Maldives Resorts: Transfers, Green Tax, Seasons
In the Maldives, one resort usually occupies one whole island. Your choice of resort also decides your transfer from Velana International Airport, by seaplane or speedboat, and the extra charges added to the room rate.
Getting there
Resorts are reached from Velana International Airport by seaplane or speedboat, depending on the resort. Trans Maldivian Airways operates seaplanes from a seaplane terminal at the airport.
Good for
- Honeymoons
- Overwater and private-island stays
- Snorkelling and diving
- All-inclusive packages
Watch out for
- Green tax: USD 12 per person per day at resorts since 1 January 2025 (USD 6 at hotels and guesthouses on inhabited islands with 50 or fewer rooms). Children under 2 are exempt.
- The wet southwest monsoon lasts from late April to late October and brings the worst weather.
- Seaplane or speedboat transfers are usually charged on top of the room rate.
Booking tips
- Check whether the quoted price includes green tax, GST, service charge and transfers.
- The dry northeast monsoon runs from early December to late March.
- Compare all-inclusive and half-board plans; food on a resort island has no outside alternative.
FAQ
How much is the Maldives green tax?
Since 1 January 2025: USD 12 per person per day at resorts; USD 6 at hotels and guesthouses on inhabited islands with 50 or fewer rooms. Children under 2 are exempt.
Seaplane or speedboat?
It depends on the resort's location; each resort arranges its own transfer from Velana International Airport.
When is the best season?
The dry northeast monsoon runs early December to late March; late April to late October is the wet southwest monsoon.