Best beaches in the Central Atolls & Malé

Maafushi is the most popular island in South Malé, with a blossoming guesthouse scene and good vibes aplenty. There are four main beaches on the island - Bikini Beach, Public Beach, Water Sports Beach and Coral Beach. Lined with coconut palms and bustling with cosy hotel bars, Bikini beach is possibly the most down-to-earth beach in the Maldives and the only beach on the island allowing bikini wear, hence the name. On local islands, you should stay covered up on the beaches. Try and keep your shoulders and knees covered, so a maxi dress with a pashmina is a great option. Kick back and let the sound of calm waters unwind your soul and revive yourself with a sun-kissed glow.

A 10-minute drive from Male airport lies Hulhumale Beach - the local's favourite residential seaside. Although Hulhumale Island is not the most paradisiacal, their beach does not disappoint – trust us on this one! Amble across the finest Maldivian sands as the turquoise waves gently glide onto the beach. You’ll find plenty of restaurants along the promenade with authentic Maldivian cuisine. If hunger strikes, head over to the Beach Club Hut for refreshing cocktails and nibbles while gazing at views of dazzling white sands lying among the tropical greenery. Most tourists visit this beach on their last or first day of arrival due to its fast and easy connection to Male airport.

Thousands of species of fish thrive in the crystal-clear waters of Rasdhoo Island. This serene coastline is renowned for its tranquillity and unspoilt scenery. Some of the ocean species to look out for include parrotfish, napoleon fish, batfish and luminous plankton. If you're lucky, you'll be able to see a spectacular bioluminescent show glistening on the shore at night.

Bodu Mora lives on in our hearts with its stunning satin sands and wonderful vibrations. The sapphire lagoons contain water so clear you can count the shells at the bottom of the sea. It's a family-friendly coastline with plenty of tall palm trees to protect youngsters from the sun's rays. Expect nothing less than mesmerising scenery in this lush getaway.

This magnificent horseshoe-shaped beach nestles to the east of the North Malé atoll. It was the first man-made shoreline in the Maldives!

Locals like to come here for a break from their hectic lives in the city of Malé. It's an ideal seashore that offers both a peaceful place to paddle and surf, as well as a taste of culture, with festivals and music, spicy fish and curried tuna.

Also known as the Green Island, it is nestled near Ukulhas and offers another tropical delight. Enjoy magnificent sunsets while relaxing under a palm tree and snuggling up in the warm, golden sand.

The fresh winds create perfect surfing opportunities. If you fall off your surfboard, don't worry, you might spot a stingray or small reef shark. This popular inhabited island has two incredible beaches to explore: Thoddu and Thoddoo!

Another gem of the North Ari Atoll, steeped in romance. Snorkel through a colourful coral kingdom, enchanted by turtles and watch fairytale sunsets. Although it looks small, this beach is rustic and peaceful - just the way we like it!

With its beautiful azure hues, swaying palms, silky sand and coral colonies, you'll never want to leave this divine haven. Located in the North Ari Atoll, this secluded beach offers lush jungles, snorkelling adventures and unlimited sunbathing.

Intimacy, tranquillity and relaxation, isn't that the ideal? Stroll across powdery white grains that stretch all the way to the warm, turquoise Indian Ocean.

This majestic beauty lies on the South Malé Atoll, on the island of Makunufushi, and is home to a stunning resort of the same name. If you're looking for a glamorous romantic experience, treat yourself to one of the most beautiful beaches in the Maldives.

Twelve beautiful white beaches surrounded by fluorescent bays can be found at Reethi Rah. Pristine and pure, you'll find this wonderland relaxing at the One&Only Reethi Rah Resort, in the North Malé Atoll.