Explore the Maldives Beyond Luxury Resorts: How Local-Island Tourism is Redefining Paradise

Published on December 1, 2025

In the Maldives, previously only accessible to ultra-high-net-worth individuals, is beginning to pivot towards sustainable and affordable tourism. Due to government reforms and changes in the tourism model, previously exclusive islands will now service the average traveler. Visitors will have their experiences in paradise changed in this quiet transformation and surrounding local communities will have their quiet redeployment economically.

A Shift in Maldives Tourism: Embracing Local Culture

On a recent trip to Thoddoo, a local island in the North Ari Atoll, I witnessed firsthand how tourism in the Maldives is evolving. The island, a far cry from the luxury resorts near the capital Malé, offers visitors a glimpse into the Maldivian way of life. There are no cars here—only bicycles, electric buggies, and peaceful sandy lanes. This laid-back vibe is a stark contrast to the manicured resorts that once defined the Maldives for most travelers.

Thanks to recent government reforms, Maldivians can now open guesthouses on inhabited islands, breaking a long-standing rule that confined tourism to private resorts. More than 1,200 guesthouses now operate across 90 local islands, according to the Maldives Ministry of Tourism. This shift has allowed travelers to experience the country’s everyday culture and local hospitality, while also providing families with the chance to benefit directly from the tourism industry.

Life on Thoddoo: A Local Experience

During my stay at the first guesthouse on Thoddoo, Serene Sky, owned by Ahmed Karam, a leading advocate for local-island tourism, I was struck by the simplicity and warmth of the experience. The guesthouse was modest, but the meals were extraordinary, featuring freshly caught reef fish, locally grown vegetables, and the sweetest watermelon juice I’ve ever tasted. It was the kind of home-cooked hospitality that money can’t buy.

Karam shared how local communities are benefiting from this new wave of tourism. “Locals now earn directly from tourism dollars,” he said, “but it’s also made us more aware of how much we need to protect what we have—our islands, our reefs, and our wildlife.” This community-driven approach is a significant departure from the previous model, where tourism was seen as something that happened on isolated resort islands, far removed from the local population.

Sustainable Travel in the Maldives: Mixing Luxury and Local Charm

After our stay on Thoddoo, we visited Sun Siyam Olhuveli, a mid-range resort in the South Malé Atoll that is redefining sustainable luxury. Unlike the ultra-exclusive resorts of the past, this property offers a balanced experience that caters to both families and eco-conscious travelers. The resort’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its numerous initiatives, including beach clean-ups, coral planting, and the phasing out of single-use plastics. The “Recycle-Reuse” program, which turns old linens into cleaning cloths, is just one example of how this resort is reducing its environmental footprint.

What struck me most was the ease of the experience. From the moment we arrived, everything was handled effortlessly. Our resort representative communicated with us via WhatsApp, arranging everything from snorkel gear to children’s medicine. The resort offered a range of family-friendly activities, such as snorkeling with reef sharks and turtles, as well as boat dives to explore some of the Maldives’ most famous reefs, like Shark Point and Banana Reef.

Connecting Local Communities and Sustainable Tourism

The Maldives is leading the way in combining sustainable tourism with community development. Resorts like Sun Siyam Olhuveli are at the forefront of this movement, but the push for sustainability extends beyond individual properties. The Maldivian government has set ambitious targets to reduce the country’s carbon footprint, aiming to generate 33% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2028. This goal is a crucial step in ensuring that the Maldives remains a viable destination for future generations of tourists, while also safeguarding the fragile ecosystems that make it so unique.

As tourists increasingly seek eco-friendly and culturally immersive experiences, the Maldives is positioning itself as a destination where sustainability and luxury coexist. The islands’ ability to offer both local island stays and high-end resort experiences allows visitors to tailor their trip to their preferences, while also supporting local communities and preserving the natural beauty that draws millions of visitors each year.

The Impact of Local Tourism on the Maldives’ Economy

This shift in tourism model has had a profound impact on the local economy. Not only are local businesses thriving, but the Maldives is also diversifying its tourism offerings. Instead of relying solely on high-end resorts, the island nation is welcoming a broader range of travelers who seek authentic experiences at more affordable price points. This has created a more balanced and sustainable tourism ecosystem, with benefits flowing directly to the local population.

Moreover, the focus on community-led tourism has encouraged greater environmental responsibility. Tourists who stay on local islands are more likely to participate in conservation efforts, such as beach clean-ups or coral restoration projects. This type of tourism fosters a deeper connection between travelers and the destinations they visit, encouraging responsible behavior and greater respect for the environment.

Tips for Traveling to the Maldives on a Budget

For those looking to experience the Maldives without breaking the bank, there are several ways to make the trip more affordable:

• Mix Your Stay: Split your time between a local guesthouse and a resort to experience both the local culture and the luxury of the Maldives.
• Transfers: Public speedboats to local islands are much cheaper than seaplanes, with prices ranging from $30-70 per person.
• Pack Wisely: Bring reef-safe sunscreen, snorkel gear, and reef shoes for your underwater adventures.
• Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of the cultural norms, such as dressing modestly in villages and using designated bikini beaches for swimming.

A New Era for Maldives Tourism

The image of the Maldives as a luxury travel destination is becoming a thing of the past as local-island tourism and sustainable development gather momentum. As the Maldives transforms into a more affordable travel destination, travelers looking for a remote getaway or eco-friendly accommodations, the Maldives now has something for everyone. The economic benefits of the Maldives tourism transformation provides local communities the opportunity to develop and prosper in tourism in a more sustainable and equitable manner.