Loads of Atolls and reefs, pristine crystal clear water, and great surfing: you'll need a boat though!

1190 islands are spread over 26 atolls, ringlike coral formations enclosing a lagoon, which gives the Maldives its unique paradise-like appearance.

They stretch for about 820 km from North to South, 130 km at the widest point and do not exceed a length of 4.5 miles or an altitude of 6 feet above sea level.

No more than 200 islands are inhabited, the rest includes the 87 tourist resorts and uninhabited islands, some of which are used for drying fish or other agricultural activities. Not only does it consist of the most beautiful tropical islands, but 99% of its 90.000 km² is covered by the sea.