What it actually costs
When to go
Southwest monsoon — rain, rough seas, reduced visibility for snorkelling/diving.
Budget hack: stay on local islands (Maafushi, Thulusdhoo) not resorts. Same water, 1/10th the price.
What locals know
Local islands have guesthouses from $60-100/night with the same crystal water. Maafushi is 30 min from Male by speedboat.
Snorkelling from shore on local islands is often as good as paid excursions. Ask your guesthouse for house reef locations.
Alcohol is ONLY available on resort islands. Local islands are dry (Islamic law). Plan accordingly.
Sunset dolphin cruises from any island are $30-50 and you will see dolphins. Not a gimmick.
Honest warnings
The Maldives is not cheap even on a budget. $100/day minimum on local islands, $500+ on resorts.
Bikinis are only allowed on designated "bikini beaches" on local islands. Resorts have no restrictions.
Seaplane transfers to remote resorts cost $300-600 return. Factor this into your budget.
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