5 Bikini Beaches in the Maldives

The Maldives boast of postcard-perfect beaches, turquoise lagoons and colourful reefs. However, when you intend to sunbathe in a bikini, it is important to know the right beaches. In the Maldives, being a Muslim state, one is expected to dress modestly on the public beaches. Nonetheless, there are a number of islands and privatised bikini beaches in Maldives that have set areas of tourism where bikinis do not cause any problem at all. The soft white sand, crystal clear water and unbelievable sea life are mixed with the comfort of tourist facilities in these bikini beaches. The five beaches listed here are the best places to have that tropical beauty with the tourist-friendly rules, whether you are a honeymooner, a solo traveller, or a visitor with the family.

Key Takeaways 

• Beach dress codes vary: Public beaches follow Islamic customs, while tourist-focused beaches allow swimwear and bikinis.
• Some beaches require extra travel: Accessing certain bikini beaches may involve ferries or speedboats, costing around $1,550 USD per person.
• Entry fees differ: Some beaches are free, while others charge a day-pass, especially resort-affiliated beaches.
• Marine activities are a highlight: Snorkelling, diving, and encounters with whale sharks, manta rays, and turtles are major attractions.
• Respect local culture: Following local customs and regulations ensures a safe and enjoyable visit.

Top Bikini Beaches in Maldives – Quick Comparison Table

Bikini Beach, Dhangethi, Maldives

Beach	Location	Highlights	Entry Cost	How to Reach
Rasdhoo Bikini Beach	Alif Alif Atoll	Shallow waters, safe for kids, excellent snorkelling, cafes nearby	Free	Public ferry from Male: $3 (1.5h)Speedboat via hotel: $25–35 (45 min)
Picnic Island (Kuda Bandos)	Malahini Kuda Bandos Resort	Private, tranquil, snorkelling, kayaking, paddleboarding	$50/day (includes transfers & basic refreshments)	Booking via the resort is required
Dhangethi Bikini Beach	Alif Dhaal Atoll	Whale shark & manta ray tours, diving, sea turtle nesting	$15–60 (depending on transfer)	Domestic flight to Dhaalu Airport + speedboat: $15–25Direct speedboat from Male: $45–60 (1.5h)
Maafushi Bikini Beach	South Male Atoll	Loungers, umbrellas, snorkelling, fishing, and island-hopping tours	Free	Public ferry from Male: $2 (90 min). Tour operator speedboats available
Dhigurah Beach	Alif Dhaal Atoll	Longest bikini beach, diving, whale sharks, secluded areas	$60–120 (depending on transfer)	Domestic flight to Dhaalu Airport + speedboat: $80–120Direct speedboat from Male: $60–80

Top Bikini Beaches in Maldives

Bikini Beaches in the Maldives

1. Bikini Beach, Rasdhoo: Rasdhoo is also the most visited bikini beach and is easy to access via Male. It is a cheap stay in Alif Alif atoll with an abundance of guesthouses in the area. The beach is family-friendly and safe, and the waters are shallow enough, extending approximately 50 meters before the reefs start. Snorkelers only 100 meters away are able to see colored corals and tropical fish.

Highlights:

• Free entry for all tourists
• Calm, shallow waters are safe for kids and beginners
• Excellent snorkelling right off the beach
• Cafes and restaurants within walking distance

How to reach:

• Public ferry from Male (1.5 hours, around $3 USD)
• Speedboat transfer via hotel ($25–35 USD, 45 minutes)

2. Picnic Island Beach: It is a privately run beach in Malahini Kuda Bandos Resort, and it is also referred to as Kuda Bandos Picnic Island. It provides a high-end but tranquil experience where there are few visitors. The beach is in good condition and is suitable for snorkelling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. There are a lot of fish in the reef, which makes it a good option for water activities.

Highlights:

• Open Sunday to Thursday for day trips
• Entry costs about $50 USD per person, including transfers
• Booking is required in advance through the resort
• Basic refreshments and amenities included
  

Travel tip: Book at least one day ahead, especially during the December–March peak season.

3. Bikini Beach, Dhangethi: The island of Alif Dhaal in the Alif Dhaal Atoll is the ideal destination for those wanting to experience a close encounter with the sea giants. The island boasts whale shark and manta ray tours. The island has a special bikini area without trespassing on the local community centres, giving the tourists some privacy. The shallow waters that develop close to the shore are inaccessible to other areas, which are attracted by other marine species of higher order.

Highlights:

• Year-round whale shark sightings near Maamigili
• Manta ray cleaning stations (best from May–Nov)
• Great spots for diving and snorkelling
• Sea turtle nesting (seasonal)

How to reach:

• Domestic flight to Dhaalu Airport + speedboat ($15–25 USD)
• Direct speedboat from Male ($45–60 USD, about 1.5 hours)

4. Bikini Beach, Maafushi: Maafushi is the local island most developed in terms of tourism and has one of the simplest access to Bikini Beach. It is situated in the South Male Atoll and is highly affordable to tourists. The bikini beach is situated on the eastern side of the island and is well spaced from areas used by communities. There are loungers, umbrellas, and refreshment stands. Snorkelling, fishing and island-hopping tours are available and booked directly by tour operators here.

Highlights:

• Regular public ferries from Male ($2 USD, 90 minutes)
• Many guesthouses, cafes, and shops
• Free access to the designated bikini beach
• On-site rentals for snorkelling gear, tours, and water sports
  

Travel tip: Early morning (7–10 AM) or late afternoon (4–6 PM) for fewer crowds and stunning light.

5. Dhigurah Beach: The longest bikini beach in the Maldives is found in Dhigurah in Alif Dhaal Atoll, a nearly 3-kilometre-long stretch. It is a paradise for divers and low-end tourists. The extensive coastline provides a lot of secluded areas. The western part is the best to watch the sunset, and the eastern part is the best to have a morning swim. Whale shark trips operate from the local dive schools at high success rates daily.

Highlights:

• Longest tourist beach in the country
• Whale sharks are spotted year-round
• Several diving schools and PADI centres
• Affordable stays and guesthouses

How to reach:

• Domestic flight to Dhaalu Airport + speedboat ($80–120 USD)
• Direct speedboat from Male ($60–80 USD depending on conditions)

Cultural Guidelines for Maldives

Bikini Beach, Rasdhoo, Maldives

• The respect for local traditions makes the trip smoother:
• Only bikini beaches marked are permitted to use swimwear.
• Wear cover-ups as you pass by villages.
• Alcohol is limited, and it is based on the policy of the island.
• Always consult before taking a picture of locals.

Check: Maldives Etiquettes 

Best Time to Visit Maldives and Packing Essentials

• Dry season (Dec–Apr): Calm seas, sunny weather, high prices.
• Wet season (May–Nov): Occasional rain, fewer crowds, better deals, manta ray season.
• Packing Essentials: Reef-safe sunscreen, snorkelling gear, waterproof phone/camera case, light sarong or cover-up.
  
• Cultural Guidelines: Only use designated bikini areas, wear cover-ups near villages, check alcohol policies, and ask before photographing locals.

What to Pack for Bikini Beaches in Maldives

Dhigurah Beach, Maldives.

• Reef Protect sunscreen (to protect coral reefs)
• Snorkelling equipment (self-supplied on a more comfortable basis)
• Plastic waterproof phone/camera case.
• Light sarong or cover-up to walk in the village.

Bottom Line: Best Bikini Beaches in Maldives

These 5 bikini beaches in the Maldives offer the perfect blend of natural beauty, vibrant marine life, and tourist-friendly amenities.

• Maafushi: Ideal for budget-conscious travellers seeking comfort.
• Rasdhoo: Affordable snorkelling paradise with stunning underwater views.
• Dhangethi & Dhigurah: Must-visit spots for encounters with whale sharks and manta rays.
• Picnic Island: A serene retreat for those seeking privacy and relaxation.

What makes visiting the Maldives’ bikini beaches truly special is experiencing the country’s unparalleled beauty, turquoise lagoons, coral reefs, and endless stretches of soft sand. Whether you’re travelling on a budget or indulging in luxury water villas, these beaches cater to every type of traveller. Islands like Maafushi and Rasdhoo are perfect for independent trips without breaking the bank, while honeymooners can enjoy private island escapes, candlelight dinners, and peaceful beach moments.

The Maldives’ fame comes from its picture-perfect beaches, rich marine life, and unique combination of culture and hospitality. From whale shark diving in Dhigurah to the slow, relaxing pace of Picnic Island, these bikini beaches prove that paradise isn’t just a dream. Book your Maldives package now!

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