Things To Do in Male Island, Maldives

Located in the Indian Ocean, Male Island is the capital of the Maldives. Originally known as King’s Island, it was the head of an empire and still well worth visiting today.

Male Island Things To Do

From the markets to the gardens to the beautiful waters, Male Island has lots of things to amuse any traveler no matter how long they are staying.

Seeing the Waters

The waters surrounding the island are filled with sea life. Get to know them by snorkeling off the coast. When you’re done with that activity, you can take a submarine trip. The sub will bring you into deeper waters than you can reach on your own. Many bring food with them to attract sea life closer to the boat.

Places on the Land

The island has many things to do on land as well. Visit the fish market early in the morning to see the catch from local waters. You’ll be amazed at the colors of the fish and diversity of the catch. You can buy your own to grill your own lunch or dinner. If meat and spices are more to your taste, try the main market. This is where those living here shop for many of their spices. You can also find lots of refreshing tropical fruit that’s grown here. Have your own treat by cutting open a coconut and drinking the juice right on the spot. The city is also home to large a botanical garden. Here, you’ll see lots of native flowers and marked paths you can follow. The park is very shady so it makes a nice retreat during the heat of the day. Right next door is the National Museum of the Maldives. They have lots of artifacts from the cultures that have left their mark on the island.

The Pier House

Most of Male is easily accessible from the water. Many people here died from the 2004 tsunami that hit the island hard. There’s a monument to them if you want to remember this event. You can also take a walk along the pier. The port is a busy place with lots of boats each day that bring in huge catches of fish. Watch them from the pier house.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do in Male Island.