Maldives
The Maldives, where pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and luxurious island resorts create the perfect tropical getaway.
Excellent
4.6
Maldives
The Maldives is particularly popular with Irish honeymooners and couples celebrating a wedding, anniversary or special occasion. Romantic dinners on the beach, sunset cruises, couples’ spa treatments and spectacular overwater villas make it one of the world’s most memorable destinations for two. It is also an excellent choice for families, with a growing selection of family-friendly resorts offering spacious villas, children’s clubs, water sports and generous all-inclusive packages.
Some of the best-known resorts among Irish holidaymakers include Kuramathi Maldives, a larger island with a beautiful sandbank and an excellent choice of restaurants; Kuredu Island Resort & Spa, popular for its relaxed atmosphere, water sports and varied accommodation; and Meeru Maldives Resort Island, a long-established favourite for couples and honeymooners. Sun Siyam Olhuveli is another popular choice, offering several pools, beaches and plenty of activities, while Siyam World Maldives is ideal for travellers looking for a lively, premium all-inclusive experience.
For a particularly romantic honeymoon, consider Hurawalhi Island Resort, home to an extraordinary underwater restaurant; Velassaru Maldives, known for contemporary luxury and its convenient speedboat transfer; Anantara Veli Maldives Resort, an adults-only retreat; or the intimate and elegant Baros Maldives. Constance Moofushi, OBLU SELECT Lobigili and Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa are also highly regarded for luxury, excellent dining and memorable all-inclusive experiences.
Choosing the right island is important, as every Maldives resort has its own atmosphere, dining arrangements and transfer options. Some are reached by speedboat from Malé, while others require a scenic seaplane or domestic flight. Our travel experts can help you compare resorts, board options and transfers to find the Maldives holiday or honeymoon that best suits your style and budget.
Maldives Most Popular Islands
The Maldives is made up of around 1,190 coral islands, grouped into 26 atolls in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka and India.
Here are some of the most popular island resorts for Irish honeymooners and holidaymakers.
Kuramathi Maldives Kuramathi is one of the best-known Maldives islands and a favourite with couples, honeymooners and families. This larger island has lush tropical gardens, beautiful beaches, an impressive sandbank and an excellent selection of restaurants and bars. Guests can choose from garden, beach and overwater villas, with both traditional and premium all-inclusive options available.
Kuredu is a lively yet relaxed island surrounded by approximately three kilometres of white-sand beaches and a clear turquoise lagoon. It offers an extensive choice of villas, restaurants, pools, water sports and entertainment, along with areas designed especially for adults. Its excellent diving and snorkelling opportunities make it a popular choice for couples and active holidaymakers.
Meeru is a spacious tropical island in North Malé Atoll, reached by speedboat from Malé. It combines long sandy beaches and romantic water villas with excellent sports, dining and leisure facilities. Separate adults-only areas, honeymoon suites and family-friendly facilities allow couples and families to enjoy very different styles of holiday on the same island.
Sun Siyam Olhuveli is an excellent choice for travellers looking for plenty to see and do without losing the relaxed Maldives atmosphere. Spread across interconnected islands, the resort offers beautiful beaches, several swimming pools, a wide choice of restaurants and an extensive programme of water sports and activities. It is particularly well suited to families, couples and groups travelling together.
Located on the island of Dhidhoofinolhu, LUX* South Ari Atoll offers four kilometres of white-sand beaches and a sheltered lagoon rich in marine life. Stylish beach and overwater villas, excellent restaurants, a spa and a wide variety of activities make it ideal for both honeymoons and luxury family holidays. The surrounding waters are also famous for opportunities to encounter whale sharks.
Vilamendhoo is a beautiful island in South Ari Atoll, particularly popular with snorkellers and divers because of its easily accessible house reef. It offers beach villas, overwater villas and adults-only areas alongside facilities for families. Its relaxed atmosphere, excellent marine life and attractive all-inclusive options make it a wonderful choice for a romantic honeymoon or peaceful tropical escape.
Latest Offers
Discover Maldives offers. Choose from romantic honeymoons, overwater villas and family-friendly resorts.
Our Top Destinations in the Maldives
The Algarve is full of rewarding places to visit, from lively resort towns and dramatic cliff walks to historic centres and peaceful island beaches. These destinations show the region’s range and help turn a simple sunshine holiday into a much richer Portuguese escape.
Kuramathi Maldives
Kuramathi Maldives
Kuramathi is a beautiful, spacious island known for its spectacular sandbank, lush tropical scenery and excellent choice of dining. With beach villas, overwater accommodation and activities for couples and families, it offers plenty to enjoy while retaining the relaxed feeling of an island escape.
Albufeira
Albufeira
Albufeira remains one of the Algarve’s most popular holiday bases because it offers so much in one place, from sandy beaches and family hotels to restaurants, bars and a lively old town. It is a great choice for travellers who want a resort with energy, convenience and plenty of choice day and night.
Tavira
Tavira
Tavira offers a gentler and more traditional side of the Algarve, with Roman bridges, tiled façades, church towers, riverside restaurants and access to beautiful island beaches. It is especially rewarding for couples and repeat visitors who want charm, culture and a slower eastern Algarve pace.
Sagres
Sagres
Sagres sits on the wilder western edge of the Algarve, where cliffs, surf beaches, Atlantic wind and big skies create a very different atmosphere from the central resorts. It is a superb place for scenic drives, sunsets, surfing, coastal walks and a feeling of being close to the edge of Europe.
Transport Options in The Maldives
Flights
There are no direct flights from Ireland to the Maldives. Popular routes from Dublin connect through Dubai with Emirates, Doha with Qatar Airways or Istanbul with Turkish Airlines before arriving in Malé. From Cork, travellers generally connect through London or another European hub before continuing to Malé.
Please contact us to arrange the most convenient flights from Ireland
Extras
We can help arrange airport lounges, seat selection, additional baggage, private transfers, villa upgrades and enhanced meal plans. You can also add honeymoon benefits, celebration packages, spa treatments, romantic dinners, sunset cruises, diving trips and other island experiences, subject to availability.
6 Travel Tips for Visiting the Maldives
Choose the Right Island
Each Maldives resort is located on its own island and offers a different atmosphere. Consider the island’s size, restaurants, activities, house reef and suitability for couples or families before booking.
In July and August, the best beach restaurants, marina terraces and old town dining spots can fill quickly, so reserve ahead for special meals rather than relying on walk-ins at peak times.
Some of the Algarve’s most beautiful beaches sit below cliffs or involve steps and uneven paths, so check access before visiting if you are travelling with young children, mobility needs or heavy beach gear.
Light, breathable clothing, swimwear, sun protection and comfortable sandals are ideal. Seaplanes and domestic flights may have stricter baggage allowances than international flights, so check the limits before travelling.
The Maldives is a Muslim country, and visitors should dress modestly when visiting Malé or inhabited local islands. Swimwear is suitable at resorts but should only be worn in designated areas on local islands.
Use high-factor, reef-conscious sun protection and drink plenty of water in the tropical heat. Avoid touching coral or marine life, and never leave rubbish on beaches or in the ocean.
Things To Do in Majorca
Majorca is much more than a beach destination. From scenic coastal drives and pretty mountain villages to historic landmarks, local markets, boat trips and family attractions, the island offers plenty to enjoy between relaxing days in the sun.
Things to Do
Cultural Highlights
5 Things to Do in the Maldives
From snorkelling among colourful reefs and cruising at sunset to water sports, island visits and relaxing spa treatments, there is plenty to experience in the Maldives.
Snorkelling and Diving
Discover colourful coral reefs filled with tropical fish, turtles, rays and other fascinating marine life. Many resorts have excellent house reefs that can be reached directly from the beach.
Dolphin and Sunset Cruises
Sail across the Indian Ocean as the sun sets and watch dolphins swimming alongside the boat. It is a memorable experience for couples, honeymooners and families.
Water Sports
Make the most of the crystal-clear lagoons with kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing or jet skiing. Most island resorts offer activities suitable for both beginners and experienced guests.
Visit a Local Island
Experience life beyond the resorts with a visit to a nearby inhabited island. Discover Maldivian traditions, local food, colourful villages and handcrafted souvenirs.
Enjoy a Maldivian Spa
Relax with a massage or wellness treatment surrounded by peaceful tropical scenery. Some resorts even offer overwater treatment rooms with views through the floor into the lagoon.
5 Cultural Highlights in the Algarve
The Algarve’s culture is shaped by fishing traditions, Moorish history, market towns, tiled architecture, local food and centuries of Atlantic life. Away from the beaches, the region has a strong Portuguese identity that rewards travellers who take time to explore its towns and heritage.
Visit Malé
Explore the colourful capital of the Maldives, with its busy markets, mosques and waterfront. Malé offers an interesting contrast to the peaceful atmosphere of the resort islands.
Hukuru Miskiy
Also known as the Old Friday Mosque, this historic mosque in Malé was built from beautifully carved coral stone. Visitors should dress respectfully and check access arrangements before entering.
Bodu Beru Music and Dance
Experience a traditional Bodu Beru performance featuring drums, singing and energetic dancing. The rhythm gradually builds, creating a lively celebration of Maldivian heritage.
Discover a Local Island
Take a guided trip to an inhabited island to learn about everyday Maldivian life. Meet local people, browse small shops and discover traditions not usually seen within the resorts.
Taste Maldivian Cuisine
Sample local dishes influenced by the surrounding ocean and South Asian flavours. Tuna, coconut, chilli and flatbreads feature prominently in favourites such as mas huni and fish curry.
What are the best things to do in Majorca?
Popular things to do include visiting Palma’s old town, exploring the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, taking a boat trip along the coast, visiting traditional villages and spending time at the island’s beaches and coves.
Is Majorca good for families?
Yes, Majorca is a great family destination, with sandy beaches, shallow waters, family-friendly resorts, waterparks, boat trips and plenty of relaxed places to eat.
Can you explore Majorca without hiring a car?
Yes, many resorts have good local facilities, and buses, taxis and organised excursions make it possible to explore without driving. A car can be useful for visiting quieter beaches, villages and mountain viewpoints.
What is Majorca best known for?
Majorca is best known for its beaches, sunshine, scenic coastline, relaxed resorts, historic Palma, pretty villages and the dramatic Serra de Tramuntana mountain range.
Is Majorca only for beach holidays?
No, Majorca is also great for sightseeing, cycling, walking, food, shopping, culture, romantic escapes and luxury hotel stays.
Irish passport holders and most other tourists receive a free 30-day visa on arrival in the Maldives. Travellers must have a valid passport, confirmed accommodation and a return or onward ticket, and must complete the free online Traveller Declaration within 96 hours before arrival. Requirements can vary by nationality, so always check the latest advice from Maldives Immigration before travelling.
The Maldives enjoys a warm tropical climate throughout the year, with daytime temperatures generally ranging from 26°C to 31°C and warm sea temperatures ideal for swimming. Humidity remains relatively high, although cooling ocean breezes make conditions more comfortable.
The drier season usually runs from November to April, bringing long periods of sunshine, calmer seas and lower rainfall. January to March are often the driest months and are particularly popular with honeymooners and winter-sun visitors.
From May to October, the southwest monsoon brings a greater chance of rain, wind and cloud. Showers can be heavy but are often short, with sunshine returning afterwards. This season can offer excellent value, fewer visitors and particularly good conditions for surfing and spotting manta rays in certain atolls.
Why the Maldives Is a Must Visit
Powder white beaches and blue lagoons
The Maldives offers a rare combination of powder-white beaches, warm turquoise lagoons and private-island resorts surrounded by spectacular marine life. From romantic overwater villas and sunset cruises to snorkelling, diving and unforgettable dining experiences, it is a destination that feels genuinely different from anywhere else in the world.
Whether you are planning a honeymoon, celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for complete relaxation, the Maldives offers luxury, natural beauty and lasting memories. With resorts ranging from intimate adults-only retreats to lively family-friendly islands, there is a perfect Maldives experience for almost every traveller.
Thank you for contacting us.
We’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
We got it.
Tell Us About Your Maldives Plans
Ready to plan your Maldives escape? Send us your travel details and the team will help you find the right holiday options, from beach resorts and family-friendly stays to luxury hotels, transfers and car hire that can be added to your package.
