Hi, Lykkers! Have you ever dreamed of wandering along crystal-clear waters with a tender breeze caressing your face?

Are you ready to dive into the water with sunlight casting shimmering patterns on everything below? Have you ever imagined swimming among the stars?

Come to the Maldives, where you’ll find the best of both worlds—magnificent landscapes and exciting water activities! The Maldives is an archipelago of more than 1,000 islands, each with its unique charm and beauty.

While it’s impossible to visit them all, here are our top two places that must be visited once in a lifetime. Now let’s embark on a virtual journey to these two destinations: the Sea of Stars at Vaadhoo Island and Manta Point, where you can meet manta rays.

<h3>1. Sea of Stars</h3>

One of the most enchanting phenomena in the Maldives is the "Sea of Stars". This mesmerizing sight is caused by bioluminescent phytoplankton, tiny organisms that emit light when disturbed, creating a magical glow in the water.

When you disturb the water—whether by swimming, kayaking, or even just walking along the shore—the plankton light up, creating a shimmering blue-green glow that resembles a field of stars beneath the surface.

<b>Recomended Activity</b>

- Witness the bioluminescent plankton at night.

- Relax on pristine beaches and waters, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.

<b>How to Get There</b>

Vaadhoo Island is accessible from Male, the capital of the Maldives. You can fly to Velana International Airport (VIA) which is close to Male and take a speed boat to the island. The journey takes approximately 15-30 minutes depending on sea conditions.

<b>Opening Hour and Admission</b>

It is open for tourists all year round and for free. But there is no guarantee that the sea will glow every night and nobody could predict its exciting time. Just come and believe you are the lucky dog.

Sea of Stars - Vaadhoo Island, Maldives | Tour Around The World

Video by Around The World

<b>Accommodation and Dining</b>

<b>Vaadhoo View Inn</b> provides comfortable and cozy accommodation options, designed to make guests feel at home while enjoying the serene surroundings. Nearby the sea, tourists can enjoy a range of activities, including snorkeling, diving, fishing, and island-hopping excursions. Prices start from $120 per night.

For dining, consider visiting <b>guesthouses</b> that offer local cuisine and home-style cooking. On Vaadhoo Island, the dining options are limited compared to the more commercialized resort islands, but you can have an authentic and intimate experience and a glimpse into everyday Maldivian life by having meals with local families.

<h3>2. Lankan Finolhu Manta Point</h3>

Lankan Finolhu Manta Point is a spectacular dive spot. Apart from the multitude of manta rays that give it its name, patience can reward you with sightings of barracudas, octopuses, and turtles.

The best time to see manta rays is in June while it is open to the public all year around. A single dive costs around $65, with boat trips costing $35 for half a day. Equipment rental ranges from $8-$70.

<b>Recomended Activities</b>

- Snorkeling in clear waters, observing vibrant marine life and colorful coral reefs.

- Participating in marine conservation tours to learn about protecting manta rays and their habitats.

<b> How to Get There</b>

Before flying to Velana International Airport, you can book a liveaboard trip through various online platforms or dive operators in advance. This option provides flexibility in timing and direct access to the dive site.

<b>Accommodtion and Dining</b>

Starting from $400 per night, <b>Villa Nautica</b> offers a variety of luxurious accommodations, including beach villas, underwater villas, and family suites. The resort has an on-site dive center and will organize trips to Manta Point, so you can book tours and enjoy various activities.

<b>Bageecha Restaurant</b> features themed buffet nights, a diverse buffet, and a beautiful garden setting. There you can enjoy their meals in an open-air setting, surrounded by vibrant greenery and the soothing sounds of nature.

Whether you're going to wander along glowing shores or explore vibrant underwater worlds, each moment in this tropical paradise is a testament to nature’s breathtaking splendor.

So, pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime.