Exploring Local Islands in the Maldives: Culture, Food & Hidden Gems

The Maldives is not only the place of luxury resorts and exclusive water villas, but it is also the land of culture, hospitality and the colorful life of the islands. If you are on a Maldives Tour and do not wish to have a luxurious holiday, you must visit the local islands. These islands are a gateway to the true reality of the Maldivians, its traditional food, arts, and crafts, a welcoming community atmosphere, and the beautiful unspoiled beaches. 

The local side of the Maldives is a special alternative to visiting the country without spending all the money. Tourists get to experience the real hospitality, can sample the good homemade food and get to enjoy the day to day life of the island which is not commercialized at all. Most visitors have come to want Maldives Holiday Packages that have a blend of resorts and local island visits- enjoying the comfort and touch of culture at the same time, to make their adventure more fruitful. 

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Discover culture, cuisine, and hidden gems on Maldives local islands. 

1. Maafushi Island – A Blend of Local Life and Tourism 

Maafushi is one of the most popular local islands and rightfully so. It is one of the few islands, where tourism and the local life are integrated. The island has guesthouses, local food and culture such as traditional Bodu Beru drumming. You will be able to stroll around freely, visit the locals, buy souvenirs, or have a coffee in a local cafe at the beach, and at the same time, a part of the true local Maldivian life. 

2. Thulusdhoo – Home of Surf and Flavor 

Thulusdhoo is known as the place of surf breaks, and it is also paradise to a foodie. It is also the ideal location to taste the local Maldivian cuisine such as mas huni and fish curry cooked by the natives. As you walk through the island, you will find fishing boats, chilled beach cafes, and smiling faces greeting you. And, in case you like both waves and flavors, this island is going to provide you with a remarkable cultural and culinary experience. 

3. Dhigurah – A Paradise for Beach Lovers 

Dhigurah is characterized by long sandy beaches, crystal waters, and quiet environment. It is a wonderful island to get rid of the crowds and have some peaceful time. Diving and snorkeling are also good activities in the island. It is also close to whale shark areas, which will add more adventure to those who love adventures. Although it is not as touristy, the island has a very friendly hospitality industry that leaves every visitor to feel home. 

4. Guraidhoo – A Hub of Traditional Handicrafts 

When you are interested in Maldivian crafts, Guraidhoo is the island to go. In this case, the local people practice boat building and weaving of mats. As you wander around the island, you will come across little shops and work-shops where you can get hand-made souvenirs. Meeting local craftsmen and observing the process of their work is a cultural experience that can make you a part of the Maldives heritage, which is not available on the resort islands. 

5. Ukulhas – Eco-Friendly and Beautiful 

Ukulhas is also one of the Maldives' cleanest islands. It is an eco-tourism model where the locals do beach cleanups and run eco-guesthouses. The coral reefs in the island are abundant with marine life thus it is an ideal snorkeling and diving destination. Peaceful roads, the feeling of belonging, and an orientation towards sustainability make Ukulhas a beautiful place of conscious island tourism. 

6. Fulidhoo – Small Island, Big Experiences 

Fulidhoo is small but brimming with personality and charm. It provides fantastic diving, cultural shows and beaches. Dance and drumming performances are also common in the community where tourists are free to participate. This is a perfect island to stay in, especially when a person wishes to feel close, engaged, and active. It is beautiful in its nature and local atmosphere, which does not leave any traveler indifferent. 

7. Hinnavaru – A Spiritual & Scenic Escape 

Hinnavaru has a serene environment and a long standing Islamic culture. Tourists will be able to visit local mosques, to get acquainted with the friendly population and enjoy picturesque sea landscapes. It is the type of island where you go slow, look and enjoy the silence of the Maldivian life. Hinnavaru is a welcome break to the more touristic islands, as it is slower and culturally richer. 

8. Gaafaru – Tranquility at Its Best 

Gaafaru is an ideal destination to visit by travelers who love silence, slow travel and beautiful sceneries. The island is not crowded, it is full of tourists and you can have long walks and sea breezes. Travelers usually visit cosy homestays, spend their days communicating with locals, tasting fresh seafood, and relaxing on the water. Gaafaru provides a perfect retreat to the individuals who want to live simply and calmly. 

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Conclusion 

Visiting the local islands will give a person an insight into the Maldives in a more profound and genuine way. Why not immerse yourself in the actual life, food and culture of the people who make this paradise their home instead of spending your vacation in the resorts? It is a new change that makes the traveler get more in touch with nature and culture at an affordable and authentic level, and it is ideal to be enjoyed by a curious adventurer and a culture lover. 

In order to have an ultimate balanced trip, you may want to consider our tailor-made Maldives Tour Packages that combine the luxury with the real island life. Be it as an individual or with your family, we also have convenient Maldives Tour Packages from Oman to assist you to explore more, shop wisely, and come back with memorable experiences of the popular and secret places of the Maldives.