Imagine yourself walking on a pier to your gorgeous overwater villa. Glimmering turquoise sea with a hint of pearl-colored sand becomes the backdrop for your stay, inviting you to restlessly take a dip. The Maldives is a tropical paradise sitting in travelers’ ultimate bucket list. We cannot get enough of Maldives, but we also consider the lengthy flight and spectacular budget for the destination. So, why not check out other amazing places like Maldives instead? Hear out from our community about the 12 best alternatives to Maldives – budget-friendly and luxurious – that will lead you to a perfect vacation!
Places like Maldives – Summary
- Palawan, the Philippines
- Labuan Bajo, Indonesia
- Koh Lipe, Thailand
- Cozumel, Mexico
- Belize
- Jamaica
- Ksamil, Albania
- Seychelles
- Mozambique
- Whitsunday Islands, Australia
- Crete, Greece
- Capri, Italy
Budget-Friendly Places like Maldives
1. Palawan, the Philippines
Terrific formation of jungle-clad cliffs, powdery beaches, and crystal-clear ocean make Palawan secures a place in the list of ‘Most Beautiful Places on Earth.’ This archipelago in the Philippines houses hundreds of stunning islands, ranging from the ones with honey-colored shores to natural caves. You can hop on a boat in El Nido, cruising through towering limestone cliffs, and diving into emerald lagoons. “It is one of the most-visit islands in Palawan, filled with hidden beaches and lagoons,” said TripLeader Kc from the Philippines. Moreover, Palawan is a stellar diving destination with a wealth of coral reefs and marine species.
Then, what makes Palawan a place like Maldives? Aside from its incredible underwater landscape, it has a myriad options of accommodation to cater every travel style. “In Palawan, you can easily find standard hotels and guest houses. But you won’t be disappointed with the private villa and five-star resorts if you look for luxury,” said TripLeader Arcy who call the archipelago her hometown. So, Palawan is one of the cheap alternatives to Maldives that offer an undeniable beauty.
Why it is a great alternative to Maldives:
- World-class white sand beaches that are considered some of the most beautiful in the world
- A wide choice of luxury villas and excursions, but on a cheaper price compared to Maldives
2. Labuan Bajo, Indonesia
Forget about Bali, let’s discover a breathtaking beach destination that is located one-hour-flight away. Labuan Bajo is a humble coastal town in East Nusa Tenggara, but Indonesians (including me) recognize it as an incredible travel destination. Stunning islands, like Padar, Rinca, and Komodo Island, are awaiting to be explored. Travelers often choose a live-onboard experience, in which they can sail along the islands and stay in the ship cabin.
Labuan Bajo is one of the best alternatives to Maldives for its flawless beaches, glorious aquamarine sea, and a wealth of marine life. Like in Maldives, you can swim with marine animals including manta rays and dolphins. Besides that, you can visit Komodo and Rinca Island which houses a pink-colored beach. As Labuan Bajo has started to gain international popularity, lavish resorts and luxurious hotel chains are scattered around the town. You can book a great hotel room with sea view for only €80 per night. Sounds like a great deal, right?
Why it is a great alternative to Maldives:
- A distinctive yet comparably beautiful landscapes and white-sand beaches
- An exciting experience of getting in touch with wild animals. You can swim with sharks in Maldives, while Labuan Bajo offers encounter with komodo dragons and manta rays
- Luxury options merge with a laidback local life
3. Koh Lipe, Thailand
When we talk about Maldives, we imagine a tranquil paradise with sparkling beaches and fancy villas. Well, there is a tiny island in Thailand that offer a similar scene. Koh Lipe has gained popularity for the past five years as a beautiful tropical destination in Thailand. For that reason, it is still relatively quite compared to other places like Phuket or Koh Samui. The island houses beaches with white sand as soft as powdered sugar and shockingly blue waters. You can stay in an overwater bungalow, kayak between beaches, and feast on fresh seafood right on the shore.
Why it is a great alternative to Maldives:
- Both are exclusive resort destinations
- A wide choice of polished overwater villas will make you feel like you are in Maldives
- Similar tropical weather and pristine blue waters
4. Cozumel, Mexico
Let the sun kiss your skin at the quaint shores of Punta Sur Beach or order a tequila sunrise while chilling by your resort’s pool. Those are the activities you can do in Cozumel, an underrated gem in Mexico. “Cozumel is a must-visit. The beaches are flawless and quiet, the snorkeling spots are amazing. You can also walk along the colorful town and try authentic Mexican food,” said TripLeader Marie from Venezuela, who has traveled back-forth around Mexico.
Like the Maldives, Cozumel is home to five-star hotel chains, luxurious resorts, and Instagram-worthy villas. Stay in one of the fancy oceanfront resort to experience a vacation that rivals the Maldives. However, the prices in Cozumel is relatively low compared to other places in Mexico, making it one of the budget alternatives to Maldives.
Why it is a great alternative to Maldives:
- Shorter travel distance and more affordable flights from Europe and the United States
- Both destinations have amazing tropical feels – calling you to spend the summer in or escape the winter cold
- While Maldives’ main attraction includes its overwater villas, Cozumel offers more to explore (e.g. cities like Playa del Carmen)
5. Belize
Belize might not be in travelers’ top of mind when it comes to tropical destination. However, this Central American has a sense of magic that beckons travelers to discover. It is also recognized as Maldives of the Caribbean, housing overwater villas similar to its Pacific counterpart. Belize deserves more popularity due to its flawless beaches and glimmering tropical waters. Moreover, it is a divers’ dream destination, home to the second-largest barrier reef in the world. Those who are craving for underwater beauty can live up Great Blue Hole’s challenge. Therefore, Belize is one of the best places like Maldives in the Caribbean Sea.
Why it is a great alternative to Maldives:
- It is Maldives’ more cheerful sister. Belize offers not only beautiful beaches and turquoise sea like Maldives, but also a dynamic cultural scene
- Home to spectacular diving and snorkeling destinations, just like Maldives!
6. Jamaica
Jamaica is the perfect mix of stunning beaches, rich culture, and laid-back island vibes. If you love the Maldives but want a destination with more energy, this is the place to be. The beaches in Negril, like Seven Mile Beach, have the same soft white sand and crystal-clear waters you’d find in the Indian Ocean. But what sets Jamaica apart is its reggae beats, mouthwatering jerk chicken, and friendly locals. Plus, the island’s hidden waterfalls, like Dunn’s River Falls, add an extra adventure to your beach escape.
Why it is a great alternative to Maldives:
- Jamaica also checks off all the criteria you want in a tropical escape – jewel-like waters, amazing beaches, and a touch of luxury
- Maldives offers a relaxed and unbothered escape, so does Jamaica! But, Jamaica offers more dynamic and ‘social’ activities
- Aside from beaches, you can also discover waterfalls and historical sites in Jamaica
7. Ksamil, Albania
We agree that Ksamil deserves the nickname ‘Maldives of Europe’. Nestled along the Albanian Riviera, it is home to incredibly clear waters and gorgeous beaches. The coastline is lined with dreamy beach clubs, polished beach resorts, and upscale restaurants. Our CEO Niels, who has traveled to more than 30 countries, mentioned that Ksamil is a Southern Europe’s rising star.
Although it welcomes more travelers, it is considered more tranquil compared to other destinations like Croatia. Ksamil offers a relaxing escape away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Moreover, Ksamil’s wide range of luxurious resorts and golden beaches make it one of the similar places like Maldives.
Why it is a great alternative to Maldives:
- Shorter travel distance and cheaper flight options from many countries in Europe and the United Kingdom
- Although it has gained more travelers, staying in a private resort can give you a Maldives-esque feel in Ksamil
- Ksamil also features activities you can find in Maldives, like island-hopping, kayaking (the waves are calmer in Ksamil), and water sports
Luxurious Places like Maldives
8. Seychelles
We are still raving about TripLeader Maria‘s last trip to Seychelles! The incredible beaches dotted with large granite rocks, a picture-perfect sea you can’t get over with, and days filled with fun activities. Moreover, Maria’s photos showed untouched, empty shores of Seychelles. Her girl squad felt like a princess in Seychelles, relaxing on ‘private’ beaches and enjoying an unspoiled vacation.
Seychelles is untouched and fancy, featuring white-sand beaches that can rival Maldives’ beauty. Global superstars and prominent business owners choose Seychelles as their haven. For that reason, this African country is dotted with luxurious villas, five-star hotel chains, and private resorts. You can also hop on a yacht and sail along the sparkling Indian Ocean, enjoying Seychelles’ beauty from another perspective. But, Seychelles has a few options of more ‘budget’ activities, such as turtle conservation centers and hiking trails.
Why it is a great alternative to Maldives:
- Luxurious vibes + flawless beaches = Seychelles AND Maldives
- Like Maldives, Seychelles features a wide choice of glamorous activities, including helicopter ride and spa sessions in world-class resorts
9. Mozambique
If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination that feels untouched, Mozambique is the place to go. The beaches in the Bazaruto Archipelago look straight out of a postcard—turquoise waters, endless sandbanks, and zero crowds. The snorkeling and diving here are incredible, and you might even spot a dugong (a rare marine mammal). It’s like the Maldives, but with an African twist.
10. Whitsunday Islands, Australia
The Whitsundays is hands down one of the most breathtaking places I’ve ever visited. Whitehaven Beach, in particular, has sand so pure it squeaks under your feet. The swirling patterns of blue and white from the Hill Inlet lookout are something you have to see in person. Plus, the Great Barrier Reef is right next door, making it a dream destination for ocean lovers.
11. Crete, Greece
Crete might not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of tropical beaches, but trust me, it has some of the most stunning coastlines in Europe. Elafonissi Beach has pink-tinted sand just like the Maldives, and Balos Lagoon looks like it belongs in the Caribbean. The best part? You can enjoy world-class beaches and incredible Greek food all in one trip!
12. Capri, Italy
Capri is a dream destination for those who love both beach life and luxury. While it doesn’t have the overwater bungalows of the Maldives, its blue grottoes, towering cliffs, and private beach clubs give it a unique charm. Picture yourself sipping Limoncello by the sea, exploring hidden coves, and taking boat rides through sapphire-blue waters—it’s paradise with an Italian twist.
From the sun-soaked ocean of Asia to the wild waves of Africa, these places like Maldives can be your next tropical destination. Are you ready to pack your bags and leave for those gorgeous destinations? We know that planning a trip, especially to an underrated country, can be a heavy weight. So, sweat no more as you can have everything planned and arranged for you at JoinMyTrip. We are a community of travelers who travel in organized group trips. You will have a TripLeader – experienced fellow traveler or local guide – who make the itinerary, book the hotels, and lead you along the trip.
Make your dream beach vacation come true with JoinMyTrip today!