A chain of 1,200 islands in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is one of the most serene, romantic, and wildly scenic destinations in the world. The islands are clustered into atolls, based on their proximity to various coral reefs, and are surrounded by calm, azure-colored lagoons.
These still waters lend themselves to those dreamy overwater bungalows that have become synonymous with the archipelago, while the coral reefs make it a sought-after snorkeling destination. The final piece of this idyllic vacation spot is, of course, the Maldives beaches, many of which are pristine, white-sand stretches that travelers spend long days luxuriating on.
There are so many amazing beaches you have to see to believe they are real. 5 of them are:
Cocoa Island
Cocoa Island, a luxurious hideaway in the South Malé Atoll, is home to the stunning COMO Cocoa Island resort. The island, also called Makunufushi, is known for its sugar-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.
The live coral reefs — best experienced on a scuba diving trip orchestrated by the COMO Cocoa Island team — are one of the island’s best features. The privacy the beaches of Cocoa Island offer to COMO guests doesn’t hurt either.
Thulusdhoo Island
Capital of the Kaafu Atoll, Thulusdhoo is a Maldivian surfing haven. While many islands in the Maldives are inhabited by stunning luxury hotels, there are a few local hot spots, like Thulusdhoo, where visitors can appreciate the true culture of this dreamy archipelago.
To reach Thulusdhoo, take an inexpensive, hour-and-a-half ferry ride from Malé. There are a variety of hotels to satisfy all budgets on the island. Travelers looking to sunbathe should check out Tourist Beach, while experienced surfers chasing the best swells can head to Cokes Beach.
Dhigurah Island
In the South Ari Atoll, about 60 miles from the main island of Malé, lies Dhigurah Island. The island is known for whale shark sightings, world-class diving, and beaches you’ll never want to leave. Like Thulusdhoo, Dhigurah is home to several hotels and hot spots for travelers and locals alike.
The picturesque sandbar on Dhigurah features picnic tables, the island has its own dive center, and the water surrounding the intimate sugar-sand beach is a gathering spot for sea turtles and several species of colorful fish.
Veligandu Island
Soft sand, overwater villas, and a sandbar stretching as far as the eye can see — that’s what awaits on Veligandu Island. The beach here is open only to guests of the Veligandu Island Resort & Spa, an adults-only property in the North Ari Atoll.
Plus, it’s spacious enough that every hotel guest will feel as though they’re on a private stretch of sand. The beaches are also lined with luxe thatched-roof pavilions and loungers, and the reef around the island gives the water innumerable shades of green and blue.
Nika Island Beaches
Sun, white sand, and sparkling water – this is exactly what the Nika Island beaches boast of, only with more beauty around.
These private beaches are situated in North Ari Atoll and offer an amazing break to couples from the bustling city life. Also, some of the best beaches in Maldives.
