Short resort break near the airport · 4 nights

5 days, 4 nights: North Malé Atoll resorts (4N). Best time to go: Year-round; driest Dec–Apr.

Day 1: Arrive in North Malé Atoll resorts

North Malé Atoll resorts

Overwater or beach private dinner · 2.5 h. Set menus start around US$150–250 per person plus 10% service charge and tax; book on arrival for the night you want.
Jet ski safari · 1 h. Resort water-sports centres charge more than local islands; guided safaris visit a sandbank or nearby island.

Local tip: Set menus start around US$150–250 per person plus 10% service charge and tax; book on arrival for the night you want.

North Malé Atoll resorts

House reef snorkelling · 2 h. Gear is usually free at the dive centre. Enter at the marked channels, use reef-safe sunscreen and never stand on coral.
Overwater spa treatment · 2 h. Many resorts discount spa slots booked before noon or as a package on arrival.
Glass-bottom kayak over the lagoon · 1 h. Best in calm morning water at mid tide; ordinary kayaks and paddleboards are often free.

Local tip: Gear is usually free at the dive centre. Enter at the marked channels, use reef-safe sunscreen and never stand on coral.

North Malé Atoll resorts

Sunset dolphin cruise from the resort · 2 h
Local island visit (Himmafushi or Huraa) · 3 h. Cover shoulders and knees ashore; small shops sell souvenirs and short eats.

Local tip: Cover shoulders and knees ashore; small shops sell souvenirs and short eats.

North Malé Atoll resorts

Fun dives at Banana Reef and HP Reef · 4 h. Two of the atoll's best-known sites, a short boat ride from most resorts. HP Reef's currents suit experienced divers.

Local tip: Two of the atoll's best-known sites, a short boat ride from most resorts. HP Reef's currents suit experienced divers.

North Malé Atoll resorts

Keep a buffer before your flight; check-out is usually noon.

North Malé Atoll resorts (4 nights): North Malé Atoll 4-star resorts (beach villas). Beach villas with a house reef close by; half board or all-inclusive plans are worth pricing. Plus 10% service charge, tourism tax and Green Tax (about US$12 per person per night).