Yes, you can definitely do Maldives on a budget by staying in guesthouses on local islands – I tried it myself and loved the experience. Instead of private luxury resorts, you get to stay close to the locals, eat Maldivian food, and still enjoy the same turquoise water and white sand.
I stayed in Maafushi – it’s the most popular local island, so you’ll find plenty of guesthouses in the $40–80 per night range. It’s also easy to arrange day trips for snorkeling, diving, or even visiting a private resort for a day pass.
If you prefer something quieter, Fulidhoo and Dhiffushi are amazing. They feel more authentic, less crowded, and you get gorgeous beaches without too many tourists. For surfing, Thulusdhoo is a great choice, and for diving, I’d recommend Rasdhoo.
👉 My tip: check if the guesthouse is close to a “bikini beach” (designated area where tourists can swim in swimwear) – it makes the stay more convenient. Also, speedboat transfers can add up, so choose an island not too far from Malé if you want to save money.
For me, staying in a guesthouse gave the trip a more local, laid-back vibe and cut down costs big time, while still giving us the Maldives experience.
