Guesthouses in the Maldives: 12 best choices

A budget vacation in the Maldives is not a dream, but a real reality. Private islands with resorts, of course, have many advantages. But if you do not want to spend too much money on your vacation, guesthouses on local islands can be a great alternative to vacation at the resort. Learn more about the budget Maldives here.

Guesthouse in the Maldives: why you should try

Guest houses in the Maldives appeared not so long ago on local islands. This event has greatly accelerated the growth of independent tourists. Just over 10 years ago, the Maldivian government still did not allow travelers to stay in villages where locals live. Today, guesthouses are becoming more and more popular, and in terms of quantity they already surpass remote private hotels. This is a 3* vacation. It does not offer an unsurpassed level of comfort and luxury, but it is possible to fully enjoy the homely atmosphere, the beauty of the Maldives and all the resort entertainment that resorts have.

On the residential islands you can find the same snorkeling and diving, cafes and restaurants, there are excursion programs and a lot of other entertainments for tourists. Moreover, here you will get to know the Maldivian culture in its purest form.

It should be borne in mind that there is no alcohol on the local islands of the Maldives. If you prefer to spend your vacation with a clear head, then guesthouses are for you. H and local islands are organized tours to private Resort, where alcoholic beverages are permitted by law.

What is the guesthouse at Maldives

• The number of rooms is no more than 20-30 rooms.
• Private home ownership and family business. Most often, the guest house is kept by members of the same family, who are engaged in landscaping and creating comfort for guests.
• Self-catering kitchen and continental or Maldivian breakfasts included in the price of your stay.
• Free use of Wi-Fi.
• Bicycles and snorkeling equipment can be rented.
• Private or shared facilities.
• Rooms are small in size with air conditioning and TV.
• Availability of towels and bed linen.
• Regular collection of numbers.
• Excursion offers.

What are the most popular guest houses in the Maldives? We suggest that you familiarize yourself with the list of the most popular guesthouses among tourists in the Maldives.

Three Hearts

Sun Shine View, Maafushi

Maafushi is the Maldives' most visited budget destination. It is located 27 kilometers from Male International Airport. There are several dozen popular guesthouses on the island. It is located 27 kilometers from Male International Airport. There are several dozen popular guesthouses on the island. Despite the fact that a third of Maafushi is occupied by a Maldivian prison, the island has a bounty beach and an excellent selection of excursions at reasonable prices.

The leader in the list of cozy guest houses on Maafushi is Sun Shine View. This place enchants tourists with its homely atmosphere. Located 10 minutes walk from the beach and the main infrastructure of the island. Sun Shine View offers hearty Maldivian and continental breakfasts, clean and comfortable rooms, Wi-Fi access.

In the guest house you can book excursions and find out all the necessary information about the rest on Maafushi. Snorkelling equipment is also provided free of charge. Airport transfers are available by prior arrangement.

• Atoll : South Male.
• The distance from the airport Male: 27 kilometers.
• How to get: speedboat ( 30 minutes) or on a public ferry (1.5 hours).

Sun Shine View

SeaLaVie Inn, Ukulhas

Ukulhas is considered one of the most environmentally friendly local islands of the Maldives. It is home to no more than a thousand local residents, who are mainly engaged in fishing. Therefore, vacation on the island will bring many pleasant moments to avid fishermen.

Among the advantages of the SeaLaVie Inn:

• good location on the island;
• cozy atmosphere;
• hospitable hosts;
• restaurant with breakfasts and dinners on request;
• shared lounge with Maldivian swings;
• comfortable rooms;
• comfortable family accommodation;
• free Wi-Fi;
• free bike rental.

SeaLaVie Inn has been one of the most sought-after guesthouses on Ukulhas for several years. Many tourists come back here for their next vacation. A cozy guest house with a beautiful patio and garden is located in the middle of the island, which is very convenient. To the beach, both on one side and on the other - no more than 5 minutes walk. Ukulas (or Ukulhas) boasts one of the most picturesque beaches for tourists. And the choice of entertainment on the water will delight every vacationer..

• Atoll: Alif- Alif (or North Ari).
• Distance from Male airport: 73 km.
• How to get there: by speedboat (1,5 hours) or by public ferry (4 hours).

SeaLaVie Inn

Evila Inn on Thoddoo Island

The clean and green local island of Thoddoo is quite popular with budget tourists in the Maldives. More than 20 guest houses have already been opened here. Evila Inn is considered to be one of the leading ones. It is ideal for a romantic getaway to the island of ah.

In Evila Inn has only two- bedded rooms with one large or two twin beds. Cozy atmosphere, well-tended garden on site and delicious continental breakfasts. The beach is a 15-minute walk away. The rooms are equipped with all the necessary conditions for comfort, including air conditioning, safe, TV and free toiletries. Private bathroom with shower and soundproofing system.

In Evila Inn is possible for a fee to book a transfer from and to the airport.

• Atoll: North Ari.
• Distance from Male Airport: 6-9 kilometers.
• How to get there: by speedboat ( 90 minutes).

Evila Inn

Summer Inn Thoddoo

A good choice for Todd will also be a guest house Summer Inn Thoddoo. This is a great place for a family vacation, where you can order full board and not worry about food anymore. A children's menu is available. The Summer Inn has only 4 rooms, so guests' comfort is the top priority. Convenient location 400 meters from the bikini beach.

What the guest house offers:

• spacious and modern 2 and 3-bed rooms;
• provision of a baby cot upon request;
• daily cleaning and discreet service;
• children playground;
• bike rental;
• free Wi-Fi;
• transfer from and to the airport.

The Summer Inn Thoddoo offers a welcoming atmosphere and absolute comfort. Among the active entertainment - cycling, snorkeling , diving, as well as sea excursions.

• Atoll: North Ari.
• Distance from Male Airport: 68 kilometers.
• How to get there: by speedboat (90 minutes).

Summer Inn Thoddoo

Villa Rosa, Feridhoo

The green island of Feridhoo is home to around 300 Maldivians. This is a quiet and modest village, which is considered the birthplace of Boduberu. Therefore, on the island you can experience all the charm of the Maldivian culture. Feridhoo also has a stunning live reef and diving center. Here you will find fun snorkeling and diving at the level of private luxury resorts.

On the island is open to several guesthouses. At the same time, it is worth mentioning separately the small Villa Rosa. The guest has only 5 rooms, which have all the amenities for a perfect vacation. The guests of Villa Rosa are accompanied by an atmosphere of celebration and hospitality throughout the entire period of rest. The restaurant offers a rich menu of Maldivian and Italian dishes.

Why choose Villa Rosa:

• Excellent location close to the coast.
• Cozy territory of the guesthouse, surrounded by a tropical garden.
• Rooms with modern interiors and king-size beds.
• Rooms are equipped with air conditioning and fans.
• Open-type private bathrooms with all amenities.
• Free Wi-Fi.

Atoll: North Ari.

Distance from Male Airport: 88 kilometers.

How to get there: by speedboat (1.5 hours).

Villa Rosa, Feridhoo

Maclura Residence, Maalhos

An ideal yet budget destination for the best snorkeling in the Maldives. After all, Maalos Island in Baa Atoll is 15 minutes by boat from the most popular snorkeling location - Hanifaru Bay. This is the most picturesque in the world station feeding stingrays manta, for which many tourists flock to the Maldives.

Maclura Residence has three types of rooms - standard, superior and superior with a sea view. All apartments have a king bed, private bathroom, climate control and free Wi-Fi. The favorite pastime of Maclura Residence guests is snorkeling. The guest is located very close to the dive center and the island's house reef. The nearest bikini beach is 7 minutes walk.

A shuttle service to / from Dharavandhoo Island Airport is available upon request.

• Atoll: Baa.
• Distance from Male Airport: 115 kilometers.
• How to get there: by speedboat (about 2 hours on the way). Or: by domestic plane to Dharavandhoo Island (20 minutes), then by boat to Maalhos Island (10 minutes).

Maclura Residence

Dhiffushi Inn, Dhiffushi

More than a thousand Maldivians live on the small local island of Dhiffushi, it has its own hospital, shops, cafes, several hotels and a dozen guest houses. It is one of the most popular budget destinations in the Maldives. Here you can find all the charm of the islands. But also because of the proximity to the capital Malé shuttle from the airport does not cost fantastically.

Guest house Dhiffushi Inn has its own restaurant and bar overlooking the ocean. All 10 rooms are decorated in a Maldivian style and equipped with all necessary etc. A comfortable living. The main distinction for which this guesthouse receives the best reviews is the varied recreation program. Easy access to the beach and a great house reef. In Dhiffushi Inn organize many holiday entertainment:

• offsite snorkeling;
• a trip to a sandbank;
• excursions in Male;
• day and night fishing;
• Dolphin Sunset Cruises;
• romantic dinners on the beach or sandbank;
• photoshoot;
• wedding ceremonies;
• one-day sea voyages with a survey of the nearest islands.

Atoll: North Male.

Distance from Male Airport: 37 kilometers.

How to get there: by public ferry (3 hours on the way) or by speedboat (40 minutes).

Dhiffushi Inn, Dhiffushi

The Sunrise острова Huraa

So that you have only good impressions about the island of Huraa, you should first choose the right guest house. Of the 10 options available, The Sunrise Huraa is the most popular among tourists . A cozy place where guests are treated like best friends. There are all the standard conditions for a comfortable stay for two. Some apartments are additionally equipped with a guest area. Varied breakfasts and free Wi-Fi access in rooms.

The Sunrise Huraa organizes the best excursions and activities in Huraa, sandbank picnics, beach barbecues and trips to neighboring islands.

• Atoll: North Male.
• Distance from Male Airport: 20 kilometers.
• How to get there: by speedboat ( 25 minutes).

The Sunrise

Villa Kudi on Thulusdhoo Island

Another island close to the capital where you can rent a good guest is Thulusdhoo. It is a calm village with over a thousand locals. There are several guesthouses and hostels for tourists. A couple of decent restaurants and cafes are open. There are many grocery stores in the northwestern part of the island. Thulusdhoo is the preferred destination for surfing in the Maldives due to its proximity to the popular Chicken and Cokes surf spots. There is a reef and all the possibilities for good snorkeling. The island is located north of Male and one of its main advantages is a fast and inexpensive transfer by public ferry or speedboat.

Guest House Villa Kudi has the most positive traveler reviews of all offers on Thulusdhoo. Double rooms up to 30 square meters are available here. Cozy apartment in a minimalist style, with furniture and interior elements made of natural wood. Separate amenities and direct access to the garden are included. The guest house is just a two-minute walk from the bikini beach.

• Atoll: Kaafu.
• The distance from the airport Male: 27 km.
• How to get there: by public ferry (1.5 hours on the way) or by speedboat (30 minutes).

Villa Kudi

Dhigurah Beach Inn, Dhigurah

Up to 600 Maldivians live in the north of Dhigurah. The rest of the long 3-kilometer island is occupied by the tropics. A very beautiful long beach runs along the land, which is deservedly included in the top 10 in the Maldives. Besides, Dhigurah is a mecca for divers. It has an excellent Island Divers diving center and dive opportunities at the most popular dive sites in the Maldives. Snorkeling on the island's live reef is no less interesting. These are places of nature paradise where budget accommodation is available in the Maldives.

Among the 15 guest houses on Dhigurah, Dhigurah Beach Inn is worth highlighting. A relatively new guest house with only 4 rooms, which has already won the guests with its atmosphere and level of service.

Dhigurah Beach Inn offers:

• great location 10 minutes from the bikini beach;
• delicious and hearty breakfasts (Maldivian and continental);
• spacious rooms overlooking the beach;
• private facilities with rain shower;
• air conditioning, TV and free Wi - Fi access in the room;
• warm attitude towards guests.

Excursion service to Dhigurah at the highest level. Swimming with whale sharks in the Maldives deserves special attention.

• Atoll: Alif Dhaal .
• Distance from Male Airport: 100 kilometers.
• How to get there: by speedboat (about 2 hours on the way) or by domestic airplane to Maamgilli island (20 minutes), then by boat about 15 minutes.

Dhigurah Beach Inn

Holiday Garden Rasdhoo on Rasdhoo Island

If you want to visit and be a local island Rasdhoo note the guest house is the Holiday Garden. This hideaway in 6 rooms, where tourists will have a nice price ratio -quality and delicious breakfast, cleanliness and excellent service. The guest provides free rental of snorkeling equipment. This is very important, since the underwater world of the Rasdhoo Reef is very diverse. Beach with sun beds in short ho d by by Gest. The friendly owner of the guest house helps with all questions and recommends the best excursion options.

Holiday Garden offers board and half board options. In any case, breakfasts, lunches and dinners are cooked here conscientiously. A pleasant homely atmosphere, well-groomed guesthouse territory, comfortable rooms and the best experience are guaranteed.

• Atoll: Alif Alif.
• Distance from Male Airport: 60 kilometers.
• How to get there: by speedboat (about 1 hour on the way).

Holiday Garden Rasdhoo

Three Hearts Guesthouse, Fuladhoo

Fuladhoo is shaped like a huge sand fish in the middle of the ocean. It is an inhabited island with a population of 250. Almost wild places with unspoiled nature of Baa Atoll and beautiful Maldivian landscapes. There are over a dozen uninhabited islets and dazzling sandbanks around Fuladhoo.

A great option to stay in Fuladhoo is Three Hearts Guesthouse - Travelers' Choice 2020 and 2021 on Tripadvisor. Here you can book great deals, including honeymoon and family vacations. The recreation program will be rich, which is facilitated by the nature of the island. Diving, snorkeling, windsurfing and excellent fishing will bring a lot of emotions. The guest rooms are modern and equipped with all the necessary amenities, including free Wi-Fi.

• Atoll: Baa.
• Distance from Male airport: 101 kilometers.
• How to get there: by speedboat to Fuladhoo (2 hours on the way), or by domestic plane to Dharavandhoo Island (25 minutes) and then by boat to Fuladhoo (45 minutes).

Three Hearts