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Made up of over a thousand coral islands off the southwest coast of India, the Maldives looks like an unlatched strand of pearls strewn along the equator. The embodiment of paradise, it’s every bit as beautiful as it looks from the air.
1/tab.galleryImage.size}Malé is the capital city of the breathtaking Maldives Islands and the gateway to luxury resorts beyond
2/tab.galleryImage.size}Surrounded by turquoise waters and prized for its brightly painted buildings, Malé is a colourful island city
3/tab.galleryImage.size}Featuring a striking golden dome, the Islamic Centre is one of Malé’s most attractive landmarks and a symbol of the city
4/tab.galleryImage.size}Malé’s pink, white and blue Presidential Residence is a fine example of the city’s colourful architecture
5/tab.galleryImage.size}Pull on a snorkel and explore an underwater kingdom with a day trip to the Kuda Bandos reef from Malé
6/tab.galleryImage.size}Lounge on pristine white sand at the public beach on Hulhumalé, a paradisiacal reclaimed island just south of Malé
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Malé is the capital city of the breathtaking Maldives Islands and the gateway to luxury resorts beyond
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Surrounded by turquoise waters and prized for its brightly painted buildings, Malé is a colourful island city
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Featuring a striking golden dome, the Islamic Centre is one of Malé’s most attractive landmarks and a symbol of the city
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Malé’s pink, white and blue Presidential Residence is a fine example of the city’s colourful architecture
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Pull on a snorkel and explore an underwater kingdom with a day trip to the Kuda Bandos reef from Malé
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Lounge on pristine white sand at the public beach on Hulhumalé, a paradisiacal reclaimed island just south of Malé
Things to do
We've chosen the must-see highlights of this fantastic city.
We've chosen the must-see highlights of this fantastic city.
Do
Dive Devana Kandu
This pristine reef is perfect for an easy drift dive or snorkelling excursion. You'll see plenty of stunning tropical reef fish, coral and maybe even a reef shark! The entire channel is a protected area, so it's great to see wildlife in it's natural habitat.
Location
Vavuu, Maldives
Eat
Aoili
A sleek, chic restaurant serving up-market, international fayre cooked to perfection. Try the Black Angus filet steak or a simple steamed fish washed down with a glass of wine (or two!)
A favourite with locals and tourists alike, this little eatery has established a steady stream of customers due to its delicious fayre and friendly service. Conveniently located near Sultan park and other tourist attractions, it might be a battle to get a table! Try to get a seat in the beautiful courtyard if you can.
Take a moment to understand the history and cultural importance of this beautiful monument.Dedicated to those who lost their lives in the 2004 tsunami, this important local landmark raises money and awareness for those still in need.
Location
Keane Island, North Central Province, Maldives
Shop
Male Local Market
Next to the thick slabs of bonito and huge prawns in the fish market are a collection of small stalls known only as the 'local market'. This unassuming little area has lots to buy in the way of souvenirs. Pick up all manner of beachy trinkets, sarongs and other curios, hand-made by local people.
Location
Boduthakurufaanu Magu, Male, Maldives
See
Sultan's Park
Built over the remains of the Sultan's imperial palace, this is one of the rare green spaces in Male and a great place to escape from the burning heat. Make a wish at the Wish Tree and be sure to cross your fingers, before heading to the National Museum, which is on the park grounds.
Location
Chaandhanee Magu, Malé, Maldives
Drink
Hulhule Island Hotel Bar
Travel across a sparkling lagoon to get to this tropical island bar, a favourite amongst local expats for its brilliant cocktail menu. Treat yourself to a perfect view on the champagne deck with oysters and musical entertainment.
Splash out on lavish thai cuisine at one of the best restaurants in the island. Eat sumptuous soups, curries and delicacies that have that delicate balance of thai flavours: sweet, sour, salty and spicy. Booking recommended.
At Cathay Pacific, we use our expertise to offer you authentic travel experiences. Our experts have put together inspirational guides to help you decide where to take your next dream holiday.
