The most important rule in the Maldives is to know the difference between private resort islands and inhabited local islands. Resorts are relaxed, while local islands are Muslim communities where modest dress and no public alcohol apply. Respecting this, protecting the reef and staying sun safe will keep your trip smooth.
Here are the key dos and donts before you go.
What are the main dos and donts?
| Do | Dont |
|---|---|
| Dress modestly on local islands | Wear bikinis outside marked bikini beaches |
| Drink alcohol only at resorts | Bring alcohol through customs |
| Reef shoes and reef safe sunscreen | Touch or stand on coral |
| Ask before photographing locals | Take coral, shells or sand home |
| Respect prayer times and Ramadan | Show public affection on local islands |
How should you dress in the Maldives?
On resort islands you can wear swimwear freely. On inhabited local islands, which are conservative Muslim communities, cover shoulders and knees away from the water, and use the designated bikini beaches for swimming in swimwear. This simple courtesy is appreciated everywhere.
What are the rules on alcohol?
Alcohol is served only within resorts and on some liveaboard boats, not on local islands, and it cannot be brought into the country. Duty free at the airport does not sell alcohol to arriving tourists. Plan drinks around your resort stay.
How can you protect the reef and environment?
The Maldives depends on its coral reefs. Never touch, stand on or collect coral, do not feed fish, and choose reef safe sunscreen. Taking sand, shells or coral out of the country is prohibited. Snorkel and dive with care to keep the ecosystem healthy.
What local customs should you respect?
The Maldives is an Islamic country, so dress and behave modestly on local islands, ask permission before photographing people, and be mindful during Ramadan, when eating in public during daylight is discouraged on inhabited islands. Resorts are unaffected by these customs.
For more planning, see our Maldives travel guide, the best time to visit the Maldives, and our list of things to do in the Maldives.
To have resorts, transfers and excursions arranged for you, explore our curated Maldives holiday packages.
Frequently asked questions
Can you wear a bikini in the Maldives?
Yes, freely on resort islands. On inhabited local islands you should cover up in public and swim in swimwear only on the marked bikini beaches.
Is alcohol available in the Maldives?
Alcohol is served at resorts and on liveaboards but not on local islands, and it cannot be imported. If drinking is important to you, base yourself at a resort.
Do you need to cover up during Ramadan?
On local islands, avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight and dress modestly. Resorts operate normally, so the impact on resort guests is minimal.
Is it safe to snorkel around the reefs?
Yes, but protect yourself and the reef. Wear reef shoes, never touch coral, watch for currents, and follow your guide or resort's marked snorkelling areas.
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