Villingili Island, Maldives: Water Villas, Things to Do and More
Want to escape the monotonous life and have a pleasant getaway? Have a sweet visit to the Villingili island which will definitely transport you to the world of joy and luxury. Surrounded by the utmost beautiful views, great lavish experience, and much more. If you are really willing to have a good staycation with glistening and blue waters around you, then hey beach babies, here is the right place for you all! Get your stay booked in the stunning Villingili island, by booking the best Maldives tour packages now.
The natural beaches on Villingili Island, Maldives with the coconut trees offer a sight like never before! It is worth it when you will witness yourself having the best time of your life, just by lying down in the most beautiful property with impeccable services.
People go crazy with the glazed-up views and charming waters by the side! So, don’t let yourself miss one of the best places to visit in Maldives.
Villingili Island, Maldives
Villingili Island in the Maldives is like something straight out of your wildest vacation dreams! Imagine arriving at this island paradise, greeted by shimmering turquoise waters and soft, sugar-white sands that just beg you to kick off your shoes and dive right in. Here, life slows down to island time, and every little detail seems designed to leave you in awe.
You could start your day in an overwater villa—yes, the kind you’ve seen in the Maldives’ postcard-perfect photos! The ocean is literally at your doorstep, so you can slip right into the water and swim with schools of bright, tropical fish. And if you’re in the mood for adventure, there’s no end to the excitement: from snorkeling in coral reefs teeming with life to paddleboarding on the open sea or even playing a round of golf on the Maldives’ only golf course with jaw-dropping ocean views.
Suggested read: Islands in Maldives for Honeymoon
Villingili Island’s Overwater Bungalows
The very luxurious, Shangri-la Villingili island’s overwater bungalows are worth booking for the best stays ever. How does it feel waking up to the sound of the ocean in an overwater bungalow in the Maldives, go and experience it in the middle of a lavish experience. These are the amazing water villas in Maldives which makes one of the reasons to visit the place.
These overwater bungalows are literally straight out of a tropical daydream which will mesmerize you to the core. They are impossibly beautiful and provide lavish experiences, with a rustic castaway vibe that blows out your mind.
These villas are massive and one of the best accommodations in Maldives which you can book for a great vacation! And the best part? Every evening you get to witness the best sunsets ever, that too while relaxing and just lying down on your property.
Things to Do in Villingili Island
The very beautiful and popular Villingili Island is only 15 minutes from Male, the capital city of Maldives. If you have a day or two to spend at Villingili Island, here are some of the best activities and things to do in Villingili Island.
Also, if you don’t know, previously Villingili Island used to be a prison island many years ago! Interesting? Yes, then it was repurposed into a resort Island, which attracted a lot of tourists. Also, now with the increasing population in Male city, Villingili island became an extension of the national capital, and inhabitants were progressively rehabilitated here.
So, here are the best things to do in Maldives, Villingili Island.
- Eco Walking Tour
Villingili island is very eco-conscious, with the great dedication of local islanders that have ensured sustainability in this part of the Maldives. Going on a walking tour is the best way to make the environment-friendly attitude of this place.
You can join the 4-hour Villingili island eco walking tour which is conducted on all days of the week from 2 PM – 6 PM. It costs around USD 70 for adults, USD 35 For children between the ages of 6 and 11 years, and is free for any kid younger than 6.
You have to come here via a public ferry, and the local Maldivian tour guide will take you through the system, and tell you about the culture and other aspects of the island. It will only take an hour to complete and is a great thing to experience in nearly empty streets that are never busy!
- Stroll or relax at the Villingili Beach
This Villingili beach is open to everyone with the shimmering sands and crystal blue waters. But, you should know that these beaches don’t allow revealing beachwear, including shorts, or bikinis. Because, people here are expected to respect the Maldives’ history and culture and dress modestly even at at the beaches.
But, the bikini beaches are an exception. However, there is no bikini beach in Villingili beach, so if you are staying here you need to respect the culture over here. It is one of the best beaches in Maldives where you can relax.
- Hedika Tasting at a Cafe
Hedika tasting at a Maldivian café is like a mini adventure for your taste buds! Hedika, or “short eats,” are little bites of Maldivian magic, packed with island flavors. Imagine a table full of crispy bajiya—flaky pastries filled with spiced tuna and coconut—next to savory kulhi boakiba, a rich fish cake with coconut and rice, and fihunu mas, delicious grilled fish marinated in chili and lime. With each bite, you’ll taste a new layer of Maldivian spices and textures, all perfectly paired with a warm cup of tea. It’s the perfect way to soak up local flavors and feel the soul of the Maldives in every snack!
- Explore the Mosques
Maldives is a Muslim country and follows Islam, so exploring mosques here is a thing. You can go and see different religious sites here, with the help of a local guide that take you inside. Make sure you are dressed respectfully according to their culture.
Even if you are not able to go inside, you can also appreciate the architectural elements of the facade. So, make sure you see the heritage and culture of the place.
- Dine at a local restaurant
While staying at the beautiful Villingili island, you can have the best lavish experience in some modest hotels or guest houses in the Maldives. Also, you get the chance to try other flavors at different restaurants in Maldives, Villingili Islands.
Have a great fine dining experience with live music in the beachfront cafes that even have jolies to relax on. Some restaurants like Mc Rooster, a famous rooftop cafe and restaurants that hosts bands to entertain the people here while the other one is Xie Xie restaurant serves up delicious smoothies and subs.
- Water Sports
The Villingili water sports area is the section of Villingili island that offers water sports activities in the Maldives.
You can participate in diving, snorkeling, and much more to have a great time. If you are on a vacation in Maldives for a longer time, you can even consider pursuing a PADI course for diving. Have fun on the day tours to spot manta rays, reef fish and intriguing corals or can simply rent a snorkel to explore the house reef by yourself. Get along with the best adventure activities in Maldives that you can experience.
- Cook By Yourself at Villingili BBQ Point
Here, you get to play chef, grilling fresh fish, juicy meats, and colorful veggies right by the ocean. It’s not just a meal; it’s a full-on adventure where you get to cook, create, and eat with your own hands!
Villingili BBQ Point is the perfect spot to relax with friends or family, with all the barbecue essentials set up for you. As you turn the sizzling skewers and smell the delicious smoke, you’ll feel like a pro chef—even if it’s your first time grilling! There’s something thrilling about cooking your own food under the open sky, surrounded by good company and ocean breezes.
What are the best luxury accommodations on Villingili Island?
The best luxury accommodation on Villingili Island is the Villingili Resort & Spa, an upscale resort offering private villas with stunning ocean views, overwater bungalows, and top-notch amenities. Guests can enjoy fine dining, a spa, and various water sports, all in a tranquil, exclusive setting. It’s the perfect place for those seeking a high-end, relaxed experience on this beautiful island.
What makes Villingili Island unique compared to other Maldivian islands?
Villingili Island stands out for its relaxed, local vibe and its close proximity to Malé, making it easily accessible for both tourists and locals. Unlike the resort-centric islands, Villingili offers a glimpse into authentic Maldivian daily life, with charming beaches, local eateries, and the popular DIY barbecue spot, Villingili BBQ Point, where visitors can cook their own meals by the sea. It’s an ideal spot for those wanting a laid-back experience of the Maldives with a touch of local culture.
How can visitors reach Villingili Island from Male?
Visitors can easily reach Villingili Island from Malé by taking a local ferry. The ferry ride from Malé to Villingili is short and affordable, lasting about 10-15 minutes. Ferries run frequently throughout the day, making it a quick and convenient trip for those looking to explore the island’s beautiful beaches and popular BBQ Point.