Male Things To Do

The compact city is easily explored on foot, although bike rental, the locals preferred method of transport, is available. The streets are easy to navigate, with the Old Bazaar and Republic Square along the northern waterfront popular places to see. Boat trips to the islands depart from the jetty, along with various day trips such as submarine rides.  

 

A good place to discover more about the Maldivian culture, Male has plenty of historical sites, including the Friday Mosque and the Old Friday Mosque, the Islamic Centre, Sultan Park and the Museum, and Esjehi Gallery.

 

Although most visitors come to Male for the day to explore the city streets, there is an artificial beach on the east coast, where the locals go to swim, and which offers good surfing conditions. The tropical beaches of the nearby atolls are just a speedboat or seaplane ride away from the island.

 

Vibrant and bustling, the fish market on Male, located on the northern waterfront, is a hive of activity and a fun to visit, with local 'dhonis' (fishing boats) arriving with the catch of the day and prompting plenty of lively trading. The produce market is slower, quieter and full of tradition, and a great place to view the islands' various fruits and vegetables, including bananas, breadfruit, coconuts, papayas and yams. 

 

Aside from the markets, there are plenty of shops to browse, selling locally-made handicrafts that serve as good souvenirs. The most popular area for shopping is the Singapore Bazaar, with its huge range of imported electronics, cosmetics and clothing.  

 

Male offers a variety of restaurants and bars for tourists, serving up regional Maldivian cuisine, as well as Indian, Chinese, Thai and international fare. The locals tend to frequent the traditional male-only tea-shops, and more upmarket cafes that line the streets.