Top 5 Budget-Friendly Guesthouses Under $100/Night
Luxury resorts aren't the only way to experience the Maldives. These excellent guesthouses deliver paradise on a budget.
Who says you need thousands of dollars to experience the Maldives? These five guesthouses prove that budget-friendly paradise is not only possible but genuinely enjoyable.
All picks are under $100/night, on islands with good beaches and activities, and come personally recommended.
1. Season Paradise - Maafushi
Price: From $65/night including breakfast Island: Maafushi (South Malé Atoll)
Maafushi is the original backpacker island, and Season Paradise is one of its best-value options. Clean, modern rooms with air conditioning, a rooftop restaurant with ocean views, and friendly staff who can arrange anything.
Why we love it:
- Excellent location, 2-minute walk to bikini beach
- Helpful staff arrange excursions at fair prices
- Good breakfast included
- Rooftop area perfect for sunset watching
What to know:
- Maafushi is the busiest tourist island -not the quietest option
- Book excursions through the guesthouse for convenience
2. Dhigurah Retreat - Dhigurah
Price: From $75/night including breakfast Island: Dhigurah (South Ari Atoll)
If swimming with whale sharks is on your bucket list, Dhigurah is where you need to be. This 3km-long island is one of the best places in the Maldives for encounters with these gentle giants, and Dhigurah Retreat offers comfortable accommodation at excellent value.
Why we love it:
- Whale shark encounters almost guaranteed
- Beautiful, long beach to explore
- Less crowded than Maafushi
- Genuine village atmosphere
What to know:
- Transfer is more complex (domestic flight + speedboat)
- Fewer dining options than larger islands
3. Ukulhas Inn - Ukulhas
Price: From $70/night including breakfast Island: Ukulhas (North Ari Atoll)
Ukulhas wins awards for being one of the most eco-friendly islands in the Maldives, and Ukulhas Inn reflects that commitment. The rooms are simple but comfortable, and the island's stunning bikini beach is just minutes away.
Why we love it:
- Beautiful, uncrowded bikini beach
- Eco-conscious island operations
- Excellent snorkeling right off the beach
- Friendly, relaxed atmosphere
What to know:
- Not the most luxurious rooms
- Island is small -limited dining options
4. Cokes Residence - Thulusdhoo
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Price: From $55/night including breakfast Island: Thulusdhoo (Kaafu Atoll)
Surfers, take note: Thulusdhoo is home to the famous "Cokes" surf break, and Cokes Residence puts you right in the action. But even non-surfers will appreciate the laid-back vibe, great snorkeling, and easy access from Malé.
Why we love it:
- Excellent value for money
- Famous surf break accessible
- Easy speedboat access from Malé
- Authentic local island feel
What to know:
- Best for surfers and active travelers
- Can be party-oriented during surf season
5. Fulidhoo Dive - Fulidhoo
Price: From $80/night including breakfast Island: Fulidhoo (Vaavu Atoll)
For those wanting a truly local experience, tiny Fulidhoo delivers. The island is home to just 300 people, and tourism remains low-key. Fulidhoo Dive offers comfortable rooms, excellent diving, and one of the most authentic Maldivian experiences you'll find.
Why we love it:
- Incredible nearby sandbank
- Excellent diving and snorkeling
- Genuine local island atmosphere
- Professional dive operation
What to know:
- Very small island -limited services
- Longer transfer from Malé
What These Guesthouses Have in Common
- Clean, comfortable rooms: Air conditioning, hot water, comfortable beds
- Breakfast included: Usually Maldivian breakfast plus Western options
- Helpful staff: Can arrange excursions, transfers, and activities
- Good location: Walking distance to the bikini beach
- WiFi: Usually included, though speeds vary
What to Expect (and Not Expect)
Do expect:
- Friendly, personal service
- Delicious, affordable local food
- Beautiful beaches and great snorkeling
- Authentic cultural experiences
Don't expect:
- Resort-level luxury
- Alcohol (not available on local islands)
- High-end dining options
- Extensive facilities (gym, spa, etc.)
How to Book
- Direct booking: Email the guesthouse directly for the best rates
- Booking.com: Convenient, reliable, but includes commission
- Agoda: Good for Asia-Pacific travelers
Always check recent reviews before booking, as quality can change.
Budget Breakdown: 7 Nights
Here's what a week at one of these guesthouses might cost:
- Accommodation (7 nights): $385-700
- Breakfast: Included
- Lunch and dinner (7 days): $140-210 ($10-15 per meal)
- Transfers: $60-100 (speedboat)
- Excursions: $150-250 (2-3 trips)
Total: Approximately $735-1,260
Compare that to a single night at many resorts, and the value is undeniable.
Final Thoughts
These guesthouses prove that the Maldives isn't just for the wealthy. Yes, you'll sacrifice some luxury. Yes, you won't have a private pool or underwater restaurant. But the water is just as blue, the fish are just as colorful, and the sunsets are just as stunning.
What you gain is something many resort guests never experience: real Maldivian life, genuine hospitality, and the satisfaction of having discovered that paradise is accessible to all.
