A Maldives resort vacation is not inexpensive, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of free things to do once you’re there!
Yes, there are typical beach vacation activities like reading on the beach, going for a stroll along the sand, and swimming in the Maldives.
And, there’s plenty more.
Here are some things that our family does for free at a Maldives island resort.
Be Prepared: Maldives resort stays can have many hidden costs – know what they are!
Tip: While our experience is that these are free activities, it may not be the case at your resort. Always double-check so you don’t end up with a surprise bill.
Take a Back of House Tour
Take a behind-the-scenes tour of how your Maldives resort operates. Learn about things like:
- desalination on the island
- how the resort is staff
- wastewater treatment on the island
- recycling and trash
- how the island is supplied
- and more!
Some Maldives resorts advertise these visits, while others are happy to arrange a tour for you if you ask.
Non-Motorized Water Sports
Jet-skis, banana boat rides, and hydrofoils are chargeable, but there are often other water sports you can participate in for free.
We’ve taken out kayaks, glass-bottom boats, and surfboards for free. Often SUPs are included in your stay as well.
Some Areas of the Spa
As much as I appreciate a good massage, I’ve yet to invest in one in the Maldives.
But, our family has taken advantage of free areas of resort spas. We’ve used spa relaxation areas (bring a book!), saunas, and hot and cold pools.
Good To Know: Sometimes a complimentary spa service is included in your Maldives stay. We’ve had massages and facials for free during resort stays.
Kids Club Activities
My boys utilize the kids club at each resort we visit, and they enjoy the activities on offer… games, crafts, food activities, and kid-friendly excursions around the island.
While some activities are chargeable (for example, t-shirt painting, marine biology courses, some water sports activities), many are free! My boys have enjoyed surfing, making mocktails, movie nights, cooking classes, and more.
Sports at the Resort
Besides swimming, you may also be able to do some (or all!) of the following at your Maldives island resort for free:
- walking – along the beach or on inner island trails
- cycling – many resorts offer complimentary bicycles to guests
- tennis – or other racquet sports like pickleball or padel
- soccer – many resorts have their own football pitches
- yoga classes
Language Practice and Cultural Exploration
Try learning some of the Maldives’ official language, Dhivehi (sometimes referred to as Maldivian). Chat with Maldivian locals and ask for help with simple phrases, vocabulary, or pronunciation. There’s not a ton of info on the language online or in books, so take advantage of being in the Maldives if you want to learn more about it.
You can also learn more about the Maldivian culture. My boys enjoy asking about the daily life of children in the Maldives… when school starts, which sports kids play, what they do after school, etc. We also try to seek out Maldivian foods at the restaurants on the island (I’m a mashuni fan).
We’ve joined a free cooking class, but they’re typically chargeable. Still, it’s worth asking about.
Explore the Island’s Flora and Fauna
Go for a stroll and admire the plants and flowers on the island.
Keep your eyes and ears open for Maldivian creatures:
- fruit bats
- hermit crabs and crabs
- lizards
- herons and other birds
- and of course, all of the underwater life (fish, rays, sharks, eels, turtles)
Find Photo Spots
You can pretty much close your eyes and point your camera anywhere for a gorgeous photo in the Maldives. And you can also have fun finding favorite and unique locations on your island. This is a great free thing to do with teens who enjoy social media!
For example, get some good shots at:
- hammocks
- swings
- on the wooden jetties
- at the edge of an infininty pool
- in a kayak or on a boat
- at the edge of the water
- sunrise or sunset
Included Excursions
Your booking or meal plan may also include an excursion or two. We’ve enjoyed dolphin cruises, fishing, and snorkeling excursions for free as part of our plans (yes, I know we’ve paid for them somehow in the booking).
Evening Entertainment
Resorts vary dramatically with evening entertainment, so know what you like and seek it out.
You may find at a resort:
- no entertainment
- a singing duo
- fire shows
- parties and disco nights
- karaoke
- game nights
Tip: If you’re not into evening entertainment but still want to visit and island, make sure your room isn’t right next to the bar area. You won’t want to be in your room listening to it.
Snorkelling the House Reef
This is by far my favorite free thing to do in the Maldives!
Pick up a snorkeling mask, life jacket, and fins at the water sports center (or use a mask that you brought with you) and explore your island’s house reef!
Even if you don’t consider yourself a snorkeler, it’s worth trying in the Maldives as the underwater life is spectacular. Many resorts have guided house reef tours.
Important: Not all Maldives resorts have a house reef. If having one is important to you, make sure you confirm your resort has one!
Be sure to check out all of my Maldives posts:
Maldives with Kids – How to Plan the Perfect Trip
7 Reasons to Book a Family Trip to the Maldives
6 Helpful Tips for Your First Visit to the Maldives with Kids
30+ Maldives Family-Friendly Resorts – Compared by a Mom (Includes Table & Notes)
How Many Days to Spend in the Maldives
Family Packing List for the Maldives
Maldives with a Baby – Yes or No?
Maldives with Teens
Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Review – Family Paradise in the Maldives
Emerald Faarufushi Review – Our Experience
Where to Eat at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi with Kids
Overwater Villa or Beach Villa – Choosing One for Your Maldives Family Trip
Family-Specific Questions to Ask Your Maldives Resort – Before You Book
Taking a Seaplane in the Maldives
Tips for Taking a Seaplane with Kids
Hidden Costs of a Maldives Trip
Free Things to Do in the Maldives (at a Resort)
Maldives Regrets – From Resort Choices to Packing Mistakes
Books to Read Before Heading to the Maldives (for Kids)
What to Do on a Rainy Day in the Maldives
Reef-Safe Sunscreens for the Maldives
Maldives Resorts with Water Slides
Maldives Resort Back-Of-House-Tour Questions
