Maldives Safety: What You Need to Know Before You Go

When people think of the Maldives, a tropical island nation in the Indian Ocean known for luxury resorts and crystal-clear waters. Also known as the Maldives Islands, it’s one of the most popular honeymoon and vacation spots on the planet. But before you book your flight, you might be wondering: is it actually safe? The short answer is yes—for most travelers, the Maldives is safer than many major cities back home. But safety isn’t just about crime rates. It’s about knowing where to swim, how to avoid scams, and what to expect when you’re far from home.

The biggest risks aren’t from people—they’re from nature and misinformation. Strong currents, coral reefs, and sudden weather shifts can turn a calm day at the beach into something dangerous if you’re unprepared. Local resorts often warn guests not to swim beyond the reef, and for good reason: there are no lifeguards on most private islands. You also won’t find ATMs everywhere. Many resorts operate on a cashless system, so carry enough local currency (Maldivian rufiyaa) or credit cards that work locally. Don’t trust random vendors offering "discounted" excursions outside your resort—they’re often overpriced or unlicensed. Stick to what your hotel recommends.

Health-wise, tap water isn’t safe to drink anywhere in the Maldives. Even at high-end resorts, bottled water is standard. Sunburn and dehydration are common problems—especially if you’re used to cooler climates. Pack reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and drink water constantly. If you plan to snorkel or dive, never touch marine life. Sea urchins and certain fish can cause serious injuries. And while shark sightings are rare, they’re not dangerous if you stay calm and don’t provoke them.

There’s also the issue of cultural sensitivity. The Maldives is a Muslim country. Even on resort islands, public displays of affection are frowned upon. Cover your shoulders and knees when you leave your resort for local islands. Alcohol is allowed only on tourist islands—don’t try to bring it in from outside. Customs officials don’t joke around.

What about crime? Petty theft happens, but it’s rare on resort islands. Most incidents involve unattended phones or bags on the beach. Use the in-room safe. Don’t leave valuables lying around. Violent crime against tourists is almost unheard of. The government takes tourism seriously—it’s their main economy. If something goes wrong, resorts have emergency protocols, and police respond quickly to tourist complaints.

You’ll find plenty of guides claiming the Maldives is "perfectly safe" or "dangerous." The truth is somewhere in between. It’s not a high-risk destination, but it’s not a zero-risk one either. The difference between a great trip and a bad one often comes down to preparation. Know your limits. Respect the environment. Trust your instincts. And don’t believe everything you read on social media.

Below, you’ll find real traveler insights from people who’ve been there—what they wish they’d known, what surprised them, and what they’d do differently. These aren’t generic tips. These are the kind of details that keep you safe without ruining the magic.