If your idea of paradise is pristine sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, enchanting coral reefs and blissful sunshine, then the mesmerising Maldives have everything you need for a holiday which is out of this world.

This magnificent archipelago of more than 1,200 idyllic islands in the sun-kissed Indian Ocean is the place to let the stresses of life drift away as you soak up the magic all around you. Feel the powdery white sands trickling between your toes, the warm ocean waters cascading over your body and the golden sunshine elevating your sense of wellbeing. You’ll be wowed by luxurious private resort accommodation, water sports galore, sensational food and impeccable hospitality throughout your stay in this phenomenal heaven on earth. Let’s take a closer look at some of the amazing attractions which help make the Maldives a dream destination where couples, families and groups of friends can immerse themselves in a holiday of a lifetime.

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Spellbinding scenery

A holiday like no other awaits in the Maldives, with the chance to get close to nature, away from the hustle and bustle and surrounded by awe-inspiring scenery, sublime relaxation and jaw-dropping tranquillity. The natural beauty of the Maldives will take your breath away, with its powdery white sands stretching as far as the eye can see, towering palms swaying in the gentle breeze, exotic flora and fauna, turquoise lagoons and beautiful coral reefs which are teeming with colourful marine life. Gaze in awe at captivating sunrises and sunsets, epic clear blue skies, spectacular seascapes and unspoilt natural landscapes. The islands are also home to fascinating marine and terrestrial wildlife, with exotic birds, fruit bats, dolphins, whales, arthropods, white-tip sharks, turtles and manta rays among the creatures you’ll discover.

Luxurious havens

You’ll settle into a world of luxury, style, comfort and attentive service the moment you arrive at your resort, normally after a pleasant seaplane or speedboat ride from Malé’s Velana International Airport in North Male Atoll. These lavish all-inclusive hideaways feature unspoilt sands stretching into the distance and many resorts are located on their own private island which helps create a unique holiday experience. Amazing house reefs, shimmering lagoons, beachfront jetties, sparkling infinity pools, cutting-edge gyms, tennis courts and gourmet dining venues are among the delights in store. The accommodation options at these havens of serenity are truly impressive, with elegant beachfront villas with private pools and charming thatched roof bungalows on stilts above the ocean among the choices available. Family-friendly resorts also feature kids clubs, water slides and a host of other amenities to ensure young guests have a feast of fun.

Once-in-a-lifetime experiences

There’s never a dull moment in the Maldives, with a multitude of outdoor experiences to create a truly epic holiday. Take to the ocean on an exciting whale or dolphin spotting trip, scuba dive or snorkel beneath the waves to explore the amazing coral reefs or enjoy a sunset fishing trip on a traditional dhoni boat. There’s also the chance to set sail on an island-hopping adventure, take to a helicopter for a bird’s eye view of the Maldives or visit the capital Malé, with its imposing mosques, colonial buildings and bustling fish market. The Sea of Stars on Vaadhoo Island is a stunning attraction where a phenomenon known as bioluminescence creates a dazzling blue light after dark, Subsix is the world’s first and only underwater nightclub and Hanifaru Bay is home to the largest gatherings of manta rays anywhere in the world. Other wonderful experiences in the Maldives include movie nights under the stars, lively beach barbecues and glass bottom boat trips.

Exhilarating water sports

The Maldives are a dream come true for water sports enthusiasts, with a plethora of thrilling activities on the inviting waters of the Indian Ocean. Popular motorised pursuits include jet skiing, tubing, Sea Bobs, speedboat rides, waterskiing, wakeboarding and flyboarding where a jet of water propels you high into the air. Non-motorised water sports include windsurfing, kayaking, sailing, canoeing, stand-up paddle boarding and kiteboarding. There’s also the opportunity to parasail across the sky while tethered to a motorboat, enjoy some white-knuckle fun aboard a banana boat or enjoy the rush of skydiving above the islands at a hair-raising 120mph. Other popular activities in the sea include surfing, catamaran sailing, pedal boat rides and night fishing trips, while Siyam World in Noonu Atoll offers plenty of spills and thrills in the biggest floating water park in the Indian Ocean.

Lover’s paradise

Romance is in the air in this exceptional Indian Ocean destination, with everything you need for a dream holiday with the love of your life. Sip creative cocktails in a comfy cabana beside the pool, stroll hand in hand along the soft sands, set off on a delightful catamaran cruise or marvel at seductive sunsets which are out of this world. A host of other divine experiences include picnics on a private sandbank, floating breakfasts in your villa plunge pool and intimate candlelit dinners on the beach, attended by your own private waiter. Many Maldives resorts also feature sumptuous spas where couples can succumb to relaxing head to toe pampering. The islands are hugely popular with honeymooners wanting to create magical memories in heavenly surroundings and couples wishing to renew their vows or tie the knot in a romantic beachfront wedding ceremony.

The tropical monsoon climate in the Maldives brings glorious year-round sunshine, high temperatures and dreamy blue skies. A wonderful time to visit is between November and April, which is outside the monsoon season when rainfall and humidity will be low, with an abundance of rejuvenating sunshine. The islands experience very little variation in temperatures, averaging a consistent 28°C to 30°C throughout the year. There’s an average of eight hours of daily sunshine and ocean temperature rarely falls below 25°C. These conditions are ideal for plenty of outdoor fun, swimming in the sea and catching some rays on the beach. The wet season in the Maldives – known as the South West Monsoon – is from May to November, when strong winds and sporadic thunderstorms make conditions less appealing, although this is a good time to snap up a holiday at a bargain price.

"A luxury holiday in the Maldives is an awe-inspiring experience with incredible natural beauty at every turn. As well as the paradise scenery on land, you’ll also find unbelievable sights above and below the waters of the Indian Ocean."

“If you’re feeling adventurous, scuba diving is a great way to see the amazing reefs and colourful sea life that can be found off the shores of your heavenly holiday island. Most resorts in the Maldives feature PADI certified diving centres, offering everything from lessons for beginners to underwater adventures for experienced divers.”

“A more relaxed way to discover the wonders of the Indian Ocean is on a catamaran cruise. Depending on your island of choice, you’ll be able to go in search of whale sharks, turtles and dolphins, and may even be able to enjoy a romantic night cruise.”

Siyam World

Noonu Atoll

A splashing time is in store at this sensational 5-star getaway which boasts the first-ever water park in the Maldives. You’ll spend restful nights in an opulent villa or suite, soak up the sun on a 6km stretch of pristine sand and savour gastronomic delights in an array of gourmet restaurants. Pampering in the resort spa, diving on the house reef, movies under the stars and thrilling water sports action are among the experiences which await.

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Lily Beach Resort & Spa

Huvahendhoo Island

Jet off and live the dream at this incredible all-inclusive island hideaway where you’ll spend fun-filled days and entertaining nights in fabulous surroundings. Fine dining experiences, lavish beachside or overwater accommodation and a myriad of sports and leisure amenities will create magical holiday memories. A plush spa, state-of-the-art gym, lively kids club and water sports centre are among the superb attractions you’ll discover.

Check out Lily Beach Resort & Spa

Fushifaru Maldives

Lhaviyani Atoll

A taste of paradise on earth awaits at this luxurious award-winning tropical sanctuary where you’ll be surrounded by stunning natural beauty, powdery white sands, enchanting reefs and inviting sapphire waters. You’ll be wowed by quintessential design, genuine hospitality, world-class diving, authentic Maldivian experiences, unforgettable dining and exquisite accommodation throughout your stay at this 5-star haven of relaxation and tranquillity.

Check out Fushifaru Maldives