Budget Maldives | 10 Best Eco Friendly Resorts In Maldives - Promoting Sustainable Tourism

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Best Eco Friendly Resorts In Maldives

10 Best Eco Friendly Resorts In Maldives – Luxury In Harmony With Nature

Date: August 20, 2020 By Budget Categories: Maldives No comments

The one island-one resorts of Maldives have always been a popular destination among honeymooners, couples, and families around the globe. Lush tropical vegetation, palm-fringed beaches, and home to some of the clearest lagoons in the world. However, the bitter fact remains that we might not see these beautiful islands and resorts in Maldives after a few decades.

Global warming means the 1200 low-lying islands in the Maldives are at the risk of being underwater in the future. A day that none of us wants to see. Hence, to tackle against sea level rising and devastating effects of human pollution, Maldives resorts are adapting a greener philosophy.

Sustainable and eco-friendly tourism in the Maldives is practiced among even the most luxurious resorts. What’s impressive is that these eco-friendly resorts harmonize with nature without compromising quality. You could experience the most lavish getaway while helping to save the world. Each of these eco-friendly resort offers its exclusive luxuries and unique efforts for a greener tomorrow.

10 Maldives resorts offering luxury in harmony with nature

Six senses laamu.

Nestled in the secluded Laamu Atoll, reachable by a scenic seaplane ride, lies one of the most remote luxury resorts practicing eco-friendly tourism in Maldives. Offering a laid-back rustic chic, Six Senses Laamu is a glistening example of an eco-friendly luxury resort in Maldives.

The gorgeous on-land and the reputed overwater villas feature sustainable materials, which is just a glimpse of what this eco-friendly resort has to offer. In addition to growing resort’s own herbs in the organic garden, Six Senses Laamu also bottles their water for a plastic-free ocean. Their commitment to the environment is visible throughout the resort. The dive shop is certified by Green Fins – a global initiative to reduce environmental effects on the marine eco-system. The resort features awareness programs and measurements for effective waste management, in hopes for a better future.

Six Senses Laamu was the Maldives eco-resort of the year in 2017 & 2019. The resort is also one of the top destinations in Maldives for couples, families, and surfers. Luxurious overwater accommodation, personal butlers, fine dining, an award-winning spa, and plenty of thrills awaits you at the resort. The efforts of Six Senses Laamu is a step further to a zero-plastic ocean and eco-friendly tourism in Maldives.

Get Six Senses Laamu Prices

Reethi Beach Resort

Reethi means beautiful when translated from the Maldivian language, and the resort is boasting with beautiful beaches. Of course, this is only possible through the hard work and efforts of Reethi Beach Resort for a greener tomorrow.

This eco-friendly resort in the Maldives commits towards an ocean free of plastic pollution. A predicament that even the most secluded islands of Maldives have to face. Reethi Beach Resort features a desalination plant to filter seawater, as well as stores rainwater in glass bottles. The result; eradicating the use of 400 plastic bottles per day! Not to mention the villas are built using sustainable materials as well, making the destination of the top eco-friendly resorts in Maldives.

Reethi Beach Resort nestles in Baa Atoll – a UNESCO Biosphere reserve in Maldives. Through a 35-minute seaplane ride over the atolls, romantics adore the destination because of its remoteness and seclusion. What’s great about the resort is that these green intiatives directly impacts your holidays. Barefoot experience, the euphoria of planting trees, and even a blackout day where candles replace lights! Reethi Beach Resort provides a unique and eco-friendly experience.

Soneva Fushi

One of the best family hotels in Maldives , included among the top luxury hotels in Maldives 2020, and four times winner of leading eco-resort at Maldives travel awards. As you can see, Soneva Fushi Maldives is an impressive destination.

For sustainable and eco-friendly tourism in Maldives, the resort saves energy, efficiently manages waste, and eliminates the use of single-use plastic. A solar photovoltaic power plant draws the energy for resort use, a water reservoir helps to recycle and reuse rainwater, and a private garden provides vegetables and herbs to the resort. In addition to this, Soneva Fushi also adapts waste management techniques such as recycling solid waste and practicing composting. It’s safe to say the resort perfects the way of eco-friendly luxury.

The ban on plastic imports in the resort means you can enjoy cleaner beaches and clearer snorkeling sessions for a greener holiday. Soneva Fushi sits on one of the largest islands in Maldives. The destination is famous for its enormous villas hidden among the lush gardens, giving access to private beaches. With the “no news, no shoes” idealogy, you can indulge in a seamless barefoot experience in Soneva Maldives, A top eco-friendly resort in Maldives.

Baros Maldives

With over 40 years of practicing sustainable and eco-friendly tourism, we can safely say that Baros Maldives is a top green resort in Maldives. Recycling, energy-saving, and holidays with carbon footprints are a specialty of this gorgeous and secluded island getaway in Maldives.

The effort and dedication can reflect through the rooms, gardens, the plastic-free lagoon, and even the cleaning products of the resort. You can find LED lights through the resort for lower energy consumption, CFC- free air conditioning, heat exchanging appliances, as well as biodegradable cleaning products. Baros Maldives even conducts awareness programs in the form of tours to local islands, uninhabited islands, and diving excursion, for both fun and educational experience.

You’ll also have the blessing of adopting your personal coral through the resort’s coral planting project. Not only are you contributing to a good cause, but also leaving something that’s yours at the resort. The cool part is that the resort will monitor its growth and update you every 6-months with a photo! If you are looking for a serene, small island getaway, Baros Maldives is the eco-friendly resort for you.

Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu

A green globe certified resort practicing eco-friendly tourism in Maldives, Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu is the turtle’s best friend. Set in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, the resort is home to gorgeous sunset lagoon villas that are adored by couples, plenty of dining opportunities, a spa for relaxation, as well as thrilling water sports & excursions.

Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu offers a green and sustainable way of tourism, just like the other eco-friendly resorts in Maldives. Banning plastic bootles, producing their own water, and implementing a proper waste management system are measures that the resort perfects. Moreover, the local garden provides a fresh set of local ingredients on the resort with personal chefs, which is a great way to contribute to the impact of importing.

While each effort by the destination for a greener tomorrow is commendable, we absolutely love the dedication that this eco-friendly resort in Maldives puts to saving turtles. Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu is the only resort in Maldives to have an exclusive veterinarian for turtles. The resort also provides safe nesting sites for green sea turtles and conducts turtle releasing programs, so that little turtles can live out to be giants!

LUX* South Ari Atoll

Utilizing the blessings of the stunning Maldivian archipelago, LUX* South Ari Atoll features breath-taking overwater villas, 8 restaurants, 5 bars, and an award-winning spa, along with one of the largest water centers in Maldives. The destination is one of the most Insta-worthy places in the world, and among the best eco-friendly resorts in Maldives as well.

Lux South Ari Atoll is a Maldives eco-friendly resort thriving to create a holiday home without the need of diesel-powered electricity and the unwanted pollution that comes with it. Instead, the destination is a friend of the sun, running on Solar power energy. The resort also reduces plastic with water-saving projects and in-house bottling for a cleaner ocean. Moreover, LUX* South Ari Atoll also provides efforts to conserve whale sharks – an endangered species and one of the pride of the Maldives Ocean.

The resort is among the best hotels in Maldives for couples. So if you want an eco-friendly resort for a romantic getaway, LUX South Ari Atoll is the destination. Winner of Travelife Gold certificate, the destination aids in saving an astounding 234,000 liters of diesel per year!

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa

Taj Exotica Resort and Spa is an EarthCheck Certified, eco-friendly resort in Maldives, where you can enjoy pampering luxuries while reducing carbon footprints. It’s a destination where you can indulge in sumptuous feasts & cocktails and slumber in beautiful villas while contributing to a greener environment.

Taj Exotica Maldives features a rainwater collecting system to reduce plastic, awareness programs, exclusive water heating system, and methods to minimize waste. This is just the tip of what this eco-friendly resort in Maldives does to help for cleaner beaches, clearer waters, and a healthier environment.

The Reef Charge Programs by Taj Exotica helps to preserve and protect the already delicate reefs that divers absolutely adore, while also building corals of their own. The program also aids turtles in need. It’s the dedication and efforts like this that places Taj Exotica Resort & Spa among the top resorts contributing to eco-friendly tourism in Maldives.

Gili Lankanfushi

Experience true eco-luxury in Maldives with the most remote overwater bungalows, and home to one of the biggest water villas in the world. Gili Lankanfushi is a haven for couples, honeymooners, snorkelers, and divers alike. Plus, the destination is also one of the most eco-friendly resorts in Maldives.

All of the stunning buildings of the resort comes from sustainable and recycled materials. Proof that even the most luxurious architecture can be eco-friendly. Home to a desalination plant, Gili Lankan Fushi promotes zero-waste. Minimal plastic such as organic toiletries and refillable containers are used, in addition to the composts via food waste. The eco-friendly resort also aims to be more energy efficient for a greener holiday experience.

With the marine biology center, you can participate in activities like reef cleaning, eco-tours for an exciting and educational experience. For children, the eco-friendly treasure hunts are the perfect way to educate the little ones. Gili Lankanfushi aims to protect and preserve the environment as well as the marine eco-system. This Maldives eco-friendly resort dream that someday you’ll be able to enjoy a holiday with minimal carbon footprints.

Adaaran Club Rannalhi

Located in the south of Male’ Atoll, Adaaran Club Rannalhi is home to stunning beaches, gorgeous villas, scuba diving, and unforgettable sunset cruises, among other tropical luxuries. The destination is one of the eco-friendly resorts in Maldives, reachable by a short speedboat from the airport.

Adaaran Club Rannalhi adapts energy-saving methods and tactics in all of their rooms by using energy-saving card systems and LED lights. For outdoor lighting, the resort uses solar power – a resource that is abundant in Maldives. They also save water by harvesting rainwater, as well as manages waste by producing pure eco-friendly fertilizers and recycling items. You will also find pathways created and decorated with plastic bottles. An innovative use for the sea polluters!

With a strong commitment to green philosophy and eco-friendly tourism in Maldives, Adaaran Club Rannalhi enforces strict rules and regulations against littering and follows proper waste management. This means that you will find almost no plastic bottles or waste while relaxing on the beaches of the resort. We all know how something so small can ruin the experience. Winner of the Travel Life Goals away 2017, Adaaran Club Rannalhi is a stunning resort practicing eco-friendly tourism in Maldives.

Kuramathi Island Resort

Kuramathi Island Resort is a one-mile-long island featuring boutique accommodations. A luxury loved by couples and honeymooners. Experience one of the best snorkeling experiences in the Maldives, along with a unique sandbank constantly bombarded with sunrises and sunsets at this green resort in Maldives.

Kuramathi is a perfect example of a resort working towards a sustainable environment and eco-friendly tourism in the Maldives. A desalination plant and recycling water in the resort enable spotless, plastic-free, and pristine white sandy beaches. Solar power provides energy, and the hydroponic garden produces vegetables. Furthermore, each room uses energy-saving air-conditions as well.

The resort eco-center is also something to highlight. Since 1999 the center researched corals while also taking care of a coral nursery. The resort also educates the children through immersive experiences in the hopes that they can also experience this beautiful island destination when they grow up to be adults.

Contribute to the environment by choosing one of these eco-friendly resorts in Maldives for a greener future. More and more resorts have been adapting the environment-friendly philosophy for a better tomorrow. Luxury in harmony with nature; these are some of the best resorts practicing eco-friendly tourism in Maldives.

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The Top 10 Sustainable Resorts in the Maldives

eco travel maldives

None of the 1,200 coral islands in the Maldives rises over six feet above sea level, making it the world’s lowest-lying country. It’s also one of the earth’s most visually stunning destinations, where aquamarine waters lap the sand-fringed islands dotted with verdant tropical foliage. The unique natural beauty is the main draw for visitors, meaning the nation must walk a fine line between environmentalism and tourism—one of its major industries.

Enter a growing number of eco-conscious resorts in the island nation that are dedicated to sustainability. From sea life rehabilitation to the planting of coral reefs, and solar panel installations to wastewater treatment plants, these forward thinking resorts are taking major steps to ensure that tourism and one of the world's most fragile ecosystems can both coexist and delight far into the future.

Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu

 Courtesy of Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu

From paper straws in the bar to wooden toothbrushes in the thatched-roof villas, it’s clear that Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu has a care for sustainability practices. But beyond the organic gardens and the on-site glass bottling plant, what truly stands out is the resort’s dedication to marine conservation.

In partnership with the Olive Ridley Project , a U.K.-based charity dedicated to removing discarded fishing nets from the ocean, Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu is home to the Marine Turtle Rescue Centre, which rescues and rehabilitates sea turtles injured by the floating nets. A turtle veterinarian, along with a team of interns and volunteers, operates the laboratory, surgical facilities, and tanks, and the rescue center can care for up to eight turtle patients at a time.

Gili Lankanfushi

 Ismail Niyaz/Getty Images

Only 20 minutes away by speedboat from the international airport, Gili Lankanfushi is a popular Maldivian getaway for many reasons. Perhaps one is its unwavering commitment to environmental responsibility. The resort is constructed using sustainably sourced materials, including teak and palm woods, palm fronds and bamboo (much from the island itself, cutting down on CO2 from transporting building materials), as well as recycled telephone poles. Additionally, it’s a plastic-free island, with refillable organic toiletries in the bathrooms, and an on-site desalinization plant that bottles its own still and sparkling water.

Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru

Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru 

On a picture-perfect island in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve lies the Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru . The pristine natural location may be one of the driving factors behind the resort’s dedication to sustainability, leading to the recent installation of 3,105 solar panels on the rooftops of the island’s staff village—the largest solar installation of any resort in the country. The panels help power various aspects of the property, including the guest rooms and electric golf carts, and prevent 800 tons of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere each year.

Six Senses Laamu

Courtesy of Six Sense Laamu 

The Six Senses brand is well known for pioneering sustainability practices, and its resort in the Maldives’ Laamu Atoll is no exception. Six Senses Laamu is the only resort in this remote northern atoll, a place where you’re likely to see more manta rays and sea turtles than people. The resort works closely with the Manta Trust , a nonprofit organization dedicated to the research and conservation of manta rays. Visiting guests can attend daily presentations by on-site marine biologists to learn more about the local underwater population and their importance to the biodiversity of the Maldives.

Baros Maldives

 P A Thompson/Getty Images

As one of the Maldives’ first beach resorts, Baros has always been at the forefront of protecting the natural environment that makes up the islands’ wonderland-like atmosphere. In addition to using biodegradable cleaning products, and recycled water for garden irrigation, Baros has one of the Maldives’ first Eco Dive Centers. This means that the center is dedicated first and foremost to the protection of the conservation of the coral reefs by enforcing environmentally friendly dive guidelines. What does this mean for divers? The resort offers specialty courses that teach about ecology and conservation, forbids the removal of anything that’s part of the natural environment, and does not anchor boats to avoid damaging coral, among many other earth-friendly practices.

Soneva Fushi

 alisonteale24/Getty Images

There are stylish beachfront villas, a nature-inspired spa, an astronomical observatory, and even an overwater cinema at this castaway-chic 100 percent carbon-neutral resort, but the real heart of Soneva Fushi can be summed up in its mantra: SLOW LIFE. This easygoing slogan stands for Sustainable Local Organic Wellness and Learning Inspiring Fun Experiences. Aspects of this slow life ethos can be found in everything from the resort’s organic garden and mushroom house, to on-site recycling, drinking water, and wastewater treatment plants. There’s even a glass-making studio that produces upcycled tableware and artworks made from repurposed wine, beer, and liquor bottles from the resort’s bars.

Kuramathi Maldives

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

This paradise island, complete with sugary sands, lush gardens, and virgin vegetation, is set in the pristine Rasdhoo Atoll. With an island this perfect, it makes sense that Kuramathi Maldives resort has its very own Environment Committee run by the on-site marine biologist. The committee oversees critical environmental practices, including sandbank cleanups, maintenance of the coral nursery, and collection of data for wildlife organizations such as the Manta Trust and Maldives Turtle ID , in addition to educational programs such as weekly environmental guest talks and training for new staff.

Soneva Jani

Soneva Jani 

Soneva Jani is a eco-lover’s fantasyland, featuring highlights like ultra-chic, sustainably-built overwater villas with retractable roofs for stargazing, and even some villas with waterslides, plus the world’s first 100 percent sustainable surfing program.

Another sustainable first is the resort’s elegant boutique So Soneva, which solely stocks environmentally and socially sustainable brands. The airy, streamlined shop purveys international high-fashion brands such as Tens plant-based eyewear made from wood pulp and cotton fibers, and sophisticated swimwear by Talia Collins , which is created with recycled ocean plastic. All brands featured must meet strict standards, including a commitment to ethical values such as the use of organic materials, cruelty-free practices, conserving biodiversity, and empowering women, among others.

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island

 Norbert Probst/Getty Images

It may boast all the staples of a five-star luxury resort such as a chic overwater spa, upscale dining outlets, and even an exclusive underwater suite, but what really stands out about Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is the resort’s commitment to sustainability. In partnership with the environmental organization Parley for the Oceans , the resort has pledged to eliminate all single-use plastics, launched coral regeneration and adoption programs, and even commissioned an eye-catching art piece composed of 5,500 single-use plastic bottles, designed to raise guests’ awareness of plastic pollution in the world’s oceans.

One&Only Reethi Rah

 One&Only Reethi Rah

In the stunning North Malé Atoll amidst the lively biodiversity of coral reefs is One&Only Reethi Rah , a resort defined not only by exclusivity, white sand, and turquoise waters but by its all-encompassing commitment to the environment. In partnership with EarthCheck , a certification program utilized by the tourism industry, One&Only Reethi Rah is dedicated to treading as lightly on the earth as possible. Though guests may only see the luxury of the spa or the decadence of the resort’s six restaurants, behind the scenes are a water desalination plant, a sewage treatment plant, and a powerhouse all working away to keep the island both sustainable and self-sufficient.

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Maldives Tours

10 Best Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Tours in the Maldives

Everyone knows that the Maldives is home to the world’s most beautiful beaches. Just scroll through Instagram and you will see countless examples of travelers bathing in the bluest and clearest waters on earth. But this pristine paradise is also a fragile environment, which is why you should only book eco-friendly and sustainable tours when traveling to the Maldives.

There is no better local company than Secret Paradise Maldives for sustainable and environmentally conscious trips across the archipelago of 1,200 coral islands. Award-winning and long-established, this tour operator can transport you outside the comforts of a luxury resort to the true Maldivian culture and to secret hidden gems that you could only dream of.

With a range of day trips, multi-day tours and tailor-made journeys to choose from – the options are endless to explore the Maldives responsibly. Those who need to escape the resort for the day can dive into the culture of Malé – a densely populated city with a bustling atmosphere. Or day-trippers could enjoy a snorkeling trip out in colorful coral reefs.

Day tours are just the beginning of what Secret Paradise offers. The multi-day tours include everything that makes authentic travel so special. On these trips, travelers will stay at guesthouses where local families participate in the running of the properties. Visiting destinations outside of resorts ensures tourism dollars get into the hands of local people.

Not only will guests be introduced to the natural beauty of the Maldives, but they will also have the chance to meet locals and discover the cultural elements which make these islands such a unique place. Every traveler knows that it’s always the people that make the place and the same is definitely true about the Maldives. The people here are wonderful.

One unique aspect about Secret Paradise is that they partner with NGOs, marine-life charities and local organizations in order for guests to get involved in conservation efforts. One of their island-hopping tours, for example, incorporates a mini volunteer program. Another allows guests to stay in the Maldives for a few months to work on volunteer projects.

On their ocean-based tours, guests are briefed on a proper swimming and snorkeling code of conduct. This is called the Green Fins Guidelines and it helps people stay responsible in the water. Local guides can also give presentations on coral reef preservation and recycling practices, which is rewarding for travelers interested in these important topics.

So, whether this is your first visit to the Maldives or your fifteenth, what better way to experience the islands than on one of the eco-friendly and sustainable tours offered by Secret Paradise. Travel with a clear conscience and help create a better Maldives for future generations. Meet local people along the way and exchange greetings, stories, laughs and more.

Secret Paradise Maldives

Best Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Tours in the Maldives

1. malé city walking tour (4 hours).

It’s hard to believe that 150,00 people live in Malé, a tiny atoll in the Indian Ocean, but they do. This is the business heart of the archipelago where commerce is done and life is faster paced than what you would expect in the Maldives. Buildings are tall and packed together and there are great cafes and restaurants where you can find traditional Maldivian food.

Experiencing Malé on a walking tour allows travelers to step inside the life of an ordinary Maldivian for a few hours. Soak up the city as you walk past incredible architecture, taste local delicacies at the food markets, learn interesting facts about the world-class education system and see what traditional life is like. You can choose to book morning or afternoon tours.

Malé

2. Villimale Eco Walking Tour (4 Hours)

Villimale has a long and checkered history. Once a prison and then a resort, today it boasts a small community of Maldivians who moved here to escape some of the hustle and bustle of Malé. Located 15 minutes away by ferry, Villimale has a more relaxed atmosphere than the Maldivian capital. Here you can find a dash of greenery and a few beautiful beaches to visit.

Heading through the island, on a 60-minute walking tour, reveals a touch of “city life” in combination with conservation projects. The community in Villimale have partnered with an NGO called Save the Beach. Together they help protect the island and surrounding oceans. It’s fascinating to learn about the challenges of coastal development on tiny atolls such as this.

3. Maldives Local Food Tour (4 Hours)

Foodies will relish the opportunity to try some of the most authentic flavors of the Maldives on this tour. Beginning at a fish market in Malé, travelers will shop for fresh ingredients and produce (to cook for lunch) as well as try some of the most colorful and unique fruits and vegetables in the world. After, they will jump on a 20-minute public ferry to Hulhumale.

Here a local family will host the group for lunch – limited to six people. Meeting a Maldivian family is a special experience and cooking with them is even better. Your job will be to chop the veggies, grate the coconut and prepare the fish. Then sit down for a nice lunch together and share your thoughts on the cuisine and how it compares to food back home.

Hulhumale

4. North Malé Island Hopping Tour (Full Day)

Visit the islands of Huraa and Himmafushi on this full-day tour with Secret Paradise. In between these island trips, travelers will also get the chance to go snorkeling in pristine waters and see different fish species, colorful coral, sea turtles, reef sharks and rays. With a snorkeling guide nearby at all times, you will be able to snorkel with confidence and in total safety.

The great thing about this tour is that the islands are very different from each other and they contrast beautifully. Himmafushi is a surfing island and has a modern economy with industries like water bottling and tuna. Huraa, on the other hand, is known for its simple village life. Here you will see how boats are made and how Maldivian dry fish is prepared.

Maldives Tours

5. 3 Point Snorkeling Tour (2.5 Hours)

A two and a half hour, eco-friendly snorkeling tour where guests will learn how to snorkel responsibly while having a blast out on the water. The three snorkeling points can differ depending on the weather conditions but they usually include: Kandu Giri, Coral Garden, Stingray City or Kurumba House Reef. All of these spots have guaranteed tropical fish and coral sightings.

Most snorkeling trips also have sea turtle sightings, clownfish swimming among the array of different tropical fish (the fish from Finding Nemo) and the chance to see reef sharks and rays. Even if you don’t consider yourself a strong swimmer, you can utilize the buoyancy aids and get instructions from the guide on how to stay afloat and snorkel under the water.

Snorkeling in the Maldives

6. Maldives Cultural Break (3 Nights)

The multi-day tours offered by Secret Paradise are where they can really take your Maldives experience to the next level. On this cultural break, guests are transported to the South Malé Atoll – to the tiny Guraidhoo – where they will be able to immerse themselves in local island life. This island is known for its laid-back fishing, palm trees and sandy roads.

Highlights of the tour include a dinner with a local family, snorkeling around the island on guided tours, the chance to go scuba diving or surfing, exploring cultural sights such as mosques and learning how local wooden boats (‘dhoni’) are made at the harbor, trying some savory treats and black tea, and enjoying a beach BBQ under the stars on your last night.

Guraidhoo

7. Maldives Marine Life Break (3 Nights)

Paradise awaits on this tour in Dhigurah – the definition of an island postcard located in South Ari Atoll. In Dhigurah, you will be treated to a long beach, a sandbar and a lagoon. After you have settled in on your first night, the next day will give you the chance to spot whale sharks on a boat trip. Nothing is guaranteed but usually at least one shark can be found.

On the third day, visitors have a free day where they can spend their time how they please. Options include sunbathing, snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, sunset gazing and more. You can book this tour to kick start your Maldives travels and then move onto other islands or fly into Malé, do the tour and then fly out again. Either way, Dhigurah will take your breath away.

Dhigurah

8. South Malé Island Hopping Tour (7 Nights)

This tour is a bestseller and provides a beautiful way to spend seven nights in the Maldives. The South Malé Island Hopping Tour takes you to four islands where natural beauty and local culture go hand-in-hand. These four islands are: Hulhumale, Guraidhoo, Maafushi and Gulhi. On the trip, guests can get involved in environmental projects too like beach clean-ups.

Guraidhoo is the first port of call and the highlight is having a traditional dinner with a local family. You will be staying in a guest house and sharing meals with locals. Maafushi provides the best snorkeling on this tour while Gulhi gives visitors a sneak peek into the fishing and boating traditions of locals. These seven nights will create one of the best weeks of your life.

Maafushi

9. Maldives Discovery Cruise (7 Nights)

Travel for seven nights through the Indian Ocean onboard a beautiful boat – navigating your way through countless atolls and waking up with the sun everyday. There is an option to book this trip as a private charter or in a public group setting with a maximum of 10 people (minimum of six). The boat cruises slowly through the paradisiacal South Malé and Vaavu Atolls.

Along the journey, revel in the island scenery that passes you by during the day and at night soak up the stars on the boat’s deck. All the best Maldives activities can be expected on this cruise such as snorkeling with turtles, swimming at beaches and sandbars, fishing and eating your own catch for dinner, traditional dancing ceremonies, delicious traditional cuisine, etc.

10. Maldives Volunteer Local Tour (1 Week – 6 Months)

Imagine taking your gap year in the Maldives and spending six months giving back to the community, learning about conservation and having the time of your life. That is what’s on offer with the volunteer opportunities at Secret Paradise Maldives Tours. Each volunteer program is different depending on the skills and interests of the volunteers themselves.

Some might join the Maldives Whale Shark Research Program, while others might get involved in education or development. Of course, these programs are suited for people of all ages – whether you want to take a gap year at 21 or wish to do something unique in your retirement years. The Maldives has to be one of the most unique volunteer places in the world.

Maldives Whale Shark Research Program

Author:  Cameron Kennedy

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Maldives Travel Insider

Top 12 Maldives Eco-Friendly Resorts

Kudadoo is a hundred percent solar powered private island resort in the Maldives

Table of Contents

1. gili lankanfushi, 2. soneva fushi, 3. reethi beach resort, 4. six senses laamu, 5. adaaran prestige vadoo, 6. coco palm dhuni kolhu, 7. kuramathi island resort, 8. taj exotica resort & spa maldives, 9. baros maldives, 10. kudadoo maldives private island, 11. club med finolhu villas on gasfinolhu, 12. barefoot eco hotel.

The Maldives is one of the most beautiful travel destinations in the world, appreciated from any island that you visit. Significant efforts are made to preserve the natural beauty of the islands . Maldives Eco-Friendly Resorts are leading the way for reducing our carbon footprint while traveling.

Read More: The Best Time of Year to Visit Maldives for Honeymoon

Gili Lankanfushi

Gili Lankanfushi is one of the Maldives Eco-Friendly Resorts focused on promoting a zero-waste existence for the resort and the guests who stay here. It hopes that guests will take away what they learned and experienced while at the resort to improve their livelihood and the wellbeing of the planet. A top-rated resort, their eco-conscious efforts are already making an impact.

The goals of Gili Lankanfushi is to preserve the natural environment, protect the marine ecosystem, and leave only our footprints behind (without the carbon). One of the ways it accomplishes this is by having buildings and facilities made from sustainably sourced wood leftover from island rehabilitation. The resort is continuously making efforts towards being more energy efficient for electricity.

Minimizing plastic is a major concern for the resort. Each of the resort’s rooms has organic toiletries using refillable containers. It also established a desalinization plant for bottled water for guests. Gili Lankanfushi is one of the remarkable Maldives Eco-Friendly Resorts.

Read More: Best Time to Visit Maldives: Maldives Weather By Months

Soneva Fushi, Maldives Eco-Friendly Resorts

Soneva Fushi is one of the unique Maldives Eco-Friendly Resorts who strives for balance in the entire world when it comes to environmental issues. The founders of the resort recognize the global scale of preserving the environment, so many of the projects and initiatives developed aim to bring the eco-conscious ideals of the resort internationally.

Soneva Fushi is an “intelligent luxury” resort, allowing guests to enjoy the perks of the finer things in life with a conscious effort towards sustainability. Everyone staying at the resort participates in the ‘no shoes’ policy to reconnect with Earth.

The Soneva Foundation is the leading environmental preservation effort from the resort. A large amount of carbon emissions is created when guests travel to the islands via airplane, so they strive to offset the waste. Some of the projects include providing safe drinking water, energy efficient stoves, and planting trees to stimulate forest growth.

Read More: 20 Most Historical Places in the Maldives

Teething Beach Resort, Maldives Eco-Friendly Resorts

For a resort with 160 villas and rooms, Reethi Beach Resort does a fantastic job at being environmentally friendly. Guests are encouraged to abide by the ‘no shoes’ rule while spending time at the resort, and it’s only the beginning of what the resort does to minimize the carbon footprint.

Several eco-friendly policies are established on the island of the luxury resort. Many of these policies directly impact the guest experience, making them aware of the resort’s goals. A desalination plant filters seawater for drinking and use throughout the resort. It also recycles water used during showering, gardening, etc. Villas are stocked with toiletries in refillable ceramic bottles.

Teething Beach, Eco Resort

Reethi Beach Resort has a purposeful blackout day where it primarily uses candles for lighting to save energy. Planting trees are also common at the resort for preserving the flora. Reethi beach resort is also considered as one of the best Maldives Eco-Friendly Resorts.

Read More: Best Time to Visit Hanifaru Bay, UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

Six Senses Lama, Maldives Eco-Friendly Resorts

Six Senses Laamu has been named the eco-resort of the year for the Maldives. In addition to being one of the best resorts in the Maldives , their sustainability efforts have been recognized around the world and continue to promote their mission in every aspect of the resort. Sustainability drives decisions on resort operations.

The eco hotel outlines guidelines for its staff of corporate guidelines for effectively managing the use of resources, evident throughout the resort, spa , and dining. It operates with zero waste in mind, including a garden for food, recycling water, and conserving energy.

The Indian Ocean , the water and marine life, are also a part of the resort’s mission for sustainability. It provides guests with education and awareness of the underwater world. Six Senses operates the largest team of researchers in the Maldives for projects around the Laamu Atoll.

Read More: Everything You Need to Know About The Maldives Underwater Hotel

Adaaran Vaadhoo, Maldives Eco-Friendly Resorts

Adaaran Resorts operates several properties in the Maldives, including the Andaaran Prestige Vadoo in the South Atolls. The island sits in the amid a large coral reef, one that must be preserved for the continued success of the resort.

Adaaran operates under the corporate “Green Philosophy.” The philosophy’s mission is to have environmentally conscious operations while preserving the natural ecosystem. With significant tourist traffic, these ideals can be hard to maintain, but major efforts are made to work towards a balance.

One of the most significant efforts for the resort is waste management in and around the island. The staff is trained on minimizing the amount of waste they produce in the daily operations of the resort and recycling resources is expected. White sand beaches and picturesque waters surround the island, all maintained by the resort to keep clean and preserve its natural beauty.

Read More: 10 Best Maldives Family Friendly Resorts with Kids Clubs

Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu

Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu is a Green Globe-certified resort, being the recipient of international certification for maintaining industry-standard efforts in sustainability. The eco hotel is a favorite getaway for visitors, providing all amenities needed for a great stay such as a restaurant , spa, water sports , or a picnic on the beach.

Coco Palm resort is located in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve , a preserved section of the Indian Ocean. The resort has a major responsibility for being eco-friendly, and it operates up to that mission. In addition to the activities found in numerous resorts in the Maldives, the Coco Palm gives guests an opportunity to assist in the preservation efforts of the ocean.

The Coral Nursery program is designed for restoring coral. Guests can create and dedicate a coral in their name. A marine biologist can also take you on a guided tour for discovering the wonders of the coral reef submerged in the ocean.

Read More: 10 Best Maldives Private Island Resorts

Kuramathi Island Resort, Maldives Eco-Friendly Resorts

The Kuramathi Island Resort is among the top Maldives Eco-Friendly Resorts that continue to establish environment initiatives for advancing towards sustainability. The actions have had a major effect on the resort and the activities provided to guests.

Kuramathi Island Resort recently renovated its rooms and facilities, introducing environmental friendly features. Each room was outfitted with energy-saving air conditioning, filters and purification systems were added to the pools for recycling water, and a hydroponic garden was set up for producing the food enjoyed by the guests at the resort.

Environmental protection efforts for guest entertainment are developed by the newly founded Eco Centre of the resort. The center was established and dedicated to eco-friendly solutions. Before guests venture out to explore the Maldives, it provides information to ensure appropriate behavior. It also offers educational programs for children to teach about the importance of the environment through interactive and immersive experiences.

Read More: 25 Epic Things To Do In Maldives – The Ultimate Maldives Bucket List

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa Maldives is one of the most luxurious Maldives Eco-Friendly Resorts

The Taj Exotica Resort & Spa Maldives is one of the most luxurious resorts in the Maldives, and also the most decorated when it comes to recognition for environment preservation efforts. The resort aims to preserve the island’s beauty and the beaches that continue to draw guests to its property.

The Taj Exotica Resort is a leading resort in the Maldives for environmental preservation. It was the first resort to receive the Green Globe-certified Silver status for surpassing industry standards. It was also the first to receive the Earthcheck Gold Certification for extending the eco-conscious efforts to its operations.

The resort launched several successful environment conservation projects to remain a top eco-friendly resort. Ongoing projects include Reef Recharge, allowing guests to plant coral reefs, and Turtle Rescue, for saving turtles harms by ocean pollution.

Read More: Male’ Hukuru Miskiy: A Symbol of Ancient Maldivian Architecture

Maldives Eco-Friendly Resorts

Baros is another top Maldives Eco-Friendly Resorts. When establishing the resort, it was a conscious effort to develop the resort in harmony with the natural environment of the island, preserving the lush forest and the surrounding coral reef. After more than four decades of operation, Baros continues to be a top eco-friendly resort of the Maldives.

Baros initiated several operational efforts of reducing the footprint on the island. Some of the features include recycled and purified water, energy-efficient lighting, and heat exchange appliances in its villas.

Tourists can experience the beautiful Maldives while maintaining awareness of the environment at Baros. Baros operates awareness programs such as tours to local villages and nearby islands. Baros also established an Eco Dive Centre for the preservation of the coral reefs while diving .

Kudadoo, Maldives Eco-Friendly Resorts

Kudadoo Maldives Private Island is a newly opened one of the Maldives eco-friendly resorts, focusing on caring for the environment and promoting sustainability of its resources. Many of the operations of the resort follow these guidelines to make it one of the most environmentally conscious resorts of the Maldives.

Kudadoo Maldives has included eco-friendliness into its design, including solar panels to generate power and using recycled building material to construct its villas and facilities. There is also a desalination and water bottling plant on the island to help eliminate single-use plastics.

Many environmentally conscious activities can be found at the Kudadoo Maldives resort . It’s partnered with the Manta Trust for research and hosting responsible diving tours. The resort also works with the Olive Ridley Project to protect sea turtles.

Club Med Maldives, Maldives Eco-Friendly Resorts

Club Med’s Finolhu Villas are considered one of the first solar-powered five-star resorts in the world. The all-inclusive resort provides guests with an abundance of luxury amenities all while preserving the beautiful natural environment.

The Finolhu Villas are 52 villas that extend out into the ocean. Each of these villas are designed using a technique known as eco-architecture, which incorporated solar panels and other environmentally friendly features into the construction of the villas. All power for the resort is generated as such, and excess power is stored for cloudy days or storms.

In addition to generating natural energy, the resort also maintains a desalination tank for purifying ocean water and waste management systems to eliminate waste pollution around the island.

The environmental conservation practices of the Maldives eco-friendly resorts that allow guests to enjoy the beauty and excitement of the islands while becoming aware of the importance of preservation.

Barefoot Eco Hotel, Maldives Eco-Friendly Resorts

The Barefoot Eco Hotel Maldives is a premier beach hotel on the island of Hanimadhoo. The barefoot Hotel Maldives is a one of the remarkable The primary goal of the hotel is to establish accommodation for luxury and comfort for guests, but also provide initiatives to stimulate the eco-friendly efforts of the hotel and the surrounding community. The hotel continues to develop several programs for accomplishing eco-sustainability, conserving the environment, and promoting community involvement.

The overall design of the Barefoot Eco Hotel Maldives is the beginning of being the Maldives eco-friendly resorts. The villas, main buildings, and décor of its facilities are all the result of predominantly locally-sourced resources including wood from the island’s forest. Electricity for the hotel is primarily generated using solar panels, and extra energy is shared with an on-island power house .

The Barefoot Eco Hotel Maldives established a Conservation Center for providing responsible activities for guests such as dolphin watching and snorkeling , all while educating on the importance of conservation of the Maldives environment.

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INDULGE MALDIVES

How to Travel Sustainably in The Maldives

INDULGE MALDIVES

T he idea of conscious and sustainable travel in Maldives starts before your trip begins. It starts on an inspired, committed & individual level, at home, long before the suitcases are packed. Being a responsible tourist in Maldives & seeking a Maldives eco-friendly vacation is just as much about the things you do before you travel, as it is about the actions you take during your tropical vacation. In 2024, it’s critical that tourists pair Maldives bucket list experiences and five-star resorts, with environmentally friendly initiatives, respectful marine interactions and support for local island communities.

eco travel maldives

Responsible tourism in Maldives

Why do we need to adopt principles of responsible tourism in Maldives? Being the lowest lying nation in the world, at just 2.5m above sea level at the highest point & the average height   just over one metre, Maldives faces catastrophic & irreversible consequences of climate change and global warming such as islands being lost to the ocean,  even if greenhouse gas emissions are managed to be reduced annually. Naturally tourism means an increase in emissions, wastage, pollution & coral damage, yet economically speaking, tourism is the largest sector in Maldives & contributes the most to the country’s growing economy. It’s vital that the Maldivian government begins to commit to & regulate sustainable travel in Maldives, across the 167 resorts & 775+ guesthouses for a long term & sustainable tourism future. After all, the natural beauty of the Maldives is what entices the 1.7 million tourist arrivals annually.  If as many of those arriving tourists adopt responsible tourism practices for a Maldives eco-friendly vacation as possible, the environment & local communities will be far better off.

eco travel maldives

How is the Maldivian Government Combating Climate Change in The Maldives?

In 2009, the President of Maldives at the time, President Nasheed held an underwater cabinet meeting, where he signed a commitment to cutting carbon emissions, prior to the UN climate change conference.  

In 2015, a daily tourist Green Tax of USD$6 was introduced, initially for tourists staying at resorts, hotels and on cruise ships. The following year in 2016, the concept of Tourism Green Tax was extended to tourists staying on local islands, imposed at a lower rate of USD$3 per person per night. Green Tax is utilised to finance environmental protection and sustainable development projects in the Maldives such as water and sanitation, coastal protection and waste management.

In June 2021, the Maldivian Government announced a ‘Single Use Plastic Phase-out Plan’ that works to towards the phase out of production, importation and consumption of 8 types of single use plastics into the Maldives and promote the use of sustainable alternatives, in the effort to protect human health and the vulnerable marine environment of the country.

In Jan 2022, it was announced that Gan International Airport would become Maldives’ first fully solar-powered green airport. The project’s successful completion will result in 2.1 million litres of diesel saved and a CO2 emission reduction of 5500 tonnes annually.

But it does leave the question is the Maldivian government genuinely doing enough to combat climate change in 2024?

eco travel maldives

Olive Goidhoo – local island hotel – glass water bottles & reusable drinking straws

TIPS FOR ECO-CONSCIOUS SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL IN MALDIVES:

Taking sustainable travel in Maldives into your own hands, here’s our best tips & insider run down on resorts & hotels to put on your Maldives eco-friendly travel list:

1. Research the hotels & resorts throughly before you book

Does the property have an environmental policy? (it should be on their website or you can email a resort and request this). Has the property been sustainably certified eg by Green Globe, a global leader of sustainability certification. We are proud to name some of our leading certified parter properties: Fushifaru Maldives, Grand Park Kodhipparu , Cinnamon Dhonveli , Cinnamon Ellaidhoo & Milaidhoo. Ayada Maldives is proudly the first ever recipient of the Green Star Diamond Award of the American Academy of Hospitality & Scientists for their commitment to combining first class luxury with sustainability and environmental awareness. It’s also worth considering do these luxury 5 star properties genuinely care about the environment, are they situated on man-made islands and are they for instance just surface level box ticking to strategically market themselves?  

Take brand new 5 start property Kuda Vilingili for instance, to name & shame, who are also named as a Green Globe hotel gold partner. The resort only opened in late 2021, but for the three years prior, the developers entirely destroyed what was once considered the most beautiful picnic island in North Male Atoll. 3 years of sand dredging, diesel pollution, coral damage & deforestation of every single palm tree and plant on the island, comes with a heavy cost to the environment, not to mention the world class surf break ‘Chickens’ where resort developers incompetently constructed the resort’s metal sewerage pipes through, which soon became unattached with one large swell and damaged corals and posed siginificant harm to surfers. The arrival jetty is built over the habitat of baby reef sharks and a large break walls constructed without environmental impact plans, whilst ignoring the knowledge & input of local surfers, causing irreversible and unsafe impacts on Chickens  surf spot , where surfers from around the globe have travelled to over the past 15 years. Yet Kuda Villingili’s coral propagation & marketing ploys of donations to the local island community of Thulusdhoo make the resort seem like they are doing all the ‘right’ things from a surface level certification perspective… hello Green Globe certification ✔️ and this is just one example, there are a number of other resorts that do this in Maldives sadly.

sustainable travel in maldives

2. Select a hotel that implements a range of environmentally sustainable practices in Maldives

Strategically placed signs to re-use your bath towel & to take short showers are no longer enough & are considered minimal practices when it comes to sustainable travel in Maldives. Soneva Resorts  are leading the way in terms of setting high standards of sustainability, with an impressive 90% of their generated onsite waste recycled or repurposed, including all glass which is re-created & sold in their insight gallery / boutique. Soneva’s Total Impact Assessment & Total Carbon Footprint & Mitagation Reports can easily be googled and are transparent for prospective and returning guests. Eco-tourism at the heart of policy making & tourism philosophies at  Six Senses Laamu. Just by staying at the resort, guests contribute to the resort’s own sustainability fund , which finances marine conservation projects and initiatives for 13 local island communities.   Guests are also invited to join on the Sustainability Tour to see the innovative Earth Lab – the resort’s hub for self-sufficiency and zero waste, learn from leading marine scientists at the ‘Maldives Underwater Initiative (MUI) about life underwater and how best to protect it.” The MUI partners with 3 NGOs: The Manta Trust, Blue Marine Foundation and The Olive Ridley Project (more on these organisations below). Six Senses Laamu has the largest Marine Biology team of any resort in Maldives and is the proud recipient of the Gold Award from the World Travel Market Responsible Tourism Awards – for Wildlife and Nature Conservation in 2019. Six Senses Laamu have donated over 93 water purification systems to local island communities & have protected 10 million+ square feet of seagrass for sea turtles.

Resorts like Vakkaru Maldives, Ayada Maldives &  Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu offer  reverse osmosis  on-site drinking water plantations,  which Dhigali Maldives have reduced over 10,000 plastic bottles per month, plus have onsite  rainwater harvesting plants & grey water irrigation. The switch to solar energy as opposed to diesel generators is growing with more resorts  such as Dusit Thani Maldives , Grand Park Kodhipparu , LUX* South Ari Atoll & guesthouses like Aveyla Manta Village investing in this clean renewable technology .  Electric buggies, vehicles & bicycles for guests are quite standard across Maldives (resorts – Ayada Maldives, Dusit Thani, LUX* South Ari, Saii Lagoon) Dhigali Maldives uses 90% LED light bulbs which last longer & don’t need to be replace as regularly. Some  resorts have incinerator facilities for waste management which, is still not ideal but is a more positive alternative to dumping waste in the ocean or on beaches (it happens in Maldives a lot more than you’d like to know) or burning rubbish piles as per traditional methods of waste management in Maldives. Coco Resorts have a target of zero plastic even in their corporate office, they replace in-villa amentities such as tooth bushes, cotton buds with natural materials and have an  organic herb, vegetable & fruit garden. Growing self sufficient fresh produce & sourcing from local islands means not only is it more healthy for the guests, but there is no extravagant import process involved. The majority of items in Maldives are imported here via aircraft or ship, from countries like Dubai, Germany, Australia, Indian, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh etc & contribute to transportation pollution.

The Barefoot Eco Hotel

On a local island level, The Barefoot Eco hotel, Luau Beach Inn & Thari Village Maldives are leading the way in sustainable travel in Maldives, with  accommodation constructed from sustainable wooden materials,  no plastics  policy, drinking water served in glass bottles ,  plastic free  environmentally friendly natural soap bars,  and The Barefoot Eco even has  recycling stations around the island for guests. Electric buggies and complimentary bicycles are just some initiates guesthouses like  Reef Edge & Season Paradise  are implementing in addition to their desalinated drinking water lines. Olive Goidhoo are another owned & operated guesthouse with a focus on sustainability – reusable metal drinking straws, plastic free water bottles in-house & and on excursions, refillable bathroom amenities & local staff and excursion guides employed from the island.

eco travel maldives

Dhigali Maldives

3. Support Local Maldivian Businesses

Part of being a sustainable traveller to Maldives involves supporting local communities & consciously   spending your holiday money. Many locals in Maldives have worked hard over the years in tourism jobs eg resorts, dive centres & surf camps, saving money & gaining experience, to eventually start their own tourism centred guesthouses & small businesses such as excursion centres & dive shops, surf shops, water sport centres & cafes etc. The creation of guesthouses also has a flow on effect of an ecosystem of jobs on local islands eg laundry, cleaning, transport, waste disposal etc, that employ local people form the local communities, which in turn, supports local Maldivian families. Supporting local artisans & purchasing from souvenir shops is a great way to support locals & take some memorable souvenirs home with you. Some of our favourites include: Randhaa Surf Shop at Thulusdhoo Island, Island Bazaar  & Oevaali Art Shop in Malé.

Our Indulge Maldives community donated USD$4,000 to local Maldivian communities in 2020 during COVID-19 when international borders to Maldives were closed, to help support struggling families impacted by loss of Tourism. 

4. Donate to organisations & non-for profits

There are some wonderful non-for profits conservation organisations in Maldives that you can support in your sustainable travel efforts. Maldivian Whale Shark Research Centre is a great organisation based at Dhigurah Island, that was established in 2006 & has identified over 8,000 whale sharks & provided the data to establish South Ari Marine Park. On our Indulge Maldives retreats & for our guests staying at Dhigurah Island, we encourage guests to visit or do an online 40 minute presentation and to make a donation to support the organisation’s efforts & conservation initiatives in Maldives. If you sight a whale shark on your Maldives vacation, take a picture of the unique dot pattern & MWSRC team will identify it for you from their database of growing whale sharks. Maldivian Manta Ray Project  another let stakeholder in the conservation space in Maldives. MMRP are a project of the UK’s Manta Trust, based at Four Seasons Landa Giraavaru since 2005. With a focus on research, education, and appreciation, MMRP has identified over 4,500 reef mantas in the past 15 years, with 1,800 of those sighted in UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, HANIFARU Bay aka the best place in the Maldives & the world to swim with manta rays, just a stones throw from Dusit Thani Maldives. Save The Beach Maldives  conduct walking tours on the green island of Villingili, a neighbouring island of the mainland Malé, where there are no cars or motorbikes. Maldives Coral Institute was formed by previous former President Nasheed that aims to help corals survive in changing climates & prevent irreversible loss.

Maldives bucket list things to do swim with manta rays

5. Stay at resorts & hotels that have a strong focus on ocean conservation & restoration:

We’re talking coral propagation & restoration projects eg Saii Lagoon Marine Discovery Centre, Fushifaru Maldives & LUX* South Ari Atoll to name a few. Educational seminars with Marine Biologists are key to conservation efforts in Maldives. Sustainability is at the core values of Six Senses Laamu. Just by staying at the resort, guests contribute to the resort’s own sustainability fund, which finances marine conservation projects and initiatives for 13 local island communities. Guests are encouraged to learn from the leading marine scientists at the ‘ Maldives Underwater Initiative’ (MUI) about life underwater and how best to protect it. The MUI partners with 3 NGOs: The Manta Trust, Blue Marine Foundation and The Olive Ridley Project . Six Senses Laamu has the largest Marine Biology team of any resort in Maldives , including their Junior Marine Biology program. Six Senses are the proud recipient of the Gold Award from the World Travel Market Responsible Tourism Awards – for Wildlife and Nature Conservation in 2019. Coco Resorts are proudly home to a sea turtle rehabilitation centre in Baa Atoll.

On a local island level, passionate excursion guides educate their guests on best practices for entering the ocean respectfully eg White Sand Dhigurah Hotel on local island of Dhigurah have their own dive centre Oceanholic Divers , operated by a team of 4 Maldivian brothers & their friends who share their knowledge & experience but also brief their guests on best prices for respectfully swimming with marine animals eg never touch them, keep a safe 1.5m distance, swim to the side, never stand on corals etc.  

6. Pack Environmentally Friendly Products

Always use reef safe sunscreen to prevent damage to corals, environmentally friendly shampoo, conditioners & body wash, facial cleansers free from microbeads that end up being ingested by marine creatures.

7. Leave the Packaging at home

Maldives barely has recycling facilities and most waste is burnt, releasing toxins & pollution into the atmosphere. See Thilafushi Island , also known as ‘Trash Island’ – an entire island dedicated to burning the nation’s waste. If you can remove the package and recycle it in your own country, it not only keeps your suitcase lighter for your travels, but also reduces your vacation environmental footprint & helps you to travel sustainably in Maldives. It’s hard to be complete waste free, but small conscious steps of many tourists add up for the better annually.

8. Think before you eat

Ordering from a la crate menus saves on food waste & packaging waste. If you bring snacks with you, remove the outer layer of packaging before travelling. All tuna in Maldives is sustainably fished  using traditional fishing methods of hand-line & pole, fishing nets are restricted & fishing zones implemented around islands. All meats, including some seafood like oysters, Atlantic salmon & are flown in or shipped to Maldives, having larger environmental impacts. We encourage our guests to consume these items in moderation.

eco travel maldives

The small conscious steps we each take today towards sustainable travel in Maldives, will help reduce our climate footprints & diminish our negative contributions to the planet. Help us prolong, reduce and reverse the impacts of climate change in the Maldives by being an eco-conscious traveller. Adopt responsible tourism principles on your next vacation to Maldives.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE:

GUIDE TO SWIMMING WITH MANTA RAYS MALDIVES
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INDULGE MALDIVES

INDULGE MALDIVES

Indulge Maldives Holidays is an exclusive Maldives Travel Agency. We specialise in both affordable & luxury vacations to Maldives, group style island hopping retreats & surfing holidays. Our Australian Founder & Travel Specialist Kristie has lived in Maldives for almost 8 years & has travelled to over 50 Maldives islands. She works alongside Maldivian locals & takes exceptional care of her clients'​ needs, from planning to departure. Indulge Maldives proudly partners with over 30 local island hotels & 60 Maldives resorts. Our holiday packages start from as little as US$50 per night. Contact Kristie today & let her help you create your dream Maldives vacation, no matter your budget!

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Eco Friendly Travels

Eco-friendly travel guide to Maldives advises how to be a responsible tourist. Learn how to travel in a sustainable way and how to respect the local people and culture. Make your trip green by supporting locally owned hotels, organic restaurants and other businesses. Read more on how to protect the environment by making conscientious choices and how to travel green in Maldives , Asia .

eco travel maldives

  • Air quality : 4.5 / 5
  • Bus connections : 3.7 / 5
  • Train connections : 3.2 / 5
  • Hitchhiking : 3.8 / 5
  • National parks : 4 / 5
  • Outdoor activities : 4.7 / 5
  • Locals' English level : 4 / 5
  • Safety : 4 / 5
  • Accommodation : US$130 - $180
  • Budget per day : US$110 - $120
  • 1 Responsible Travel
  • 2 Air Quality and Pollution
  • 3 Respect the Culture
  • 4 Top 10 Places to Visit
  • 5.1 City Parks
  • 5.2 National Parks
  • 5.3 Beaches
  • 5.4 Landmarks
  • 5.5 Museums
  • 7.1 Tap-water
  • 8 Activities
  • 9.1 Green Hotels
  • 9.2 Hostels and Guest Houses
  • 9.3 Apartments
  • 9.4 Couchsurfing
  • 9.5 Camping
  • 12.4 Hitchhiking
  • 12.5 Others
  • 13 Sustainable Shopping
  • 15.1 Exchange Student
  • 15.2 Au Pair
  • 15.3 Volunteering
  • 16 See Also

Responsible Travel

What comes to your mind when you think of the Maldives, picturesque beaches, luxury resorts, beachfront villas, or swimming amidst sapphire water? Yes, Maldives is all about that, and it is one of those travel destinations, which will no doubt uplift your mood. If you want to be a responsible traveler without breaking banks, then you will have to find out some of the economical methods of traveling. One of the most popular South Asian remote countries consisting of almost 1200 islands and 30 coral atolls. Even though it is a remote country, yet thousands of people visit the Maldives every year to indulge in the eye-soothing and marvelous beauty of the place. Being surrounded by greenery and water the country supports responsible traveling and tourism so that the beauty of the country does not suffer any damage. If you visit the Maldives, you will get the opportunity to dive into the blue seas and explore the beauty of life underneath the oceans. From turtles, whale sharks, to manta rays, you will get the opportunity to almost every unique species.

Thus, to preserve the beauty of the Maldives, its pristine environment as well as the delicate ecosystem and the local communities, responsible traveling is compulsory . Every time you are visiting the Maldives, make sure that you are leaving a positive impact on its environment and respect the culture of the locals.

  • Travel in a more sustainable manner : This means adopting eco friendly habits like using metal straws and reusable cutlery, terminating the use of plastic be it shopping bags, cups, bottles etc. While this may come off as a very insignificant step but it makes a huge impact not only in reducing your carbon footprint but also helping the environment and specially the sea life. They are the ones that suffer the most from the use of plastic and it disrupts the entire eco system.
  • Keep the beaches clean : Picking up after yourself on the beach should go without saying, but just take a look around the sand the next time you're by the shore—obviously someone didn't get the memo. Stray bottles, cans, bags, and napkins can be ubiquitous along waterways, and even just one piece of litter can pose a problem. This garbage can be picked up by the wind, get stuck around the necks of birds and other animals, and carried back out to sea by the tides. Keep anyone in your party accountable for their messes, and if you encounter some trash that isn't yours, pick it up anyway and throw it away.
  • Try to ride bicycles more than rented cars : This will not only help in reducing noise and air pollution but it will also help keeping you fit and healthy. Rented cars and private vehicles only add to the problem of pollution but at the same time they also deprive you from truly experiencing the place and discovering the little nook and crannies.
  • Support the local economy : Shop local and eat local food. It will help the local people who usually have a very sustainable business model and organic things to sell and it will also help you in learning about the local culture.

First things first, it is the best idea if you never leave any traces. The government here has made it a rule to safeguard the pristine islands along with the fragile ecosystem. Hence, whenever you are planning for a vacation here, make sure that you are taking everything back everything you brought. It is best if you avoid throwing litter on the beaches and even avoid smoking. Besides, make sure that you are staying away from plastic bags.

Air Quality and Pollution

Air quality, as well as pollution levels, matter a great deal when it comes to traveling to any place. Maldives features greenery, and this is something that supports good air quality, and the pollution levels are quite low too. Besides, it is necessary to maintain low pollution levels to preserve the wildlife as well as the flora and fauna. The Maldives is one such country whose sovereign territory covers almost a hundred percent ocean. Besides, you will come across an unexpected number of cars, trucks as well as motorcycles. Even after all these things, the pollution levels in quite low and the air quality is no doubt good. This means that you will not face many issues regarding health, especially if you have breathing issues . During the rush hours, you will find swarms of motorcycles scrape by each other on the roads. This is the time, when you might issues with breathing otherwise, the evening and the early hours of the morning is the best time since you will not get any pollution issues. One of the biggest issues that the locals here face almost daily is the rising number of vehicles. However, the government is thankful for the fact that air pollution levels are under control. Apart from that wheeled vehicles, the ferry network even runs on diesel, which is yet another dangerous factor for the water as well as the underwater species. To get rid of all these issues, the government recently came up with the National Action Plan that focuses on reducing air pollution levels. The Action Plan, which is supported by the Climate As well as Clean Air Coalition offers a system that helps in cataloging the air quality and find out the best actions so that it becomes easy to lower the pollution levels. The World Health Organization has mentioned that various factors are responsible that increases the rate of pollution levels. Compared to the other cities of Maldives, Male is the one that experiences high levels of air pollution.

Respect the Culture

Set amidst the path of the old trading routes near the Indian Ocean, the culture, which initially the Maldives used to follow, was influenced by mixed cultures of Sri Lanka , Persia , Malaysia , Indonesia , and North Africa . Thus, you can understand that you will get a mixed culture if you visit the Maldives, and the blend of culture will no doubt mesmerize you. Even after having such a rich cultural infusion, Maldives has successfully maintained its cultural identity utilizing its language. Almost every island comes with a vibrant culture both of music as well as dance and along with that, you will also get innumerable traditional displays like ‘Bodu Beru’. Here you will see that around twenty people wearing traditional sarongs and tapping to the rhythmic drumbeats. Apart from that, various resorts even host cultural performances and it is no doubt one of the best ways to explore the dynamic part of the Maldivian culture. Coming to the craftsmanship the locals here are extremely talented when it comes to the artworks. You will find out the locals here enjoy mat weaving, calligraphy, coir rope making, traditional dressmaking, and many more . Also, you will find intricate artworks, incredible stone carvings on the Friday Mosque in Male. All these stunning work is undoubtedly outstanding souvenir options. However, it even comes with a cultural experience and you will get an insight into the creativity of the Maldivian artists. Coming to the tourism industry, it is quite rampant here. However, the locals here did not benefit much from tourism. Apart from that, many are there who bear the problems of waste disposal, poverty, unemployment, and various other problems. You might feel that the Maldives being a luxury holiday destination, but the reality is, the country is still the poorest developing countries. Tourists from around the world come here to stay in the private island resorts and are ignorant about the harsh reality of the locals. Coming to the other cultures, the Maldives is a Muslim country therefore, it is best if you try to dress conservatively, especially in Male as well as other local islands . Since the Muslims are respectful about their cultures and traditions, it is your responsibility to maintain the same too. It is better if you avoid wearing exposing clothes to the local beaches. However, if you are staying in the resort, then you can always wear whatever you want to the beaches.

Top 10 Places to Visit

The Maldives is one of the best countries where tourists from different parts of the world love to visit. The reason behind this thing is that it has some wonderful cities where you would get the best holiday places. If you want to know what those places are then just see the names with their cities, which are mentioned below.

  • Masjid Al-Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al-Arzam (Malé) - This is the finest mosque, which has at least hundreds of worshippers and is located in the capital city Malé. Here you can visit and wish for something which you have been dreaming of for a longer time. In other words, you can also call it something which is nowhere in any other cities.
  • Meedhoo (Addu) - It is an island where you can get a very friendly atmosphere and feel real peace. People come here to get relaxation and never feel like returning to their normal life. In the beginning, you may find it boring but later on, you will understand its true value.
  • Atoll Marine Center (Naifaru) - You can call it a marine center where you can see some of the best tortoises and turtles. It will be a charming experience, and you can get to see something, which you have never seen before. Instead of staying in confusion, just give it a try and you would enjoy it to the fullest.
  • Ranin Hanaa Fengan'du (Hulhumeedhoo) - This pond is beautiful and is the heart of Hulhumeedhoo city. Here you can go for fishing activities and get a very good amount of fun. Rather than having any second thoughts just come here and see how fabulous it is.
  • Whale Submarine (Ziyaaraiyfushi) - As the name suggests it is a submarine that has the shape of a whale. Here you can go underwater and have exposure to the fishes and some other sea creatures. You can also call it something which you might have never thought of earlier.
  • Guraidhoo (Maafushi) - If you love to go water surfing and scuba diving then this is the right place for you. This place is also referred to as something which was beyond the level of your imagination. The moment you come here then you will feel like getting absorbed and never want to go back.
  • Utheemu Ganduvaru (Nolhivaranfaru) - If you are in the city of Nolhivaranfaru then definitely visit this palace. It was build in the year 1558 and tells you about how the Portuguese invaded the country. Come here and get a very nice history about it and share it among your friends.
  • Masjid Al-Yoosuf (Eydhafushi) - Without any doubt, we would say that this mosque is beyond any words. After praying here from your true heart you can make a true desire for yourself. And it is guaranteed that one day it will come true. But if you miss this place then you will regret it and gather unnecessary frustrations among yourself.
  • Masjid Al Ihsan (Mahibadhoo) - The exact time to visit this mosque is the day time because during that time you would get a lot of people. They also adore this place and feel the presence of their god over here. Never miss it because this opportunity might not come again and again.
  • Vasho Veyo (Thinadhoo) - This is a historic monument that takes you back to the early 19th century. Here you will find some fossils and ruins of the early ages. People sometimes call it uninteresting but you have to come here and make your own decision.

eco travel maldives

So you have now known about the places, which are mentioned above. But what will you do if you have to explore the cities of Maldives? The country is home to some of the enthralling and awe-inspiring water sporting activities as well as stunning beach life. Thus, you can already guess why the demand for vacationing amidst the white sandy beaches is popular. Coming to the exploration, you will come across uncountable tourist spots and attractions that are worth visiting. The answer to this question is simple just visit some city parks and museums which can give you a different level of enjoyment.

  • Ruh'gandu 1 (Malé) - This park is awesome and here you would get a lot of open spaces to play outdoor games. So bring your children over here and play a game of football and cricket with them. Here the ambiance is calm and can give you peace and relief.
  • Maradhoofeydhoo Park (Gan) - If you are in the mood of having a picnic with your family then this is the right place. Here you can spend quality time with them and experience something very extraordinary. Make a note of this place and mark it as a very important one in your travel diaries.
  • Valifannu Park (Maadhad) - It is a place for the children where they will get some amazing rides and games. Morning is the exact time to visit this place and they will have a very nice feeling after exploring it. As a result, without this place your holiday is incomplete and there is no point in doing it.

National Parks

  • Addu Nature Park (Addu) - This park has a nice scenic view and gives you the real meaning of nature. It will never disappoint you and always give you a different level of joy and happiness. After coming you would want to recommend it to your beloved persons.
  • Hulhumale' Central Park (Malé) - For all those people who want to go jogging, it is the perfect place for them. Make a fair attempt of coming here at least once and get to explore something new. Try not to miss it because this chance might not come in the next time.
  • Veligandu Island Beaches - An epitome of beauty, the infamous Veligandu Island Beaches is one of the most beautiful yet peaceful beaches that you will come across. If you have planned for a peaceful getaway. Then nothing can be better than spending some great time amidst turquoise blue water and white sands.
  • Baros Maldives - Yet another one of the tranquil beaches that you will come across in the Maldives. You can either simply sit here and enjoy sunbathing or go for taking dips in the crashing waves. Baros is one of the most favorite beaches due to the peaceful and positive vibes that you can get here. Make sure to visit here, especially during the night to enjoy the tranquil vibes.
  • White Sandy Beach (Fulhadhoo) - The water of this beach is clean and the waves are huge. Lounge into the water and you will have a lot and lots of fun. But if you think that it is nothing then no one can help you to find the best thing about your trip.
  • Villingili Public Beach (Malé) - This beach is not for bathing but here you can come for a walk. It is best suited during the evening as some food stalls are also there. Visit here and you would be eager to give some of your best reviews and ratings.

eco travel maldives

You would not get any famous landmarks in the Maldives as it is a country surrounded by islands. But there is nothing to worry about because some of the museums can be the best landmarks. Visit those places and see how wonderful they are.

  • National Museum (Malé) - In this museum, you would get some beautiful artifacts and sculptures of the early ages. They will remind you about the history and take you back to those days. People say that it is a place about which you will get to notice in your history books.
  • Koshidhorage (Addu) - This place is the best and it promotes the cultural heritage of the Addu city. No one misses it because it signifies a lot of things and tells the purpose behind them. There is no such traveler who will tell you something negative about it.
  • Utheemu Gan'duvaru (Utheemu) - You will notice that this place is spread all over the internet and it also has special relevance. It is because it gives you a fair knowledge about the ruler who protected the Maldives from the outside invaders. Get an idea about it and you will never have any disappointment.

The food culture of the country is quite versatile since you will be able to get multiple food items as well as dishes. Hence, it can be said that apart from the magnificent archipelago of Maldives not just offers countless magical tropical islands covered with beaches featuring sky-touching palm trees and white sands but delicious cuisine too. The popular Maldivian cuisine is also known as the Dhivehi cuisine and it comes with some wonderful dishes having unique flavors and taste. From crunchy snacks to mouth-watering street foods, you will get everything. Coming to the basic food items, you will even get wood-fired chapatti bread that tastes delicious with spicy curries. The cuisine that you will get to taste in the country has a rich assemblage of various traditional flavors and the influence of these comes from neighboring countries like Sri Lanka and India. Initially, Maldivians depended highly on common ingredients such as fish, coconuts, millets, and other ingredients. However, with the increase in the influx of tourists from around the world, influence from other countries, Maldivian cuisine has witnessed a major shift, which is undoubtedly one of the best things that happened. Within a few years, Maldivian cuisine developed a stunning and distinctive blend. The flavors are unique and no doubt symbolize outstanding culinary identity. If you visit the country, you will find that the traditional Maldivian cuisine comes with three different ingredients along with their derivatives, coconut, starches that have grains as well as vegetables, and fish. The fish curries that the Maldivian cuisine features is undoubtedly one of the best things that you will ever taste in the country. Apart from that, it also features uncountable delectable dishes that are made with fresh fish, meat, and chicken. Along with these, many local fruits, as well as vegetables, are also included. Mas Huni is one of the most famous dishes that you must try in the country. Prepared with tuna, coconut, chili, onion, and served with chapatti bread, is undoubtedly one of the go-to breakfast dishes for the locals. Another popular dish that you must try in the Maldives is Garudhiya or Maldivian fish soup. It is a daily food for the locals and is served piping-hot with rice, lime, and chili. Packed with fresh raw tuna along with chopped chili and a little bit of lime, the dish tastes outstanding. Next comes the Kulhi Boakiba, commonly known, as the fish cakes are the favorite food for almost every Maldivian. For years, this dish has been topping the list of food for the locals here. The dish is mostly prepared on special occasions, especially at festivals and feasts. Fish cakes are made with smoked tuna, chopped chili flakes, rice, ginger, and grated coconut. Almost every posh restaurants as well as the pocket-friendly restaurants sell these outstanding Maldivian dishes. Make sure that you are trying out all the dishes once you are in the country. The biggest advantage is these are some of the common dishes and you will find them in almost every city of Maldives. Coming to the street foods, you will get multiple options and the dishes are outstandingly delicious too. Most congested, bike parked lanes and alleys of the cities are lined with some of the best-rated roadside eateries. The bustling markets lined throughout the cities are stuffed with innumerable food counters and stalls selling toothsome dishes. Some of the local delicacies that you will get include bajiya, sweet pastry balls stuffed with fish, onions, Kulhi borkibaa, and coconut. Masroshi is yet infamous street food that you must try when it comes to the local foods in the country. Apart from that, you will also get theluhi mas, fried fish garnished with chili and garlic. You will even get plenty of vegan options too when it comes to street foods. Deep-fried snacks made with rice, coconut lentils, and spices are some of the must-try dishes. Hence, if you are worried about whether you will get vegan dishes or not, then you will get unlimited dishes. If you are not really into non-beg dishes and believe in going green no matter where you go, then it is the best idea to opt for booking such resorts that offer vegan foods. From salads, vegetable soups to veggie delights, you will get everything in these resorts. All you have to do is name the dishes that you want to have for your dinner, lunch, and breakfast. Perhaps, Maldives is the only country that comes with resorts that offer vegan foods to those who are vegan and want to include healthy foods in their daily diet. Overall, it can be said that the Maldives not only boasts picture-perfect beaches but many outstanding dishes. Make sure to make a list of all the dishes that you want to try.

When it comes to the drinks, the tropical country offers many delicious local as well as exotic drinks. Since the Maldives is an Islamic country, you will not get alcoholic drinks throughout the country. However, most travel resorts here in the country offer multiple exotic alcoholic drinks. From wines to champagne, you will get everything. However, it is best if you try out the fresh fruit juices as well as the coconut drinks that are no doubt some of the delicious drinks. Since the Maldives is a tropical country, so the chances of getting fruit juices are no doubt the best. Maldivian Lady is one of the common drinks that the locals, as well as the tourists, enjoy having almost every day . A refreshing drink is perfect to start any evening. It is prepared with white rum, apricot brandy, pineapple juice served over crushed ice. You can understand how delicious it can be. Next comes the Biyadhoo Special is yet another special drink which you must try if you are planning to visit the Maldives. Twist on the normal vodka pineapple, this drink comes with crushed ice and a certain amount of melon liqueur that makes the drink quite delicious. The only thing is, you will not get this drink not everywhere. Bars and nightclubs are the places where you will get such drinks. Bartenders in the nightclubs offer this drink to almost every tourist. Apart from that, even if you want any extra toppings on the drinks, you will get it too. Raa is an extraordinary drink that the locals enjoy having on almost every occasion. It is a palm wine drink, is extracted from the trees, and is fermented until it reaches 4% alcohol. Sometimes, the drink is fermented further so that it develops a sour taste. Since it is one of the most-loved drinks and make sure that, you are trying out all of them. Tea is yet another one of the common drinks, which locals love having. Even though it might seem quite usual, but the tea you will here, tastes different from the normal ones. You will get them with meals in every cafeteria, bars, and restaurants. You will get a plethora of choices when it comes to tea, you can have either milk tea or black tea. Besides, you can also have Maldives Iced Tea. Most tea fanatics throughout the world come here to enjoy the taste as well as the aroma of the tea available here. If you are in the Maldives, make sure that you are starting your day with a freshly brewed cup of hot and aromatic tea. As already mentioned, Maldives is a tropical country, which means that you will get the opportunity to try out some of the delicious fruit juices. When mixed with exotic quality drinks, these turn out to be delicious cocktails. Golden Chronicle is one of the most popular cocktails that you must try. It is prepared by combining vodka, lime juice, and homemade citrus syrup. Thus, you will get a dose of sweet and sour flavor, which makes Golden Chronicle a perfect drink to enjoy while chilling near the beach. Next comes the organic cafeterias where you can enjoy some great quality coffee. As you might know, organic cafeterias are trending these days and the reason behind this is the rising concern for protecting the environment. Although you might not get enough organic cafeterias in the country, you must try out these places. Organic cafeterias are different from normal ones. Designed with eco-friendly and sustainable materials, organic cafeterias are no doubt one of the best places where you can hang out with your friends and family. Besides, the foods, especially the coffee, you will get some outstanding and unique dishes that are not only delicious but are pocket friendly too .

You can always opt for drinking tap water too. As already mentioned, Maldives does not have the issue of high pollution levels. Thus, making it safe for the locals as well as the tourists to consume tap water. The government has come up with various water treatment programs that have helped to keep the water clean . Hence, even if you feel thirsty and forget to carry your water bottle you can always drink from the tap water. However, if you are still unsure about the drinking water quality, you can buy packaged drinking water. You will come across many stalls as well as outlets that sell packaged drinking water. Besides, soft drinks are also one of the best options when it comes to quenching your thirst.

When it comes to exploring a tropical and one of the most popular holiday destination, Maldives always tops the list. Not just the scenic beauties, top attractions, Maldives offer some outstanding activity options too that you can try. If you have already made up your mind to spend some great time in the Maldives in the luxury bungalows overseeing the turquoise water, then you must also find out some of the infamous activities which both the tourists as well as the locals enjoy here. Apart from basking in the sun, cocktail-sipping, and watching the beautiful sun going down, you can take part in other interesting activities. From snorkeling to kayaking, you can do almost everything. Nestled far away from the city life hassles, the country nurtures a thriving culture along with some enthralling watersport activities. You Rest assured, the activities are interesting enough to please every traveler. Besides, if you are a sucker for hardcore adventure, then you can always try paragliding or simply go on surfing amidst the crashing waves . No matter what you are doing, you will always find something interesting to do here. The memories that you will take away from the country will remain priceless for you. Let us check out some of the activities that you must try in the Maldives.

  • Enjoy the spectacular view of the Glowing Beach (Raa Atoll) - Located in Mudhoo Island, it is one of the most popular and visited tourist destinations. If you are still not sure about the reason behind its popularity, the breathtaking fluorescent waves are one of the primary reasons behind the popularity of Glowing Beach. This natural phenomenon takes place due to the presence of marine microbes known as the phytoplankton in the water. The phytoplankton is bioluminescent and once the sun goes down, these microscopic planktons emit vibrant blue light, thus creating an ethereal effect. Due to this reason, after the sun goes down, you will notice that the waves look brighter. The best time to visit is from June to October since the sea remains warmer.
  • Explore the marine life by scuba diving (Maafushi) - If you are a sucker for watersports, then make sure to explore the marine life underneath. Scuba Diving is compulsory if you are planning for a vacation in the Maldives. Besides, travel enthusiasts consider the Maldives as a spectacular destination for scuba diving. Once you dive deep inside the water, the clear blue water will allow you to view some rare species such as white sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, and much more. However, if you are not a pro, then you can always opt for a few scuba diving sessions to learn.
  • Have fun with underwater snorkeling at the Hanifaru Bay - In case you are scared of deep water diving, then you can always go for snorkeling. Just like scuba diving, snorkeling is equally interesting and you will be able to see sea turtles, reef sharks, as well as fish flocks. Near some of the feeding stations, you will be able to spot sea turtles eating lunch and tropical fishes swimming with the tides. Even if you are not an expert in swimming, the professionals will help you so that you can enjoy the snorkeling session.
  • Go for Island Hopping Tour - Since the Maldives is a collection of thousands of small and big islands, you can always go for an island hopping tour and explore them. The diverse culture of Maldives is unique and you will be able to know about the diverse culture. Almost twenty ring-shaped atolls are there consisting of 1192 coral islands. The interesting fact about the islands is every island comes with outstanding scenic beauty, marine life as well as rituals. If you want to find out more about the islands, you can opt for boats, seaplanes, yachts, and ferry service to reach. Your journey will begin from the Male Island located in the Southern area of the North Male Atoll. The mesmerizing beauty and the eye-soothing view is something impossible to describe in words. If you love indulging in appreciating the beauty of nature, then the Maldives will no doubt make your dreams come true.
  • Enjoy the stunning beach parties in LUX South Ari Atoll - Trip to the Maldives is incomplete without joining some great time at the beach parties. They offer a pleasant and fun experience. Imagine dancing near the beach shore under the starlit sky. Either you can join the parties alone or you can even bring your friends to double the fun. Tapping to the tunes of some of the popular songs will no doubt help you to let go of stress. Most party animals love indulging in the beach parties of Maldives. Apart from the songs, you will also get the opportunity to taste some delicious food from the beach shacks.
  • Spend a few days in the Water Bungalows - Water bungalows are a common scenario throughout the country. Not to mention, the view from the water bungalows is undoubtedly unique and the view will surely mesmerize you. The picturesque surroundings and waking up to the enthralling view will no doubt uplift your mood for sure. The splendid view of the sunrise, while you are seeping coffee, watching the turquoise blue water and sea turtles, is something that will no doubt make you feel happy. Apart from that, you will be able to view the stunning sunset from the bungalow in which you are staying.
  • Visit the Uninhabited Islands - Going on boat trips is no doubt interesting and you will come across many uninhabited islands in the country. Most uninhabited islands have luxurious resorts where you can plan for a luxurious picnic. If you want, you can even explore the place. Overall, the island will no doubt give you the perfect escape from your daily routine. Your trip to the Maldives will remain incomplete if you do not visit the uninhabited islands. Besides, here you will get the opportunity to rejoice amidst the calm surroundings and have a good time with your friends and family.

Accommodation

Good accommodation is one of the biggest priorities when it comes to planning for holidays. Without comfortable and good accommodation, it is impossible to have a great time . Whether you are planning for a short trip to get away from daily stress or an enjoyable vacation with your friends, it is necessary to have a great accommodation option. You will get multiple accommodation options, where you will not only get some outstanding amenities option but also a comfortable stay too. From hotels, hostels, guesthouses to apartments, you will get everything here. However, as per your choices, you will always get everything you need. If you are planning for a romantic getaway, then make sure that you are booking beachfront resorts, where you can have a great time with your partner as well as your friends. Alternatively, you can opt for normal hotels if you are planning the trip with your friends. Also, if you have a budget crunch, then choosing hostels and guesthouses is the best option. As the Maldives faces a massive tourist influx every year, you will get uncountable options to choose from. Travel enthusiasts, as well as tourists from around the world, come here to indulge in the breathtaking beauty of the tropical Maldives . Besides, the blue turquoise water, the country also features some unique and popular tourist attraction places. Although the hotel rates are quite high throughout the country, it is worth it since you will get outstanding amenities to make your holiday comfortable and memorable. Hostels and guesthouses are equally comfortable and good option to stay in the Maldives. You might not get every facility like the hotels or the resorts, but you can meet fellow travelers who know everything about the country. With them, you will be able to know everything about the country, which is no doubt exciting. Similarly, if you are interested in knowing about the locals, their culture as well as the traditions they follow, then it is always the best idea to choose apartments. The Maldives is infamous for having extremely warm-hearted people who love welcoming guests and tourists from around the world. They are quite friendly and if you request them; you can get the chance to stay with them. However, the only thing that you have to keep in mind is their rules. Alternatively. If you want freedom, then it is best to book apartments online. Airbnb is one of the best places where you can find some of the best-rated apartments offering exclusive benefits. On top of that, if you have coupons, you will get additional discounts too. Booking apartments online will give you the advantage of clean and verified rooms and you do not have to worry much about any additional or hidden costs.

Green Hotels

Green hotels have turned out to be revolutionary steps and the demand for this is increasing every day since people these days are gradually becoming concerned about the environment. Apart from that, the tourist destinations are the place that faces the highest pollution and environmental threats. Therefore, it is compulsory to keep pollution levels under control. Green hotels are quite different from the normal ones in almost every possible way. From the amenities to the design and working of the hotel, these are unique and sustainable in every manner. Green hotels are different since it supplies electricity through solar panels and they have their greywater treatment plants. These are useful since it helps in saving water in every possible way. Another one of the most important factors, which the green hotels always take care of, is the energy consumption levels. They come with in-house renewable energy resources. Alternatively, the green hotels even purchase energy from other sources too when needed. Apart from that, the room occupancy helps in controlling the power consumption levels, which is no doubt necessary to save energy. For saving the heating cost, green hotels maintain standard room thermostat temperature. This process helps a great deal in saving thousands of kilowatts. Next, the waste management process is unique. You might be aware of the fact that tourist destinations are the ones that face the biggest issues with waste management and disposal. Poor waste disposal method affects the water as well as land. Due to this reason, green hotels use biodegradable bed linens as well as towels so that they can be thrown away after use. Green hotels have efficiently worked upon the reduction of waste by generating electricity from the wastes. Hotels every day face food waste, which is yet another biggest concern and due to this reason, green hotels in the Maldives tied up with the local organizations. These organizations help in providing to those communities who are deprived of healthy food and better living. The biggest advantage of staying in the green hotels is they are not as pricey as the normal hotels but the amenities are good. If you want to stay away from the hustle and the bustle of the cities, then green hotels are the best options since they are located away from the main cities.

Hostels and Guest Houses

If you are not ready to spend huge on hotels and resorts, then it is always the best idea to book hostels or guesthouses. Also, in case you are traveling in a group with your friends, then hostels can be the best option because staying in hotels can turn out to be pricey. When traveling to the Maldives, it is better not to spend huge on the hotels since you will get multiple adventure and water sporting activities that make the country famous. Besides, the hotels and luxury resorts will always add up extra costs on the hotel fare when including the special amenities. Due to this reason, most travel enthusiasts choose hostels and guesthouses over hotels. At times, many hotels do not offer fancy amenities; however, it should not matter much since the plethora of activities that you will get in the Maldives are undoubtedly exciting and interesting. Besides, you will meet many fellow travelers in the hostels and guesthouses, which is undoubtedly useful. Local travelers or travel enthusiasts know every small detail regarding the country. Next, comes the amenities, you will get many facilities, from free WiFi to a separate bathroom and free parking. Hostels in the Maldives are infamous for offering exclusive breakfast buffet options the plethora of choices that you will get from the menu is unbelievable. Besides, the hostels and guesthouses are located in the heart of the city, which makes them yet another one of the compulsive reasons to opt for the hostels or guesthouses. As already mentioned, the pollution levels in the country are quite low and apart from the green hotels, the hostels and guesthouses have contributed to following the sustainable steps of maintaining environment-friendly steps.

Local culture in the Maldives is undoubtedly unique and the blend of different traditions inspired by other countries makes it unique and special. Hence, if you want to more about the local cultures in the Maldives, then you can always opt for staying in the apartments. Besides, the locals here are quite friendly; thus, you can understand that they will let you stay with them. They will help you in finding out all the secrets and the history of the Maldivian culture, their local customs, the foods they eat, and their festivals. Hence, you can always stay with them; however, make sure that you are showing your valid certificates and identity proofs. Otherwise, they will not let you stay with them. If you are not comfortable staying with the locals, then it is always a good idea to opt for booking the apartments online. It is undoubtedly one of the best and hassle-free options in case you do not want to spend huge on the hotels. If you want to book apartments online, then you can take the help of Airbnb. From here, you can book verified and clean rooms, without paying any extra charges. Also, in case you are traveling with your friends, then nothing can be better than booking apartments . They work just like the normal hotels and you will get exclusive amenities too without paying any extra amounts for the amenities.

Couchsurfing

Exploring any new place with the travel communities is no doubt useful, especially if you are a travel enthusiast since it will help you to know more about any new place without any hassle. Couchsurfing is one of the most trending concepts these days and every modern country is gradually adapting to it due to the uncountable benefits it provides . Couchsurfing is quite different from normal traveling and if you want to get the best traveling experience, then nothing can be better than registering with the Couchsurfing communities. However, the only thing that you have to keep in mind is that your memories and experiences are completely dependent on the host as well as the surfer. Most travel enthusiasts who are new to this world always opt for the Couchsurfing communities. All you have to do is send requests to the traveling communities and once they accept your request, you can join them once you reach the Maldives. Before sending the request to such communities, make sure that you are finding out the reviews as well as the years of experience in this field. Overall, the Couchsurfing communities are one of the best options if you are traveling to the Maldives for the first time. These communities have knowledgeable people who are efficient enough in letting you know about every nooks and corner of the country . Also, you will not face issues with traveling alone since it is no doubt painful.

One of the best things for all adventure seekers is camping and if you are someone who loves indulging in various enthralling activities on vacation, then nothing can be better than going camping. Since the Maldives features picturesque lands and islands, it is one of the best ideas, to go on camping. If you are traveling with your friends, then make sure that you are arranging for camping. To know more about the camping facilities, it is better if you inquire about it while booking hotels. Besides, your travel and vacation memories must be enthralling. For this, nothing can be better than camping. After all, who does not love waking up to the beautiful scenery and turquoise blue water? Moreover, who knows, you can even get an opportunity to join the beach parties. If you want to spice things up, then make sure that you are including camping in your vacation list. You will come across multiple camping venues and islands in the country that is perfect to spend two to three days amidst nature. Make sure to find out that the hotel that you are booking provides camping facilities or not. Alternatively, you can look for camping spots throughout the cities of Maldives so that you can enjoy a great time camping with your friends and family.

The Maldives are formed of 26 atolls, or atholhu in Dhivehi — the source of the English word. These are not single islands, but giant ringlike coral formations hundreds of kilometres wide that have fragmented into countless islands.

  • Male — the capital and largest city
  • Seenu — second-largest city and short-lived home of the Suvadive secessionist movement

Getting There and Moving Around

If you have already made up your mind to visit the Maldives, then make sure that you are researching everything about reaching the destination. Visiting a new place can be quite confusing, especially if you know nothing about it. From the transportation modes available to the in-detail about different cities, you must know everything. It will help you to explore every corner of the country properly. The Maldives is filled with innumerable tourist attractions and spots, and if you research the place in-detail, then it will be easy for you to explore the cities. Coming to the modes of transportation available, from flights to buses, you will get everything that will make your holiday easy and fun. Make sure that you are carrying all the important documents while you are going on vacation.

The flight route is one of the best ways by which you can reach the Maldives. Male International Airport is the main airport. Flights from almost every country come here. Apart from that, flights from Dubai, Europe, and China come here. Besides, compared to other countries, the visa policy of Maldives is quite lenient since it offers thirty days free visa to everyone. However, you have to provide valid proof of sufficient funds as well as travel documents.

eco travel maldives

The bus route is yet another one of the popular options when it comes to traveling to the Maldives. However, the only thing that you have to keep in mind is, a bus route is only a good option if you are traveling from one city to another. Buses are quite cheap compared to flights and this is something that makes it easy to travel by bus, interstate.

The rail route is not quite popular in the country since mostly the tourists from other countries come here through the air route. Besides, as the visa policy is lenient, people mostly opt for the flight route . When traveling from one city to another, locals, as well as tourists, opt for buses or cabs.

Hitchhiking

The trend of hitchhiking is quite popular throughout the world gradually those countries who are lagging with the concept of hitchhiking are gradually becoming accustomed to the trend. Make sure to find out all the popular hitchhiking sports throughout the country, so that you can ask someone to give you a lift. As already mentioned, the locals are quite friendly and if you ask for a lift, they will always pick you up. However, the only thing that you have to be careful about is regarding your luggage since you will be traveling alone.

Apart from the train route or the flights, you will come across other options too for exploring nooks and corners of the country. By now, you have understood that there are innumerable places where you can enjoy and have a great time with your friends or family. If you want to avoid buses or cabs, then walking is no doubt one of the best options. Alternatively, you can always opt for bicycles since it is one of the eco-friendly options for traveling. You will come across many stalls throughout the cities of the Maldives that offer bicycles on rent. However, if you want to go shopping or explore tourist attractions, then nothing can be better than opting for the e-cabs. To keep the pollution levels under control, the government authorities have come up with the idea of electronic vehicles. Besides, the locals in the city are quite concerned about preserving the natural habitat of the country.

Sustainable Shopping

Sustainable shopping is no doubt one of the best ideas when it comes to responsible-traveling. You might be aware of the fact that the Maldives is infamous for traditional clothing items, local food items, and souvenirs. You can take all these things to your home. The unique factor about these items is, with sustainable shopping you will get clothes and other items made out of organic fabric and other eco-friendly items. Thousands of shops, as well as outlets, are spread throughout the country that sells such sustainable shopping items. Instead of taking normal fancy items, you can take them to support responsible- traveling.

As already, mentioned, the pollution levels in the country are quite low and the only reason behind this is due to the importance of recycling. Maldivians are quite responsible for the environment and believe in recycling the used materials. They have found out different ways of utilizing recycled materials. Apart from that, various hotels have also started believing in the importance of recycling. As a responsible traveler, you must also support recycling.

Since the influx of tourists is quite high in the Maldives, quite naturally the waste generation is high too. However, with effective waste management programs, it has become easy to control the amount of waste generated. In most cases, the wastes are effectively used for recycling and reusing mostly as fuels, which in turn helps in lowering fuel costs.

Work and Study Abroad

Apart from being one of the most influential tourist destinations, Maldives features some of the top-notch educational institutions as well as reputed MNCs where thousands of eligible candidates come for job opportunities. Alternatively, many students from around the world come here to take admission in the colleges to continue with their further studies.

Exchange Student

From top-rated colleges to prestigious universities, you will get everything here. Hence, students who are looking forward to focusing on their further studies come here to take admission. Besides, the faculty here is quite professional and knowledgeable. They help every student who finds out every opportunity to learn new things. Apart from that, scholar students even get the benefit of scholarship.

Women these days believe in working to earn their living, especially the ones who are single parents. Due to this reason, the demand for the Aur Pair service has increased where services are offered to parents having small kids. Most women in the Maldives opt for the Au Pair service to look after their kids when they are out for work.

Volunteering

The Maldives proudly features rich marine life as well as other tourist attraction spots. Due to this reason, many non-profit organizations, as well as NGOs, are there who help in preserving the natural habitat of the marine species. Besides, they also help in lowering the pollution levels by encouraging various sustainable and eco-friendly programs.

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Explore > Interests > Adventure > Eco-travel in the Maldives

Eco-travel in the Maldives

Eco-friendly trips are a growing trend among travelers, and Alison Teal is an adventurer who lives, breathes, and travels with environmental consciousness. She is so passionate about traveling sustainably that she has created her own film and blog series, titled, “Alison’s Adventures.”

The project allows Alison to travel the world and inspire communities to protect the planet with her mission of “Surf, Survive, Sustain.” This week she’s embarking on an eco-trip to the Maldives as part of her pursuit to help bring awareness to the nation’s environmental issues, and we’ll be sharing stories and photos from her trip when she returns next month.

In the meantime, with the hopes of encouraging you to embark on your own green travels, we caught up with Alison to learn more about her adventures  to the Maldives.

Alison’s adventures

Throughout Alison’s childhood, her photographer father and yogi mother strapped young Alison on their backs and ventured to remote and eccentric destinations. Alison explored the world like a Tarzan child and grew up in a sustainable grass hut that would have made Robinson Crusoe proud.

eco travel maldives

Photo by Sarah Lee

Naked and Afraid

Alison’s knowledge of living off the land and her experiences in extreme corners of the earth made her an excellent candidate for Discovery Channel’s recent series, Naked and Afraid . In 2013, Alison was filmed while surviving castaway-style on a deserted island in the Maldives. She was marooned in an uninhabited area, dubbed “The Island from Hell,” which was covered in water bottles and Styrofoam. She told us, “We used it to help us survive on the show, but I couldn’t walk anywhere without stepping on trash, and more washed up every day.”

Save the Maldives

Haunted by the pollution and spurred by a passion to address the devastating trash problem, Alison decided to face the island again, this time on her own terms. She is back in the Maldives, and a big part of her trip is focused on encouraging environmental awareness. Along for the adventure are her partners in crime, photographer Sarah Lee  and cinematographer Mark Tipple , to help document her mission.

One stop on their journey will be to visit “Trash Island,” a landfill where hundreds of tons of waste are dumped each day. Towering piles of plastic, garbage, electronic devices, and paper cover this area. Some of the trash is burned. The rest is left to rot. Alison and her crew will receive exclusive access to this wasteland to showcase its troubling environmental effects.

Viewfinder Tip: When faced with the option of buying recycled products, look for items that transform plastic waste into functional items.

Meeting with government officials is another item on the itinerary as Alison hopes to educate the community on ways to transform plastic waste into functional products. “I want to provide massive awareness about the trash on the islands, and show how it can be made into other things,” she said. “Companies such as Repreve recycle plastic waste and incorporate it into the products of popular brands such as Patagonia, North Face, Volcom, Ford, and Teeki.”

Alison already is involved in this movement back in the United States, where she promotes Odina, an eco-friendly swimsuit  company .

Alison’s Maldives   adventure won’t exactly be all work and no play. She explained, “I want to explore this picturesque place, as well as feature what’s happening to it.”

With this in mind, she plans to visit Baa Atoll. This biosphere is a place to spot some of the ocean’s gentle giants—manta rays and whale sharks roam in a protected slice of the preserve. As far as the “surf” aspect of her campaign, Alison plans to carve up Lohis Break off the island of Hudhuranfushi with her pink, “Green to the Core,” surfboard in tow.

With her eco-swimsuits, signature surfboard, and environmental mindset, Alison will take on the Maldives in a big, green way. And once she returns in September, we’ll sit down with her again to share her adventures   and impart some environmentally-friendly travel wisdom.

What are some of your favorite eco-travel destinations, and why?

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Ultimate guide to eco-friendly travel in Maldives

eco travel maldives

Dreaming of an idyllic vacation that leaves behind not only beautiful memories, but also positive impacts? Then, look no further than the breathtaking OBLU SELECT Sangeli Resort, an eco-friendly, paradise awaits your exploration.

With a commitment to sustainability, a revolutionary conservation initiative and the Sangeli Muraka Project, this resort offers travellers an unforgettable experience, all while preserving the pristine beauty of the Maldives.

Nestled in the heart of the Maldives, OBLU SELECT Sangeli Resort beckons travellers seeking luxury and adventure in equal measures. These travel tips serve as a beacon for conscious travellers, providing insights into sustainable practices that not only protect the environment, but also enhance their overall travel experience.

Reef-Friendly Sunscreen: A Must-Have Companion

As guests prepare to bask in the Maldivian sunshine, the importance of choosing reef-friendly sunscreen cannot be overstated. Traditional sunscreens containing harmful chemicals like Oxybenzone and Octinoxate can devastate coral reefs, leading to bleaching and long-term damage. OBLU SELECT Sangeli Resort offers a solution with its exclusive collection of Rash Guards. Crafted from recycled plastic bottles gathered from ocean waste, these Rash Guards provide UPF50 sun protection while ensuring the health of the marine ecosystem.

Education for Preservation

Embracing the principles of ecotourism, OBLU SELECT Sangeli encourages travellers to educate themselves about the natural wonders of the Maldives before setting foot on its shores. Understanding the fragility of seashells as potential homes for hermit crabs and the vitality of coral reefs as living organisms fosters a deeper connection with the environment. OBLU SELECT Sangeli Resort emphasises the mantra “Collect Anything But Memories,” encouraging guests to leave no trace and cherish the untouched beauty of the islands.

Sangeli Muraka Project: Crafting Change

In response to the alarming decline of coral reefs worldwide due to various environmental threats, OBLU SELECT Sangeli initiated the Sangeli Muraka Project in January 2019. This visionary project includes coral restoration, wildlife identification, community outreach, reef clean-ups and ghost net upcycling.

Adopt-a-Turtle and Embrace Sustainable Fashion

Through the Sangeli Muraka Project, guests can participate in impactful conservation efforts. Handmade crocheted sea turtle and manta ray soft toys, crafted by local artisans, serve as memorable souvenirs and symbolize support for reef preservation. Upon purchase of the toy, guests can choose the individual turtle to adopt and will receive a certificate of adoption as well as regular updates every time the turtle is resighted.

Furthermore, the resort’s collaboration with OceanЯ brings forth a line of eco-apparel made from 100% recycled polyester, equivalent to removing 1kg of plastic from the ocean. Additionally, colourful bracelets and sea turtle keychains, repurposed from discarded ghost nets, showcase the resort’s dedication to marine conservation.

Sustainability at OBLU SELECT Sangeli Resort

Committed to sustainability, OBLU SELECT Sangeli Resort proudly boasts its Green Globe certification. With a strong focus on responsible island ecosystem management, the resort leads by example in sustainable drinking water solutions and support for local communities. Each stay at the resort contributes to the preservation of the Maldives’ natural wonders.

Coral Conservation: A Triumph Over Adversity

Under the expert care of in-house Marine Biologists, the coral nursery at the resort’s main lagoon has flourished. Over 150 metal frames housing more than 7,000 fragments have been meticulously placed, nurturing the growth of a lush coral cover. Visitors can now witness the resurgence of marine life, including parrotfish, snappers, eagle rays, sharks and various other fish species and invertebrates.

Green Operations for a Greener Stay

OBLU SELECT Sangeli Resort’s commitment to sustainable operations encompasses biodegradable cleaning agents, saltwater desalination for potable water and efficient waste management practices. The resort’s twin-chamber incinerators and state-of-the-art compactors significantly reduce environmental impact. Furthermore, treated wastewater finds new life in irrigation and gardening, ensuring responsible water consumption.

For more information about OBLU SELECT Sangeli Resort’s eco-friendly travel tips and commitment to sustainability, please visit  https://www.coloursofoblu.com/oblu-select-sangeli/sustainability

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JOALI Maldives to host ‘artistic creativity’ kids summer camp

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The first and only art-immersive resort in the Maldives has announced its 2024 Kids Summer Camp, taking place during 1 July through 31 August 2024. Surrounded by pristine white-sand beaches, brilliant blue waters and an island-wide art collection of one-of-a-kind installations and experiential pieces, JOALI Maldives Kids Summer Camp will spark creativity and allow kids’ imaginations to soar. Bringing families and young explorers on an unforgettable journey of artistic expression and learning in a breathtaking setting, the island will be joined by world-renowned artists who will further guide, inspire and educate throughout the summer.

Through JOALI Maldives joie de vivre, or “Joy of Living”, philosophy and ongoing commitments to immersion into the local landscape, art, and history of the island’s surroundings, the Kids Summer Camp along with the Muramas Kids Club at JOALI Maldives provides a unique opportunity for kids to develop a greater understanding of and appreciation for nature, wellness and the true joys of living. With a camp theme of ‘Choose Your Joy, Spark Your Creativity’, JOALI Maldives will be joined by international artists to create personalised experiences this summer:

  • Emmanuel Deschodt, 8th to 14th July: From Paris, Emmanuel is an artist and a boxer, who blends the two for a dynamic approach to portraiture and performance art. During his time at JOALI Maldives, he will host wood painting workshops, boxing classes, as well as a live performance of his ‘Punch Portrait’, an expressive portrait that combine physicality with artistic expression.
  • Karu Paper Studio, 15th to 21st July: Founder of Karu Paper Studio, Anouk Vigneau is a paper artist based in Lillie, Paris. Through cutting, pasting, folding, bending and more, Anouk creates pieces both big and small and will be offering five paper workshops during her time at JOALI Maldives.
  • Gabriela Noelle, 5th to 11th August: A Cuban-American artist based in Miami in the United States, Gabriela’s interactive pieces inspire the viewer to see the world through the eyes of a child, from functional items to three-dimensional sculptures. At JOALI, Gabriela will host three workshops for kids and families to create pieces that prompt imagination, exercises curiosity, and creates a bond with their environment.

With each day bringing new possibilities at the Kids Summer Camp, this year’s itinerary is tailor-made for guests between the ages of 4 – 12, and will also include:

  • Education & Sustainability: Kids will learn from JOALI’s resident sustainability experts on the importance of becoming a protector of the planet, and will organise eco-activities such as tree planting, organic gardening, as well as workshops on reducing plastic waste and conserving energy.
  • Art Classes: In addition to workshops and classes with the visiting artists, kids will embrace their artistic side with JOALI’s resident artists who will teach pottery, photography, wood painting, marble, crystal art, and more.
  • Island Immersion: Explore the fascinating plant life of the Maldives on an island walk, and stargaze with JOALI’s resident astronomer, identifying stars and planets in the night sky.
  • Culture: Kids will have the opportunity to learn about the Maldivian local culture and rich heritage of the Maldives through traditional music and dance performances.
  • Wellness: Wellness experiences during Kids’ Camp include making their own natural soaps and skincare products, yoga classes and boxing classes, all led by JOALI’s wellness experts.
  • Culinary: Little Chefs can take part in cooking classes and learn to make sushi, sandwiches and two classic Maldivian dishes — Mas Huni and Huni Roshi.
  • Sports & Games: Everyday is filled with games and sports activities such as padel tennis, foam parties, an ocean scavenger hunt with JOALI’s resident Marine Biologist, beach games and more.

While young visitors are at Kids Camp, parents will enjoy the many luxuries of the 73-villa island such as innovative dining concepts, exploring the spectacular sea life, destination programming, and more, including the newly refreshed wellness centre, JOALI BEING Cure, bringing guests the award-winning ‘weightlessness’ philosophy of JOALI BEING. With a selection of beach or overwater villas offering one, two, three and four-bedroom options, families will enjoy private pools, dedicated butlers known as “jadugars” (the Maldivian word for “magician”), bicycle rides around the island together, and memories to last a lifetime.

JOALI Maldives has villas from $2,928 per night based on two persons sharing a Water Villa with Pool on B&B basis. For further details and booking, please visit joali.com .

Bandos Maldives offers exclusive Eid Al-Adha offers, celebrations

eco travel maldives

This Eid Al-Adha, Bandos Maldives invites guests to create unforgettable family memories in a stunning tropical paradise.

Enjoy an exclusive offer with benefits including free stay and meals for up to two children, a free sunset dolphin cruise, and complimentary use of Clubhouse facilities, snorkeling gear, a glass-bottom boat experience, and non-motorised water sports. Additional perks include complimentary laundry services, early check-in and late checkout, and a 20% discount on spa treatments and food & beverages.

Celebrate Eid with a delightful breakfast spread featuring local and international cuisines, participate in thrilling aqua races, and enjoy an enchanting performance of Dhafi Negun accompanied by Maali & Bodumas. Indulge in a special buffet dinner showcasing local culinary delights and experience the vibrant culture of the Maldives with rhythmic drumming and cultural dances.

Join the team at Bandos Maldives for a memorable Eid Al-Adha celebration. Book now to enjoy these exclusive benefits and make the most of your holiday.

Fushifaru Maldives welcomes guests to unforgettable Eid al-Adha celebration

eco travel maldives

Fushifaru Maldives is inviting guests to a vibrant and joyous celebration of Eid al-Adha, a festival that symbolises connection through a carnival of colours, music, and dance. From 15th June to 16th June, join us in creating an atmosphere of fun, perfect for commemorating this special occasion with family and friends.

On 15th June, festivities will begin with our Grand Coconut Show at our Eggamuge. This interactive event offers guests the opportunity to explore the diverse uses, benefits, and cultural significance of the coconut in Maldivian life. Following the show, guests are invited to Korakali for an exquisite culinary experience that blends Maldivian and Arabian flavours. This celebration of cultural fusion promises to tantalise your taste buds and leave you wanting more!

The celebrations continue on 16th June, starting with a special Eid breakfast at Korakali. Begin your day with a delightful spread that sets the tone for the festivities ahead. At 7:30 AM, guests are welcome to join the Eid Prayer at the mosque, offering a serene and spiritual start to the day. In the afternoon, experience the vibrant energy of Dhafi Negun, this is a traditional Maldivian dance, characterised by rhythmic beats, expressive movements, and colourful costumes – it will transport you to the heart of Maldivian culture. Following the dance, the beach fun continues with traditional games like Tug of War and a Dhafi Negun match, accompanied by delightful Maldivian tea as the sun sets.

The celebration culminates with an enchanting Eid Show at Fanihandhi Bar. Guests will be mesmerised by cultural performances including Dhandi Jehun, Bandiyaa Jehun, and Boduberu. These captivating performances invite you to sit back and enjoy, or even join in and dance along. Guests will be mesmerised by cultural performances including Dhandi Jehun, Bandiyaa Jehun, and Boduberu. These captivating performances invite you to sit back and enjoy, or even join in and dance along. Fushifaru Maldives offers an idyllic setting for this grand celebration, combining stunning natural beauty with exceptional hospitality. We look forward to welcoming you to an Eid al-Adha celebration filled with joy, unity, and unforgettable moments.

For more information about Fushifaru Maldives and its family-friendly services and experiences, please visit www.fushifaru.com or contact [email protected] .

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7 Best Luxury Sustainable Resorts in the Maldives

More travelers than ever before are interested in responsible, eco-friendly travel. The good news? You don't have to give up luxury accommodations in the interests of sustainability.

The Maldives is without a doubt one of the most beautiful travel destinations in the world, with picture-perfect blue waters, white sand beaches, and hundreds of tiny coral islands. With a wide range of wellness and water activities, the Maldives naturally beckon to the discerning luxury traveler.

Here are seven resorts in the Maldives that are proving that it's possible to enjoy a luxury experience responsibly .

Over-water villas by a private, luxury island

1. Baros Maldives

Romantic, elegant, serene.

The Baros Maldives has been welcoming luxury travelers for nearly 50 years, and has perfected the combination of luxury, relaxation, and sustainability that is expected today. Located on a private island in the North Male Atoll, ringed by a living reef, Baros Maldives can be reached by speedboat only 25 minutes after leaving the airport. This resort features gorgeous villas perched over the peaceful waters or nestled discreetly under the jungle canopy.

But this resort is so much more than just a romantic destination, as their commitment to the natural environment shows. Their sustainable initiatives include installing LED lights, using biodegradable cleaning products, recycling water for garden irrigation, using a heat-exchange system to heat bath water, as well as CFC-free air conditioning. Baros also offers world-class diving at more than 30 dive sights and they established the first eco-dive center in the Maldives. Snorkeling excursions are guided by their resident marine biologist, or they offer tours to local villages and uninhabited islands.

eco travel maldives

2. LUX* South Ari Atoll

Adventurous, modern, upscale.

Only 25 minutes by seaplane from the airport, LUX* South Ari Atoll is the only resort located on the island Dhidhoofinolhu, one of the largest islands in the Maldives. With a wide array of water-sports (such as jet-surfing, flyboarding, hoverboarding, and snorkelling - not to mention the 5-star PADI dive centre), LUX* is a premier destination for travelers seeking adventurous activities, while also offering an expansive range of dining options, a kids club, and a spa.

Home to several resident whale sharks, LUX* is not only working to implement long-term conservation initiatives for these endangered animals, but has proved their commitment to protecting this tropical paradise. They also operate renewable energy and water saving measures. The LUX* brand has committed to offsetting 100% of carbon emissions, and LUX* South Ari Atoll aims to utilize roof space in order to run fully on solar power, which efforts have earned them the Travelife Gold Certification for sustainable tourism efforts.

eco travel maldives

3. Six Senses Laamu

Barefoot luxury, remote, natural.

Located on a secluded, private island in the stunning Laamu Atoll, Six Senses Laamu is a truly luxurious paradise featuring overwater villas with glass bathtubs, beach villas nestled into the jungle canopy for ultimate privacy, private pools, and personal butlers. In addition to their water activities and their spa, which offers some of the best trained therapists in the Maldives, Six Senses Laamu offers organic dining sourced from their very own organic garden located right below the restaurant. The wine cellar with its 21-foot tall wine tower offers tastings and degustation dinners, while the organic restaurant offers meals made with fresh garden ingredients or daily line-caught fish dishes.

Six Senses Laamu clearly respects the local communities and ecosystems, placing sustainability firmly at the center of their focus. Take a Sustainability Tour at their Earth Lab to see firsthand their innovative work to become self-sufficient and reduce waste, or dive beneath the turquoise waters to visit the resident manta rays and learn more from the in-house Marine Team, the largest of its kind in the Maldives. Not only does Six Senses Laamu work to protect its ocean inhabitants, the resort is also committed to having a positive impact on the local island communities with plastic free initiatives and education.

eco travel maldives

4. Soneva Fushi

Boutique, relaxed, intimate.

One of the best casual luxury resorts in the Maldives, Soneva Fushi is located on an expansive, remote island in the Baa Atoll and has worked hard to maintain the island's natural state so that a stay at this resort truly feels like journeying through a lush jungle. Tucked inside a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Soneva Fushi features some of the largest beachfront villas in the Maldives, an observatory, an underground wine cellar, a treetop restaurant, outdoor cinema, and even a Champagne Bar perched over the reef for enticing coral views.

Soneva Fushi's slow, relaxed feel continues into its ethos of sustainability, from the organic garden and mushroom house to their on-site solar power plant. The resort recycles or composts most of their waste and makes use of an on-site water reservoir to recycle and reuse rainwater. They even repurpose the wine, beer, and liquor bottles from the resort's bars into upcycled tableware and artworks at their glass-making studio.

eco travel maldives

5. Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru

Upscale, private, rejuvenating.

Situated on its own private island inside the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve within the Baa Atoll, Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru is known for its supreme luxury. Lavish overwater villas and beachfront bungalows feature private infinity pools, and the resort also features the only Olympic-size infinity pool in the Maldives. Experience relaxation and healing at the award-winning spa and Ayurvedic retreat or snorkel with the resident manta rays in perfect blue waters, or spend the day island-hopping aboard a luxury dive boat.

The Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru is also serious about sustainability with a mission to become carbon-neutral. The resort has eliminated plastic straws and water bottles and also has one of the Maldives' largest resort-based solar installations. The resort employs ten full-time marine biologists and runs programs for turtle rehabilitation, manta research, anemone mapping, and coral propogation, along with other conservation and research programs.

eco travel maldives

6. Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu

Tranquil, authentic, romantic.

Located in the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu is a peaceful paradise on a lush island. The atmosphere of the resort is casual and Maldivian-inspired with a focus on creating tranquil spaces for relaxation, well-being, and beautiful scenery. Home to incredible reefs and vibrant marine life, this resort offers a luxurious underwater experience for new and experienced divers alike. Onshore, enjoy the benefits of Ayurvedic-inspired treatments and a truly unique spa experience, including the option to have in-villa spa treatments.

Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu is one of the Maldives' most eco-friendly resorts, with a special focus on endangered sea turtles and marine conservation. Home to the Marine Turtle Rescue Centre, the resort rescues and rehabilitates sea turtles injured by fishing nets in the ocean and provides a safe nesting site for turtles as well as holding turtle release programs to increase the chance of survival for sea turtle babies. Alongside these efforts, Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu also has organic gardens, waste management and recycling programs, on-site drinkable water production, and a glass-bottling plant.

eco travel maldives

7. Gili Lankanfushi

Natural, romantic, barefoot luxury.

The beautiful Gili Lankanfushi is a tropical oasis designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, providing an all-encompassing luxurious experience. For those seeking a supremely private escape, eight of the over-water villas are accessible only by boat, providing ultimate serenity and relaxation. Enjoy world-class restaurants or private dining options, along with an underground wine cellar, cheese room, and chocolate cave. Relax at the spa or take part in the free yoga sessions before taking a dip in the crystal clear waters. This resort also provides a personal butler for each guest to anticipate your every desire.

Named the most eco-friendly hotel in the world in 2017, Gili Lankanfushi continues to put sustainability at the forefront in order to protect the fragile marine ecosystem and allow the natural paradise to thrive. Their eco-friendly initiatives include minimizing plastics, reducing waste, and conserving energy. They also maintain an organic herb and vegetable garden to supply their restaurants. Their new marine biology center, Gili Veshi, is both a research facility and educational experience for guests, and marine biologists oversee the Coral Lines Project to rehabilitate coral reefs. The resort recently launched a new 'Powered by Plants' program, a series of plant-based offerings and nature-based experiences, including plant-based meals, a vegan cooking class, plant-based in-room amenities, and a guided snorkel with a marine biologist, among other perks.

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10 Most Sustainable Luxury Resorts in Maldives

Maldives hotels | travel guide.

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Updated March, 2024

This days sustainability has become a key concept for tourist industry, with many travellers prefer more eco-friendly travel choices. Green travel makes a way that tourism can be maintained long-term without harming natural and cultural environments. One of the best ways to do this is to pick accommodation that supports eco-friendly and sustainable tourism when you travel.

Thanks to this fabulous growing trend, many luxury hotels in the Maldives have aligned their values with the eco-travellers, ensuring that resort's policy are in the interest of environmental conservation and that they put measures in place that preserve the local culture and support local businesses. From the latest eco-tech, to sustainable builds, to plastic-free products and coral restoration - staying in luxury can be even more enjoyable when you know you are doing your best for the environment .

Beneath the shimmering waters that surround the Maldives island archipelagos, a fragile world quietly rebuilds itself. If your aim is to travel ‘greener’ and to enjoy immersive experiences that allow you to connect fully with your chosen destination here are the 10 Maldives luxury resorts putting eco projects into action.

  • Adaaran Prestige Vadoo
  • OBLU SELECT Lobigili
  • Siyam World Maldives
  • Finolhu Baa Atoll Maldives
  • LUX* South Ari Atoll
  • Hard Rock Hotel Maldives
  • Anantara Veli Maldives
  • Atmosphere Kanifushi
  • Ayada Maldives
  • OZEN Reserve Bolifushi
  • Scubaspa Yang, Maldives
  • Emperor Serenity, Maldives
  • Maldives Aggressor II, Maldives
  • Carpe Novo, Maldives
  • Scubaspa Ying, Maldives
  • Azalea Liveaboard, Maldives
  • Blue Force One, Maldives
  • Blue Voyager, Maldives
  • Ocean Divine, Maldives
  • Emperor Leo, Maldives

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1 Patina Maldives, Fari Islands

 Patina Maldives, Fari Islands

Best Experience for: Ultra-luxury, Coples, Families, Groups, Foodies, activities, spa

Expensive and super stylish, Patina Maldives is a luxury resort in Male within the Fari Islands with a collection of stunning overwater villas in Maldives with best sunset views. Just a 50-minute journey by speedboat from the Velana airport, the luxurious resort of unique and radiant character offers 90 contemporary one- to three-bedroom Beach and Water Pool Villas, alongside 20 Fari Studios, all of which embody a harmony of sanctuary and stimulation. READ FULL REVIEW

From innovative architectural designs to coral conservation projects, Patina Maldives has consistently led in environmental stewardship, earning recognition such as the prestigious EarthCheck Silver Certification. A green initiatives include zero-waste kitchens utilising an on-site garden, bio-digesters, and a modern plant-based restaurant concept. Patina invests in green energy, planning to increase solar panels to cover 50% of energy needs by 2024. Check out the latest advancements in Patina' journey towards perpetuity —a commitment that extends beyond mere sustainability, shaping a legacy of positive influence on both people and the planet.

2 Constance Moofushi, Constance Halaveli

taj exotica water villas with view

Best Experience:  All Inclusive, Honeymoon, Beach, Diving

A fantastic island paradise surrounded by large turquoise lagoons and teasing white beaches, Constance Moofushi combines primitive simplicity with the highest standards of luxury and service. The luxury all inclusive resort is located in South Ari atoll - one of the best spots in the world to swim with whale shark. With the ubiquitous stamp of "wedding-honeymoon" in the Maldives, Constance Moofushi is famous golden beaches, romantic villas and brilliant gastronomy. Generous prices all inclusive holiday mood and DJ music will push you to throw the purse into the sea and break your passport to never leave this place.

Constance Moofushi Maldives is the private island where sustainability is second nature. Moofushi's team implemented a number of eco measures, adopted the best sustainable practices & green initiatives to become eco-luxury resort in Maldives. Committed to delivering the best of service while keeping an environment clean and sustainable, Constance Hotels & Resorts integrated environmental leadership into everything they do and adopt the best practices while complying with regulatory requirements. Today Constance Moofushi is a Gold member of the Green Globe certification. READ FULL REVIEW

Green Globe recently has re-certified Constance Halaveli for the sixth consecutive year. Located on the Maldives’ North Ari Atoll the luxurious resort remains committed to its sustainability goals and has successfully implemented numerous green initiatives over the past two years including Collaboration with Parley, Nature guide booklet and Green News Magazine. Accessible by a 35-minute seaplane flight from Male Airport, the resort offers beach and water villas, as well family villas and a range of superb fine wine-and-dining options are available. READ FULL REVIEW

3 Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts

taj exotica water villas with view

Best Experience:  All Inclusive, Honeymoon, Family ho;iday, Beaches, Diving

Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts, who currently operate eight resorts in the Maldives, have been committed to sustainability since their foundation. In this year three of the resorts have received Green Globe certification - OBLU Helengeli , OZEN by Atmosphere at Maadhoo and OBLU Select at Sangeli .

Teams at each property adhere to comprehensive sustainability plans to ensure effective resource management is carried out. Energy, water and waste reduction targets are benchmarked and monitored regularly to minimize environmental impacts. Energy saving technology is utilized at all three resorts. Solar panels have been installed on the roof tops of staff areas at each property as well as on floating platforms in the sea. All resorts use glass bottles for drinking water, and plastic straws are banned. Guests are actively encouraged to preserve nature and the surrounding underwater world, to help further protect the environment. In addition, the Maldivian culture and heritage is shared at the resorts, to ensure it is known and protected. LEARN MORE

4 Soneva Fushi, Soneva Jani

Maldives Luxury Water Villa Resort

Best Experience:  Crusoe Villas, the beach houses, Spa, Family Holiday, beaches

Awarded with white sandy beaches of a private island in Maldives, the Soneva Fushi's eco-chic villas are the material of the romantic fantasies of Robinson Crusoe. Drop your shoes and worries: with an luxury spa, hypnotic house reef and high quality butler services, you will not need anything on this laid-back playground of a beautiful uninhabited island. The eight categories of rooms, each trying to outdo the elegance of a neighbor, start with a simple Rehendi from 182 m2 to a huge Jungle Reserve villa of 720 m2, passing by Crusoe villas, apartments or even a new Water Retreats with slide. READ FULL REVIEW

The iconic resort has bagged several international awards for eco-friendly tourism and green initiatives, including the 2017 Green Hotelier Award for the Asia Pacific region and the Sustainable Hotel Award by the Hotel Investment Conference Asia Pacific (HICAP) as well as a spot in the Gold List compiled by Condé Nast Traveler China as the Best Hotel in the Maldives and amongst the best resorts in the world in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2017.

Soneva Jani is a zero-waste resort also – all waste are composted, reused, recycled or used in construction. A state-of-the-art Eco Centro waste-to-wealth facility processes all waste and provide an educational centre for guests and our local communities. Waste water is treated in natural filtration ponds and is used as nutrient-rich irrigation in the vegetable gardens. Villas are constructed using sustainable wood and the hand-woven interior fabrics come from Sri Lanka. The beach is renowned locally for its turtle population and the beautiful lagoon houses a stingray nursery and a manta ray feeding station. A 1.2 hectare vegetable gardens are supply the resort with fruit, vegetables and herbs for the kitchens. Solar panels cover the rooftops of the host accommodation, providing a clean energy. READ FULL REVIEW

Both Soneva resorts in the Maldives has been designed and built to world-leading sustainability standards. Every aspect of the Total Impact Assessment has considered, from protecting the local flora and fauna, to building strong community relationships with their neighbours. Every detail of the resort, whether it be front of house or behind-the-scenes host accommodation and operational facilities, has been considered to the finest detail, using the experience gained over 20 years of creating resorts that aim to set the benchmark for responsible tourism. LEARN MORE

5 LUX* South Ari Atoll

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa

Best Experience:  Couples, Family, Value, Beach, Diving, Dining, Whale Shark Watching, All Inclusive

Cutting-edge designer villas and world-class dining can be found only a 30-minute seaplane transfer away from Malé International Airport, making LUX* South Ari Atoll one of the most exciting resorts in the Maldives. With 187 private villas dotted at the water’s edge along four kilometres of powder fine beach or perched on stilts above a crystal clear lagoon, these spacious pavilions and villas bring an entirely original vibe of coastal, beach house chic to the Maldives. Excellent eating and drinking is always a cut above the rest at LUX*, and the all inclusive resort has the PADI 5-Star Dive Center, two infinity pools, a floodlit tennis court, a fitness centre and a renowned spa. READ FULL REVIEW

The resort has recently launched the world’s largest solar sea panels, and this is just the start of the many initiatives LUX* plans to undertake to care for the planet. Equipped with an onsite Marine Biology Centre to study and protect the native whale shark population, LUX* South Ari Atoll educates guests on eco tours and supports on-going scientific research. The marine centre staff are integral to removing ghost nets from the sea, which are deadly to many aquatic creatures. They are also responsible for regenerating coral to help support marine life. Sustainable development is at the core of everything they do, and highlights LUX* South Ari Atoll’s continued dedication to their sustainable development strategy. Green Globe certificate holder, LUX* South Ari Atoll has been awarded Leading Eco-Friendly Resort in the Maldives at the 2019 South Asian Travel Awards (SATA).

6 Kuramathi Maldives

eco travel maldives

Best Experience for:  Couples, Families, Foodies, Beach, All Inclusive, Diving, House Reef Snorkeling

Strips of pristine beaches, world-class diving, fine dining and knockout spa, Kuramathi Maldives is rated one of the best hotels in the Maldives and with good reason. Kuramathi is one of the Maldives' most popular resorts and it's perfect if you're looking for variety alongside relaxation. Here, pathways weave through lush foliage, leading to the excellent facilities that are dotted around this large island. There are two oceanfront infinity pools plus a lagoon-style pool shaded by palm trees, and snorkelling on the stunning house reef is possible straight from the beach READ FULL REVIEW

In 2022 Kuramathi Maldives received the Travelife Gold certification for the tenth consecutive year. Currently, Kuramathi Island has progressive practices implemented, such as offering glass bottles and water refilling stations for guest use, reef-safe sunscreens, monitoring changes in seawater by deploying new light and temperature loggers around the island. This year’s targets include installing automatic door closer in the guest villas, transitioning guest key cards to a wooden biodegradable version, and introducing biodigester for organic waste and turning it into compost, amongst others.

7   Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa

Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa

Best Experience:  Honeymoon, House Reef Snorkeling, beaches, Diving

With natural white beach, an azure lagoon and a 360° house reef to be enjoyed, Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa is award-winningly eco-friendly resort that not to be missed by fans of the deep blue sea. Sited in the heart of Huvadhoo Atoll, the largest and deepest atoll in the country, Hadahaa is small, round and verdant, and surrounded by one of the finest beaches in the country. With unsual architecture the luxury boutique resort has 50 villas, 20 of which have a private pool. There's a good choice of dining options, the luxurious Vidhun Spa add to a pure Maldivian healing experience, and dive & water sports centre. READ FULL REVIEW

An environmental and socially sustainable culture has always been an integral part of the resort’s daily operations since the very beginning. Green Globe recently recertified the Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa, reinforcing their Gold status. While provide guests with a barefoot luxury holiday experience, resource management is a key consideration at Hadaha. Water, electricity and fuel usage is monitored daily. The resort continues to focus on sourcing products locally and to date, conducts business with up to 70% of sustainable food and beverage suppliers. Eco-wood made of long lasting compressed bamboo is also utilized for replacement decking at the property. In bathrooms, reusable ceramic bottle amenities feature in place of disposable mini plastic bottles. Since 2015, plastic straws have been replaced with paper ones. To protect and sustain the pristine waters and corals surrounding the island, motorized water sports are not permitted. Coral reef monitoring is conducted monthly to evaluate the reef’s condition and recovery. During traditional Maldivian fishing trips offered by the resort, fish that do not meet the minimum length or are a protected species are released to ensure fish stock numbers are replenished.

8 Anantara Maldives resorts

Naladhu island holiday

Anantara runs five resorts in the Maldives offering a range of holiday options to suit all tastes whether you want to go on honeymoon, take the family, or simply looking for a winter sun beach break as a couple. Wherever you stay, Anantara’s gurus and islanders will be on hand to discover for you which side of the island to be on, the proportions of the villas, the quality of the house-reef for snorkelling or the best of the cocktail at sunset - any question you might have, they will know the answer to make your moments special. Tailor your Maldives island time to your pace and your passions.

Since 2012 Anantara Resorts has Green Globe Certification for its two resorts in the Maldives, Anantara Dhigu Resort & Spa and Anantara Veli Resort & Spa , that joining its latest Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas deluxe sanctuary. The exclusive Naladhu Private Island Maldives , managed by Anantara Resorts, has also been awarded this status under Green Globe’s standards. This recognition highlights Anantara Resorts’ sincere commitment to operating in an environmentally, socially and culturally responsible manner through a broad spectrum of eco-friendly initiatives in the Maldives.

All Anantara’s resorts in Maldives incorporate all aspects of sustainability standards in their daily operation, principally in environmental conservation such as water, energy and waste management efficiency. The resorts support their local communities and environment through corporate social responsibility programmes, and promote the islands’ social and cultural heritage through resort and local island experiences. LEARN MORE

9 Milaidhoo Island Maldives

Milaidhoo Island Maldives

Best Experience:   honeymoon, beach, diving, swimming with mantas

Intimate and stylish, at Milaidhoo it’s about enjoying the natural environment in understated luxury. Tucked in the heart of a UNESCO biosphere reserve on Baa atoll, surrounded by powdery white sands and nestled beside a colourful coral reef, Milaidhoo Maldives is a luxurious natural wonder. Envisage upscale delights with a ‘Reinvented Luxury’ twist, where guests will experience an indulgent escape in the Maldives’s most unique getaway. Created for couples and romance only, Milaidhoo welcomes children above the age of 9 years only. What's more, it is only 30 minutes by seaplane from Male or a 15 minute domestic flight followed by a short speedboat ride. READ FULL REVIEW

With it's premium location in the UNESCO world biosphere reserve, conservation of the precious environment is one of the resort's guiding philosophies. Being participants in the Green Globe certification process, Milaidhoo island implements a number of eco measures, adopted the best sustainable practices & green initiatives.

The boutique resort has a state-of-the-art water and STP. They use accredited eco-friendly chemicals in the laundry and cleaning. Milaidhoo has a coral regeneration programme in place and their guests can support this by ‘adopting’ a reef of their own, planting it and watching it grow over the years. The resort's team support and work with local charities and world foundations such as The Manta Trust and Manta Matcher, Shark Watch, Olive Ridley Turtle and Green Fins. As well all local environmental laws, standards and regulations are respected. These are kept updated and referred to regularly.

10 Baros Maldives

baros island

Best Experience:    Honeymoon, Beach, Spa, House Reef Snorkeling & Diving

Baros is a perfect honeymoon getaway located in the North Malé Atoll only a 25-minute by speedboat from Malé Airport. With a variety of villas to choose from, these very stylish settings make this the ideal island retreat for couples young and old. Located on a beautiful private island with a crystal clear coral lagoon, Baros is a 5 * star boutique hotel in the Maldives that will surpass all of your highest fantasies of the "dream island". Surrounded by clean, warm waters and snow-white sands, with groves of coconut palms and fragrant flowers, this cozy resort landscape is really worthy of fainting. The team is serene modern rooms (including water villas), fine dining, a fantastic spa, a large swimming pool and water entertainment from a luxury yacht to diving and yoga. READ FULL REVIEW

With initiatives including biodegradable cleaning products, installing LED lights, using a heat-exchange system to heat bath water, recycling water for garden irrigation and using CFC-free air conditioning, Baros have carefully nurtured the natural eco-systems of the island, the lagoon and the majestic underwater world beyond. For over 47 years Baros has been, and always will be an enchanting natural wonderland. Baros' team organise awareness programmes with tours to neighbouring villages and uninhabited islands, and diving and snorkelling activities to promote understanding of ecological issues.

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8 Maldives resorts promoting sustainable, eco-friendly tourism

As the threat of global warming looms across the scattered islands of the Maldives, its luxury resorts are working to minimise the damage and save this iconic destination

Story By Paul Chai

Published On February 19, 2019 Updated On January 6, 2022

The tiny atolls of the Maldives draw luxury lovers from all over the world, but these low-lying collections of sand will also be the first to be affected by the rising sea levels and coral bleaching of climate change. It therefore makes sense that many of the region’s luxury resorts are carving out a niche as leaders in sustainable and eco-friendly tourism. These eight resorts are leading the way in preserving the area.

maldives eco friendly tourism

1. Fairmont Maldives

Set on Sirru Fen Fushi (Secret Water Island), a private island in the northern atoll of Shaviyani, the Fairmont Maldives is fringed by a lush mangrove forest and a natural lagoon. The area teems with marine life – from sea turtles to hermit crabs – and the surrounding sea is home to several manta ray cleaning stations. Marine biologist Samuel Dixon lives on-site and is in charge of a worthy coral regrowth program as well as guided tours for guests, while the in-house art gallery – with installations designed to highlight the effect of climate change on the marine ecosystem and the relationship between humans and the sea – encourages guests to interact with the local coral and ocean life.

2. Eco Dive Club, Maafushi

Using dives to educate travellers on the delicate local eco-system, Eco Dive Club allows its volunteers to explore the undersea utopia that has made the Maldives famous – but also asks them to do a little bit of work along the way. Volunteers can do their part to help collect marine waste via beach and reef clean-up excursions or become underwater gardeners by helping to plant coral – holiday diving never left you feeling this good.

maldives eco friendly tourism

3. Four Seasons Maldives at Kuda Haraa

The Marine Discovery Centre at the Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Haraa was first established in 2011 and acts as an education and conservation hub. It’s also the headquarters of the Maldivian Sea Turtle Conservation Program; five of the world’s seven species of sea turtles call this idyllic part of the world home, including the endangered hawksbill and green turtles. Guests can get involved in the protection and rehabilitation of the animals, including watching rescued green turtles being raised from tiny hatchlings and then released back into the ocean. There are also 3D movies and 2D presentations on shark and dolphin conservation screened regularly. The group has three lavish – but just as environmentally friendly – properties in the Maldives.

maldives eco friendly tourism

4. Reethi Beach Resort

A short plane ride from Malé is Baa Atoll, and you’ll find Reethi Beach Resort on the nearby island of Fonimagoodhoo – a tiny speck in the ocean that is just over half a kilometre in length. Yet, even an island this remote is still not free of the world’s plastic pollution, so the resort is determined not to add to the problem. In order to do its part, Reethi Beach Resort employs an innovative water conservation system: it captures rainwater and bottles its own drinking water in reusable glass bottles, saving an estimated 400 disposable plastic bottles a day.

maldives eco friendly tourism

5. Six Senses Laamu

One of the biggest environmental costs of staying at a remote luxury resort – such as those you’ll find in the Maldives – is the sheer effort and food miles that it takes to bring guests their many fine-dining meals. At the Six Senses Laamu, the Earth Lab aims to alleviate this problem by growing as much produce as it can on the premises, bottling its own water, using natural insecticides to ward off bugs and looking at all forms of sustainability in an effort to eventually achieve their zero-waste goal. Its dive shop, Deep Blue Divers, is also certified by Green Fins, a global initiative to reduce the environmental impact of marine tourism.

6. Parley Ocean School

Making it easier to recycle on the disparate islands of the Maldives is a key aim of the Parley Ocean School – an offshoot of the global Parley for the Oceans project. One of the organisation’s key aims is to mitigate the amount of plastic entering the oceans, which it does through spreading global awareness, organising ocean clean-ups and creating innovative consumer products out of recycled plastics collected from the ocean. Their clean-up efforts were so successful that Adidas even made a shoe from the recycled plastic waste collected from the Maldives a couple of years back.

maldives eco friendly tourism

7. Kuramathi Island Resort

A desalination plant is helping to keep the pristine beaches of the Maldives’ Kuramathi Island Resort – a boutique accommodation aimed at the couples market – free of plastic bottles, but the establishment is also a leader in other areas of conservation. Since 1999, the resort’s Eco Centre has been doing coral reef research and taking care of a coral reef nursery, in addition to offering snorkelling safaris with a trained marine biologist. It also has a hydroponic garden that produces vegetables and makes use of solar energy.

maldives eco friendly tourism

8. Lux South Ari Atoll

Utilising all the unseen roof space at this upscale luxury resort, Lux South Ari Atoll aims to run fully on solar power and eliminate the need for diesel-powered electricity and the pollution that comes with it. The resort – which has bagged Travelife Gold Certification in recognition of its sustainable tourism efforts – estimates that the project saves it from using around 234,000 litres of diesel per year.

To learn more about Singapore Airlines flights, visit  singaporeair.com . For updates and travel advisories, please visit Ministry of Foreign Affairs’  website .

This article was originally published in the February 2019 issue of SilverKris magazine

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Ecotourism World

Your Maldives Vacation: An Eco-Friendly Island Getaway

The Republic of Maldives is an intensely one-of-a-kind nation—composed of 26 atolls, or ring-shaped coral reefs, the nation is an archipelago state surrounded by rich marine wildlife perfect to experience on your Maldives vacation. Its land area is quite small at roughly 298 square kilometers, yet it’s emerged as a renowned, remote, serene nature-surrounded destination for travelers from around the world. 

Ecotourism is on the rise there, as the future of the nation itself as well as Maldives tourism depends on the health of the environment. Ecotourism is defined by the Global Ecotourism Network as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and creates knowledge and understanding through interpretation and education of all involved: visitors, staff and the visited”. 

A rich yet increasingly fragile ecosystem surrounds the islands—shallow coasts, deep seas, reef ecosystems, wetlands, drylands, and birds, to briefly name a few aspects. Additionally, there are over 1,000 species of fish, and 21 species of whales and dolphins. Many people travel to Maldives with hopes of seeing the shores lit up at night from the bioluminescent organisms. You can look forward to these sights on your Maldives vacation, while also dedicating effort to doing your part in maintaining its untouched nature. 

The Evolution of Tourism on the Islands

Those looking to travel to Maldives are probably all too familiar with the stunning beaches, floating bungalows, and endless marine activities often photographed, attracting around 650,000 travelers per year. As of 2018, the Maldives operated 130 island-resorts. Between 2018 and 2021, close to 50 island-resorts opened or are in the process of doing so, and this growth rate has been fairly typical for the last ten years. Tourism accounts for 30% of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product. 

However, the pristine beaches of the Maldives haven’t always been open to visitors—the Ministry of Tourism is actually getting ready to celebrate the 50th year of Maldives tourism in 2022. And, interestingly, the Maldives were strictly separated into “resort islands” that travelers could go to, and “local islands” that were closed off for visitors and only Maldivians lived, for much of this time. However, since a change in government regulations in 2009, travelers can stay among the local population rather than just privately-owned land, which marked a significant change to Maldives tourism. Now, more tours are available to interact with local Maldivians, learn about the culture, and support local businesses. 

In addition to relaxing in the sun, you can enjoy many activities on your Maldives vacation—popular ones offered throughout the islands are snorkeling, SCUBA diving, parasailing, and other marine activities. Most wildlife you’ll see is marine wildlife, such as sharks, turtles, dolphins, whales, 2,000 species of fish, and of course, the famed coral reefs. 

However, the Maldives’ tourism industry is under some pressure as the ecosystem is increasingly fragile both due to climate change and development; where there used to be untouched marine life, there are now bungalows and underwater restaurants. Because of the industry’s importance, climate change is especially a crucial point—they are one of the island nations anticipated to be most impacted by rising sea levels. 

What Ecotourism in the Maldives Looks Like Now

eco travel maldives

While Maldives tourism has generated a lot of money, it also presents environmental consequences. With 80% of land sitting less than one meter above sea level, climate change has the power to affect the ecosystem hugely and affect the whole economy. Therefore, ecotourism is receiving more attention from the government and individual resorts, some of whom are adopting missions for complete self-sufficiency and house a resident marine biologist. 

Therefore, there are some policies that the Maldives has adopted to encourage ecotourism, as well as local initiatives and NGO operations which establish things like plastic clean-up days and educational environmental tours. In 2009, the government established more regulations on marine activities and created protected biospheres. 

Additionally, the government created the President of Maldives Green Resort Award in the early 2000’s to encourage local resorts to adopt green and sustainable policies by awarding just one each year with the title. Travelers also pay a flat $6 (USD) “Green Tax” per day on private resorts—for local guesthouses, it’s only $3. The revenue from the tax is used for waste management and conservation efforts. However, resorts still vary widely with their sustainability practices, making it necessary to research the initiatives by any specific resort while planning your Maldives vacation. 

The Center for Responsible Travel , a global nonprofit based in Washington D.C., suggests staying at local guest houses if you travel to Maldives as opposed to internationally-owned resorts. This way, you can interact with culture both socially and economically and leave a lighter carbon footprint. Oftentimes, more of your expenses will go back into the Maldivian economy as you’re not staying in a foreign-owned private resort. 

Additionally, the Ministry of Tourism and the United Nations Development Programme signed a “Re-Imagining Tourism” Project in April 2021. This community-based tourism development plan ensures more significant dividends to nature and communities, and provides increased opportunities for women and youth. Specifically, it includes measures to escalate marketing of local opportunities, establish sustainability standards for resort islands, and reskill women and youth to be able to more fully participate in the tourism industry. Within it is an overarching goal to create more robust local island tourism development plans. 

Ecotours To Experience on Your Maldives Vacation

eco travel maldives

While Maldives tourism often revolves around viewing marine wildlife and relaxing on the beach, there are a range of diverse ecotours to fill your time. You’re able to do many marine excursions through resorts (which is another reason to pick a more ecofriendly establishment), but there are also a few more localized tours that emphasize supporting the Maldivian economy. 

For example, Secret Paradise is a tour company that curates various itineraries for you to pick from— snorkeling tours, sandbank trips, or more cultural-oriented ones such as food and walking tours in Malé, the capital city, to  name just a few. They offer half-day, full-day, and multi-day excursions to incorporate into your Maldives vacation. Working with local communities is a pillar to their work; all tour guides are locals, and the company embraces educating travelers on topics like reef etiquette and encouraging them to take plastic waste home. Most of their tours invite travelers to purchase local arts, crafts, and food from local businesses.  

With Secret Paradise, you can also take very environmentally-focused trips in partnership with the cleanup and reef rehabilitation organization called Save the Beach. 

If you’re looking for a remote beach getaway, the Maldives certainly has some more eco-friendly options for you to discover on both local islands and on private resorts. Lean into ecotourism on your serene, calm, yet adventure-packed Maldives vacation!

Would you like to know more about eco-friendly travel? To receive inspiration directly to your email inbox, please click  here  and subscribe to the Ecotourism World newsletter!

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Pickyourtrail Travel Blog

Eco Friendly Resorts in the Maldives: Travel with nature awareness

The Maldives is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and ought to be on everyone’s wish list. This tropical paradise is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life. As we all know, tourism is one of the country’s key sectors, and there is rising worry about its environmental impact. In order to promote a sustainable environment, the number of eco-friendly resorts in the Maldives has increased in recent years. These eco friendly resorts in the Maldives stand out for their dedication to protecting the environment and encouraging sustainable lifestyles. They limit waste, employ renewable energy sources, and take actions to lessen their carbon imprint.

Together with the stunning natural surroundings of the Maldives, these resorts give their guests unique and responsible travel experiences. Book a Maldives tour package , make a trip to this paradise soon and enjoy the ideal fantasy getaway with your loved ones.

Eco Friendly Resorts in the Maldives

Top Eco Friendly Resorts in the Maldives are:

Here are the top Eco Friendly Resort choices in the Maldives to choose from. Have a look –

  • Sun Siyam Olhuveli
  • Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa
  • Dusit Thani Maldives
  • Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Maldives
  • Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi
  • Royal Island Resort and Spa
  • Constance Halaveli Maldives
  • Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives
  • Taj Coral Reef Resort & Spa
  • Conrad Maldives Rangali Island
  • Meeru Island Resort & Spa
  • Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru
  • Sun Island Resort & Spa
  • Reethi Beach Resort Maldives
  • SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton
  • The Barefoot Eco Hotel
  • Dhawa Ihuru
  • Constance Moofushi Maldives

1. Sun Siyam Olhuveli

Sun Siyam Olhuveli is a luxury resort in the Maldives’ South Malé Atoll that is bordered by turquoise waters and immaculate white sand beaches, providing its visitors with a calm and private escape. The resort offers a variety of opulent accommodation options, including beach villas, over-water villas, and deluxe rooms. The resort also offers a variety of activities to give visitors a genuine and thrilling Maldivian experience. In addition to everything else, Sun Siyam Olhuveli is dedicated to responsible tourism and sustainability. A variety of environmentally friendly methods, such as solar energy, water conservation, and trash management, have been introduced at the resort and can be a great choice to explore.

Eco Friendly Resorts in the Maldives

2. Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa

The Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa is a premium eco-certified resort on a secluded island in the Malé Atoll. The resort is conveniently accessible by seaplane from the Velana International Airport and offers a variety of accommodations on beach and water. Visitors can also enjoy a range of activities, including water sports, snorkelling, and diving, and can savour delicious delicacies at the in-house restaurants and bars. Therefore, it can be a wonderful home away from home in this paradise.

Also Read: Water villas in Maldives

3. Dusit Thani Maldives

Dusit Thani Maldives offers a lavish retreat unmatched by any other. It is nestled on a white-sand island surrounded by blue waters and beautiful coral reefs. Be astounded by its unwavering devotion to sustainability and the environment. Every element of this resort, from the state-of-the-art desalination plant to the eco-friendly villas constructed from sustainable materials, has been created with the utmost respect for the Maldives’ stunning natural surroundings.

4. Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Maldives

A paradise on earth, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa , Maldives, combines luxury with sustainability. It is located on a private island and features opulent villas and suites with spectacular Indian Ocean views. They use natural building elements like wood, stone, and thatch while running the resort on solar energy. Through the guided nature strolls, snorkelling excursions, and other environmentally friendly activities, visitors can discover the island’s biodiversity.

Eco Friendly Resorts in the Maldives

5. Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi

Next on the list is The Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, a sanctuary of white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and lush tropical vegetation. This location has implemented a number of eco-friendly measures, including an on-site desalination facility that meets all of our water demands, solar panels that generate clean energy, and a coral propagation programme that helps maintain the Maldives’ biodiversity. Also, visitors can take part in a variety of eco-friendly activities like reef regeneration projects, snorkelling excursions, and beach clean-ups. Get the best vacation of your life by choosing to stay at the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi.

6. Royal Island Resort and Spa

Go to the magnificent Royal Island Resort & Spa, a tropical haven situated in the heart of the Maldives! This resort offers beautiful vistas, comfortable lodgings, mouthwatering eating options, thrilling activities, and much more. It is a proud eco-certified resort, which implies that it has adopted a variety of sustainable measures across our resort. Our environmental measures include using eco-friendly cleaning supplies, energy-efficient lighting, and a desalination plant that meets all of your water needs. Visitors may appreciate the natural beauty of the Maldives while engaging in a variety of environmentally beneficial activities, such as snorkelling and diving, with no negative influence on the environment.

7. Constance Halaveli Maldives

Another excellent option for a stay in the Maldives is Constance Halaveli Maldives . In the centre of the Halaveli Islands, it is an opulent island resort surrounded by lovely beaches and sparkling waters. This location is home to a variety of villas, from beach villas to overwater villas, and offers the authentic Maldives experience. Constance Halaveli is dedicated to sustainability and has put in place a number of green initiatives. Constance Halaveli offers unparalleled luxury to its visitors from all around the world.

Eco Friendly Resorts in the Maldives

8. Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives

Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives is another environmentally friendly resort on the list. It is a premium resort on the lovely island of Kuredhivaru in the Noonu Atoll. There are 72 beach villas and overwater villas at the resort, each with a private pool and breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. The Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives is also dedicated to sustainability and has been participating in a number of conservation and community projects, such as a coral regeneration programme and attempts to decrease plastic waste. Along with everything else, this location is prepared to provide the greatest care possible for visitors.

9. Taj Coral Reef Resort & Spa

In the stunning North Malé Atoll of the Maldives lies the luxurious resort Taj Coral Reef Resort & Spa . The resort offers 62 magnificent villas, delectable dining options, a wide variety of water sports, spa treatments, and much more. The Taj Coral Reef Resort & Spa is dedicated to sustainability and actively participates in a number of community and conservation initiatives. The resort has a special “Coral Adoption Program” that enables visitors to plant their own coral fragments in the resort’s coral garden, helping to preserve and restore the regional coral reef ecosystem.

10. Conrad Maldives Rangali Island

Imagine a destination with miles of white sand and turquoise waters, palm trees swaying in the soft air, and lavish villas with breath-taking views of the Indian Ocean! Welcome to Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, a picture-perfect haven nestled in the Maldives. The resort has 12 restaurants and bars, a spa, a fitness centre, and a variety of activities and amenities to enjoy. It also has two private islands that are joined by a bridge. Take advantage of its superb hospitality and create lifelong memories.

conrad maldives rangali island

11. Meeru Island Resort & Spa

The Meeru Island Resort & Spa is the ideal location for a honeymoon, family holiday, or solo hideaway. This stunning island getaway is situated in the North Malé Atoll and is one of the great eco friendly resorts in the Maldives. The resort’s luxurious 284 guest rooms are spread out over 1200 metres of immaculate beach and are flanked by crystal-clear waters. Delicious eating options, a variety of amenities and activities, a fitness centre, and a spa are all available at the resort. As a result of Meeru Island Resort & Spa’s well-known warm and welcoming hospitality, visitors can anticipate being treated like family from the time you arrive.

Also read: Best Maldives Tour Operators: Make Your Dream Vacation a Reality!

12. Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru

Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru is a premium island resort in the Maldives’ North Malé Atoll. You can find here everything you could possibly need on your vacation. Furthermore, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru is renowned for its dedication to eco-friendly tourism, with a focus on preserving the environment and assisting the neighbourhood. The resort has a lot of eco-friendly measures in place and draws visitors from all around the world. Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru is the ideal location for a magnificent and unforgettable Maldives trip thanks to its immaculate beaches, blue ocean, and top-notch amenities.

13. Sun Island Resort & Spa

Sun Island Resort & Spa is a lovely island resort on Nalaguraidhoo Island in the Maldives’ South Ari Atoll. Along with offering luxurious amenities including lavish villas, scrumptious food, exciting activities, and much more, Sun Island Resort & Spa is also dedicated to eco-friendly practises and has put in place a variety of efforts to lessen its carbon footprint and safeguard the environment. Sun Island Resort & Spa is the ideal spot for a relaxing and eco friendly vacation in the Maldives, thanks to its pristine beaches, clear waters, and commitment to sustainability.

Sun Island Resort and Spa

14. Reethi Beach Resort Maldives

The Reethi Beach Resort is another option on the list. It is a gorgeous island resort situated in the Maldives’ Baa Atoll. The resort has 128 villas, a variety of activities and services, a large selection of international cuisine, a fitness centre, a spa, and so much more. The Reethi Beach Resort is famous for its untouched surroundings, lush greenery, and a healthy coral reef ecology. It is the ideal location for a peaceful and revitalising Maldives vacation because of its serene ambiance, magnificent nature, and dedication to sustainability.

15. SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection

The SAii Lagoon Maldives Curio Collection by Hilton is the ideal location for a unique and enjoyable Maldives trip because of its lively and exciting atmosphere, high-class amenities, and dedication to sustainability and education. It is a stunning island resort with 198 guest rooms, including beach villas, overwater villas, and suites, and is situated on the Emboodhoo Lagoon in the Maldives. In addition to all of this, you will not have to worry about finding good cuisine, relaxation, comfort, or thrills because everything is available here at its finest. The most notable feature of SAii Lagoon Maldives is its lively and jovial ambiance, which has colourful furnishings and a variety of entertaining activities for people of all ages.

16. The Barefoot Eco Hotel

The Barefoot Eco Hotel is a one-of-a-kind and environmentally friendly resort, nestled in the Maldives’ island of Hanimaadhoo. It is focused on sustainability and has put in place a number of environmentally friendly programmes, such as a solar power system, a water system, and a waste disposal system that uses composting and recycling. The resort also runs turtle conservation initiatives and a coral regeneration project, sounds fun, right?  For those looking for a mindful and responsible tourist resort in the Maldives, The Barefoot Eco Hotel offers an exclusive Maldives vacation experience with its focus on sustainability and distinctive natural surroundings.

Eco Friendly Resorts in the Maldives

17. Dhawa Ihuru

Dhawa Ihuru is a beautiful island resort in the North Malé Atoll. You won’t regret your visit at this resort because it offers luxurious accommodations, exquisite food, thrilling water sports, soothing spa treatments, and much more. Dhawa Ihuru is dedicated to sustainability and has carried out several eco-friendly projects as well, making it the ideal happy place. Dhawa Ihuru is the ideal Maldives resort for a relaxed and environmentally responsible vacation.

18. Constance Moofushi Maldives

Last but not least, the Constance Moofushi Maldives is a glorious island resort situated in the South Ari Atoll. The resort is well-liked by tourists and is recognized for its outstanding hospitality and amenities. Build some unforgettable experiences with your loved ones as you take in the breathtaking natural splendour, including the immaculate white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. This eco-certified resort can undoubtedly be your next vacation destination!

Be a responsible traveller and enjoy a unique, sustainable getaway with your loved ones. Pick from any of these 18 resorts to get the ideal getaway in the Maldives that you are hoping for. Visit Pickyourtrail to have everything delivered right to your door. Choose from the top Maldives honeymoon packages at fantastic prices, or customise your own unique Maldives itinerary just as you want to. Plan your eco-friendly holiday as soon as possible and create memories like no other! Contact our travel experts to clear up any confusion. Travel is just a click away; see you soon!

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Arundhati Toshniwal

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Accommodation

Experiences.

Ecoboo Maldives

Ecoboo Maldives

Unforgettable and sustainable experiences, welcome to ecoboo maldives.

The name “Ecoboo” is a combination of ECOlogic and BamBOO. 

We are an Eco Boutique Hotel located in Thinadhoo, Vaavu Atoll in the Republic of Maldives, with a unique concept.

The bamboo is used throughout the hotel’s construction, exterior walls, interior design and furniture, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. 

We have around 8.000 poles, equivalent to 45km of bamboo in our facilities.

We design everything from the beginning, always thinking about the environment. Under our sustainable principles we engaged on many initiatives, such as energy, resources, recycling and water. We have been implementing good practices to promote eco initiatives, with our staff, guests and with the local community!

We are a familiar hotel, and once you stay with us, you will be part of the Ecoboo family. Our goal here is to make you feel at home and show you what the true Maldives has to offer in a sustainable way. 

Sustainability is not a trend but a way of being, and it's the only possible way to move towards a balanced planet.

Ecoboo Thinadhoo 1203

Our boutique hotel has 40 rooms built with a unique bamboo construction concept reflecting the sustainability principles that guide and inspire us to achieve a neutral carbon footprint.

Besides the accommodation for your vacation, Ecoboo´s aim is to provide unforgettable “experiences” and achieve or exceed your satisfaction, to have you back as part of out the family.

To make your journey easier we designed the “pack experiences” with an “all inclusive” price while providing the flexibility to adjust it to your dream vacation needs.

Enjoy paradise and relax

Ecoboo Maldives

Terms and Conditions:

Check availabity.

The Barefoot Eco Hotel Logo

Enchanting retreat where body and spirit are nurtured and restored

Rooms nestled among 4 hectares of tropical vegetation and a turquoise lagoon, we love what we do for you, we care, sustainability is our mission.

eco travel maldives

The Barefoot Eco Hotel is located in the preserved deep North of the Maldives, on the charming local island of Hanimaadhoo in the Haa Dhaalu Atoll.

Enjoy the aerial view of the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean on your 45 minute domestic flight from Male International Airport.

Our 4 star resort is immersed in an untouched nature to give you not only privacy but also the opportunity to discover the true Maldives.

A private, half mile sandy beach and 64 comfortable rooms frame the hotel, inviting you to experience an authentic and relaxing holiday at outstanding value.

Guest Services

eco travel maldives

RESTAURANT & BARS

eco travel maldives

ACTIVITIES & EXCURSIONS

eco travel maldives

DIVING CENTER

eco travel maldives

SPA & YOGA

eco travel maldives

USEFUL INFORMATION

Seminar room

Wireless connection throughout the hotel

Library featuring a variety of books

Board games

Bowls court

Well equipped Gym

Diving Center

Swimming pool

Water sports

Resident Marine Biologist

Boutique with tailoring service

In-House Laundry

Multilingual staff

Renewal of vows can be organized at the hotel

Children service: baby cot and high chair on request

Major credit cards accepted

Another fantastic stay at the Barefoot Hotel This was our second holiday at the Barefoot Hotel and, same as the first time, it was another totally relaxing, beautiful experience. Set in lush native gardens there is a peaceful and quiet atmosphere throughout the entire place, which is a credit to the behind the scene staff. The resort Boutique and tailor are extremely accommodating and welcoming. The quality, choice and quick turnaround of shirts, trousers and other items was just amazing. […]
Se solo potessi dare sei stelle…! Non saprei da dove iniziare per descrivere la vacanze che ho appena trascorso con mio marito al Barefoot. Posso intanto dire che è stata la vacanza assolutamente più bella che abbiamo fatto in tanti anni insieme. Partiamo dal fatto che l’organizzazione dall’arrivo in aeroporto a Malè fino all’arrivo al Barefoot è ineccepibile: un viaggio senza pensieri! All’arrivo non si riesce a credere nella bellezza del resort e della sua spiaggia. Sabbia bianca, acqua cristallina di un azzurro intenso da mozzare il fiato.
Parfaite magique familiale paradisiaque Janvier 2023 du 7 au 15 séjour incroyable donc réservation janvier 2024 du 7 au 15 trop contentes ma fille et moi d y retourner une 2eme fois. Et la magie opére une fois encore. Un séjour d une feerie totale le personnel trop content de nous revoir. Nous étions donc dans un hôtel familial avec un personnel fantastique. Les cuistots les barmen les jardiniers le serveur de plage le personnel de la boutique ceux du diving center les réceptionnistes la direction les hommes de ménage tout le monde est parfait et surtout courageux. Un paradis sur terre pour passer des vacances en paix dans un cadre idyllique.
Wir kommen wieder Es war ein Mädelstrip ins Paradies. Hier stimmt der Slogan des Hotels “We love what we do for you” Die Zimmer sind sehr groß und sauber, das Essen ist sehr sehr gut und das komplette Personal mehr als nur freundlich. Sehr zu empfehlen sind die Ausflüge, hier bleibt kein Wunsch offen, schnorcheln mit Mantas, Schildkröten Delfinen und sogar Haien. Wir kommen auf jeden fall wieder. […]
First of all I would like to say that it’s the first place where we didn’t feel like guests in a hotel. The staff was very open and friendly and got to know a couple of them and their stories. So, I would advice giving them a couple minutes when they will interrupt you when you want to get a bite of that delicious piece of food that you have in your fork :) The diving center is run by Luca, who took great care of me (I’m not a certified diver), and offered me a great experience, and made everything look super easy. […]
Nous revenons d’un séjour de 8 jours au Barefoot et que dire ….tout était absolument PARFAIT, et ce Depuis notre prise en charge par l’hôtel à l’aéroport de Male pour le vol domestique (et idem au retour ). Concernant l hôtel , rien à redire : service impeccable , que ce soit serveurs , réception , diving center , vraiment TOUT le personnel était charmant , discret et aux petits soins . Les chambres étaient fantastiques (chambres 42 et 43 Beachside) , spacieuses, vue sur la mer , les pieds dans le sable. […]
Il paradiso in terra. Cucina ottima con pasta italiana, verdure fresche e cucinate o condite tutti i giorni, pesce crudo e cotto, dolci anche vegani. Staff gentile e discreto ma sempre disponibile. Camere e bagno ampie con terrazzino. E poi… una spiaggia bianca enorme e indimenticabile. Ombrelloni e sdraio sempre a disposizione. È tutto legno corallo e pietra. Un immersione totale nella natura. Il mare stupendo con un piccolo reef raggiungibile a nuoto e… tanti colori di blu. Escursioni giornaliere […]
Ein cooles Hotel, komme sicher noch einmal. Es gibt sehr schöne Zimmer mit einem sehr coolen Ausblick auf das Meer. Das Personal ist sehr nett und zuvorkommend. Das Essen war abwechslungsreich und schmeckte sehr gut.

eco travel maldives

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GLOBAL SUSTAINABLE TOURISM COUNCIL

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eco travel maldives

Why Visit The Maldives Of Michigan This Summer

Discover Torch Lake's stunning sandbars, a Maldives-like paradise with crystal clear waters, in Northern Michigan.

  • Torch Lake rivals the Maldives with crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches - a hidden gem in Northern Michigan.
  • Enjoy a variety of water activities at Torch Lake, from boating to fishing, in the warm summer months from June to August.
  • Immerse yourself in the local culture of Rapid City near Torch Lake, with markets, festivals, and spontaneous gatherings.

For those who think the allure of the Maldives can only be found halfway across the world, Northern Michigan's hidden gem, Torch Lake Sandbar, offers a captivating and distinctly American alternative. Dubbed "The Maldives of Michigan," this area boasts one of the clearest lakes you can see right in the American West . It features stunning turquoise waters and inviting white-sand shores, creating a picturesque summer escape in the heart of the United States.

Situated near Rapid City and Traverse City, Torch Lake Sandbar is perfect for vacationers seeking natural beauty and outdoor fun. Explore these seven reasons to visit this summer and discover why Torch Lake Sandbar should top any trending bucket list destinations in the US . It promises unforgettable memories and a unique experience without the need for a long-haul flight, ensuring travelers won’t miss out on this extraordinary hidden treasure.

Michigan's "Moab Of The Midwest" Is An Underrated Scenic Gem

Torch lake boasts crystal-clear waters and white sand, torch like rivals the allure of the maldives with picturesque beaches.

Torch Lake , with its turquoise waters and white sandy bottom, is one of many Michigan lakes with sandy beaches . It has been compared by visitors to Caribbean destinations based on its beauty and rightfully earned the nickname "The Maldives of Michigan." Its pristine conditions are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking in the beautiful scenery.

The shallow waters of the sandbar are ideal for families and casual swimmers, making it a welcoming spot for everyone. Encircled by natural beauty, Torch Lake provides a serene escape where visitors can relax and savor the picturesque views — much like they could in the Maldives.

The summer months (June to August) are ideal for visiting the Torch Lake sandbar because the weather is the warmest.

Torch Lake Is Home To A Unique Geological Formation

Torch lake’s natural wonder makes it a fascinating travel destination.

The sandbar at Torch Lake is a natural wonder formed over thousands of years through sediment deposition. This geological marvel creates a shallow, warm water area ideal for wading and floating, a stark contrast to the deeper, cooler waters of the main lake.

The unique formation provides a distinctive environment that is both relaxing for visitors and fascinating for geology enthusiasts.

The sandbar is best accessed by boat. Several local businesses offer boat rentals and tours if you don’t have your own vessel.

16 Amazing Facts About Lake Michigan You Probably Didn't Know

There is no shortage of water activities in the maldives of michigan, choose from countless activities, from the adrenaline rush of water sports to the relaxation of sunbathing on a boat.

Torch Lake is already one of the many must-visit places you should see in Michigan . For those who are avid water lovers, it offers a diverse range of water activities suitable for all ages. Boating is particularly popular, with the lake teeming with pontoons, speedboats, and jet skis, all available for rental if visitors don't bring their own.

For a more peaceful experience, kayaking and paddleboarding provide excellent ways to explore the lake's expanse of crystal-clear waters. Anglers can enjoy fishing among the lake’s rich aquatic life, with local shops providing all the necessary gear.

The shallow waters are generally safe, but always monitor weather conditions and be aware of boat traffic.

Torch Lake Has An Eclectic Local Culture And Serves Up A Variety Of Events

Local markets, festivals and impromptu events add to the vibrant feel of torch lake.

Rapid City, the nearest town to Torch Lake, features a distinctive local culture with a welcoming small-town feel. Visitors can engage with Northern Michigan's character through diverse events, markets, and festivals.

The Torch Lake Sandbar is known for spontaneous gatherings, particularly around holidays like the Fourth of July, offering an energetic and memorable experience. The area's inclusive and varied community ensures everyone feels comfortable, immersed in the genuine spirit and dynamism of the Midwest.

No Ocean Needed: 10 Best Beaches In Michigan To Visit

Explore ecotourism at torch lake, indulge in an array of educational and guided adventures.

Visitors of all ages have a variety of opportunities to explore the diverse ecosystems in the region, such as wetlands, forests, and meadows, while gaining valuable insights into the conservation efforts in the state. Torch Lake and its surrounding area — including Traverse City — is an excellent choice for individuals passionate about the environment.

The region's dedication to safeguarding its scenic landscapes ensures that eco-conscious visitors can enjoy an educationally fulfilling visit while contributing to conservation projects in Northern Michigan. Activities like guided nature walks, wildlife observation, and participation in local conservation practices allow visitors to support preservation of the area's natural beauty.

Have you ever been to the Maldives of Michigan? Tell us about your Torch Lake experience in the comments!

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  1. 8 Maldives resorts promoting sustainable, eco-friendly tourism

    eco travel maldives

  2. 8 Maldives resorts promoting sustainable, eco-friendly tourism

    eco travel maldives

  3. This 'floating' Maldivian resort is 100% eco-powered

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  4. Eco-friendly Watersports in the Maldives: MSTS Kuredu Resort

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  5. 5 of the Most Eco-Friendly Resorts in the Maldives

    eco travel maldives

  6. 8 Maldives resorts promoting sustainable, eco-friendly tourism

    eco travel maldives

COMMENTS

  1. These Maldives resorts are leading the charge on sustainability

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    Soneva Fushi. One of the best family hotels in Maldives, included among the top luxury hotels in Maldives 2020, and four times winner of leading eco-resort at Maldives travel awards.As you can see, Soneva Fushi Maldives is an impressive destination. For sustainable and eco-friendly tourism in Maldives, the resort saves energy, efficiently manages waste, and eliminates the use of single-use ...

  3. The Top 10 Sustainable Resorts in the Maldives

    Baa Atoll, 20097, Maldives. Phone +960 660-0888. Web Visit website. On a picture-perfect island in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve lies the Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru. The pristine natural location may be one of the driving factors behind the resort's dedication to sustainability, leading to the recent ...

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  8. How To Travel Sustainably In The Maldives

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    Eco-travel in the Maldives. Eco-friendly trips are a growing trend among travelers, and Alison Teal is an adventurer who lives, breathes, and travels with environmental consciousness. She is so passionate about traveling sustainably that she has created her own film and blog series, titled, "Alison's Adventures.".

  11. The ultimate guide to eco-friendly travel in the maldives

    Nestled in the heart of the Maldives, OBLU SELECT Sangeli Resort beckons travellers seeking luxury and adventure in equal measures. These travel tips serve as a beacon for conscious travellers, providing insights into sustainable practices that not only protect the environment, but also enhance their overall travel experience.

  12. Ultimate guide to eco-friendly travel in Maldives

    Nestled in the heart of the Maldives, OBLU SELECT Sangeli Resort beckons travellers seeking luxury and adventure in equal measures. These travel tips serve as a beacon for conscious travellers, providing insights into sustainable practices that not only protect the environment, but also enhance their overall travel experience.

  13. Sustainable Places to Stay in Maldives

    Kudadoo Maldives Private Island. Credit: Kudadoo. Located on a private island in the northern area of the Maldives is Kudadoo, a fully-inclusive luxury resort that is designed to help travellers escape the stresses of life. With 15 overwater residences with open floor plans, lots of natural light, and a private infinity pool, it is one of the ...

  14. 7 Best Luxury Sustainable Resorts in the Maldives

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  15. The 10 Best Eco‐friendly Hotels in Maldives 2024

    If your aim is to travel 'greener' and to enjoy immersive experiences that allow you to connect fully with your chosen destination here are the 10 Maldives luxury resorts putting eco projects into action. Travel sustainable without compromising on style, at these ten luxurious and eco-friendly resorts in the Maldives.

  16. 8 Maldives resorts promoting sustainable, eco-friendly tourism

    It therefore makes sense that many of the region's luxury resorts are carving out a niche as leaders in sustainable and eco-friendly tourism. These eight resorts are leading the way in preserving the area. The Fairmont Maldives is committed to an important coral regrowth programme. 1. Fairmont Maldives.

  17. Your Maldives Vacation: An Eco-Friendly Island Getaway

    An Eco-Friendly Island Getaway. October 12, 2021. The Republic of Maldives is an intensely one-of-a-kind nation—composed of 26 atolls, or ring-shaped coral reefs, the nation is an archipelago state surrounded by rich marine wildlife perfect to experience on your Maldives vacation. Its land area is quite small at roughly 298 square kilometers ...

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    A variety of environmentally friendly methods, such as solar energy, water conservation, and trash management, have been introduced at the resort and can be a great choice to explore. 2. Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa. The Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa is a premium eco-certified resort on a secluded island in the Malé Atoll.

  19. 5 of the Most Eco-Friendly Resorts in the Maldives

    Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu. Set in the Baa Atoll, Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu is a gorgeous resort with overwater bungalows arranged to form a leaf; a lagoon that boasts a magnificent view of the sunset; and a glorious spa nestled in a canopy of green. It's also one of the Maldives' most eco-friendly resorts, with a focus on endangered sea turtles.

  20. Ecoboo Maldives

    Welcome to Ecoboo Maldives. The name "Ecoboo" is a combination of ECOlogic and BamBOO. We are an Eco Boutique Hotel located in Thinadhoo, Vaavu Atoll in the Republic of Maldives, with a unique concept. The bamboo is used throughout the hotel's construction, exterior walls, interior design and furniture, creating a warm and inviting ...

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    By adopting a zero-waste mindset and minimising plastic use, you contribute to preserving the Maldives for generations to come, leaving behind memories, not pollution. Shop Responsibly Handcraft Bags - Image by Terk Olvera from Pixabay. Support local artisans and their sustainable practices by choosing eco-friendly products.

  22. The Barefoot Eco Hotel

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  23. Eco-friendly Maldives Holidays

    A stay here won't leave you longing for anything, because everything's included as standard in the 'Varu Plan'. From. £2,399pp. 7 nights all-inclusive including flights & transfers. View Hotel. Our eco-friendly Maldives holidays mean you can explore paradise, without impacting its delicate environment. Book now with Travelbag.

  24. Why Visit The Maldives Of Michigan This Summer

    For those who think the allure of the Maldives can only be found halfway across the world, Northern Michigan's hidden gem, Torch Lake Sandbar, offers a captivating and distinctly American alternative. Dubbed "The Maldives of Michigan," this area boasts one of the clearest lakes you can see right in the American West. It features stunning ...