The
Maldives is known for its turquoise lagoons, coral islands and unique
island culture — but there’s far more than most travellers
realise. Explore surprising facts and ocean-inspired insights that
reveal the Maldives’ true character and hidden wonders.
• The Maldives is the world’s lowest-lying country, with an average ground level of just 1.5 metres above sea level.
• It is made up of around 1,190 coral islands forming 26 natural atolls.
• Some islands are so small they can be walked around in less than 10 minutes.
• Bioluminescent plankton creates the famous “Sea of Stars” effect on certain beaches.
• Maldivian houses traditionally used coral blocks before modern construction.
• The Maldives established the world’s first nationwide ban on single-use plastics by 2023.
• It created one of the world’s earliest coral restoration programmes at resort islands.
• The Maldives pioneered sustainable marine tourism integrated directly with community protection.
• Maldivian researchers contributed to early reef conservation practices used globally.
• Dress modestly on local islands; bikinis are only allowed on resort or designated “bikini beaches.”
• Alcohol is restricted to resort islands and tourist zones.
• Public displays of affection are discouraged on local islands.
• Friday is a sacred day, with many shops closing for midday prayers.
• It is customary to remove shoes before entering homes and some public buildings.
• Ibrahim Nasir modernised the nation and expanded international tourism.
• Mohamed Nasheed became globally known for climate advocacy and underwater cabinet meetings.
• Aminath Faiza is one of the Maldives’ most celebrated poets.
• Hassan Saaid is a record-breaking Maldivian sprinter.
• Mohamed “Moardu” Riza helped promote Maldivian calligraphy and arts.
• The Maldives has no rivers — only lagoons, reefs and freshwater lenses beneath islands.
• Many islands are accessible only by seaplane or speedboat.
• The atolls support some of the richest marine life on Earth, including manta rays and whale sharks.
• Malé is one of the most densely populated capitals in the world.
• Sandbanks and small uninhabited islets are common for day trips and picnics.
• Maldivians speak Dhivehi, a unique Indo-Aryan language written in Thaana script.
• Fishing remains a core part of everyday life and culture.
• Traditional music uses bodu beru drums, creating powerful rhythmic performances.
• Families place strong value on community, hospitality and shared meals.
• Coconut, tuna and spices are staples in Maldivian cooking.
• The Maldives has a long tradition of lacquerwork, boatbuilding and weaving.
• Eid celebrations are major events, marked by music, dance and feasting.
• Tea culture is strong — locals gather at “hotaa” cafés to talk over black tea and snacks.
• Bodu mas and Maali traditions combine folklore with colourful pageantry.
• Island life is slow-paced, shaped by tides, fishing and community rhythms.
• The Maldives was an important stop on ancient Indian Ocean trade routes.
• Buddhist influences shaped early Maldivian art before Islam became the state religion in 1153.
• Ancient coral mosques remain among the country’s most important heritage structures.
• European, Arab and South Asian traders all left lasting cultural imprints.
• The country gained full independence from Britain in 1965.
• Hanifaru Bay is one of the world’s top manta ray feeding sites.
• Vaadhoo Island is famous for its glowing bioluminescent beaches.
• Kudahuvadhoo has mysterious ancient mounds believed to be pre-Islamic ruins.
• Banana Reef is one of the Maldives’ first and most iconic dive spots.
• The coral stone mosques of Malé are UNESCO-recognised for their craftsmanship.
• The Maldives spans 820 km north to south.
• Less than 200 islands are inhabited.
• Islam is the official religion.
• The currency is the Maldivian rufiyaa.
• Tuna fishing is a national livelihood.
• Reef ecosystems support over 1,000 fish species.
• Seaplanes are common transport.
• Some atolls have zero natural freshwater.
• Coral bleaching is a major concern.
• Maldivian cuisine features coconut heavily.
• The Maldives is known for luxury overwater villas.
• Whale sharks can be seen year-round.