even have to be an expert on this subject to take advantage of it. Check out point.me where you can search for any flight route by whichever credit card points or airline miles you have. It seriously simplifies the process so much. You can use my discount code GRACEESCAPES5 and try your first month for $5, or GRACEESCAPES20 for 20% off the annual plan.
Now for some hotel recommendations. I found that the Baa Atoll area where most of these are located was close to Male (no seaplane required) and one of the best areas for scuba diving and snorkeling.
Luxury options:
Mid-range options:
Canareef Resort Maldives (this one varies in price a lot, but sometimes they have some really great promotions and discounts)
Budget options:
I always thought of the Maldives as some far-off destination that was only for the ultra-rich. I'm happy to report this bucket list destination can be much more affordable than you think!
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