The Maldives is often viewed as the gold standard for luxurious island vacations. Its overwater villas, crystal-clear waters, and private beach resorts have attracted celebrities, honeymooners, and jet-setters from around the world. But let’s face it—the Maldives can be wildly expensive. The good news? There are stunning islands cheaper than Maldives that offer similar tropical beauty, luxurious experiences, and fewer budget headaches. These destinations deliver everything from world-class snorkeling and white-sand beaches to romantic sunsets and eco-friendly stays—without the sky-high prices. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon or just need a peaceful escape, these alternatives prove that paradise doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
Discover Affordable Paradise: Where Luxury Meets Budget-Friendly Travel
Whether you’re a budget-conscious traveler or someone who simply wants more value for your money, these island destinations are ideal alternatives. From Southeast Asia to the Indian Ocean and beyond, let’s explore some of the best island escapes that won’t break the bank.
Lakshadweep, India
Nestled in the Arabian Sea, Lakshadweep is one of India’s most underrated tropical destinations. It shares many characteristics with the Maldives: atolls, lagoons, coral reefs, and powdery white beaches. Yet, it remains largely untouched by mass tourism.
- What Makes It Special: Serene beaches, vibrant marine life, and quiet resorts.
- Cost Comparison: A trip to Lakshadweep typically costs half of what a Maldives holiday might.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Popular Activities: Snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and exploring local villages.
Lakshadweep is not just one of the islands cheaper than Maldives—it’s also closer for Indian travelers, reducing both travel time and costs. Checkout the deals that you can’t miss before finalizing your stay in Lakshadweep!
Sri Lanka
Though technically not a small island, Sri Lanka’s coastal regions feel like island escapes. With stunning beaches, wildlife-rich jungles, and ancient temples, it delivers an unbeatable mix of culture and nature.
- What Makes It Special: Diverse experiences—surfing in Arugam Bay, whale watching in Mirissa, tea plantation tours in Ella.
- Cost Comparison: Meals, accommodation, and transport are all more affordable than the Maldives.
- Best Time to Visit: December to April (southwest), May to September (east coast).
- Popular Activities: Surfing, wildlife safaris, cultural tours, and relaxing beach time.
You can find boutique resorts and beachfront villas for a fraction of the price you’d pay in the Maldives. Here are a few best hotels in Sri Lanka that’s cheaper than what you’d spend in Maldives.
Phu Quoc, Vietnam
Located off the coast of Cambodia but part of Vietnam, Phu Quoc is quickly emerging as a tourist hotspot. With its white-sand beaches and luxury resorts, it offers many of the same visual charms as the Maldives.
- What Makes It Special: Affordable luxury, beautiful sunsets, and local Vietnamese charm.
- Cost Comparison: Upscale resorts and beachside bungalows come at a much lower cost.
- Best Time to Visit: November to March.
- Popular Activities: Snorkeling, island hopping, motorbike tours, and night markets.
Phu Quoc is ideal for travelers looking for islands cheaper than Maldives without compromising on quality. Magnificent stays in Phu Quoc, places worth exploring!
Bohol, Philippines
The Philippines is often overlooked in favor of Thailand or Bali, but it shouldn’t be. Bohol in particular offers a peaceful island experience with turquoise waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and world-class diving.
- What Makes It Special: Quiet beaches, Chocolate Hills, and the Tarsier Sanctuary.
- Cost Comparison: Great value accommodations and low food/travel costs.
- Best Time to Visit: November to April.
- Popular Activities: Diving, dolphin watching, countryside tours, and relaxing on Alona Beach.
With fewer tourists and more local flavor, Bohol is a hidden gem among islands cheaper than Maldives. Find the best value when it comes to staying in Bohol.
Nusa Lembongan, Indonesia
Located just off the coast of Bali, Nusa Lembongan is the quieter, less crowded cousin to its more famous neighbor. It offers a similar experience to the Maldives at a fraction of the cost.
- What Makes It Special: Stunning cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back vibe.
- Cost Comparison: Accommodations range from $30 guesthouses to $150 luxury villas—well below Maldivian rates.
- Best Time to Visit: April to October.
- Popular Activities: Snorkeling with manta rays, seaweed farming tours, and exploring Devil’s Tear.
Nusa Lembongan provides that overwater-bungalow feel with significantly more affordability and culture. Discover great deals when it comes to staying in Nusa Lembongan.
Koh Rong, Cambodia
Koh Rong is a pristine island in the Gulf of Thailand that has remained relatively untouched. If you’re craving barefoot luxury and long stretches of white sand, this may be your dream destination.
- What Makes It Special: Undeveloped charm, budget bungalows, and bioluminescent plankton.
- Cost Comparison: Most beach accommodations cost under $50 per night.
- Best Time to Visit: November to May.
- Popular Activities: Diving, jungle trekking, zip-lining, and lazy beach days.
For travelers seeking islands cheaper than Maldives with that castaway vibe, Koh Rong is an unbeatable pick. Find the best hotels in Koh Rong.
Andaman Islands, India
Another Indian gem, the Andaman Islands are a tropical archipelago in the Bay of Bengal. Havelock Island (now Swaraj Dweep) is the most famous and boasts white sand beaches, coral reefs, and lush forest.
- What Makes It Special: Scuba diving, Radhanagar Beach, and eco-resorts.
- Cost Comparison: Cheaper flights for Indian residents and affordable stay options.
- Best Time to Visit: October to May.
- Popular Activities: Diving, snorkeling, kayaking, and visiting historic sites.
The Andamans combine affordability with adventure, making them an ideal destination for travelers looking for tropical experiences without flying abroad. Explore top-rated hotels in Andaman.
Zanzibar, Tanzania
This East African island chain offers an exciting mix of beach life, culture, and history. With strong Arab, African, and European influences, Zanzibar is as culturally rich as it is beautiful.
- What Makes It Special: Stone Town’s culture, spice farms, and coral reefs.
- Cost Comparison: More budget-friendly than Maldives, especially for mid-range travelers.
- Best Time to Visit: June to October, or December to February.
- Popular Activities: Beach lounging, snorkeling, diving, and cultural tours.
Zanzibar’s mix of affordability and atmosphere earns it a solid place on this list of islands cheaper than Maldives. Escape to Stunning Zanzibar – Book Hotels Now
Langkawi, Malaysia
Langkawi is a cluster of 99 islands off the west coast of Malaysia, known for its scenic beaches, waterfalls, and rainforest-covered hills. It’s a duty-free island, meaning lower costs for everything from alcohol to souvenirs.
- What Makes It Special: Cable cars, waterfalls, mangrove tours, and lively markets.
- Cost Comparison: Excellent luxury at mid-range prices.
- Best Time to Visit: November to March.
- Popular Activities: Island hopping, zip-lining, eco-tours, and beachfront relaxation.
Langkawi is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for an alternative to the Maldives that’s easy on the wallet. Book Your Langkawi Hideaway by the Sea
Fiji
While certain parts of Fiji can be expensive, many islands within the archipelago offer affordable lodging and stunning nature. It’s especially good for backpackers and mid-range travelers.
- What Makes It Special: Friendly locals, rich culture, and vibrant coral reefs.
- Cost Comparison: Budget resorts and local guesthouses are widely available and affordable.
- Best Time to Visit: May to October.
- Popular Activities: Snorkeling, village visits, and waterfall hikes.
Fiji balances luxury with affordability and is one of the more accessible South Pacific islands cheaper than Maldives. Stay Where Fiji’s Beauty Meets Comfort.
There’s no doubt that the Maldives offers a one-of-a-kind luxury island experience, but that doesn’t mean it’s the only choice. Islands cheaper than Maldives can provide just as much beauty, relaxation, and romance—without the heavy price tag. Whether you want to stay close to home in places like Lakshadweep or the Andamans, or venture further to the beaches of Vietnam and Cambodia, you have options.
Also read: Best Nude Beaches for Couples
So before you max out your credit card on a Maldivian escape, consider these stunning and budget-friendly alternatives. Your dream island getaway might be closer—and cheaper—than you think.
