In popular media, Maldives is often synonymous to ultra high end luxury resorts accessible to celebrities and a wealthy few. Which makes sense because not everyone can shell out 1000s of dollars for a night’s stay at the fancy overwater villas. But that’s only partially true. What if I tell you that there’s another way to experience the 5-star resort amenities in the Maldives at a fraction of the cost? All the smart travelers are doing this – by paying for day visit resorts in the Maldives.
This is great because with this approach, you don’t have to sell a kidney to afford a vacation. It makes luxury more inclusive and accessible — even to someone without deep pockets.
Listed below are the 5 best resort day trips in the Maldives. But let’s first get to know more about these exclusive Maldives resort day pass.
What is a Resort Day Pass?
Resort day pass is a pass usually issued by some resorts in the Maldives for visitors (who are not guests staying in the resort). This allows access to the 5-star amenities of the resort for a fraction of the cost.
This is what is generally included as part of a resort day trip:
- Pickup and drop-off between the local island and the resort island
- Day Pass to the resort (7-9 hours)
- Access to buffet
- Unlimited Beverage
- Access to the pool or beach
However, keep in mind that these day trips usually have a minimum number of participants and may not be wheelchair accessible. Also, the resort day passes might be limited in number.
Not all resorts in the Maldives offer day passes to visitors so it’s a great opportunity to consider when a resort offers one.
Why Choose Day Visit Resorts in the Maldives?
A good number of 5-star resorts in the Maldives cost 1000 USD (Rs. 80,000) per night. On the other hand, resort day trips typically cost around 100 USD – 200 USD.
The actual prices for Maldives resort day pass typically vary depending on the resort and the facilities offered. Although, you wouldn’t typically find these day passes on the resort’s website. You can book access to these day visit resorts tours ahead of time with a tour operator like Viator or TripAdvisor.
Pickup point for Resort Day Trips
Tourists typically stay at a local island which is more affordable and then make these resort island day trips.
I’d say it’s an excellent idea to make your base at Maafushi Island as it’s the largest and the most popular local island in the Maldives. So, it gives you access to a lot of adventure activities at a reasonable price.
On the other hand, you could also start your day trip from Hulhumale or Male islands as well as pickups are also available from here in some cases.
So, it’s possible to get access to 5-star amenities at these exclusive island resorts. This way, you can get the best of both worlds – sample luxury on a budget.
Here are some of the best resort day trips from Maafushi: Adaaran Prestige Vadoo, Anantara Dhigu, Centara Ras Fushi, Club Med Kani, and Crossroads Maldives.
So now comes the burning question – which resort day trip to opt for? Let’s dig deeper into these day visit resorts in the Maldives to see what they have to offer.
Adaaran Prestige Vadoo Resort
Adaaran Prestige Vadoo is a 5-star resort that holds the distinction of being the first overwater resort ever built in the Maldives. What I particularly find interesting is that it boasts a reef with marine life where you can snorkel. Also, a wide array of experiences like dolphin safari, submarine dive, and sandbank trip.
Although it’s an adult-only resort, I did notice that the day trips are available for ages 5 and above. As part of the day trip, you could relish the all-you-can-eat buffet at their multi-cuisine restaurant or chill with a cocktail at their beach bar with a view of the ocean.
Please note that there are 5 Adaaran resorts in the Maldives and Adaaran Club Rannalhi is also very close to Maafushi Island. In between the two Adaaran resorts – Rannalhi and Vadoo, I’d suggest the Vadoo resort as it’s an overall better resort, so you would have the proper resort island experience here.
Duration: 9 hours
Start time: 7:30 am or 8 am
Facilities:
- Day Pass to Adaaran Prestige Vadoo Resort, buffet, access to the pool, sunbed, and beach towel
- Unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage
- Snorkeling at the in-house reef (Snorkeling equipment is complimentary)
- Windsurfing is available at an additional cost
Anantara Dhigu Resort
Anantara Dhigu is a 5-star luxury island beach resort for families. The resort offers a range of water activities, including diving, snorkeling, and windsurfing – some of these activities might be available as part of a day trip for extra cost.
Anantara Dhigu is not just any luxury resort in the Maldives, it’s proximity to some of the best breaks in the region like Veli Left, Nonyas, Riptides, or Twin Peaks makes it one of the top Maldives surfing resorts.
Duration: 7 hours
Start time: 10 am
Facilities
- Day pass, buffet lunch
- Unlimited selected beverages
- Visitors could also arrange a viewing of luxury villas in Anantara Dhigu, Veli, and Naladhu Private Island.
Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives
Escape to paradise at Centara Ras Fushi, a 5-star adults-only resort. Depending on the tour operator, The usual pickups are from Male, Hulhumale, or the airport. Although, it’s possible to access this resort from Maafushi as well (for an additional cost).
The resort features an outdoor pool, multiple bars and restaurants, and water sports activities, Centara Ras Fushi promises a memorable day trip. This resort has more activities included than the rest of the resorts listed here – so it’s a good value for money if you are looking for water activities.
Start time: 11:00 am
Duration: 6 hours
Facilities
- Day Pass to Centara Ras Fushi
- Lunch buffet
- Unlimited drinks
- Free Kayaks and Paddle Boards
- Snorkeling equipment
- Other water sports like windsurfing might be available for an extra cost
Club Med Kani: All-Inclusive Resort
Located on a private island in the heart of the Maldives, this all-inclusive resort offers an idyllic escape for travelers seeking a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. With its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, and overwater bungalows that provide direct access to the sea, Club Med Kani immerses guests in the beauty of the Maldives.
The resort offers a wide range of activities, from snorkeling and diving to yoga and gourmet dining, ensuring an unforgettable experience for honeymooners, families, and anyone seeking a dreamlike getaway in one of the world’s most stunning destinations.
With Club Med Kani‘s all-inclusive pass, you can enjoy a 2-kilometer private beach, engage with marine life, and indulge in thrilling water sports. For the range of activities on offer, I think it’s one of the best value for money day visit resorts in the Maldives.
Start time: 9:30 am, 10 am
Duration: 8 hours
Facilities
- Day Pass to Club Med Kani
- Buffet lunch, poolside snacks
- Unlimited alcoholic & non-alcoholic drinks
- Access to the Swimming pool
- Snorkeling (complimentary)
- Evening entertainment (shows, live band)
- Sailing, Kayaking, Stand up paddleboard, Trapeze (based on availability)
- Pickup not available (need to be booked separately)
The amount of facilities available at Club Med Kani makes it one of the best resort day trips in the Maldives.
Crossroads Maldives: Multi-Island, Multi-resort Experience
This is not exactly a resort, but a fully integrated leisure destination. Crossroads is Maldives’ only multi-island destination. And hence, deserves a spot on this list. This vibrant hub boasts 3 resorts including SAii Lagoon by Hilton, the legendary Hard Rock Cafe, beach clubs, and more spread across 9 islands. So, be rest assured that a day trip to Crossroads Maldives is unlike anything else. It’s located 15 minutes from Male International Airport and pickups are generally available from Maafushi Island as well.
Start time: Based on availability
Duration: 9 hours
Facilities
- Entry to Ellaidhoo Island
- Access to the beach club (with usage of showers & changing rooms)
- Snorkeling (complimentary)
- Selected alcoholic drinks & unlimited non-alcoholic drinks
- 3-course set menu lunch
Conclusion
In conclusion, each of these resorts offers a unique and luxurious experience. The choice ultimately depends on your preferences – whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or a mix of both. Consider the amenities, water sports, dining options, and overall ambiance to select the resort that best aligns with your idea of a perfect resort day trip from Maafushi. Whatever you choose, the beauty of this tropical paradise and these stunning resorts will leave you with indelible memories for years to come.
