Hotels in Malé

Malé: Where Island Serenity Meets Oceanic Adventure

Malé, the vibrant capital of the Maldives, is a captivating blend of rich culture and stunning natural beauty. Nestled among the picturesque Kaafu Atoll, this bustling city offers a unique urban experience with colorful markets, historic landmarks like the Hukuru Miskiy Mosque, and the lively fish market. Just a short boat ride away, pristine beaches and crystal-clear lagoons await, perfect for sunbathing or snorkeling among vibrant marine life. Whether you’re indulging in luxury resorts or exploring local flavors, Malé is an unforgettable starting point for your Maldives adventure, blending urban excitement with tropical paradise. For the best hotel rates in Malé and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Malé

Some of the best places to stay in Malé are Maafushi, Furanafushi Island and Hulhumalé. Maafushi, Furanafushi Island, and Hulhumalé each offer unique experiences for travelers. Maafushi is ideal for budget-conscious visitors seeking local culture and activities. Furanafushi Island is known for its luxurious resorts and tranquil ambiance, perfect for a relaxing getaway. Hulhumalé, with its modern amenities, is great for first-time visitors wanting easy access to Malé and nearby attractions. Accommodations range from budget guesthouses to upscale hotels, including options with spas and trendy features, catering to all preferences. Here are some of the best hotels in Malé that our travelers love:

1. MaafushiOpens in a new window: Maafushi is a vibrant island known for its beautiful beaches and rich local culture. It offers stunning scenery at Maafushi Reef and the serene Gulhi Beach, making it perfect for beach lovers and adventure seekers. The island also features the Maafushi Mosque, providing a glimpse into the local culture. For accommodation, consider COMO Cocoa IslandOpens in a new window, which offers direct beach access and adventure sports like kayaking and parasailing. Another option is Anantara Veli Maldives Resort - Adults OnlyOpens in a new window, also beachfront, providing various water sports including surfing and motorboating. Lastly, Anantara Dhigu Maldives ResortOpens in a new window features a business center and recreational activities like snorkeling and windsurfing, ensuring a fun-filled stay.
2. Furanafushi IslandOpens in a new window: This island boasts breathtaking beaches like Hulhumale Beach and Full Moon Beach, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and adventure. Furanafushi is known for its luxurious experiences while still being accessible. You can stay at Baros MaldivesOpens in a new window, which offers a range of activities such as canoeing and boat tours. Another great choice is Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & SpaOpens in a new window, featuring a business center and various water sports, including parasailing. For a more luxurious experience, Bandos MaldivesOpens in a new window provides multiple adventure options like fishing and parasailing, all while enjoying direct beach access.
3. HulhumaléOpens in a new window: Located close to the capital, Hulhumalé offers beautiful beaches and cultural points of interest like the Maldives Islamic Centre and Male Fish Market. This area is perfect for those wanting to experience Maldivian culture while still being near the beach. Hard Rock Hotel MaldivesOpens in a new window is a family-friendly option with direct beach access and activities for children. Alternatively, Taj Exotica Resort And SpaOpens in a new window offers business amenities and exciting water sports such as snorkeling and windsurfing. For a more relaxing stay, Kurumba MaldivesOpens in a new window features a full spa and various adventure sports, ensuring a rejuvenating experience after a day of exploring.

What to do in Malé

A three-day trip to Malé offers a captivating blend of stunning beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and lush natural scenery. Travelers can enjoy activities like boating, diving, and watching breathtaking sunsets, immersing themselves in the serene beauty that defines this vibrant island paradise. It’s a perfect getaway for nature lovers. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Malé:

• Day 1: Begin your Malé adventure at Hulhumale Beach, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the tranquil waters. After some relaxation, head to Kuda Bandos Beach, renowned for its vibrant marine life and stunning coral reefs—perfect for snorkeling. Conclude your day at the Baros Marine Center, where you can learn about the local marine ecosystem and perhaps even participate in a guided snorkeling tour to witness the underwater wonders of the Maldives.
• Day 2: Start your day with a visit to Vadoo Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and soft white sands, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Next, make your way to Bolifushi Island Pier, where you can enjoy a scenic view or take part in some water sports. As the sun sets, unwind at Laguna Beach, a picturesque spot perfect for a romantic evening stroll or a peaceful moment while watching the sunset over the horizon.
• Day 3: Kick off with a visit to Full Moon Beach, a serene location that offers a perfect escape for relaxation and leisure activities. Following your beach time, head to Maafushi Mosque to experience a bit of local culture and architecture. Finally, make your way to Hulhumalé Central Park, a beautifully landscaped area where you can take a leisurely walk, enjoy the lush greenery, and reflect on your memorable Maldivian experience.

5 tips to find a great Malé hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Malé is during May, August, and October, when hotel rates drop significantly. For international travelers looking for great value for money, it's advisable to book flights at least 8 months in advance to secure lower fares. To fully experience the highlights of Malé, plan to stay for at least 4-5 days, allowing ample time to explore its stunning islands, beautiful beaches, and captivating natural scenery.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Malé, Hotels.com is a great resource. To explore these offers, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could find discounts on hotels as your travel date approaches. Many listings feature refundable options, providing peace of mind. To stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, ensuring you won’t miss any chances to save on your Malé getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Malé.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Malé is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further away from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like ferries, taxis, and bicycles to explore the area while saving on costs, as these options are more likely to be affordable.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Malé and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

What to eat in Malé

Here are some popular dishes in Malé, Kaafu Atoll, Maldives:

• Garudhiya: A traditional Maldivian fish soup made from fresh tuna, simmered with water and seasoned with a touch of salt. It's typically served with rice and accompanied by lime, chili, and onions, allowing you to personalize your meal with your preferred flavors. This dish reflects the local fishing culture and is often enjoyed as a communal meal.
• Mas Huni: A popular breakfast dish, mas huni consists of fresh tuna, coconut, onion, and chili, all finely chopped and mixed together. It's usually served with flatbread, known as roshi, making it a convenient and flavorful way to start your day. This dish embodies the Maldivian love for seafood and emphasizes the freshness of local ingredients.

Best time to go to Malé

Malé experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 81.1°F (27.3°C), while April and May are the hottest months, with an average temperature of 83.7°F (28.7°C). May tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Malé are January, February, and September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by dry to moderate rainfall. In contrast, April, May, and October are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.