There are so many ways to explore the emerald waters of the Maldives. Though many people see Maldives as a luxury destination, there are varying price points for this slice of heaven too!

Maldives, best known for its beautiful lagoons and idyllic islands can be experienced on a budget if you know how to look for the right places and the best deals. So, here are some tips and tricks and some of the more affordable resorts and islands you must experience if you want to explore the Maldives on a budget.

Travel to local islands instead of resorts!

One of the best ways to budget travel and still get the whole Maldivian experience is to explore the local islands. You may not get the overwater bungalows or the ultra-lavish accommodation, but in my opinion, local islands are just as beautiful as the luxurious resorts.

So, what are some of the best local islands to travel to? Just like any traveller coming into the Maldives, you will probably land at Velana International Airport, and luckily some of the most popular local islands are also located fairly near the airport.

Maafushi

Image: @arenahotels

Located just 30 minutes away from the airport, Maafushi is the closest thing to a resort you can get- but on a budget! With high-end hotel stays such as Kaani Hotels and Arena Beach Hotel, Maafushi offers guests the sought-after Maldivian experience without having to break the bank.

A day trip at Maafushi can cost as low as $100! Nice hotels, affordable food, and pristine beaches with beautiful glittering water make Maafushi the ideal destination for budget travellers. Not only does visiting a local island like Maafushi offer guests the resort experience, but you can also explore the island lifestyle as Maafushi is a local island developed into a tourist destination.

Thulusdhoo

Image: IndulgeMaldives

Thulusdhoo offers the best of what the Maldives has to offer but on a budget. This calm sanctuary is perfect for anyone looking for a peaceful island getaway.

On this island, tapping into nature and enjoying the crystal clear oceans on a breezy hot summer day can be your reality as well. Thulusdhoo is a quiet little island, located 40 minutes away from the capital city, bringing you the perfect island sanctuary.

Not only are the properties on Thulusdhoo straight out of your dream island getaway, but this island also offers a wide variety of food, cafes and excursions for guests to explore.

Located between a string of popular local islands, Thulusdhoo makes for the perfect spot to vacation if you’re a fan of island hopping and enjoying coconuts on the beach!

While these two islands are the most popular among backpackers and budget travellers, islands such as Dhigurah, Fulidhoo, Ukulhas and Huraa are also similar islands that you can explore for the ideal vacation on a budget!

Smart travelling

I know we hear this all the time, but travelling smart is the best way to get the most out of your coin! Plan your trip and book your flight early. We all know booking early and looking for some of the best deals can get you the best rates. While flights to Maldives do not come cheap, travelling during the low season can get you lower flight rates as well as better deals on your hotels or resorts.

When you’re travelling within the Maldives, take advantage of the public transportation that is available! Taking ferries instead of speedboats, buses instead of cabs or walking when it is possible can save you more than you can imagine. Ferries will cost you close to nothing and a bus trip costs less than a dollar.

Pack smart and avoid extra expenses!

We all know shopping abroad comes at a cost! One might even call it the ‘tourist price’. This means that for tourists everything comes at double or even triple the price, it does for locals. This rule applies to the Maldives as well. While making a few purchases from local brands as keepsakes or souvenirs is a must when you visit the Maldives, if you’re planning to travel on a budget, packing everything you need before your trip is one of the smartest things you could do.

One thing travellers advise to do is bring all your beach wear and pack low on your evening dresses. Chances are you will spend all your time trying to get the best of the beautiful, tropical beaches rather than dressing up to go to restaurants.

Travelling to resorts on a budget

Image: @royalmaldives

It might be hard to believe, but there are some budget-friendly resorts you can explore as well. Though it might not be as cheap of a deal as travelling to local islands if you are looking for low-cost resorts there are a few options.

Places such as Furaveri Maldives, Royal Island Resort, Sun Siyam Olhuveli, Villa Park Maldives and Villa Nautica Maldives offer guests Instagram-famous views of the Maldives at a budget-friendly rate.

While lower costs might have you thinking these resorts do not offer the same, ultra-lavish experiences that discerning guests are seeking, budget-friendly resorts are just as unforgettable as the high-end ones.

These resorts offer guests everything from romantic dinners, fine dining, peaceful retreats, and chances to explore the beautiful reefs all while staying at magical accommodations with the best sea views – on a budget!