Maldives on the World Map - Where are the Islands

The Maldives are a cluster of islands in the Indian Ocean, famous for their stunning white sand beaches. What atolls and islands are part of the Maldives and where are they located?

Detailed map of the Maldives

The tropical paradise known as the Maldives consists of 26 atolls and more than 1,000 islands scattered across the Indian Ocean north of the equator:

• The country is surrounded by the waters of the Indian Ocean.
• The closest neighbors are India and Sri Lanka.
• The capital of the Maldives is the city of Male.
• 26 natural atolls (20 administrative atolls)
• 1192 islands, of which 188 are inhabited.
• 175 resorts (as of 2024).
• Atolls and islands are scattered over an area of about 90,000 square kilometers.
• Population: 392 thousand people.

Asad Photo Maldives

Atolls and Islands of the Maldives

The Maldives have 26 atolls, but not all of them have become popular with tourists. This is largely due to the fact that the atolls located near the capital and the international airport were first developed. Not so long ago, hotels appeared on more remote atolls of the Maldives. Among the most popular with tourists are:

North Male Atoll

It is located closest to the capital Male, which explains its popularity. It was here that the first Maldivian hotels appeared. Many popular tourist resorts are located in North Male. The resorts can be quickly reached by speedboat.

• Male : The capital and most populous island of the Maldives, known for its vibrant culture, it is the historical heart of the country and worth visiting for its ancient mosque and local market.
• Hulhumale : An artificial residential island and tourist area known for its beautiful beaches and water sports. It is also where the airport is located.
• Dhiffushi Island : A local island of the atoll with white beaches and blue lagoons. Situated just 40 minutes by boat from the airport.
• Baros Island: A luxury island resort with pristine beaches, coral reefs and plenty of water activities.
• Vihamanaafushi: A popular tourist destination with the famous Kurumba Maldives resort 

Asad Photo Maldives

South Male

Known for its excellent diving spots and untouched beaches, it is considered the second most visited atoll in the country. It is less crowded than North Male. Most of the islands can be reached in 45 minutes by speedboat from the airport, or budget travelers can use the public ferry.

• Maafushi : an inexpensive island, one of the most popular among the local islands of the Maldives. A large selection of hotels and guest houses, numerous cafes and restaurants, developed infrastructure and water activities of all kinds. The advantage of the local island is its close location to Male.
• Gali : A quiet, peaceful island with a beautiful beach and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Biyadhoo Island: A paradise island known for its fantastic diving spots and tranquil environment.
• Olhuveli: A luxury island resort with pristine beaches, overwater villas and plenty of water activities.
• Fihalhohi Island : A private island with vibrant marine life where you can encounter manta rays.

This atoll is home to the famous resorts Hard Rock Hotel Maldives , Anantara Dhigu Maldives and others.

Fihalhohi Maldives

Ari Atoll

One of the largest atolls in the Maldives. It is divided into two administrative parts: North Ari (Alifu Alifu) and South Ari (Alifu Dhaalu). It attracts tourists with its rich marine life: it is here that you can meet whale sharks and manta rays. The atoll includes about 70 islands and shoals, of which about 30 are resorts, and 18 are local islands.

• Rangali Island: Home to luxury resorts connected by a bridge, beautiful beaches and the famous underwater restaurant Conrad Maldives.
• Dhigurah: Known for its stunning beach, marine life and popular diving spots including the famous whale shark point.
• Maamigili: The so-called whale shark island. This is a local island where the only airport of South Ari Atoll is located.
• Omadhoo : A tranquil local island with white sandy beaches offering budget accommodation surrounded by authentic culture.

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island

Baa Atoll

Situated 120 km from Male, the capital of the Maldives, this huge atoll, 42 km long and 32 km wide, includes 75 islands, of which only 13 are inhabited.

Despite its remoteness, Baa is fast becoming popular with travelers seeking a truly luxurious holiday in unsullied nature. It is home to prestigious resorts from world-famous brands such as Soneva Fushi , Four Seasons .

The atoll is home to the only UNESCO-protected biosphere reserve in the Maldives , Hanifaru Bay . From May to November, this bay hosts an amazing phenomenon: huge masses of plankton rise to the upper layers of the ocean, attracting many whale sharks and manta rays. At this time, you will see up to 200 majestic sea giants, making Baa Atoll a truly unique diving destination.

The journey is a short 15 minute flight from Male followed by a speedboat ride to your hotel.

• Maalhos : A local island with beautiful beaches, a stunning lagoon and proximity to Hanifaru Bay, a famous manta ray habitat.
• Dharavandhoo : An island with a domestic airport, this is the best route to explore Hanifaru Bay.
• Kihaadhuffaru Island: A luxury island resort with stunning beaches, overwater villas and a variety of water sports.
• Finolhu Kanifushi: A picturesque island resort known for its turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and luxurious accommodations.
• Kamadhoo Island : A paradise with unspoiled coastlines and a population of about 500.

Depositphotos

Lhaviyani Atoll

Situated 120 km north of Male, it is made up of 63 islets, most of which are concentrated within a 30 km radius around the barrier reef. The islands here are tiny, even by Maldivian standards. There are only three hotels on them: Kuredu Island Resort, the cozy Komandoo Hotel and the luxurious One & Only Villas on Kanuhura. The vibrant coral reefs are teeming with life. Tropical fish, schools of shiny glassfish, families of emperor angelfish, impressive nurse sharks and moray eels, two sunken ships – a great place for diving!

• Kuredu : A popular tourist destination for luxury holidays and diving.
• Huravali : A luxury island resort known for its stunning coral reefs, underwater restaurant and romantic atmosphere.
• Naifaru: The capital of Lhaviyani Atoll, offering a glimpse of local Maldivian life, cultural experiences and beautiful beaches.

Kuredu Island Resort

Noonu Atoll

Noonu is located north of Lhaviyani Atoll. It consists of 71 islands, but only 13 are inhabited, making it an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility and adventure. This atoll is home to the famous Soneva Jani resort .

• Velidhoo: A quiet island with beautiful beaches, clear waters and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Orivaru: An island with pristine beaches and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.

Soneva Jani

Raa Atoll

Raa is located in the northwestern part of the Maldives archipelago, 145-200 kilometers from Hulhule International Airport, and is a unique natural pearl. It can be reached in 45 minutes by seaplane.

The atoll consists of 88 islands, of which only 15 are inhabited. Here you will find 3 hotels and several cozy guesthouses offering an unforgettable holiday away from the hustle and bustle. This is where the island of Vaadhoo is located , surprising with its bright luminescent bay. The local airport is on the island of Ifuru.

• Midu: An island known for its historical significance, beautiful beaches and serene environment.
• Dhuvaafaru: A local island with stunning sandy beaches, great snorkeling and a friendly community.
• Alifushi: A picturesque island with clean beaches, crystal waters, water sports and fishing opportunities.

Depositphotos

Haa Alif Atoll

This 40-island archipelago in the northern Maldives is still not very popular with tourists, making it a real treasure for those looking for a secluded holiday.

The first luxury resorts in this region appeared less than 10 years ago, but in this short time they have managed to win the hearts of travelers.

• Utemu : A historical island famous as the birthplace of Sultan Mohamed Thakurufaanu, a national hero.
• Kelaa: A beautiful island with stunning beaches, crystal clear waters and a warm and welcoming local community.
• Diddhoo: An island with picturesque beaches, lush vegetation and a peaceful environment.

Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa

South Ari Atoll

Famous for its marine biodiversity, majestic whale sharks and manta rays can be seen here all year round.

• Maamigili: A local island with beautiful beaches, clear waters and proximity to popular diving and snorkeling spots.
• Dhigurah : Known for its long sandy beach and location near the famous Hanifaru Bay, a manta ray habitat.
• Vilamendhoo: A picturesque island resort with stunning beaches, abundant marine life and a variety of water sports.
• Mirihi: A small private island known for its cozy atmosphere, pristine beaches and excellent diving opportunities.
• Thoddoo : A picturesque local island that has retained its agricultural way of life. Serene beaches and the availability of guest houses for budget travelers make it an attractive tourist destination.

Vilamendhoo Island Resort

Addu Atoll

The southernmost atoll of the Maldives, famous for its unique history, rich nature and opportunities for active recreation. This is a place where you will find not only beach relaxation, but also fabulous diving, snorkeling, fishing and local color. It is located 400 km from the capital of the Maldives and can be reached by domestic flight (approximately 1 hour) or by speedboat (7 hours).

The main islands of Addu Atoll are:

• Gan : The largest and most populated island, known for its airport (the only one on the atoll), fishing and natural attractions.
• Marreku: A tranquil island with beautiful beaches, great snorkeling and diving spots.
• Hiradhoo: An island with a rich history and ancient ruins where you can learn about the atoll's past.

Depositphotos

Dhaalu Atoll

Dhaalu is a hidden gem of the Maldives, famous for its untouched nature, crystal clear waters and beautiful reefs. It is located 120 km south of Male and can be reached by domestic flight (approximately 20 minutes) or by speedboat (approximately 2 hours).

The main island is Kudahuvadhoo - a fairly large island with a developed infrastructure and a population of 1,500 people. The main reefs of interest to divers are located along the northern and north-eastern parts of the islands. There are practically no shallow reefs inside the atoll.

Velavaru is a unique place known as "turtle island". Many species of sea turtles once lived here. You can meet them by diving to the northern end of the atoll. Not far from Velavaru is the Angsana Velavaru 5 hotel .

Angsana Velavaru 5

Vaavu Atoll

Vaavu is located about 80 km south of the capital Male. Here, divers often encounter hammerhead and leopard sharks. Scuba diving enthusiasts can visit exciting dive sites such as Alimatha Jetty and Photteyo Kandu.

The main inhabited island, Felidhoo, offers a glimpse into the local Maldivian culture and way of life. Other islands such as Keyodhoo, Fulidhoo and Thinadhoo are known for their serene beaches, turquoise waters and friendly locals. One of the unique attractions of Vaavu Atoll is the mesmerizing bioluminescence phenomenon that occurs at night.

NAKAI Dhiggiri Resort

Laamu Atoll

In this atoll, nearly all the islands are connected by bridges or are relatively close to each other. This gives a great opportunity to move between them, discovering the diversity and beauty of Laamu. Unlike other atolls, where guests are limited to their own island, in Laamu you will have more freedom to explore and discover. Among the hotels in the atoll is the luxury Six Senses Laamu .

Six Senses Laamu